Total joint replacements on the rise

As we age, many will suffer bone joint issues. Pain, swelling and loss of range of motion will lead to the lack of mobility and the loss of function. Total joint replacements have been known to alleviate pain and other symptoms of sufferers as well as, over time, improve function and the ultimate quality of life.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 332,000 total hip and 719,000 total knee replacements have occurred in the last year, as well as other joints (foot, ankle, shoulder and hands). Technology has improved surgeons' ability to decrease the length of time in surgery, increase mobility, and decrease infection rates, based on hospital and post-operative interventions.

It is a pleasure to have the multiple skills of the orthopedic surgeons who service our disabling joints in this Northwest community. We are fortunate to participate in the collective efforts of the medical teams that dictate treatment objectives that may lead us to the decisions to complete joint replacement interventions.

The Northwest boasts a successful blanketing of clinician teams pre- and post-surgery, from the diagnostic-based teams that serve as collaborating efforts of the physicians to inpatient hospital acute nursing and therapy, post-acute rehab centers, home health professionals and outpatient clinics.

Robin Leary, Executive Director of Life Care Center of Post Falls, completed her total hip Replacement in March of this year at the age of 61, after years of activity and excessive wear. She encourages others to consider this solution. "I never knew how much pain I had, until the pain was gone! No one should wait for this surgery!"

So if you are looking into orthopedic surgery in the near future, feel confident in the medical community around you. You'll be on the road to recovery in no time!