If you’re considering orthopedic surgery, you probably have questions. Is surgery right for you? Will it hurt? What are your options? How long will recovery take? If so, you’re in good company. Orthopedic procedures are among the most common types of surgery in the United States. Several million people opt for knee, hip, and shoulder repair or replacement every year.
In an expert Q&A session hosted by The Christ Hospital Health Network, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder surgery, Paul J. Favorito, MD, and board-certified orthopedic surgeon and hip and knee joint replacement specialist, Todd C. Kelley, MD, provided answers to some of the top questions they receive about orthopedic surgery.
If you or a loved one is considering orthopedic surgery, here’s what experts from The Christ Hospital Physicians-Orthopedic & Sports Medicine team of fellowship-trained surgeons, physical therapists, and care navigators want you to know.
When is it time for surgery?
The decision to receive orthopedic surgery is elective and most often made by patients. “There’s almost no joint replacement surgery that’s mandatory,” Dr. Favorito explains.
If you are experiencing joint pain, weakness, limited range of motion, or instability, joint replacement surgery can help alleviate those symptoms. At times, X-rays may indicate a joint that is at risk or shows progressive bone loss. In those cases, Drs. Favorito and Kelley recommend close monitoring of the joint since early intervention can improve outcomes.
Typically, Dr. Kelley explains, you will know when the time is right for surgery based on your day-to-day level of pain, physical limitations, or impact on quality of life. When you have to limit your activities, surgery may be the best choice.
What types of surgery are available?
Our orthopedic specialists offer a wide variety of nonsurgical and surgical treatments.
Nonsurgical treatmentsBefore recommending surgery, your doctor may suggest nonsurgical treatments to relieve pain or increase mobility. These options may include:
Activity modification to avoid overuse or continued injury
Injections to reduce inflammation and delay surgery
Physical therapy to strengthen a muscle group
“It’s important not to avoid us just because you want to avoid surgery,” says Dr. Kelley. “We do treat non-operatively and you can still come see us to get it evaluated.”
Orthopedic surgical treatments
Depending on your symptoms and the imaging findings, there are various options for orthopedic surgery. During a consultation, you and your doctor may discuss which procedure is right for you.
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which surgeons use a tiny camera, or arthroscope, to look inside your knee and use small surgical instruments to treat joint problems . This procedure may be appropriate for symptoms like locking, buckling, or limited motion in the knee. <.li>
Knee replacement is usually recommended for patients with severe knee arthritis or significant bone-on-bone grinding.
Anatomic (standard) shoulder replacement involves replacing parts of the shoulder. This surgery restores the shoulder’s natural anatomy. It’s best for patients with arthritis, an intact rotator cuff or partial rotator cuff tears, and minimal bone loss. This surgery is typically recommended for younger patients. Results generally include an improved range of motion and minimal recovery time.
Minimally invasive shoulder replacement repairs the front rotator cuff tendon without detaching the tendon. Surgeons choose this procedure when possible because patients have quicker re-mobilization, same-day discharge, reduced sling time, and immediate improvement in range of motion.
Partial shoulder replacement (hemiarthroplasty) is rare, as most surgeons prefer a total shoulder replacement.
Reverse (non-anatomic) shoulder replacement inverts the natural anatomy of the shoulder, reversing the placement of the ball and socket. Surgeons use this type of procedure to repair a large rotator cuff tear, a nonfunctional rotator cuff, a shoulder fracture, or to treat arthritis or bone loss. A reverse shoulder replacement is often recommended for older patients. While it typically alleviates pain, it can cause limited shoulder mobility.
Partial hip replacement replaces the ball of the hip joint, leaving the original socket intact.
Total hip replacement replaces both the ball and the socket of the hip joint and is generally recommended for patients with severe hip arthritis.
Your surgeon and care team will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your circumstances and goals.
What can I do to prepare for orthopedic surgery?
Preparation improves outcomes. Taking steps to prepare yourself physically and mentally for surgery can enhance your chances of a healthy, speedy recovery.
Mental preparation
Mental preparation matters most for optimal results, Dr. Favorito explains. Having confidence in your surgeon and a positive mindset can help ensure successful surgery and recovery.
“The mind and body are one,” says Dr. Kelley. “There’s a lot of research that looks at how people recover from orthopedic surgery when they’re dealing with depression or anxiety. It’s harder to recover from a big surgery when your mind is not helping out your body.” Prior to surgery, address any mental health issues you are facing with your regular doctor to ensure you can heal well physically.
Physical preparation
Cardiovascular fitness and physical activity improve circulation, which leads to faster tissue recovery and better healing post-surgery. Other ways to prepare your body for surgery and a quicker recovery include:
Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight increases stress on the joints, requires more energy to move, may interfere with your mobility, and can lengthen your recovery time.
Managing ongoing health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions can increase the risk of infection, surgical complications, and slowed healing.
Quitting smoking: Nicotine use constricts blood vessels, impairs healing, and increases the risk of infection.
What types of anesthesia are available?
Understanding your pain relief options can help ease anxiety and clarify what to expect before, during, and after your procedure. In most orthopedic surgeries, doctors choose from three main types of anesthesia:
Spinal anesthesia
Spinal anesthesia is a standard option for lower-body orthopedic procedures. An injection in the lower back numbs the nerves from the waist down, preventing the body from feeling any pain in the surgical area. Patients typically need fewer narcotics and experience less blood loss, but it may not be appropriate for people with certain heart conditions.
Regional anesthesia
By numbing a specific area of the body, regional anesthesia provides extended pain relief and often lasts several days after surgery. Since most post-surgical discomfort occurs within the first 48 hours, this longer-lasting numbness can significantly improve comfort during recovery. Regional anesthesia can reduce or eliminate the need for narcotics for some people.
