Joint Replacement

Joint replacement surgery replaces a damaged or diseased joint with an artificial joint, also known as a prosthesis. The hip and knee are the most commonly replaced joints, but the shoulder, elbow, ankle, and finger joints can also be replaced. Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques where appropriate.

What Is Joint Replacement?

During joint replacement, the damaged surfaces of the joint are removed and a prosthesis made of metal, plastic, or both is carefully positioned in their place. The new joint relieves the pain of worn cartilage and restores smoother movement.
 
Joint replacement is considered a highly successful procedure with high patient satisfaction. For specific joints, see hip replacement, knee replacement, and shoulder replacement.

Conditions Joint Replacement Treats

Joint replacement may be recommended for severe joint pain and stiffness caused by:

OsteoarthritisWear-and-tear arthritis of the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritisInflammatory arthritis that damages the joint.
Joint painPersistent pain limiting daily activities.
Severe joint injuryFractures or damage that cannot be repaired.
Hip painAdvanced hip arthritis. Knee painAdvanced knee arthritis.

When Is Joint Replacement Recommended?

The primary indication is severe joint pain or stiffness that interferes with daily activities. Conservative treatments are usually tried first. Before surgery, an orthopedic surgeon examines the joint and reviews X-rays, MRI, or other imaging to determine the extent of the damage.
 
The surgeon also considers your overall health and discusses the potential risks and benefits with you.

What To Expect During And After Surgery

Joint replacement follows these general steps:

  1. 1

    Evaluation

    Examination, imaging, and a review of your overall health.

  2. 2

    Surgery

    Under anesthesia, the damaged joint is removed and the prosthesis is positioned in its place.

  3. 3

    Early recovery

    A short hospital stay, or same-day discharge for select candidates.

  4. 4

    Physical therapy

    Begins soon after surgery to regain strength and mobility.

  5. 5

    Return to activity

    Within several weeks to several months, depending on the joint.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement removes a damaged or diseased joint and replaces it with an artificial joint, or prosthesis, made of metal, plastic, or a combination of both.

Which joints can be replaced?

The hip and knee are the most commonly replaced joints, but joint replacement can also be performed on the shoulder, elbow, ankle, and finger joints.

When is joint replacement recommended?

The main reason is severe joint pain or stiffness that interferes with daily activities, caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, other joint degeneration, or a severe injury, after conservative treatment has not helped.

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure typically takes a few hours and is commonly performed under general or regional anesthesia.

What is minimally invasive joint replacement?

Minimally invasive techniques use smaller incisions and cause less disruption to muscle and soft tissue, which can mean less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery. Same-day surgery is available for select candidates.

How long is recovery?

Physical therapy begins soon after surgery. Most patients return to normal activities within several weeks to several months, depending on the joint and the individual.

How long does a joint replacement last?

Modern implants are durable, but a prosthesis has a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced in the future. Following precautions helps protect the joint.

How do I know if I need a joint replacement?

An orthopedic surgeon will examine the joint and review X-rays, MRI, or other imaging, along with your overall health. Call (321) 499-4646 to schedule.

Benefits Of Joint Replacement

With an experienced orthopedic surgeon and a dedicated physical therapy program, most patients:

  • Have significant relief of joint pain and stiffness.
  • Return to normal activities and daily tasks.
  • Regain mobility and range of motion.
  • Enjoy a significant improvement in quality of life.
  • Recover faster with minimally invasive techniques.

Related Treatments

Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement

The Minimally Invasive Advantage

How minimally invasive joint replacement compares with the traditional approach.

Traditional approachMinimally invasiveOffered at Total Spine
IncisionA longer incision to expose the joint.Smaller incisions.
Muscle and soft tissueMore muscle and soft tissue disruption.Less disruption to the surrounding muscle and tissue.
Postoperative painMore pain early in recovery.Less pain for most patients.
Hospital stayTypically one or more nights in the hospital.A shorter stay; same-day, outpatient surgery for select candidates.
RecoveryA longer return to daily activity.A faster recovery and return to daily activity.

Minimally invasive joint replacement can mean smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster return to the activities you enjoy.

Our Patients Stories

Hear our patients share their experience with us, All in their own words.

Why Choose Total Spine and Orthopedics

Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.

  • Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques

    We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.

  • Same-day, outpatient procedures

    Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons

    Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.

  • A complimentary MRI review

    Understand your diagnosis and options from a board-certified specialist before committing to any treatment.

  • Trusted by our community

    More than 1,100 patient reviews at a 4.6-star average, and over 50,000 patients treated.

  • Joint replacement with a minimally invasive approach

    Our surgeons use smaller incisions and offer same-day surgery for select candidates.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.

  • Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando

    Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.

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