Joint Replacement Specialist

When would I need a joint replacement?

The Valdosta Orthopedic Associates team might recommend joint replacement if:

• Joint pain doesn't diminish with conservative treatments
• Steroid injections don't help
• You rely upon narcotics to function
• Joint pain keeps you up at night
• Joint stiffness makes it hard to move
• You need assistive devices to walk 
• Joint pain prevents an active life

Most people who opt for joint replacement have already tried multiple treatment options and are now seeking a long-term answer for their joint pain, stiffness, and mobility problems. 

How does joint replacement surgery work?

During joint replacement surgery, your surgeon removes the damaged portions of your joint and implants new artificial parts using X-ray guidance for a perfect fit.

There are a vast array of joint replacement techniques. Valdosta Orthopedic Associates surgeons perform hip, knee, shoulder, and other joint replacements using the most advanced techniques that exist today. 

The surgeons perform joint replacements in the VOA Ambulatory Surgery Center. The exact technique varies with the joint, but the surgeons use the most minimally invasive approach possible. 

With hip joint replacement, the surgeons perform anterior total hip replacement wherever possible. This is a muscle-sparing technique that requires a much smaller incision than traditional hip replacement. 

Your surgeon may suggest a Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement. Using the Mako-assisted robot, your surgeon will have the most precise and personalized surgical plan based on your anatomy.

Similarly, the Valdosta Orthopedic Associates surgeons perform partial knee replacement using advanced techniques if possible, as it allows for better knee biomechanics and less tissue trauma. 

Joint replacements are outpatient procedures, so you could go home within just a few hours of your surgery. 

What is recovery after a joint replacement like?

Recovery protocols vary with the type of joint replacement. The team focuses on your comfort and rapid recovery, regardless of the type of joint replacement you have. 

Most joint replacement patients participate in a multimodal pain program where specific combinations of medications maximize your pain relief. This program reduces opioid reliance and helps you avoid unpleasant side-effects as you recover.

The team implements rapid recovery protocols after your surgery. These usually allow you to stand and walk within hours of your procedure, with help from your physical therapist.

Ultimately, the Valdosta Orthopedic Associates recovery approach leads to less downtime, less pain, and a far faster recovery than you could have with a traditional joint replacement approach.

If you want to learn about joint replacement options, book a consultation with the experts at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates by phone or schedule online today.