General anesthesia
With this approach, you breathe anesthetic gas through a tube, which puts your brain and body to sleep. While you’re asleep, your body can still respond to pain signals. This means that your blood pressure and heart rate may rise, and your doctor may administer narcotics to control your body’s pain response.
The right type of anesthesia depends on your procedure and overall health. Your surgical team will discuss the safest and most effective option for you, ensuring both comfort and optimal recovery.
How long do joint replacements last?
Joint replacement implants can last up to 20 years, and typically longer. “Ninety percent of joint replacements are functioning fine after 20 years,” says Dr. Kelley—and they’re only getting better. New technologies, procedures, and materials are increasing the lifespan of these surgical devices.
The lifespan of a joint replacement depends on your health and activity level. Ongoing monitoring and regular X-rays can indicate if you need an adjustment or repair.
What does recovery from orthopedic surgery involve?
Recovery timelines can vary depending on the surgeon, the procedure, and the patient. While there are general guidelines, your surgeon will tailor your recovery plan specifically to you.
What to expect after shoulder surgery
Recovery from shoulder surgery typically occurs in four stages:
Sling use: Patients often need to wear a sling for between one and six weeks. Keeping the joint immobile for too long can lead to stiffness—which can cause pain—so it’s optimal to try to limit sling use in this stage.
Range of motion: For the next six weeks, recovery focuses on restoring range of motion through stretches and at-home exercises.
Strengthening: Patients will start activities and exercises around three months post-surgery.
Return to activities: After five to six months, many patients are ready for movements, like swinging a golf club.
Knee replacement milestones and restrictions
Recovery from knee replacement includes several key milestones:
A fully healed incision
Early motion, with the goal of bending the knee to about 90 degrees within two weeks
Ongoing physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
Dr. Kelley recommends a few restrictions to protect the knee joint moving forward. He generally discourages high-impact activities, such as running or skiing. Over time, these activities can loosen the implant bond or wear out the joint replacement materials. “If you run, switch to riding a bike,” Dr. Kelley recommends.
Hip replacement recovery and milestones
Initially, walking will be under the supervision of a physical therapist, and this generally happens on the day of surgery. Most patients begin outpatient physical therapy within one to two days of surgery.
You can expect a month-to-month approach to your recovery, with three distinct phases:
First month: During this phase, you’ll be getting over surgery and will still experience pain and swelling and your daily activities will revolve around your joint care.
Second month: Daily walks will be easier and you’ll be able to climb steps pain free. Your walking endurance will improve, as should your sleep patterns. In some cases, you can return to work during this period.
Third month: You should have good pain control and be able to return to all activity and your functionality should be even better than before surgery.
The role of physical therapy
Physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery, but the length and intensity depend on the procedure.
For shoulder surgery, many patients participate in structured physical therapy for about three months. Then, you may be ready to transition to a home- or gym-based exercise program. Most patients can expect to reach maximum mobility in about a year.
For surgery on the lower extremities like knee or hip, most patients begin walking with a walker and then progress to a cane as strength and balance improve.
While timelines differ, one principle remains consistent: early, guided movement is critical. Staying too still can lead to stiffness and prolonged discomfort. Structured rehabilitation supports strength, mobility, and long-term success. Your surgeon and therapy team will outline a plan designed for your procedure and overall health, helping you return safely to the activities you enjoy.
How much caregiving will I need post-surgery?
Having a caregiver available after orthopedic surgery—especially for the first 48 to 72 hours—can make a significant difference in your recovery. Because most procedures are outpatient, you’ll go home the same day, often while still feeling the effects of anesthesia and limited mobility.
For lower-body surgeries, having help is especially important since you may not be able to walk safely on your own. After upper body procedures, everyday tasks like dressing, bathing, and eating can be challenging. A caregiver can assist with preventing falls, preparing meals, picking up prescriptions, and driving you to physical therapy appointments. Early support improves safety and allows you to focus on healing.
How long does it take to get back to work?
When you can return to work after orthopedic surgery largely depends on the type of job you have and your level of pain and comfort.
If you have a desk job, returning within a few days is often possible—especially if you work from home. If your job involves more physical work, you may need up to six months before you can safely resume full duties.
As Dr. Kelley emphasizes, “It’s important to prioritize your recovery and outcomes. Don’t jeopardize your recovery for work. The work will always be there.”
What’s the success rate of orthopedic surgery?
“Success has a different definition for everyone,” says Dr. Kelley. During your consultation, your doctor will work with you to identify what you want your surgery to accomplish. With realistic expectations, proper evaluation, and a physician-directed rehabilitation program, most surgeries are considered successful.
Shoulder surgeries have a success rate of over 90 percent. “Most people are really happy with a hip replacement,” says Dr. Kelley. “And national statistics indicate that knee replacements get rid of 80 percent to 90 percent of knee pain.”
The key is to align with your surgeon on your goals.
What can I expect for post-operative visits?
Follow-up care is essential for long-term success after orthopedic surgery. For lower body procedures, Dr. Kelley recommends seeing patients:
If concerns arise, you may need more frequent visits.
Most patients can expect follow-up appointments after shoulder surgery at:
Two weeks
Six weeks
Three to four months
One year
Two years
Ongoing care matters. Both surgeons remain available for long-term support. “Once you operate on a person, you are responsible for them forever,” says Dr. Favorito.
Schedule your consultation
“Be informed. Understand your problem,” Dr. Favorito encourages. “Informed patients are the happiest patients.”
If you’re considering orthopedic surgery and want clear answers about your options, schedule your consultation today by calling 513-426-7416 or complete this form to request a call back from a member of our team.