Atlantis Orthopaedics of Palm Beach County, Florida

Total Joint Replacement

What is total joint replacement?

A joint affected by Arthritis or other damage causing conditions can be removed and replaced with an artificial joint.

A joint is where the ends of two or more bones connect. A knee joint, for instance, is formed by the lower leg bone (tibia or shin bone) and the thighbone, called the femur.

A smooth layer of cartilage covers the ends of the bones.. Normal cartilage allows almost frictionless and pain-free movement. Cartilage damaged by arthritis or injury causes joints to become stiff and painful. Joints are enclosed by a fibrous tissue envelope or a capsule with a smooth tissue lining called the synovium, which produces fluid that reduces friction and wear in a joint.

Why is total joint replacement necessary?

Total joint replacement should be considered when other treatment options will not relieve your pain and disability. The damaged joint can cause pain so severe, you mightl avoid using the joint, weakening the muscles around the joint and making it even more difficult to move. A physical examination, which may include laboratory tests and x-rays, will show the extent of damage to the joint.