Returning to sports after total joint replacements and tibial osteotomies: is it possible?

Total joint replacement and tibial osteotomies have been used for decades to return the individual to activities and relieve pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, joint replacement is considered one of the most successful medical innovations of the 20th century. Hip and knee-replacement operations are increasing in frequency and are continuing to achieve pain relief and improve function for patients with arthritic joints. Demand for knee replacement is expected to double over the next five to 10 years and for hip replacement, it is expected to double over the next 10 to 15 years. The trend for joint replacement has begun to include the younger as well as the older still active individual. Younger patients are considering joint-replacement surgery earlier in life due to advances in surgery and devices. Since children begin sports at a fairly early age, once they reach young adulthood, their joints have sustained recurrent internal impact for many years leading to degeneration earlier in life. These younger patients are expecting and choosing to participate in sports even after surgery. They want to be able to coach and play sports with their children without pain. While pain relief has historically been the main reason people have joint replacement surgery--the need to improve joint-function has also become motivating for patients--especially those involved in athletic activities. Patients and orthopedic surgeons do not necessarily worry about the same things after joint-replacement surgery.