Medically reviewed by Dr. L. Bharath , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Bharath Orthopaedics
Joint pain can gradually affect many aspects of everyday life. Activities that once seemed simple, such as walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair or standing for long periods, may become difficult when a joint is damaged.
For some people, the discomfort develops over several years due to osteoarthritis or other joint conditions. For others, it may follow an injury, fracture or previous joint surgery. When pain continues and movement becomes restricted, understanding the available treatment options becomes important.
Joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components. It is commonly considered for certain patients with advanced knee or hip joint damage when appropriate non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
A joint replacement surgeon in Chennai evaluates the affected joint, reviews imaging findings and considers the patient’s symptoms, medical history and daily activities before discussing whether joint replacement may be appropriate.
This article explains the conditions that can affect knee and hip joints, when replacement surgery may be considered, the different procedures available and what patients should understand about treatment and recovery.
What is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint replacement surgery is a procedure performed to replace damaged portions of a joint with artificial components called implants or prostheses.
The procedure is commonly performed on the knee and hip joints. Damage to these joints can occur due to osteoarthritis, certain inflammatory conditions, previous injuries or other causes.
The main purpose of joint replacement is to address pain and impaired joint function associated with significant joint damage. The suitability of surgery depends on the individual’s condition and overall health.
Joint replacement does not involve replacing every part of the joint in all cases. Depending on the extent of damage, a surgeon may recommend replacing the entire joint or only the affected portion.
Joint Replacement Care at Bharath Orthopaedics, Chennai
Bharath Orthopaedics, Chennai, lists knee and hip joint replacement among its orthopaedic services. The procedures described on its website include total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, total hip replacement and revision joint replacement.
The practice also lists orthopaedic services relating to sports injuries, arthroscopy, fracture management and non-surgical treatment.
The suitability of a particular procedure depends on the patient’s diagnosis, joint condition, general health and treatment requirements. An individual assessment is necessary before deciding on surgery.
Consultation Locations
Bharath Orthopaedics
Flat-A, Ground Floor, Balaji Villa, New Door No. 38/1, Old Door No. 9/1, Rajaratnam Street, Kilpauk, Chennai – 600010.
Sri Singhvi Health Centre
TVH Lumbini Square, No. 127, Bricklin Road, Purasaiwalkam, Chennai – 600007.
Amrit Medical Center
No. 73/28, Dr. Alagappa Road, Purasawalkam, Chennai – 600084.
Telephone: 044 4799 2728
Consultation availability and the doctor’s schedule should be confirmed with the respective centre.
About Dr. Bharath Loganathan
Dr. Bharath Loganathan is an orthopaedic surgeon associated with Bharath Orthopaedics, Chennai. His listed areas of clinical practice include knee and hip replacement, primary and revision joint replacement, arthroscopy and sports-related orthopaedic conditions.
His website profile lists the following academic qualifications:
- MBBS – Stanley Medical College, Chennai.
- MS in Orthopaedic Surgery – Grant Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai.
- MRCS – Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
His profile also lists advanced training in adult joint reconstruction, including the Ranawat Adult Joint Reconstruction Fellowship and the Rothman Ranawat Travelling Fellowship.
When Might a Person Need Joint Replacement Surgery?
Not everyone experiencing knee or hip pain requires joint replacement. Many conditions can initially be managed through medication, physiotherapy, activity modification and other non-surgical approaches.
However, surgery may be considered when joint damage becomes significant and symptoms continue to interfere with everyday activities.
Some symptoms that may require further evaluation include:
- Persistent knee or hip pain while walking or standing.
- Difficulty climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
- Joint stiffness that limits normal movement.
- Pain that interferes with sleep or routine activities.
- Reduced walking distance due to joint discomfort.
- Changes in walking pattern because of pain.
- Limited improvement with appropriate non-surgical treatment.
The decision should not be based on an X-ray or MRI report alone. The patient’s symptoms, physical examination, imaging findings, functional limitations and treatment preferences should all be considered.
Common Conditions That May Lead to Joint Replacement
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a joint condition associated with changes in the cartilage and other structures within the joint. As the condition progresses, the affected joint may become painful and stiff.
It commonly affects the knees and hips, although other joints can also be involved.
People with osteoarthritis may experience:
- Pain during movement.
- Stiffness after periods of rest.
- Swelling around the affected joint.
- Reduced flexibility.
- Difficulty walking or performing routine activities.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the extent of joint damage. Exercise, physiotherapy, medication and lifestyle modifications may help manage symptoms. Joint replacement may be considered in selected patients with advanced disease.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition in which the immune system affects the lining of the joints. It can cause pain, swelling, stiffness and progressive joint damage.
The condition may affect several joints, including the knees and hips.
Medical management is important to control inflammation and reduce further joint damage. In some people with advanced structural damage, joint replacement may be considered as part of their overall treatment plan.
3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury involving a joint. Previous fractures, ligament injuries or damage to joint surfaces may contribute to changes that develop over time.
Patients may experience pain, stiffness and difficulty using the affected joint.
Treatment depends on the type of injury, the extent of joint damage and the effect on daily activities. Joint replacement may be an option in certain cases of advanced joint damage.
