by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough
It is not something most people think about, but it is a reality for many. Years of wear and tear can affect your joints.
Take the knee for example. The number of knee replacements has increased by almost 70% between 1997 and 2005. Another example is the hip. Hip replacements have increased by over 30% during that same period, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Our technology has gotten better, and we’re also starting to do them in our younger patients.
There is another factor as well. Years ago, people were more willing to tolerate having some joint pain and slowed activities, but now there’s a higher demand for pain relief and a return to activity. Patients are coming in younger, and they want their surgeries sooner.
E-Mail Story
Print Story
