A lot of our patients have had either knee or hip replacement surgery, or surgeries. The rest of us may have to face the possibility in the coming years. One thing helps that thought: Surgeries will only continue to improve with time and, maybe, just maybe someone will develop regenerative cartilage capabilities.
Let’s take a quick general look at eligibility for surgery and reasons not to;
Recommended:
- Pain prevents normal activity such as sleeping
- You cannot move by yourself and have to use a cane or walker
- You cannot safely take care of yourself
- Other treatments have been ineffective
- You understand the surgery and recovery involved
Not recommended:
- Extreme obesity
- Excessive leg weakness
- Unhealthy skin around the joint
- Previous infections in the joint
- Previous surgeries or injuries to the area
- Heart of lung problems which complicate surgeries
- Unhealthy high risk behaviors
Not to beat a dead horse, but preventing surgery is a big deal if you can avoid it. Exercise remains the primary elixir to counter the slow, subtle disruption of joint strength and motion.
I lump the need for surgery into two categories: Bad Luck (Genetics) and Previous Traumas.
And then, of course, we all have spinal arthritis around here. Keep moving, stay strong and see your chiropractor to maintain spinal mobility.
Make a commitment to your health today.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Dan Kammer