Great Medical Practice: Premier Orthopaedics – Is There a “Right” Age for Joint Replacement Surgery?

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The simple answer to this question is, “No.” People are often told by doctors they are “too young” for a Total Knee Replacement (TKR). But this blanket pronouncement does not take into account the unique circumstances of an individual—how their joint problems developed or how their daily lives are affected.

At Premier Orthopaedics, the key is listening to patients. Really listening. This approach, coupled with unparalleled expertise in joint reconstruction and replacement surgery, as well as non-surgical options, has proven an effective solution for thousands of patients.

What Brings You to Premier?

Pain is what prompts most people to seek medical advice. That, and limited function or range of motion in a knee, hip, or shoulder, are the most frequent reasons people have for seeking an expert opinion.

“Orthopaedic patients are very smart,” says Dr. Cheston (“Chet”) Simmons, a Premier joint surgeon. “They’ve usually done a lot of internet research. They ask good questions. They’re just not always sure how to interpret all the information.”

Simmons stressed that waiting too long to seek a diagnosis might mean missing the window of opportunity to manage the pain or treat the condition non-surgically. In the case of a hip problem, Dr. Simmons says, the cause might not be apparent.

“A patient could come in with a sore back, or have thigh and knee pain that they don’t realize is coming from their hip,” he says.

Premier’s skillful orthopaedic team will not only pinpoint the issue but also prescribe a course of action. According to Dr. Simmons, “Pain in the hip or knee can be addressed early on with non-operative treatments such as—medications, physical therapy, injections—as well as weight loss and activity modification.”

Meet the Premier Team

When surgery is necessary, Premier has an expert team in place. Dr. Adrienne Towsen, whose career choice was inspired by her firsthand experience as a patient. She underwent surgery as a college athlete. Today, she specializes in shoulder surgeries and sports medicine, correcting shoulder, elbow, and knee issues.

Dr. Andrew Old is a joint replacement and sports medicine surgeon who has studied the performance outcomes of NBA players after serious Achilles tendon injuries. He is a member of the Internal Congress for Joint Reconstruction and specializes in hip and knee replacement.

And Dr. Simmons, a joint replacement and sports medicine surgeon, said, “We like doing this because we see how it improves patients’ lives,” he explains.

“We share information and keep up on the latest technology, which is always evolving and improving. But we also have the small-clinic sensibility of our local offices. I think that’s what really makes a difference.”

What’s Next?

Regardless of age or what other doctors have told you, if you are experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, schedule an appointment. Let Premier Orthopaedics conduct a thorough evaluation and explain your options. You’ll find a team that’s ready to put the latest research and techniques to work for you and help you preserve your joint health and quality of life.

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