Arthroplasty: Joint Replacement Surgery Overview | SPARSH Hospital

Published in : Orthopedics | October 8, 2025 |

Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement Surgery): Overview, Symptoms & Causes

Medically ReviewedMedically Reviewed

Blog Banner

Arthroplasty, commonly known as joint replacement surgery, is a medical procedure performed to replace a damaged or diseased joint with an artificial implant. It is most often carried out in the hip, knee, or shoulder, helping restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. Arthroplasty surgery has advanced greatly over the years, with modern techniques such as robotic total knee replacement ensuring higher precision and faster recovery. At SPARSH Hospitals, one of the leading orthopaedic hospitals in Bangalore, expert surgeons provide world-class care for patients requiring joint replacement.

What is arthroplasty?

Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure where a joint affected by arthritis, injury, or degeneration is replaced with an artificial joint, known as a prosthesis. This prosthesis can be made of metal, plastic, or ceramic, and is designed to replicate the natural movement of the joint.

There are different arthroplasty types, including hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, shoulder replacement, and partial replacements where only part of the joint is resurfaced.

Arthroplasty is one of the most successful surgical procedures in orthopaedics, offering relief from severe pain, restoring mobility, and enabling patients to return to daily activities they may have once struggled with.

Symptoms of Joint Replacement

Not every joint problem requires surgery, but certain symptoms may indicate that joint replacement could be necessary. Some common symptoms of joint replacement include:

Chronic Pain

Persistent joint pain that does not improve with medication, rest, or physical therapy may point towards the need for arthroplasty.

Stiffness and Reduced Mobility

If a joint becomes stiff and restricts daily activities like climbing stairs, walking, or even standing, joint replacement surgery may be required.

Swelling and Inflammation

Severe or recurring swelling that does not respond to treatment may indicate significant joint damage.

Grinding or Clicking Sounds

Joints that produce grinding, popping, or clicking noises could be showing signs of degeneration.

Loss of Function

Difficulty in performing everyday tasks such as bending, sitting, or lifting the arm can mean the joint has worn out beyond repair.

For patients showing these symptoms, consultation with experienced orthopaedic doctors in Bangalore at SPARSH can help determine if arthroplasty surgery is the right solution.

What Causes Joint Replacement?

There are several causes of joint replacement, most of them linked to joint damage or deterioration. These include:

Osteoarthritis

The most common cause, osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage that cushions the joints wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, resulting in chronic pain and eventual damage.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Joint damage caused by an accident, fracture, or injury can lead to arthritis that worsens over time.

Avascular Necrosis

A condition where the blood supply to the bone is reduced, leading to bone tissue death and joint collapse.

Genetic Conditions

Some congenital or developmental abnormalities may require early joint replacement.

These causes often result in severe pain, disability, and loss of function, making joint replacement surgery a recommended treatment option.

What are the Types of Arthroplasty?

Arthroplasty includes various surgical approaches, depending on which joint is affected and the extent of damage. The major arthroplasty types include:

Hip Replacement Surgery

This is performed when the hip joint is severely damaged, often due to arthritis or fractures. The damaged bone and cartilage are replaced with prosthetic components, restoring mobility and reducing pain.

Knee Replacement Surgery

In knee replacement surgery, damaged parts of the knee joint are resurfaced with artificial implants. At SPARSH, advanced methods such as robotic total knee replacement are used to ensure greater accuracy, better alignment, and quicker recovery.

Shoulder Replacement

For patients with severe shoulder arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff damage, shoulder replacement surgery helps restore movement and relieve pain.

Partial Joint Replacement

In some cases, only part of a joint needs to be replaced instead of the entire joint. This is often done in younger patients to preserve as much of the natural joint as possible.

These procedures are carried out by expert orthopaedic doctors in Bangalore who specialise in joint preservation and replacement techniques.

Treatment for Arthroplasty

Pre-Surgical Assessment

Before undergoing arthroplasty surgery, patients are carefully evaluated. Tests may include X-rays, MRIs, and blood tests to assess the condition of the joint and overall health.

Surgical Procedure

During joint replacement surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with an artificial prosthesis. Advanced technology, including robotics and computer navigation, helps improve precision.

