Joint replacement surgeries are common but major procedures that help millions of people worldwide regain mobility and quality of life. However, understanding these surgeries, including recovery times, risks, and long-term outcomes, is essential for anyone considering or preparing for the procedure. This blog will address common questions and evidence-based insights to help you make informed decisions.
Which joint replacement is the hardest to recover from?
Joint replacements are major surgery so it should be no surprise that all joint replacements are difficult to recover from. Which joint is hardest to recover from is a very subjective answer as they can be difficult for different reasons, but the rehabilitation process is extensive no matter what the joint. Hip and knee replacements can be difficult as they are weightbearing joints and can affect how far you can walk/stand as you are recovering. However, a shoulder replacement can be very limiting before you recover, especially if it is your dominant arm!
How long do joint replacements last?
While there is always research investigating how long joint replacements last, it is difficult to deliver comprehensive answers. To see how many joint replacements would last 25+ years would require waiting at least 25+ years to gather the data. There are also constant improvements in medical research and surgical methods and procedures which may improve the recovery or longevity of a joint replacement, but we may not know by how much for another 25 years!
That said, a 2019 systematic review showed that 82% of total knee replacements are lasting at least 25 years in those with osteoarthritis (1).  This suggests that joint replacements can provide long-term relief, especially when patients adhere to post-operative care and lifestyle recommendations. Â
How long does it take to recover from a joint replacement?
It is a common misconception that a joint replacement is an instant fix and that you will be back to running in six weeks. There is a lot of physiotherapy and rehabilitation that needs to take place to ensure a good outcome.
When we think about what goes into a joint replacement, healing occurs in multiple parts of the knee including skin, bone and muscle. Most joint replacements are performed due to osteoarthritis, therefore there is usually decreased strength, control and mobility around the joint prior to the surgery. Compounded with the surgery itself, there is a lot of strengthening, balance, mobility and gait rehabilitation involved in the following 3-9 months.
What does aftercare for joint replacement surgery look like?
In the initial stages, aftercare will include;
• Pain management: Utilising prescribed medications and ice packs to manage discomfort.
• Physiotherapy: Engaging in progressive prescribed exercises to restore mobility and basic strength and help manage swelling. It will also include gait retraining to help you get used to walking again. Physiotherapy may be land-based, water based or a combination of the two.
• Wound care: Keeping the surgical site clean and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with the surgeon to monitor progress and address concerns.
Even after wound healing has been completed, physiotherapy will continue for several months to help you regain your strength and get the most out of your new knee. The rehabilitation process is best when it is tailored to the person as each person has different starting points, goals, pain and swelling. It is extremely important to regularly touch base with a physiotherapist to ensure you are safe and keep improving.
How long does joint replacement surgery take?
The duration of joint replacement surgery varies based on the joint and complexity. It can vary depending on individual circumstances and surgical technique so the best person to ask would be your orthopedic surgeon!
Your recovery journey after joint replacement
Joint replacement surgeries, particularly of the knee and hip, can dramatically improve quality of life for individuals suffering from joint pain and mobility issues. Understanding the recovery process, potential risks, and long-term outcomes is crucial for anyone considering these procedures. By staying informed and following medical advice, patients can maximise the benefits of joint replacement surgeries and enjoy enhanced mobility for years to come.
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References:
- Evans J T, Walker R W, Evans J P, Blom A W, Sayers A, Whitehouse M R. How long does a knee replacement last? A systematic review and meta-analysis of case series and national registry reports with more than 15 years of follow-up. Lancet. 2019 Feb 16;393(10172):655-663. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(18)32531-5. Epub 2019 Feb 14. Erratum in: Lancet. 2019 Mar 2;393(10174):876. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(19)30415-5. PMID: 30782341; PMCID: PMC6381229.