For many people, particularly those with arthritis, pain can limit or halt an active lifestyle. Pain in the hips, knees and shoulders, in particular, directly impact mobility and activity. If painful joints are interfering with daily activities, it may be time to consider the treatment option at USC University Hospital (USCUH). 

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint, usually caused by the progressive destruction of cartilage – the firm, smooth tissue on the ends of the bones that keeps them from grinding against one another. Osteoarthritis, or degerative arthritis, is the most common kind of arthritis, and is related to wear and tear on the joint. In rheumatoid arthritis, which affects children as well as adults, the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cartilage.

Quality, Compassionate Care

USCUH is dedicated to providing patients with quality, compassionate care. In addition to offering their expertise in difficult, complex surgical procedures, our hospital's specialists are involved in leading edge research and patient education.

USCUH brings patients both worlds: the compassionate, individualized care which can be found in a private practice and the education and research benefits associated with a university-based program.

Broad Continuum of Services

USCUH provides a broad continuum of care for patients with arthritis, including rheumatology and orthopaedic surgery.

Total Joint Replacement

Many patients enjoy good to excellent results from their total joint replacement surgeries. And while surgery may be a pivotal first step in treating disabling joint pain, treatment is not complete without therapy and rehabilitation. Commitment to a post-operative rehabilitation plan, designed by a physician and physician therapy is important to getting the most benefit from surgery and to returning to normal activities.

Amazing as it may seem, patients may be out of bed as early as a day or two after surgery. Full recovery generally takes from three to six months, depending on the type of surgery, the patient's overall health and the success of rehabilitation.

When Joint Replacement Surgery May Be the Best Option

Joint pain is caused by a variety of factors, but most commonly from the wearing down of the joint caused by osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis also may cause the joint to wear down in turn, causing pain.

Patients are encouraged to decide with their doctor when surgery may be the best treatment option. Some considerations include:

• The location of the pain and how often it occurs
• Medication the patient takes for pain, including the frequency of dose
• Range of motion in the affected joint
• The limit in mobility
• Interference with daily activities (dressing, bathing, hair brushing, dog walking, carrying groceries, etc.)
• The interruption of social activities or exercise

If pain is persistent and interferes with daily function, total joint replacement may be the answer.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Treatment plans and recommendations are carefully personalized for each patient after evaluation by a USCUH specialist. For example, one of our physicians may prescribe an oral anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling, and physical therapy, which strengthens the muscles around the joint. Injections of cortisone also are often part of a treatment regimen.

For some people, however, relief from pain and limited movement may be obtained only through surgery, which may range from simple arthroscopy to joint reconstruction to total joint replacement. Advanced technology and surgical techniques utilized by USCUH doctors have made joint replacement an effective option for many patients.

The Gender Knee

Our physicians also offer knee replacement with artificial joints designed specifically for women. Gender-specific knee replacement surgeries may mean a better fit, higher flexion and more natural movement.

For more information

The professionals at USCUH will meet with patients, discuss their problems and help them make an informed decision about the many treatment options available to them. For a referral to one of our physicians, please call 1-888-700-5700.