Getting You Started
Overview of Hip and Knee Arthritis Treatment Options
This page provides information to support decision-making regarding non-operative care and surgical treatment for hip and knee arthritis within the Concordia Joint Replacement Group.
Non-Operative Treatment
Before surgery is considered, non-operative strategies are typically used to help manage arthritis symptoms.
Common non-operative options include:
- Weight reduction when excess body weight is present
- Exercise and physical therapy
- Activity does not damage arthritic hip or knee joints
- Walking aids, such as canes, walkers, or braces, to reduce joint load
Pain management- Acetaminophen is generally safe as a first-line option
- If additional relief is needed, anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) may be added
Anti-inflammatory medications can cause stomach irritation, blood pressure changes, and kidney issues. Regular use typically requires monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure.
When Surgery May Be Considered
Surgery becomes a potential option when non-operative treatments no longer provide adequate relief and arthritis-related pain, stiffness, and loss of function continue to interfere with daily activities.
Outcomes after joint replacement are generally positive:
- Approximately 95% of hip replacements result in high satisfaction one year after surgery
- Approximately 90% of knee replacements result in improved pain and function one year after surgery
Important Factors to Consider Before Surgery
Joint replacement is a major procedure requiring both preparation and postoperative rehabilitation. Several factors should be understood before proceeding.
Key considerations:
- Recovery effort: Rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength and range of motion.
- Implant longevity: Joint replacements are mechanical devices that may wear out over 10–30 years and could require revision in the future.
- Surgical risks, which may include:
- Infection (approximately 1 in 100 cases), sometimes requiring further surgery and antibiotic treatment
- Nerve or blood vessel injury, which can result in numbness or weakness
- Joint dislocation, potentially requiring repositioning or additional procedures
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs; blood thinners are routinely used postoperatively for prevention
- Blood transfusion, although uncommon
- Heart attack or stroke, which are rare
Decision-Making
X-rays identify the type and extent of arthritis but do not determine the level of pain or functional limitation. The decision to proceed with surgery is based on whether the expected improvements in pain and mobility outweigh the effort required for recovery and the potential risks associated with the operation.