Each year there are nearly 500,000 total knee replacements and 230,000 total hip replacements performed in the United States. “In 2004, the national bill for hip and knee replacements was $26 billion1.” These numbers continue to increase annually and it is clear that these two surgeries account for much of Medicare dollars spent each year.
What are some reasons for the increased number of joint replacements?
- Americans are living longer and many actually outlive their initial replacement
- Americans are increasingly become obese and this is leading to earlier break down of the hip and knee joints
- Surgeons are consistently learning new techniques and surgical procedures are improving each day
There are many ways that those in the medical field attempt to prolong the need for joint replacement surgery. Some include medications and injections, however that is beyond the scope of this blog. From a physical therapy perspective, the following are some recommendations to keep your joints healthy and/or buy yourself some time before having a joint replaced.
- The first time you notice any increased knee or hip pain, get evaluated. Even if you just feel an awkward tightness, get evaluated. If you get evaluated by a physical therapist, it is possible we can help fix muscle flexibility and strength issues early on and this can certainly reduce the risk of break down of your joints.
- If you are considering a joint replacement, but have never had physical therapy, be your own advocate and give it a try. It could turn out to be life changing!
- Keep moving, keep active, and make a commitment to do so. The old saying is “motion is lotion”. Although you may be in some pain with walking or movements, it is important to maintain what strength and mobility you have.
- Be proactive in changing your life style. I try to get all of my patients to be compliant with a home program, the worst thing you want to do is go through a 6 week PT program, feel significant improvements, and then lose them because you stop taking care of yourself. Having good muscle strength and flexibility is essential to keeping knee pain and hip pain minimal.
- If you are overweight, consider exercise or dieting. Loosing ONE pound = a FIVE pound stress relief from your joints.
There are so many options to help you prolong the need for joint replacements. Physical therapy can significantly improve your quality of life and I truly feel it should be a first step. Who knows, maybe you can get rid of the majority of your pain without the need for surgery and if you can’t, at least you gave it a try! Take control of your life, get your body working well by improving strength and flexibility, pay attention to early signs your body sends, and, most importantly, stay active!
Sports Physical Therapy of NY, PC will be present at the upcoming Arthritis Expo on Saturday March 31st at the Hilton Hotel in Clifton Park. Please stop by to further discuss this topic and get screened to determine if you are below, above, or at the average for strength and flexibility!
1 West Ave, Suite 150
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
(518)-583-7537 x2805
(518)-583-7606 (fax)
www.sptny.com
www.sportsmetrics.org