When arthritis becomes severe enough to cause pain and loss of mobility a visit to the orthopedist is frequently required. There are many new treatments for arthritis which can temporarily postpone the need for more invasive surgical procedures, frequently for years.

When these treatments fail to return the arthritis patient to the desired functional level, a joint replacement procedure may be recommended by Dr. Hausmann.

These procedures work by replacing the damaged joint surfaces with an artificial bearingusually consisting of metal, high density plastic or ceramic. Once replaced or resurfaced the joints can again return to pain free function and mobility.

The knee and the hip are the most commonly replaced joints and the results have been outstanding.