Before joint replacement surgery, you will need time to prepare, both physically and psychologically. Planning ahead for the challenges of surgery and recovery will help ensure a more successful outcome. These tips will help you get ready for your surgery.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
A small percentage of patients undergoing joint replacement surgery may develop an infection after the operation. This article covers how this happens, what the signs and symptoms of infection are, how infections are treated, and how to prevent infections.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the body. Two of the most common risk factors for developing a DVT are an injury to your lower body and surgery that involves your hips or legs.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Osteoarthritis, also known as "wear and tear" arthritis, occurs when the cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of your bones gradually wears away. This leads to pain and stiffness that worsens over time, making it difficult to do daily activities.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Patellofemoral arthritis affects the underside of the patella (kneecap) and the channel-like groove in the femur (thighbone) that the patella rests in. It causes pain in the front of your knee and can make it difficult to kneel and go up and down stairs.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
If you break a bone in your leg or foot, have a procedure on your knee or lower leg, or suffer a stroke, your doctor may recommend that you use a walking aid while you are healing or recovering. This resource offers tips on using crutches, a cane, or a walker safely.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
This article is one in a series of patient safety topics that provide simple, easy-to-follow checklists for patients to follow as they prepare for orthopaedic surgery.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and the major types that affect the knee are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and posttraumatic arthritis. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatment options to help relieve pain and stay active.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs (pronounced en-saids), are the most prescribed medications for treating conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis. Over-the-counter, nonprescription NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
If simple treatments like medications and using walking supports no longer relieve knee arthritis symptoms, you may want to consider surgery. Knee replacement surgery is an effective procedure to relieve pain, correct leg deformity, and help you resume everyday activities.| orthoinfo.aaos.org