Make a pro/con list. Usually the easiest way to make a big decision

Indeed a well written blog. You have explained everything so well. The only problem is success depends on who has done that joint replacement. Not all do a good job of it. I have known so many regretting having done that. Happy for you that all is well with you.

It is a unique thinking of changing and replacing joints through surgery. Joint replacement surgery is removing a damaged joint and putting in a new one. A joint is where two or more bones come together, like the knee, hip, and shoulder. The surgery is usually done by a doctor called an orthopaedic (or-tho-PEE-dik) surgeon.

Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint.

In 2011, almost 1 million total joint replacements were performed in the United States. Hip and knee replacements are the most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, as well, including the ankle, wrist, shoulder, and elbow.

“There are two main reasons to have a joint replacement,” says Charles Bush-Joseph, MD, professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University Medical Center. “The best reason is pain relief.”

During a hip or knee replacement, a surgeon removes the damaged surfaces of the joint and replaces them with plastic or metal implants. This gets rid of the pain because the diseased cartilage and bone are no longer there.

The second reason is to improve how well your joint works, Bush-Joseph says, but these results are less predictable. After a new hip or knee is put in, many people can walk more easily. Some may be able to ride a bike or play golf. But there are no guarantees.

Joint replacements carry the same dangers as well as other major surgeries, like a chance of infections or blood clots. You’re most at risk for these problems if you have heart disease, diabetes that’s not well controlled, or a weak immune system — your body’s defense against germs. Your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics and blood thinners to try to prevent some complications.

The other major risk is that the new joint may not work as well as you hoped. It might feel weak or stiff, particularly the knee. “Patients who don’t actively rehabilitate will not regain the maximum range of motion,” Bush-Joseph says. To get the best results from your knee surgery, stick carefully to your rehab schedule of exercise, rest, and medicines.

It’s less common, but it’s possible that your implant can become loose or get dislocated. Also, keep in mind that your replacement joint can wear out after about 20 years. That means you may need another surgery down the road.