Are you considering orthopaedic surgery? If so, what’s holding you back? That persistent knee discomfort that causes you to limp? The ache in your hip that makes climbing stairs an agonizing experience? Whether it’s from sports injuries, arthritis or just plain overuse you know the issue isn’t going away, and it’s affecting your life. Maybe you’ve met with your doctor and tried different treatment methods and therapies, such as medication, injections and strengthening exercises. But all your options have fallen short of helping ease the pain for good. So, what’s next?

At this point you may have to come to terms with the fact that you’re a candidate for orthopaedic surgery.  While you may be tempted to delay scheduling the procedure you shouldn’t, and here’s why…

Delaying recommended procedures can worsen your quality of life and condition, which in turn could result in the need for more complex surgery. The most important things to consider are the impact your pain has on daily activities, and how important resolving the pain is to you. It helps to remember that orthopaedic surgeries are common, with over 790,000 knee replacements each year, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (ahrq.gov).

“These days, there is not a lot of upside to delaying surgery no matter what your age, especially if you are over 50,” says Jonathan Garino, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon with Premier Orthopaedics in Malvern. “Pain management is better, and recovery is much faster, with most people returning to work as early as three weeks following the procedure. In addition, because joint replacements are so durable, they are tough to wear out.”

That being said, deciding to move forward with orthopaedic surgery still involves a great deal of decision-making and preparation. A great way to get started is by researching legitimate sources to compare physician credentials and experience, such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (aaos.org).

The critical component is a team that will work to keep you educated and comfortable from start to finish. Look for a board-certified orthopaedist as well as a physical therapy team that specializes in musculoskeletal conditions. Knowing that you’re in good, capable hands will go a long way toward strengthen your resolve, and that’s often half the battle. “The team concept is important because it revolves around a proven protocol and clear communication,” Dr. Garino says.

After surgery, you can anticipate some initial pain or soreness, but medication can help you feel more comfortable. Talk with your doctor about managing your pain; he or she will prescribe a protocol that meets your needs.

Once at home, it’s important to follow the plan laid out for your recovery. Rest, ice, and make sure to keep everything you need within reach.

Your surgeon and physical therapist will create an activity program to best fit your recovery needs and help you resume daily activities when safely possible.  Your orthopaedic team is especially skilled in post-surgical rehabilitation care. From the very beginning, they will provide the education, expertise and communication needed to provide the best-possible experience and clinical outcomes.

Here at Premier Orthopaedics we strive to be a complete source for every aspect of what you need to improve your physical abilities. Our continuing goal is to restore our patients, regardless of age, to an active lifestyle. If you’re considering orthopaedic surgery, you can be sure that a qualified, experienced professional is going to be alongside you every step of your journey, from the first consultation to the final follow-up. We believe each patient deserves to feel confident, well informed, and comfortable beyond their expectations. Click below to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations or to learn more about Premier’s physicians, services and locations — and how we can start helping you!