While arthritis sufferers often get relief from medication and home treatment, it sometimes is not enough. For those who have severe arthritis pain, joint surgery might be the answer.

Joint replacement or surgery can offer many benefits for some arthritis suffers. Not only can it relieve pain, but these procedures also can increase movement and use of the joints. Despite these advantages, the decision to have joint surgery can be a tough one. Certain symptoms and other factors can help people decide when the time is right to seriously consider surgery.

Arthritis sufferers who are unable to sleep at night, participate in regular outings, get relief from medication, or complete necessary daily functions such as getting out of chair, are prime candidates for surgery. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit an orthopaedic surgeon or rheumatologist to discuss the possibility of joint surgery or replacement.

Depending on the condition of the joint, a variety of surgical options are available to arthritis sufferers.

Arthrodesis: This procedure, typically performed on ankles, wrists, fingers and thumbs, fuses bones together to help relieve pain.

Arthroscopy: A minor outpatient surgery, arthroscopy is the most common procedure for diagnosing knee and shoulder problems. During the procedure, the physician will use a tool with a small camera on the end to assess the damage in the joint.

Arthroplasty: During this surgery, the physician will resurface the ends of the bones. This procedure is used to repair bone damage that occurs when the cartilage wears away and the bones rub together.

Osteotomy: When joints are unaligned, osteotomy is often used to reposition the bone.Total Joint Replacement: This procedure removes the problematic joint and replaces it with an artificial joint. A widely used surgery, total joint replacement is most commonly used on knees and hips.

Total Joint Replacement: This procedure removes the problematic joint and replaces it with an artificial joint. A widely used surgery, total joint replacement is most commonly used on knees and hips.

Before advising surgery, a physician will review other health factors. Candidates must be in good general health before undergoing surgery. People with heart or lung disease have a higher risk of complications during surgery, which may factor into the surgeon’s decision. People who have weight problems may not be prime candidates, and physicians will may that patients lose weight before surgery. This creates a much smoother recovery for the patient. Nutrition must also be in check prior to surgery, especially for older surgery candidates. Supplements or a planned diet can help patients prepare for surgery.

For many, joint surgery greatly improves your quality of life. For more information on joint replacement or other joint procedures, talk to your doctor.