Preventive measures to avoid total knee & hip replacement surgery

Age-related changes such as hip and knee joint pain are an inevitable part of life. As you grow old, your joints become weak and lose their mobility due to regular wear and tear and underlying health conditions. Hence, an increasing number of people are considering knee and hip replacement surgeries. 

But do you know that it is possible to avoid these surgeries and preserve your joint health? 

“Elderly people, especially in the age group of 60 and above, are the most common complainants of hip and knee pain. While joint replacement surgery is an effective treatment option, it can be prevented. In my practice, I actively advise my patients to take necessary preventive measures that majorly include lifestyle changes”, says Dr. Rakesh Mattoo, a leading orthopaedic expert at the CK Birla Hospital.

Explaining the age consideration for replacement surgery, the doctor adds, “Each case is unique and while age is an important factor, it is not the only one. We evaluate how the symptoms are affecting your everyday life and your overall health before determining the need for surgery. If there is no medical urgency, we plan a treatment protocol for you in a personalised manner to improve your function, independence and quality of life”. 

Ways to Prevent Knee and Hip Replacement 

Dr Akshay Kumar Saxena, top orthopaedic expert at the CK Birla Hospital, talks about some handy ways to avoid knee and hip replacement surgery in advanced age. 

Low-impact exercises: Moving your joints regularly keeps your joint cushions lubricated and functional in the long term. You should do walking, cycling or yoga everyday to strengthen your joints and maintain mobility.

Physical therapy: A combination of exercises and physiotherapy is ideal to preserve your strength and balance. Consult a physiotherapist if you experience pain and discomfort in your knee or hip joint. 

Weight loss: Being overweight can increase pressure on your knees and hips. Even losing a small amount of extra weight can reduce this stress on your joints. You should shed extra pounds to reduce your risk of joint problems.

Medication: Your doctor can prescribe medications to help alleviate the symptoms. You may also ask your doctor for joint injections to improve movement and reduce pain.  

Nutritious diet: Your diet plays an important role in strengthening your bones and enhancing the health of your joints. You should include calcium-rich food products in your diet to preserve your  cartilage. Good nutrients like calcium also increase the number of red blood cells in your body. Eat dark, green leafy vegetables, almonds and omega-3 fatty acids to decrease pain and nourish your joints.

Walking aids: With growing age, your chances of falling and getting injured also increase. It is suggested that you make use of walking aids and supports such as cranes and braces to avoid hip or knee injuries that may lead you to have joint replacement surgery. 

The doctor adds, “Understanding your individual risk is important to design a prevention plan. At the CK Birla Hospital, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatments to keep you moving through all stages of life.”