Definition

Orthopedic surgery attempts to correct disorders or injuries of the musculoskeletal system including arthritis, trauma, and congenital deformities.

How Do You Know It's Time for Orthopedic Surgery?

The Arthritis Foundation recommends that you speak to your rheumatologist or orthopedic surgeon about the possibility of joint replacement if you are experiencing any of the following discomforts:

• You are unable to sleep at night because of the pain.
• You've tried a series of different medications that don't help alleviate the pain; or the medication you have been on is no longer effective.
• You feel that the pain from your arthritis is keeping you from regular outings, such as visiting friends, going shopping, or taking a vacation.
• Your pain causes you to have trouble getting out of a chair, going up stairs, getting off the toilet, or getting up from the floor [2].