Patients with arthritic hips and knees who are overweight are often told to lose weight before their surgery. While weight loss in obese patients is preferred, surgeons like David Crawford note the long-term relief from joint replacement surgery is similar in obese and non-obese patients. A new study from the University of Massachusetts Medical School finds that obese patients who underwent knee or hip replacement surgery reported similar results in terms of pain relief and joint function as normal-weight joint replacement patients six months after surgery.
This is good news for arthritic patients carrying extra weight on their body because it is already challenging for them to exercise due to them being overweight and in pain. The goal of the study, published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, was to evaluate the extent of pain relief and functional improvement in joint replacement patients with various levels of being overweight. The study also concludes that while obese patients may be at a greater risk of early complications, obesity in itself should not stop them from undergoing joint replacement to relieve symptoms.
David Crawford and other doctors find in some patients that addressing obesity becomes easier after surgery, as patients will be able to move more efficiently, without putting themselves at risk of injuries. Arthritic patients who wish to reduce their weight prior to surgery can opt for dietary changes (portion control, consuming simple carbs and added sugar, counting calories) and increasing their daily caloric burn by doing aerobic, non-weight bearing activities, such as swimming or walking for at least 30 minutes a day. Walking is a light exercise that does not strain the hips or knees, while still improving cardiovascular function. It is a physical activity that almost anyone can do, but if you are a candidate for hip or knee replacement surgery, it is always best to consult with your surgeon first to avoid injuries and worsening your condition.
David Crawford 