The AgingCare.com forum is filled with people coming together to share valuable information. We’ve compiled experienced caregivers’ thoughts on and experiences with knee and hip replacement surgeries.
Joint Replacement Therapy for Pain Relief and Improved Mobility
“Chronic pain is exhausting. I had pain that awoke me from sleep and gait difficulties that really increased my fall risk prior to surgery. I had bilateral hip replacements at an early age, and the surgeries gave me back my life. The pain from surgery was less than what I was having prior to surgery. Consider also that rehab is generally harder with advancing age.” –sonswife
“My father-in-law had a partial hip replacement at 94 years of age and did remarkably well.” –happyjack
“I fought for two years against having a hip replacement operation, even though the pain was unbearable. I couldn’t walk in the end and decided with great trepidation to go ahead and do it. What a wonderful operation. From when I came around from the anesthetic, I felt so much better. I was out of the hospital in four days and could walk up and down stairs. Five months later, I had my other hip done. My life is unbelievably better compared to the blur of pain it was before. I can walk for hours pain free. Go for it. For many, there is no life without the operation.” –dandibelle
“These days, many hip replacements and repairs are usually done laparoscopically. Instead of a huge incision, only smaller holes are made to access the works, which means people are usually able to get up and at it far faster—sometimes the same day. Pain levels for recuperation are much less than dealing with deteriorating joints! Spinal anesthesia might be accompanied by some general relaxants. TALK with the anesthesiologist and surgeon to let them know if you want to use gentler, easier-to-recover-from anesthesia for yourself or a loved one.” –chimonger
“If you’re apprehensive about the procedure, talk to some folks who have had joint replacements performed. I just had a knee replaced. I spent two weeks at an inpatient rehabilitation facility, and I feel just great. But, the patient will NEED to go to rehab to work at physical therapy (PT) every day. They MUST be self-motivated to participate in the PT, otherwise the outcome will not be as good. Weight is a big factor in recovery as well. If the patient can get their weight down before the procedure, that’ll help.” –pamstegma
“I had two knee replacements and one hip replacement two years ago. Best thing I have ever done health-wise. The hip replacement was a snap. There was no pain and it was quick to heal. Knees take a little longer and involve some pain. If you have a good doctor and hospital, these procedures can make you a new person.” –marionopp
“Success with any joint replacement depends on motivation and preparation. Spinal anesthetic and sedation is the way to go. There can be considerable discomfort to the shoulder you are forced to lie on for a couple of hours for a hip procedure. Surgery won’t be successful if you don’t do the rehab. It will be uncomfortable, but take your pain meds half an hour before the session and it won’t be too bad. I have had a hip and knee replacement and can report excellent results. I was active before the surgery, but now I am active AND pain free.” –Veronica91