Why Orthopedists Are Suggesting Joint Replacements for Younger Patients

In recent years, more joint replacement surgeries have gone up, but the number of people choosing joint replacement is moving towards a younger demographic. Studies from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons have shown that the average hip replacement and knee replacement are decreasing. The average number of younger patients receiving these replacements has kept up. So, what do these studies mean? We’re here to take a brief look at these studies and see what it means for orthopedic care. 

The Connections Between Younger Patients and Joint Replacement

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the average age of patients going for hip-replacement surgery went from over 66 to just under 65. For knee replacements, the average age for knee-replacement surgeries declined from 68 to just under 66. Both of these results were during the 2000 to 2014 time period, implying that younger people ages 45 and older are starting to seek out joint replacements as an effort for surgical intervention. 

Despite the confidence younger people have in joint replacement surgery, these surgeries tend to have a few tradeoffs. Many patients tend to seek out knee replacement for arthritis to help get back to their daily activities, but the drawback of this is the longevity of the implants will always depend on how the person uses their treatment. Not all joint replacements will be able to replenish the joints back to their original form, and depending on how they heal can have complications further down the road. 

• Most hip and knee replacements will last between 15 to 20 years, but these results come from more specialized care, as high-energy activities such as running and hiking can impact the resistance of those implants over time. One excellent factor that comes into play is the fact that younger patients can often recover quicker from their surgeries. They can return to their usual activities, and maintain active, healthy lifestyles.
• Many orthopedic surgeons and researchers have been working to increase the resistance of many implant products used. Through these efforts, conservative efforts for maintaining the joint can decrease in necessity over time, and less stress on the joints can be achieved. This is due to advancements in surgical techniques and reductions in post-surgery complications, all of which contribute to quicker recovery times. Many surgeons today are performing single-day surgeries, which help reduce hospital stays and reduce the impact on the patient’s lifestyle. 
• Trending surgical efforts, such as the use of biologics and stem cell research, is also impacting how younger people approach their surgeries. As a method for treating early-stage arthritis and osteoarthritis, these treatments are still being explored and are being combined with surgical interventions to help assist younger patients in recovery. 

Care For Your Joint Health Early With Treatment

If you are considering joint replacement, keep in mind that newer treatments are always on the horizon. Always keep in mind that the goal of joint treatment is to relieve pain and help you return back to the activities you love. For more information, the best resource available to you is to speak with your orthopedist about your treatment options.