My doctor said he recommends Degenerative Joint Surgery, what is that?

Degenerative joint surgery is a type of surgical procedure that is used to treat joint degeneration, which can occur as a result of various factors such as age, injury, or disease. Joint degeneration refers to the breakdown of cartilage and other tissues within the joint, which can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Degenerative joint surgery may be recommended when other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy, have not been effective in managing symptoms. The specific type of surgery used will depend on the location and severity of the joint degeneration, as well as the individual’s overall health and medical history.

Some common types of degenerative joint surgery include:

1. Joint replacement surgery: This involves removing the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
2. Joint resurfacing surgery: This involves smoothing and reshaping the damaged joint surfaces, typically using a metal implant.
3. Joint fusion surgery: This involves fusing the bones in the affected joint together, which can help stabilize the joint and reduce pain.
4. Osteotomy: This involves cutting and repositioning the bones in the joint to redistribute weight and relieve pressure on the damaged area.

After degenerative joint surgery, patients will typically need to undergo a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected joint. As with any surgery, there are risks associated with degenerative joint surgery, including infection, bleeding, and poor wound healing. However, for many individuals with severe joint degeneration, surgery can be an effective way to relieve pain and improve quality of life. It’s important to see a healthcare professional if you are experiencing foot pain, as they can help diagnose the cause and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment options for foot pain may include rest, ice, over-the-counter pain medication, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. Call Houston’s Foot Doc Sherman Nagler with all your foot problems. 713.529.1010