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Your body didn't come with spare parts, but that doesn't mean damaged, worn-out joints can't be replaced. Joint replacement surgery can relieve pain and restore movement to areas that have become sore and stiff because of injuries or conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Surgeons replace the damaged joint with a new high-tech version that's made of plastic and metal components. The two most common joint replacement procedures are for teh knees and hips. But replacements can be done for other joints as well, including shoulders, ankles, wrists, even fingers, says Abbot Kagan, M.D., of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
IS
REPLACEMENT FOR YOU? People should consider the benefit of surgery if pain is keeping them from the things they enjoy, such as walking or playing golf, Dr. Kagan says. You also might consider it if joint pain interferes with sleeping or doing daily tasks such as bathing, dressing and fixing meals. ARE
THERE RISKS? BACK
IN BUSINESS: With their new knees or hips, most people return to walking or playing golf without any problems. More strenuous activities such as tennis or running may be discouraged since they can be hard on artiificial joints. But you don't necessarily have to rule out your favorite activity and should discuss the possibilities with your doctor. "We're still getting information about how well newer joints stand up to different activities," Dr. Kagan says. WORTH
ASKING:
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