Total joint replacement surgery has revolutionized the treatment of debilitating joint pain, offering patients a renewed chance at mobility and improved quality of life.
While recovery from a total joint replacement surgery has greatly reduced thanks to innovative pain management, minimally invasive surgical approaches, and enhanced rehabilitation, many patients still struggle to find the perfect time to schedule their joint replacement surgery, i.e., one that will make the smallest impact in their day-to-day lives.
“I hear all the time patients say they want to have their surgery done in the spring so that they’re ready for the summer,” said Dr. Charles Taunt, orthopedic surgeon at Michigan Orthopedic Center, who performs joint replacement surgery at McLaren Greater Lansing. “However, unless your home doesn’t have an attached garage, you are traveling during the winter, or are responsible for outdoor chores like shoveling, winter can be one of the best times for a joint replacement surgery since most Michigan residents are less active during that season.”
The short answer is there isn’t a best time of the year for a knee replacement surgery. It all depends on your lifestyle and what is most important to you.
“Fall is a great time because many of our patients like to go to south in the winter, so having surgery before their trip can ensure they can enjoy their winter vacation,” said Dr. Taunt. “Some patients prefer summer because they have more family around who can help them for the week or so to recover from surgery.”
Ultimately, the decision of when to have a knee replacement surgery should be considered when:
- Your pain significantly impacts your daily life.
- Conservative treatments like medication, injections, or physical therapy don’t work.
- Your quality of life is affected.
- Damage to your knee is severe.
At McLaren Greater Lansing’s Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, we offer the most advanced treatments for total joint replacement. Our specialists are dedicated to providing our patients shorter hospital stays, faster healing, and a quicker return to their daily routines, making joint replacement a more accessible and appealing option than ever before.
“My mom chose to have her knee replacement in Lansing at the end of January and did excellently,” said Dr. Taunt. “Ultimately, your body will let you know when it’s time to have knee replacement surgery.”
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