The most severe cases of osteoarthritis can often result in
joint replacement surgery. Artifical joints are fairly common in
this day and age, but it is still a very serious procedure.
Advances have been made in robotics and in the materials used in
artificial joints, leading to fewer complications and faster
recovery time. Knees, shoulders, ankles and hips are replaced
with frequency at major clinics around the country. My doctor
took an x-ray of my hip and told me that I have severe
arthritis. He said I need surgery, but my hip doesn't hurt that
much. Do I need surgery? One of the first things I tell medical
students and residents whenever I am teaching them about…