4. Advanced Hip Joint Damage
Hip joint problems can cause pain around the groin, thigh or buttock. Some patients experience discomfort while walking, sitting for long periods or getting up from a chair.
Advanced osteoarthritis, certain hip disorders and previous injuries may contribute to hip joint damage.
An orthopaedic assessment helps determine whether the symptoms originate from the hip joint and whether non-surgical or surgical management is appropriate.
Types of Joint Replacement Procedures
The choice of procedure depends on the joint involved, the location and extent of damage, bone condition and individual clinical requirements.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components.
It may be considered for patients with significant knee joint damage, commonly due to advanced osteoarthritis, when appropriate non-surgical treatment has not provided sufficient relief.
The procedure aims to address pain associated with damaged joint surfaces and improve the ability to perform daily activities.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement, also called unicondylar knee replacement, involves replacing only the affected compartment of the knee while preserving the remaining parts of the joint.
It may be considered when damage is limited to one compartment and the other structures, including the ligaments, are suitable.
Not every patient with knee arthritis is eligible for this procedure. A detailed clinical and imaging assessment is necessary.
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement involves replacing the damaged portions of the hip joint with artificial components.
It may be considered for patients with advanced hip joint damage who experience persistent pain and functional limitations despite appropriate non-surgical management.
The procedure involves replacing the damaged femoral head and preparing the hip socket to receive the artificial components.
Revision Knee and Hip Replacement
Revision joint replacement is a procedure performed to replace or revise components of an earlier joint replacement.
It may be required in certain situations, including implant loosening, infection, instability, wear or other complications.
Revision procedures can be more complex than primary joint replacement. The treatment plan depends on the reason for the previous implant problem, bone condition and the patient’s overall health.
Can Joint Problems Be Treated Without Surgery?
Yes. Surgery is not the only treatment for joint pain. Depending on the diagnosis, several non-surgical approaches may be considered before joint replacement.
These may include:
- Medication: Prescribed medicines may help manage pain and inflammation. Their suitability depends on the patient’s medical history and other medications.
- Physiotherapy: Guided exercises can help maintain joint movement, improve muscle strength and support everyday function.
- Activity modification: Adjusting activities that increase joint discomfort may help reduce stress on the affected joint.
- Weight management: For people with excess body weight, an appropriate weight-management plan may help reduce the load placed on weight-bearing joints.
- Walking aids: A suitable walking stick or other support may help some patients maintain mobility and reduce strain.
The effectiveness of these approaches varies. A doctor can explain which options are suitable based on the underlying condition.
What Happens Before Joint Replacement Surgery?
A decision about joint replacement requires a detailed assessment. The doctor reviews the patient’s symptoms, previous treatments, medical history and imaging findings.
The evaluation may include:
- Medical history: Understanding the duration of pain, previous injuries, existing health conditions and medications.
- Physical examination: Assessing joint movement, swelling, tenderness, alignment and walking pattern.
- Imaging: X-rays are commonly used to examine joint space, bone alignment and structural changes. Additional imaging may be advised when necessary.
- General health assessment: Blood tests, cardiac evaluation or other investigations may be required depending on the patient’s health.
- Treatment discussion: Reviewing the potential benefits, limitations, risks and alternatives to surgery.
Patients should have an opportunity to ask questions and understand the proposed procedure before making a decision.
What are the Possible Risks of Joint Replacement Surgery?
Like other major surgical procedures, joint replacement has potential risks. These vary according to the procedure, the patient’s health and other individual factors.
Possible complications include:
- Infection.
- Blood clots.
- Bleeding.
- Stiffness or restricted movement.
- Persistent pain.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury.
- Dislocation, particularly following hip replacement.
- Implant wear or loosening over time.
- Need for further surgery.
The surgeon should explain the risks relevant to the individual patient, along with measures used to reduce and manage complications.
Recovery After Knee or Hip Replacement
Recovery is a gradual process. It varies according to the procedure, general health, muscle strength and participation in rehabilitation.
After surgery, the medical team monitors the patient’s condition and helps determine when mobilisation can begin.
Recovery may involve:
- Early mobilisation: Patients may be encouraged to begin assisted movement and walking when medically appropriate.
- Physiotherapy: Guided exercises help improve joint movement, muscle strength and balance.
- Pain management: Medicines and other prescribed measures may be used to manage post-operative discomfort.
- Wound care: The surgical wound needs appropriate care and monitoring for signs of infection.
- Follow-up appointments: Regular assessments help the medical team monitor healing, movement and implant-related concerns.
Patients should follow their individual rehabilitation instructions rather than compare their recovery with another person’s experience.
How to Prepare for a Joint Replacement Consultation
A consultation is an opportunity to understand the cause of joint pain and discuss available management options.
Before the appointment, patients may find it useful to:
- Carry previous X-rays, MRI scans and medical reports.
- Prepare a list of current medications.
- Explain when the pain started and how it has changed.
- Mention previous treatments and their effects.
- Describe difficulties with walking, sleeping or routine activities.
- Ask about non-surgical alternatives and the reasons for considering surgery.
- Discuss possible complications, rehabilitation and follow-up requirements.
These details help the doctor understand the patient’s concerns and evaluate the condition more effectively.