Joint Replacement Surgery for Osteoarthritis: What to Expect

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint conditions, affecting millions worldwide. As the cartilage in joints wears down over time, individuals experience pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While early-stage osteoarthritis can often be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and physiotherapy, severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Joint replacement surgery is a highly effective treatment option for those with advanced osteoarthritis—particularly in the knee and hip.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears away. This results in bones rubbing against each other, causing pain, swelling, and reduced movement. OA can affect any joint, but it is most commonly seen in the:

• Knees – making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult
• Hips – causing groin or thigh pain and affecting one’s ability to walk or sit comfortably
• Shoulders – limiting arm mobility and affecting overhead movements
• Ankles – leading to difficulty in walking and balancing

When conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, pain relief medication, corticosteroid injections, or lifestyle changes are no longer effective, joint replacement surgery may be recommended.

Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) involves removing the damaged parts of a joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. The goal is to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

• Total Joint Replacement (TJR): Entire joint is replaced
• Partial Joint Replacement: Only the damaged section of the joint is replaced

The most common types of joint replacements for osteoarthritis include:

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
• Total Hip Replacement (THR)
• Shoulder Replacement
• Ankle Replacement

You may be a candidate for joint replacement if:

• You have severe joint pain that limits daily activities
• Other treatments no longer provide relief
• You experience joint stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Joint deformity is present

Your orthopaedic specialist will assess your condition using physical exams, imaging (like X-rays or MRIs), and a review of your medical history to determine if surgery is the best option.

Pre-surgical preparation is vital to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Here’s what to expect:

• Medical Evaluation: Includes blood tests, ECG, imaging studies, and anaesthesia assessment
• Prehabilitation: Physiotherapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility before surgery
• Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, managing blood sugar (for diabetics), and achieving a healthy weight can reduce complications
• Education: You may attend a pre-op education session to learn what to expect during surgery and recovery

Most joint replacement surgeries are performed under spinal or general anaesthesia and typically take 1–2 hours. During the procedure:

• The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone
• The joint surface is reshaped and prepared
• The prosthetic joint components are implanted
• The joint is tested for function and stability before the incision is closed

You’ll be moved to a recovery area where your vital signs will be monitored as the anaesthesia wears off.

Recovery varies depending on the joint replaced, your overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation. Here’s a general timeline:

Hospital Stay (1–3 Days)

• Early mobilisation with assistance
• Pain and infection management
• Physiotherapy begins

First Few Weeks at Home

• Continue physiotherapy exercises
• Gradually increase walking and movement
• Use of walking aids like crutches or walkers

3–6 Weeks Post-Surgery

• Improved mobility and decreased pain
• Able to perform daily activities more independently
• Transition to outpatient physiotherapy

3–6 Months

• Return to low-impact activities (e.g., walking, swimming)
• Most patients resume driving and work (depending on job type)

6–12 Months

• Full recovery with improved strength and flexibility
• Return to sports like cycling or golf (high-impact sports are usually discouraged)

While joint replacement surgery is generally safe and highly successful, it does carry some risks:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Implant loosening or dislocation
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Allergic reaction to materials

Choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-op instructions can significantly reduce these risks.

Most patients report a dramatic improvement in pain, function, and quality of life after surgery. Artificial joints can last 15–20 years or longer with proper care.

Tips for protecting your new joint:

• Stay active with low-impact exercises
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Attend regular follow-up appointments
• Avoid high-impact sports unless cleared by your doctor

If you’re not yet ready for surgery, alternative treatments may help manage symptoms:

• Physiotherapy and exercise
• Weight loss
• Joint injections (corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid)
• Assistive devices like canes or braces
• Medications for pain and inflammation

At The Bone & Joint Centre, we provide comprehensive care for osteoarthritis, from diagnosis to advanced surgical options. We provide personalised treatment plans and guided rehabilitation to help you regain mobility and return to the activities you love.