Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total knee replacement is a common orthopedic procedure, especially in growing communities like Midland, TX, which has a population of approximately 123,933 and a median age slightly younger than the national average. The demand for orthopedic services is driven by an active workforce and an increasing prevalence of osteoarthritis.
Midland Overview
Midland is served by key healthcare facilities like Midland Memorial Hospital and the Medical Center Health System. While there are no academic medical centers locally, residents often rely on nearby tertiary centers for specialized orthopedic care.
Dominant commercial insurers in the area include Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna, with Medicare penetration being higher than the national average. This is significant as it impacts accessibility for joint replacement procedures, ensuring more residents can receive necessary care.
Active Lifestyle Residents engage in various physical activities, increasing joint wear and tear. Occupational Demands Many jobs in Midland require physical labor, contributing to knee injuries. Climate Considerations The warm climate encourages outdoor activities, potentially leading to more injuries. Rehabilitation Resources The growing number of rehab facilities supports recovery post-surgery.
Total knee replacement involves replacing damaged cartilage and bone with artificial components. Variations include partial knee replacements and minimally invasive techniques, tailored to the patient's specific needs.
Patients typically consider total knee replacement after exhausting non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medications, and injections like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or stem cells. These alternatives aim to alleviate pain but may not provide lasting relief.
The procedure generally begins with an incision to access the knee joint, followed by the removal of damaged bone and cartilage. The surgeon then prepares the joint for the implant, ensuring proper alignment and balance before closing the incision.
Recovery typically spans several weeks, starting with pain management and immobilization. Gradually, patients progress to motion exercises, strengthening, and eventually return to daily activities, often within a few months.
Patients often compare orthopedic surgeons based on their experience, facility logistics, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational platform for researching options, as studies suggest that more experienced surgeons may lead to safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
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