Am I too young for joint replacement?

DENVER, Colo. — Who do you picture when you think of someone with a knee or hip replacement? Someone elderly? Sometimes this is true, but increasingly Gen Xers — and folks even younger — are getting joint replacements. Let’s look at what’s behind this trend.

Arthritis and athletic activity lead to more joint replacements

Osteoarthritis is commonly known as natural wear and tear of the joints. For many adults it’s a normal part of the aging process. Essentially, it’s a degenerative condition that wears away the cartilage that cushions bones in the joint. As the cartilage deteriorates, the space between bone ends gradually narrows; this may lead to bone-on-bone contact and pain.

An increase in sports and recreational activities in recent decades has contributed to many people developing arthritis earlier in life. Sports like cycling, running, tennis, weightlifting, soccer and football result in numerous knee, hip and other joint injuries. People whose injuries heal without needing surgery, in general, aren’t at significantly greater risk for arthritis. However, those who require joint surgery at a young age may experience faster degeneration of the cartilage, leading to earlier development of arthritis.

What are the options for younger people with joint pain?

Physicians at Colorado Joint Replacement (CJR) do all they can to avoid joint replacement for all patients — regardless of age. Often, conservative interventions like physical therapy, bracing, and injections provide patients with the pain relief and improved mobility they seek. However, in some cases, joint replacement may be the best treatment option.

What signs point to the need for joint replacement?

Pain is a primary factor in deciding if or when someone needs a joint replacement. If conservative approaches don’t alleviate the pain and a person’s daily and recreational activities are restricted, then replacement may be necessary.

No two people experience joint pain in the same way, and each person has unique expectations. There are no cookie-cutter solutions. Treatment needs to be highly individualized to meet each patient’s needs. When you work with a CJR provider, they’ll educate you on the best treatment course and you’ll make decisions together.

Is there a right age for joint replacement?

Increasingly, people in their 30s, 40s and 50s are getting knee and hip replacements to restore active lifestyles. However, joint replacement isn’t simply a question of age. Deciding on joint replacement is a matter of carefully considering all relevant factors for each individual. This includes possible treatment options, pain levels, and how joint deterioration affects quality of life. Plus, considering joint replacement can bring up many questions and emotions.

The decision to proceed with joint replacement at any age is complex. The specialists at Colorado Joint Replacement have helped thousands of patients navigate this choice and they can help you too. By the way, it’s not uncommon for many of our patients to say, “I wish I’d done this sooner,” after their recovery.

Replacement joint technology is better than ever

Thanks to technological advances over the past 20 years, replacement joints are better than ever in terms of pain relief, return to function and longevity of the implants.

Also, the advances go beyond implants. Surgical techniques are more precise and less invasive due to the use of computers and robotics during surgery.

What should I do if I have joint pain?

It’s important to understand that not all joint pain is related to arthritis. If you have joint pain, the first step in addressing it is to have an examination by a physician. Most likely, an X-ray will be used to help diagnose your symptoms. Other tests — like an MRI — may be necessary. Once the condition is diagnosed, the next step is creating a treatment plan.

Specialists at CJR can provide a diagnosis of your pain and help you choose treatment options that are best for you.

To schedule an appointment, call Call720-524-1367.