Overview
A joint contains smooth cartilage that helps its surfaces move together. Arthritis, trauma, overuse, or repetitive movement can wear down cartilage and contribute to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In partial replacement, one side of a joint is replaced; in total replacement, both sides receive prosthetic components. The surgeon prepares the damaged joint, secures the implant, and closes the incision. Recovery commonly takes about six to eight weeks, but timing varies with the operation and the person’s overall health. Movement and physical therapy may support motion as healing progresses.
Common symptoms
- Chronic joint pain
- Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Pain or disability that limits walking, stairs, or other daily activities
- Swelling or inflammation that persists despite rest or medication
- Pain that continues despite conservative treatment
Conditions we evaluate
- Osteoarthritis
- Wear-and-tear damage
- Overuse injuries
- Repetitive movement injuries
- Joint trauma or post-traumatic arthritis
Diagnosis
Evaluation begins with a medical history and an examination of pain, function, motion, strength, stability, and alignment. X-rays can show joint-space loss, damage, or deformity. Depending on the joint and the questions being evaluated, a clinician may also consider blood tests or advanced imaging such as an MRI. The orthopedic team uses these findings, the effect of symptoms on daily life, response to nonsurgical care, and overall health to discuss whether partial or total replacement is appropriate.
Treatment options
Treatment may include nonsurgical care first, followed by partial or total joint replacement when pain and disability remain significant. During surgery, the team removes damaged cartilage and tissue, prepares the joint, and secures prosthetic components; anesthesia and an arthroscopic or open approach may be used. Afterward, movement may begin early, with equipment or braces and physical therapy to support range of motion and reduce stiffness. The practice also lists stem cell therapy, but it is not a cure or a replacement for individualized medical advice: eligibility, evidence, regulatory status, costs, and possible risks require careful discussion with a qualified clinician.