As people age, orthopedic problems become one of the most common reasons for chronic pain and loss of independence. Wear and tear of joints, reduced bone strength, and long-standing conditions like arthritis often affect the knees and hips first. What starts as morning stiffness or difficulty climbing stairs can gradually limit mobility, sleep, and daily activities. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, knee and hip replacement surgery can play a vital role in restoring movement, reducing pain, and helping older adults regain confidence and quality of life. Consult our team for hip and knee replacement surgery in Uganda at UMC Victoria for expert medical treatment.
When Knee or Hip Replacement Is Recommended
The knee and hip joints are weight-bearing joints and work very hard every day. Over the years, the joints may sustain damage to the smooth cartilage, allowing them to move freely and easily. Thus, if the joints are severely damaged, it may become difficult even to take a few steps or climb the stairs.
Knee or hip replacement is usually a consideration of:
- The presence of pain that persists in the body and interferes with daily activities
- Pain persists even in resting or sleeping situations
- Joint stiffness restricts movement and flexibility
- Medications, physiotherapies, walkers, or injections do not bring relief anymore
- Loss of mobility impacts Independence and Confidence/Mental Health
Many patients postpone joint replacement surgery due to fear or lack of information. However, when medications and other non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief, considering replacement surgery can be an effective and safe option. At UMC Victoria, experienced orthopedic surgeons provide medical care using modern techniques.
Understanding the Procedures: Knee and Hip Replacement Explained
Joint replacement surgery is a surgical procedure where the faulty parts of the joint are removed and replaced with artificial parts that function just like the natural joint.
Hip Replacement Surgery
When it comes to hip replacement, the affected ball at the top of the thigh bone and the pelvis cup are replaced along with smooth, resilient components designed from medical-grade materials. It might be one of the following, depending on the condition:
- Total hip replacement, involving replacement of the ball and the socket
- Partial replacement of the hip joint, in which just the ball part is replaced
- Minimally invasive techniques, using smaller incisions to minimize muscle trauma and aid quicker recovery times
This can be done for various conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, or damage that has existed for a long time.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery replaces the worn surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components that restore alignment and smooth movement. Depending on damage severity:
- Total knee replacement replaces the entire joint surface
- Partial knee replacement replaces only the affected area
The goal is to reduce pain, correct deformity, and improve stability. Many patients notice significant improvement in walking comfort and confidence within weeks.
Recovery and Rehabilitation after a Joint Replacement Surgery
One of the biggest concerns patients have is recovery. While every person heals differently, recovery follows a predictable and reassuring pattern.
Immediately After Surgery
Pain is managed effectively from the first day. Most patients are encouraged to stand or walk with support within 24 hours. Early movement helps prevent stiffness and improves circulation.
First Few Weeks
- Walking with a walker or crutches
- Gentle physiotherapy to improve movement
- Gradual reduction in pain and swelling
- Learning safe ways to sit, stand, and use stairs
Six to Eight Weeks
- Improved balance and joint control
- Reduced dependence on walking aids
- Better ability to manage household activities
Three Months and Beyond
- Comfortable walking for longer distances
- Improved posture and joint strength
- Return to low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling
Physiotherapy plays a central role in recovery. Simple, regular exercises help strengthen muscles, protect the new joint, and restore natural movement patterns. Patients who follow rehabilitation guidance closely tend to experience the best outcomes.
Benefits of a Joint Replacement Surgery
Knee-hip replacements provide more than just pain relief, as they restore a person’s dignity and sense of independence. Many patients have reported benefits, including:
- Significant reduction or complete relief from chronic pain
- Better sleep and improved mood
- Increased confidence during walking
- Decreased risk of falls
- Ability to return to social, family, and work activities
For long-term joint health, doctors recommend maintaining a healthy weight, choosing low-impact exercise, wearing supportive footwear, and attending regular follow-up visits. Artificial joints can easily last many years if proper care is taken; in fact, patients can live a very active lifestyle in old age.
Joint Replacement Surgery at UMC Victoria Hospitals
Are you or a family member suffering from constant joint pain that is affecting your mobility? Before exploring a joint replacement surgery, the most important step is an open conversation with a qualified specialist. Understanding your condition, treatment options, and recovery journey helps you make confident, informed decisions. UMC Victoria is renowned as the best hospital for joint replacement surgery in Uganda. Our team has expertise in conducting highly complex orthopedic surgeries and excels at highly advanced joint replacement techniques utilizing highly advanced arthroscopic and reconstructive surgical practices. Key features of our Department of Orthopedics include:
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Comprehensive Preoperative Assessment
Detailed evaluation to ensure personalized surgical planning. -
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Utilization of modern implants and advanced surgical methods to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes. -
Expert Surgical Team
Highly skilled orthopedic surgeons with extensive experience and high success rates in joint replacement procedures. -
Postoperative Rehabilitation
Customized physiotherapy programs to support recovery and optimize mobility.
Joint pain does not have to define your future. With the right care, knee and hip replacement surgery can help you move forward steadily, safely, and without constant pain. Reach out to our Department of Orthopedics for further assistance.
