The Anxiety Behind Joint Replacement
As people age, the joints become weaker due to decades of wear and tear. Even the healthiest person can experience joint issues at some point in life. For instance, athletes tend to go through more joint-related problems as the body ages. The high-impact stress that an athlete’s body goes through makes the body break down quicker. For non-athletes and athletes alike, the thought of going through joint replacement surgery can elicit anxiety. However, joint replacement surgery, when appropriate, can greatly improve a person’s quality of life.
What do joints do?
The body is comprised of 400 joints that help the body to move. There are two joint categories: functional and structural. Within these groups, there are various classifications for joints.
Structural joints:
- Synovial joints are covered by cartilage and a lubricating substance called synovia.
- Cartilaginous joints are held together by cartilage.
- Fibrous joints are connected by fibrous tissue.
Functional joints:
- Amphiarthrosis joints are slightly movable.
- Diarthrosis joints are extremely movable; for example, hip and knee joints are diarthrosis joints.
- Synarthrosis joints are immovable.
Signs a person needs a replacement
People should consult a physician after noticing certain symptoms. These symptoms could signify other health problems as well as indicate that a patient needs a joint replacement.
1. Difficulty walking
This symptom may seem like a no-brainer, but many people don’t know that trouble walking could be a sign of a chronic condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the synovium. Over time, many people with rheumatoid arthritis lose the ability to walk. People with difficulty walking may be in the beginning stages of a chronic arthritic condition.
2. Chronic pain
Chronic pain is not normal, especially if the pain interferes with sleep or other daily activity. At this point, patients need to schedule a meeting with a physician immediately. People in need of joint replacement feel pain when bending over, reaching for objects, and walking.
3. Experiencing side effects with medication
Usually, healthcare providers prescribe medication for people experiencing joint pain but, over time, these medications may prove to be less efficient. If patients still experience chronic pain and trouble walking or moving after taking prescription medication, then a physician may recommend a joint replacement.
Speak with a physician
Patients should consult a physician regarding any of these symptoms. When joint pain starts interfering with normal everyday activities, patients need to meet with a doctor. A healthcare provider will help patients further understand the condition and surgical options.
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“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
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“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
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