Operation Joint Camp at North Oaks Medical Center is helping patients plan
for a speedy recovery from joint replacement surgery. The program is designed
to fully prepare patients for surgery and recovery by working closely
with medical professionals to learn what to expect before, during and
after joint replacement. An exclusive facility tour familiarizes patients
and their loved ones with the hospital, the specially-equipped Orthopaedic/Neurosurgery
Unit and the rehabilitation gym.
Why Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint pain can result from damaged or diseased cartilage covering the bones
between joints, which is often a result of conditions such as osteoarthritis
and rheumatoid arthritis. Stretching, exercises and medication, such as
anti-inflammatories and over–the–counter pain relievers, may
offer relief from joint pain for a time. But if these treatments lose
their effectiveness and a patient reaches the point of constant pain,
difficulty with joint movement and is unable to participate in activities
of daily living like walking, bathing and climbing stairs, joint replacement
may be an option.
Joint replacement surgery involves the removal and replacement of a damaged
or diseased joint with an artificial joint. Total hip and knee replacements
are the most common replacement surgeries. The length of surgeries varies
among patients depending on the damage of the joint prior to the procedure.
Most can take up to 2 hours of surgery followed by 1 to 2 additional hours
for anesthesia to wear off and the patient to awaken completely. The recovery
process usually begins the same day as surgery and can range from weeks
to months.
Since exercise is an important element of recovery, our rehabilitation
gym is located on the Orthopaedic Unit to allow joint replacement patients
to begin therapy as soon as possible—sometimes on the same day of
the procedure. This allows recovery to begin immediately.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
documents that more than 1 million Americans have realized long-term,
positive results and improved quality of life after joint replacement.
If you want relief from joint pain, speak with your personal health care
provider or contact
North Oaks Orthopaedic Specialty Center at (985) 230-2663 in Hammond or (225) 686-4900 in Livingston or
Plaza Orthopedics at (985) 230-7460 in Hammond.