Living with chronic joint pain in a knee or hip can keep you from living life the way you want to. Are misconceptions getting between you and the care you need?

Published: February 15, 2018 | Updated: May 15, 2021

Living with chronic joint pain in a knee or hip can keep you from living life the way you want to. Do you have a reason for “grinning and bearing” the pain instead of making an appointment with your doctor? Are misconceptions getting between you and the care you need?

Myth: I’m too young/old to get joint replacement surgery

There are no age limits when it comes to joint replacement surgery. Whether you’re 25 or 75, you should ask yourself if joint pain is keeping you from activities you enjoy. Don’t wait until you are immobile or your independence is in question — maintaining your lifestyle with little to no pain is important at any age.

Myth: The replacement will only last 10 years

Many factors contribute to how long a joint replacement will last. The age you have the procedure, your activity level and your weight all play a part in how long the implant will last. However, design and technology advances have made it possible for a knee or hip implant to last 20 years or more.

Myth: The recovery time is too long — I’ll be bedridden

The days of a weeklong hospital stay for a hip replacement are gone. You may be in the hospital for a day or two. Some patients go home the same day and may be able to put weight on their hip or knee just hours after surgery.

The recovery time, including physical therapy, usually takes four to six weeks. Some people may need up to six months to recover, but many recover much sooner. Keeping a good attitude, staying motivated in your physical therapy and healthy are all things you can do to speed your recovery.

Myth: I’ll be in even more pain after the surgery and I won’t be able to go home

It’s unrealistic to expect zero pain after any surgery. However, pain should be minimal. Most patients go home within two days; some even go home the same day.

Myth: I’ll never recover 100 percent — I won’t be able to do things I used to do

Most people can achieve a higher level of function after surgery. Talk to your doctor about returning to activities you enjoyed before your surgery, such as running or sports, and their impact on your joints.

This video was made in 2016: