Joint Replacement

Are you tired of needlessly enduring intolerable pain? Are you postponing needed joint replacement surgery because you are worried about the procedure? Are you ready for a fresh start on life and to get back to the things you love to do?

Riverview Hospital’s Joint Replacement Program is the Answer!

At Riverview, we have everything you’ll need for a speedy recovery and an optimum joint replacement experience:

• Orthopedic surgeons who are recognized as leaders in joint replacement
• Comprehensive pre-surgical education so you can better prepare for the procedure
• A full range of therapy services
• Surgical innovations such as the Anterior Hip, Signature Knee and the Oxford Knee
• Anesthesia and better pain management utilizing the On Cue Pain Management System
• Extraordinary nursing staff, many of whom are certified in their areas of specialty

What is Total Joint Replacement?

Total Joint Replacement is a surgical procedure in which the arthritic or damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint called a prosthesis, designed to move just like a healthy human joint. Performed since the 1960’s, total joint replacements now result in pain-free living for over 90% of patients, enabling them to return to normal functioning and enjoy favorite activities once again.

Common Causes of Joint Pain

The most common cause of long-term joint pain and loss of function is arthritis. There are many types of arthritis, including:

Osteoarthritis. Sometimes called degenerative arthritis because it is a “wearing out” condition involving the reakdown of the cartilage that cushions the knee. When the cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis typically occurs in people aged 50 and up with a family history of arthritis. Rheumatoid Arthritis. This disease causes the synovium to become thickened and inflamed. In turn, too much synovial fluid is produced within the joint space, which causes a chronic inflammation that damaged the cartilage. This will eventually result in cartilage loss, pain and stiffness.

Post-traumatic Arthritis. This type of arthritis can develop after a serious joint injury such as a fracture or tear. These injuries may lead to a degeneration of the articular cartilage, causing excess wear and pain and reduced function in the joint. Joint pain may also be caused by deformity or direct injury. In some cases, the pain is made worse by the fact that a person will favor the painful joint, weakening the muscles an making the joint even more difficult to move.

Based on an orthopaedic evaluation of your condition, including a thorough medical history, physical exam, x-rays and other tests, the surgeon will diagnose the cause of your pain, determine the extent of damage or deformity, and recommend a course of treatment.

Is Joint Replacement Right for You?

For more information or a referral, call 317-776-7450 or email info@riverview.org.