Joints play a crucial role in your body’s ability to move, bear weight and perform activities of daily life. So, when a joint experiences chronic inflammation or damage, this can severely hinder your ability to have an active life. In some cases, this can lead to needing a joint replaced.   

If you’ve experienced significant joint pain that is impacting your daily life, you’ve probably wondered when to consider joint replacement surgery. Joint replacement surgery (or arthroplasty) fully or partially replaces your damaged joint with a prosthesis. You should only consider this procedure when other treatments are ineffective at relieving your pain and helping you move better. 

So how do you know if joint replacement is the right choice for you? Here are a few indicators it might be time to consider surgery. 

Signs you might need a joint replacement 

Pain and loss of function 

Persistent and severe joint pain that limits daily activities and interferes with your quality of life despite nonsurgical treatments could be a sign to consider surgery. Significant loss of joint function, stiffness and inability to perform basic tasks, such as walking, climbing stairs or getting in and out of chairs, could also indicate the need for joint replacement. 

Joint damage or deformity 

Progressive joint damage due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative joint diseases that have not responded to other treatments. Severe joint deformity, instability, or malalignment that affects mobility and causes chronic pain. 

Failure of less invasive treatments 

Surgery might be the right choice if you’ve already tried other treatments, such as medications, physical therapy or corticosteroid injections, to provide adequate relief. 

Radiographic Evidence 

Even if you aren’t experiencing major joint pain but there is radiographic evidence of advanced joint degeneration or damage then surgery might be a good option. 

Other Considerations 

It's important to also consider your age and health status when deciding whether to have joint replacement. While joint replacement surgery can be performed at any age, it’s often recommended for people who are generally healthy enough to tolerate the procedure and rehabilitation process.   

Recognizing the signs that it's time for joint replacement surgery will help you maintain quality of life and regain mobility. Whether it's persistent pain, limited range of motion or a decline in daily activities, listening to your body's signals can lead you to the right decision. While joint replacement surgery offers one path towards relief and improved function, always consult with your health care provider about the right steps for you.