Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
Joint Replacement: Realistic Expectations
Joint Replacement: Realistic Expectations
Topic Overview
It is important to have realistic expectations of joint replacement surgery.
- Replacement joints are not "miracle" joints. They will not restore a joint to the function it had before the arthritis began.
- Pain relief is the most dependable outcome of joint replacement. When the pain is relieved, you also may get some function back, but this is not the main goal and is less predictable.
- On average, replacement joints have a limited life span (10 to 20 years).
- There are certain activities (running, downhill skiing) you should not do after surgery. The joint is meant to be used but not abused.
- Low-impact aerobics, moderate hiking, bicycling, swimming, gardening (if you don't squat), and normal housework usually are allowed.
- People who have had a joint replacement may need to take antibiotics before dental work, certain tests, and surgery for at least 2 years after joint replacement surgery to prevent infection in the artificial joint.
Current as of: March 9, 2022
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Kenneth J. Koval MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.
© 1995-2022 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Related Links
Osteoarthritis
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>