But improved movement and lack of pain in the replaced knee or hip isn't instantaneous, and knowing what to expect from the surgery and subsequent physical therapy can make recovery faster and better. Otherwise-healthy seniors can expect to be discharged from the hospital four to five days after surgery.

Before surgery, tell your health-care provider about all over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or herbs you take because they might complicate surgery. Do everyday activities, such as standing up or climbing stairs, hurt. If available, minimally invasive hip replacement surgery requires fewer and smaller incisions and usually shorter hospital stays and shorter recovery periods. Before going under the knife, the American Geriatrics Society's Foundation for Health in Aging suggests you. Is the pain keeping you from doing what you like to do. If you answer "yes" to any of those questions, give joint replacement further consideration. Find out how to prepare for the operation, what the surgery entails, the length of the recovery period and the extent of follow-up physical therapy. If your health-care provider thinks you would benefit from joint replacement surgery, you'll receive a referral to an orthopedic surgeon.

Does joint pain make sleep difficult.