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- Osteoarthritis (sometimes called degenerative joint disease or osteoarthrosis) is the most common form of arthritis. It affects about 12.1% of the U.S. population age 25 and older, nearly 21 million people.
- Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that normally covers the ends of bones and allows them to move smoothly against each other. With less cartilage protecting them, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and other problems.
- Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a physical exam and various imaging techniques (such as X-rays). Because it is so common among older people, doctors need to be sure that it is causing the symptoms rather than another condition.
- There are many effective treatments for arthritis, ranging from exercise, weight control, non-drug pain relief techniques, drugs, and alternative (non-traditional) therapies such as acupuncture, to joint replacement surgery.
- Joint replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure in which diseased or damaged parts of a joint are removed and replaced with new artificial implants.
- Most artificial joints and implant components are made out of some combination of specialty metals and plastics. Your surgeon will suggest the one most appropriate for you, depending on your age, weight, bone strength, activity level, and the joint being replaced.
- Joint replacement surgery is a very effective treatment. But it is a very invasive operation that requires a lot of preparation and a long and intense recuperation.
- Because of the seriousness of joint replacement surgery, choose a surgeon carefully and do a lot of research before making the choice.
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