Joint Care in Harker Heights, TX

If you’re suffering from joint pain or mobility issues, it may be time to contact an orthopedic expert. Our orthopedic team is dedicated to addressing a wide range of conditions affecting the muscles, bones, joints and connective tissues. 

It may be time to seek care from an orthopedic specialist if you have:

• Changes in the appearance of a joint, like a straight leg that has started to bow
• Chronic joint pain lasting for months or years 
• New joint pain that isn’t improving on its own 
• Difficulty shifting positions, like moving from sitting to standing 
• Limited mobility, including trouble walking, climbing stairs, reaching overhead, or experiencing pain during exercise 
• Dependence on a cane, walker or wheelchair due to pain or mobility concerns
• Frequent use of over-the-counter pain relievers to manage joint discomfort 
• Severe pain that disrupts your sleep

A total joint replacement (also known as arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure performed by an orthopedic surgeon. During the procedure, the arthritic or damaged areas of the joint are removed and replaced with a metal or plastic device. This device is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint. Hip and knee replacements are the most common joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, such as the ankle, wrist, shoulder and elbow.

The first step for a joint replacement procedure is to meet with an orthopedic doctor. They can use diagnostic imaging and a physical examination to diagnose and determine if a joint replacement is right for you.

Depending on your results, an orthopedic specialist may recommend joint replacement surgery if:

• You suffer from limited mobility, swelling or stiffness that severely limits your daily activities and quality of life.
• You have already tried other non-surgical joint pain treatments, such as exercise modifications, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, injections and braces.
• You continue to experience a decline in function and disabling pain.

Our surgeons use many of the latest treatments and newest technologies to perform less-invasive procedures.

The anterior approach to hip replacement, or total hip arthroplasty, allows doctors to perform a hip replacement surgery with a minimally invasive technique. This technique uses a smaller incision on the front (anterior) of the hip rather than the back or side. This generally results in less trauma to the tissue under the skin, which means less pain and a faster recovery.

Seton Medical Center Harker Heights is the first in the region to offer the VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution for knee replacement. This advanced technology uses special tools and cameras to help doctors plan and perform surgery with more accuracy. The system customizes a surgery plan to each patient’s unique anatomy, which can lead to better results and faster recovery. When paired with the ATTUNE® Knee System, it provides greater stability, reduced pain and a more natural range of motion – helping patients move confidently again.

Recovery varies from patient to patient and is dependent on a number of factors including the type of procedure performed and the patient’s age, weight and activity level. Some patients who receive joint replacement are able to return home the same day as surgery while others may require a short overnight stay in the hospital. It is typically expected that the patient is able to independently get in and out of bed, get dressed and use the toilet at the time of discharge.

Many joint replacement patients are routinely standing and walking within a day or two of surgery with the aid of an assistive device such as a cane, walker or crutches. Some patients are even walking the same day as surgery. Most patients are able to resume driving within 2-8 weeks once they have discontinued use of opioid pain medications and have received approval from their doctor. The timeline for a patient to return to work will vary. Someone with a sedentary job may be able to return to work within a few weeks, while someone with a more physically demanding job will require a longer recovery before returning to work.

Every person’s anatomy and situation are unique, so it’s important to discuss your specific recovery timeline with your orthopedic surgeon.

Our advanced technologies allow for quicker recovery and less pain than joint replacements from just a few years ago. That means we can get you back to your life faster. Plus, you’ll receive individualized, expert care from an experienced team of multi-disciplinary medical professionals who all have the same goal: to help you live your best life.

We provide a comprehensive range of services, including:

• Diagnosis and treatment of joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic joint pain and joint trauma.
• Advanced technologies and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes.
• A full continuum of care, such as therapy services and rehabilitation.

Make an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists by calling 254-618-1020. During your appointment, we will perform a full evaluation to determine the best treatment option for you.