Arthroplasty Health Article

Alternatives

Pain management alone, particularly with the availability of more effective pain drugs that have fewer side effects, is the primary non-surgical option when the underlying diagnosis is a form of arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed for arthritis sufferers, and people with RA are given certain drugs that suppress immune system activity, shown to be a factor in this type of arthritis. A range of nutritional supplements and vitamins are reported to offer health benefits to people with OA; among them, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have been shown to offer some relief for pain and stiffness. Weight loss is often recommended as well.

Because immobility of the affected joint can increase pain and stiffness, patients with joint disease are usually encouraged to continue some type of physical activity. Keeping the muscles strong through modest, non-weight-bearing exercise, such as stretching or swimming, is often recommended to help support the joint and maintain mobility. Various devices, such as braces or orthopedic shoes, may be recommended, as well as walking aids. Safety rails, special elevated toilet-seat extensions, bath and shower seats can make the patient more comfortable in daily life. Movement therapy, such as yoga, tai chi, and dance, may help maintain joint flexibility and slow chronic arthritis symptoms. Occupational therapy, massage therapy, and physiotherapy may help improve range of motion and overall comfort, as well as patient confidence.

BOOKS

"Joint Replacement." In Everything You Need to Know About Medical Treatments. Springhouse, PA: Springhouse Corp., 1996.

ORGANIZATIONS

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons(AAOS). 6300 North River Rd. Rosemont, Illinois 60018. (847) 823-7186. (800) 346-AAOS. Fax: (847) 823-8125. <http://www.aaos.org>.

Tish Davidson, A.M.

L. Lee Culvert

WHO PERFORMS THE PROCEDURE AND WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?

An orthopedic surgeon performs arthroplasty, including joint resection, interpositional reconstruction, and total joint arthroplasty (joint replacement). Orthopedic surgeons are board certified in their specialty and members of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Orthopedic hospitals specialize in treating orthopedic conditions and performing orthopedic surgery. Although some orthopedic surgery may be performed in other hospitals and medical centers, better surgical results have been reported in the specialized centers.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• Is surgery my only option? What alternatives might work?
• How many surgeries like mine have you performed?
• What can I do after surgery to improve the result and avoid more surgery?
• Will joint replacement be inevitable in time even if I have resection or reconstruction?
• What changes can I make in my lifestyle to slow the progress of arthritis?