Post-Surgical Care

Recovery involves pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises to strengthen muscles and restore joint function.

Long-Term Outcomes

Modern arthroplasty surgery offers long-lasting results, with prosthetic joints often lasting 15–20 years or more, depending on patient activity and care.

At SPARSH, one of the top orthopaedic hospitals in Bangalore, patients receive end-to-end care—from diagnosis to rehabilitation—ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Prevention and Early Management

While some conditions may inevitably lead to joint replacement, preventive steps can help delay the need for surgery.

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight puts strain on joints, especially knees and hips.
  • Exercise regularly: Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and yoga strengthen muscles and support joint health.
  • Prevent injuries: Wearing proper footwear and using protective gear during sports can reduce the risk of joint damage.
  • Manage arthritis early: Timely medical care and lifestyle changes can slow disease progression.

When to See a Doctor?

If you’re experiencing chronic pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments, it may be time to consult a specialist. You should see a doctor if:

  • Pain interferes with daily life and sleep.
  • Joints are visibly swollen, stiff, or deformed.
  • There’s a history of joint injuries or arthritis.
  • You are unable to perform basic activities such as walking or climbing stairs.

You can visit SPARSH to get expert advice from experienced orthopaedic doctors in Bangalore. As a leading orthopaedic hospital in Bangalore, SPARSH provides comprehensive care for patients considering arthroplasty or joint replacement surgery.

Conclusion

Whether it’s hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, or shoulder replacement, modern techniques, including robotic total knee replacement, have made post-surgery outcomes more precise and recovery faster.

At SPARSH Hospitals, expert surgeons and advanced facilities ensure patients receive world-class care for arthroplasty surgery. If you or a loved one is struggling with persistent joint pain, consult SPARSH, a trusted name among orthopaedic hospitals in Bangalore, to explore the best treatment options and regain mobility, independence, and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to recover from arthroplasty surgery?

Recovery time depends on the type of joint replacement surgery performed and the patient’s overall health. Most people can resume light activities within 4–6 weeks, while full recovery may take 3–6 months. With modern techniques like robotic total knee replacement, recovery is often quicker.

How long do artificial joints last after arthroplasty?

Most artificial joints last between 15 to 20 years, though this varies based on the patient’s activity level, age, and type of implant used. With advancements in materials and surgical techniques, newer prostheses can last even longer.

Can young patients undergo arthroplasty?

Yes, younger patients can undergo joint replacement surgery if joint damage is severe and other treatments are ineffective. However, because younger patients are more active, there is a higher chance they may need a revision surgery later in life.

Is robotic joint replacement better than traditional surgery?

Robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery, such as robotic total knee replacement, offers higher precision in implant placement, reduces risk of complications, and often allows for faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

What activities should be avoided after joint replacement?

Patients are advised to avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or contact sports after arthroplasty surgery. Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and cycling are recommended to maintain joint health and prolong the life of the implant.

Can both knees or hips be replaced at the same time?

Yes, in some cases, surgeons may perform bilateral knee replacement surgery or hip replacement surgery. However, this decision depends on the patient’s health, age, and ability to undergo longer surgery and recovery.

Is joint replacement surgery painful?

Patients may experience some discomfort after surgery, but pain is well-managed with medications, physical therapy, and modern pain management techniques. Most patients report significant relief compared to the pain they experienced before surgery.

Do I need physiotherapy after arthroplasty?

Yes, physiotherapy is crucial after arthroplasty surgery. It helps strengthen muscles, restore flexibility, and improve the range of motion in the new joint, ensuring a smoother and faster recovery.

Is arthroplasty safe?

Yes, arthroplasty is considered safe and highly effective. With experienced orthopaedic doctors in Bangalore at SPARSH Hospitals, patients can expect excellent results and long-term benefits.



Categories: Orthopedics


Orthopedics Related Blogs

Most Recent Health Blogs

Get in Touch with SPARSH Hospital

Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement Surgery): Overview, Symptoms & Causes is available for appointments. Please fill the below form to book an appointment.

Unlock the door to exceptional healthcare, book an appointment with SPARSH Hospital and let your journey to wellness begin.