Joint pain in the hips and knees can start as a minor inconvenience. However, over time, it can become a major barrier to living life to the fullest. Symptoms like difficulty standing, joint stiffness or pain may be signs that it’s time to explore advanced orthopedic care options.
Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Luis Grau explains the common causes of joint pain, when to consider joint replacements and what other treatment options are available at Pascack Valley Medical Center.
Causes of joint pain
Joint pain in the hips and knees is commonly caused by:
- Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Injury or trauma
- Overuse from physical activity
- Degenerative joint conditions
While early symptoms can be managed with treatments like pain medication or steroid injections, persistent or worsening pain often requires more advanced solutions.
“Joint pain can develop gradually, so a lot of patients try to push through it longer than they should,” said Dr. Grau. “When hip or knee pain starts affecting everyday activities like walking, sleeping or standing, it’s a sign that you should speak with an orthopedic specialist.”
Non-surgical treatment options
Before recommending surgery, orthopedic specialists might first encourage patients to consider non-surgical joint pain treatment options, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Lifestyle changes
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
“We don’t usually consider joint replacement as the first solution,” said Dr. Grau. “But when other more conservative treatments stop giving patients relief, hip or knee replacement surgery can make a big difference.”
Is it time for a replacement?
There are several signs that indicate it may be time to consider hip or knee replacement:
- Chronic pain that limits daily activities
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or standing
- Joint stiffness or swelling
- Pain that persists even at rest
- Limited improvement from medications or physical therapy
For patients whose providers recommend hip or knee replacement surgery, Pascack Valley Medical Center offers joint replacement procedures designed to reduce pain, restore function and improve overall mobility. Advanced techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery, allow for greater precision and personalized treatment plans.
We also offer:
- Comprehensive orthopedic services
- Personalized treatment plans
- Experienced specialists
Take the next step toward pain relief
Whether you’re exploring treatment options or considering joint replacement surgery, expert orthopedic care can help you relieve your joint pain, regain mobility and improve your quality of life.