Joint Replacement
Get back to the life you love.
Advanced joint replacement surgery for a pain-free life
What is total joint arthroplasty?
Total joint arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged joint with an artificial implant (prosthesis). This procedure relieves pain, restores movement, and enhances overall function for people with arthritis, injury, or joint degeneration.
How do joints in the body work?
- Hinge joints (knee, elbow): Allow bending and straightening
- Ball-and-socket joints (hip, shoulder): Provide movement in all directions
- Cartilage: Protects bones from rubbing against each other
- Ligaments & tendons: Support joint movement and stability
When should you consider a joint replacement?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consult a specialist:
- Severe joint pain that limits daily activities
- Stiffness or swelling that doesn’t improve with rest or therapy
- Difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs
- Joint pain that disrupts sleep or requires frequent medication
- Previous joint injury leading to chronic discomfort
Common conditions treated with joint replacement
Our orthopedic surgeons perform joint replacements for a variety of conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear joint degeneration
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Autoimmune joint inflammation
- Post-traumatic arthritis: Joint damage from injuries
- Avascular necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the joint
- Bursitis & tendinitis: Chronic inflammation affecting movement
- Sports injuries: Ligament and cartilage damage leading to joint instability
Types of joint replacement surgery we offer
Our specialists perform minimally invasive and full joint replacements, including:
- Knee replacement (total & partial knee arthroplasty): For severe arthritis & joint damage
- Hip replacement (anterior, posterior & robotic-assisted hip surgery): Improves mobility & reduces pain
- Shoulder replacement (total & reverse shoulder arthroplasty): Restores movement in degenerative conditions
- Ankle replacement: Ideal for end-stage arthritis affecting mobility
- Wrist & finger joint replacement: Reduces pain from arthritis or trauma
Advanced technology & minimally invasive techniques
St. Luke’s leads the region in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive joint replacement surgery.
- VELYS hip navigation system: Provides precise implant placement for better alignment
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS): Reduces scarring, pain, and recovery time
- Same-day joint replacement surgery: Allows patients to return home within hours
- Robotic-assisted knee replacement: Over 1,000 knee replacement procedures have been completed utilizing the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution and the ATTUNE™ Knee System
Advanced surgical techniques mean faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Recovery & rehabilitation after joint replacement
Proper rehabilitation is essential for a successful joint replacement recovery.
- Physical therapy & strength training: Improves mobility & function
- Pain management strategies: Medications, ice therapy, and nerve blocks
- Outpatient & home-based recovery plans: Tailored to each patient’s needs
- Return to activities timeline: Most patients resume light activities within 4-6 weeks
Joint replacement frequently asked questions
Most patients recover within 6-12 weeks, with full function restored in 3-6 months.
Post-surgery pain is managed with medication, physical therapy, and nerve blocks.
Yes! Many patients qualify for same-day outpatient joint replacement.
Modern implants last 15-25 years, depending on activity levels.
