Every year over 1 million hip and knee joint replacements are performed in the US. The decision to have a joint replaced usually does not come easily. Often months or years of pain lead up to the actual replacement. People routinely take higher than advised doses of pain medication, undergo injections (cortisone, Synvisc, or PRP), and some may work through a round or two of physical therapy. Because let’s face it, no one really wants to have a joint replaced. With that in mind, here are 5 things to do to avoid a joint replacement.

1. Be Proactive. This one here people struggle with. If the problem isn’t “bad enough” most will avoid dealing. This is the WORST thing possible. Addressing small issues (below) will be key to attempt to avoid surgery. You brush your teeth every day, right? So why not do what must be done for your joints? There are so many steps that can be taken in a person’s 30’s or 40’s that can help prevent issues down the road. Don’t wait to get help for any small nagging issue.
2. Engage in strengthening for your legs. The stronger the leg muscles are, the less strain there will be on the joints. And this does not require a gym membership. There are plenty of exercises that can be done at home…so there really is no excuse.
3. Work on your flexibility. Again, no gym required. Just spending a few minutes each day to maximize and maintain normal joint movement in your body. This can be done while watching TV at night…so there really is no excuse.
4. Cardiovascular exercise. Several times per week it is advised to engage in physical activity that raises the level of your heart rate. This is important for many things in the body but especially the joints of the lower body. Exercise pumps joint fluid and blood around which helps joints to be healthy. Also, shedding even a few extra pounds can remove up to 4 times that in stress to the joints.
5. Visit a muscle and joint expert at least 1x/year. Allow a professional to assess your mobility, strength, flexibility, and fitness. They can then develop a plan to keep your joints healthy. Even 1-2 visits could potentially help keep you from undergoing a major surgery.

As previously stated, you likely take the necessary steps to keep your teeth healthy daily…so now is a good time to do something positive for the muscles and joints in your body as well. In this way you can avoid the pain of having joint replacement surgery. Not sure where to begin? Click the following LINK to request your personalized muscle and joint exam. It is never too early to prevent yourself from having to undergo a painful surgery.