Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Osteoarthritis and Surgery

11/18/2005

Question:

My mother is 79, in A1 health generally, has had two hip replacments in 2000 & 2001. She is due to have her knees done in Dec, but is now unsure as the surgeon has told her she will not be more mobile afterwards than she is now, just pain free, her pain is controlled with anti-inflammatory medication. Given her age etc, what is your opinion, alot of her pain is due to her bad posture, (stooping), I have suggested I get her a regular Physio who specialises in this field.

Answer:

Without knowing your mother’s entire history, I cannot advise you or her on what to do. In general, a good medical principle is to do the simplest and safest thing that solves the problem.  If your mother is doing well on anti-inflammatory medication (no side effects), there would be no reason to rush into surgery.

For more information:

Go to the Osteoporosis health topic.