By Stanislaw Dajczak, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon
Blanchard Valley Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Joint pain can slowly change the way you live. At first, you may avoid a long walk or take the elevator instead of the stairs. Over time, you may find yourself giving up activities you enjoy, struggling with everyday tasks, or losing sleep because of pain. When that happens, you may begin to wonder whether it is time to consider joint replacement.

Many people put off joint replacement surgery for as long as possible. In fact, a 2020 study found that many people with knee arthritis who could benefit from knee replacement waited too long, which can have consequences. If a joint replacement is put off, the joint may become stiffer, the muscles surrounding it can weaken, and walking may become more difficult. These changes can also make recovery after surgery more challenging.

One big sign that you should discuss a joint replacement with your doctor is the extent to which your joint pain is affecting your daily life. You may have trouble walking through the grocery store, climbing stairs, getting in and out of a chair, or sleeping comfortably at night. Some people begin using a cane or walker because they do not feel steady. Others stop exercising, give up hobbies, or miss out on family activities because moving hurts too much.

Joint replacement is typically not the first treatment we recommend. Depending on your condition, we may try less invasive options first, like maintaining a healthy weight, gentle exercise, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or joint injections. These treatments can reduce pain and improve mobility for many patients, sometimes for years.

Your orthopedic provider will also consider imaging, such as X-rays, to determine how much damage has occurred within the joint. When nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing meaningful relief, and joints are shown to be badly worn, surgery may be an appropriate next step.

The right time for a joint replacement is different for every person. There is no single age or level of pain that determines when someone should have joint replacement surgery. The decision is based on your overall health, the condition of your joint, how well other treatments are working, and, most importantly, how your symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

If joint pain is keeping you from working, caring for yourself, sleeping well, or enjoying the people and activities that matter to you, talk with an orthopedic provider. Having that conversation does not mean you are committing to surgery. It is an opportunity to understand your options and determine which treatment approach can best help you stay active, meet your goals, and return to the life you want to live.