doctor head shot
Joshua Crum, MD
doctor head shot 2
John D. Robinson Jr., MD
Book an Appointment Sports Medicine Foot and Ankle Hand Fracture Care

At San Marcos Orthopedics we specialize in transforming lives through advanced joint replacement services. Our experienced orthopedic surgeons are dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle conditions. Arthritis and joint pain can be debilitating. Despite this, joint replacement has offered countless patients the ability to restore their function and mobility and return to a pain-free state.

Joint Replacement Services

Shoulder Replacement: Shoulder joint issues can significantly impact daily activities. Our shoulder replacement services focus on restoring function and alleviating pain caused by osteoarthritis or chronic tearing of the rotator cuff, allowing you to regain mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle.

Hip Replacement: Hip joint arthritis can cause significant pain and limit movement. Our hip replacement procedures aim to address these issues, enhancing joint function and providing relief from discomfort.

Knee Replacement: Customized knee replacement solutions, including robotic-assisted procedures with Mako technology, offer precise implant placement and tailored interventions to optimize knee joint function.

Ankle Replacement: Our ankle replacement services are designed to address conditions affecting the ankle joint, providing personalized solutions for improved mobility and comfort.

Advanced Technologies

Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacements (Mako): Mako robotic technology enables our surgeons to plan and perform joint replacement procedures with unparalleled precision. This ensures optimal implant placement, leading to improved outcomes and faster recovery for patients undergoing hip and knee replacements.

CT Pre-operative planning: We employ advanced CT guidance for hip, knee, and shoulder procedures, allowing us to customize implant positioning based on the individual anatomy of each patient. This tailored approach enhances the fit and function of the implants, contributing to better post-operative results.

Who May Benefit from Joint Replacements?

Joint replacements may be suitable for individuals experiencing:

  • Severe Joint Pain: Persistent pain impacting daily activities.
  • Joint Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and range of motion.
  • Joint Swelling: Inflammation affecting joint function.
  • Joint Instability: Feeling of joint instability or inability to support weight.
  • Decreased Mobility: Patients limiting their daily activities/exercise and mobility due to joint pain are at risk of accelerated aging.

Benefits of Joint Replacements

  • Pain Relief: Alleviate chronic joint pain, improving overall comfort.
  • Improved Mobility: Enhance joint function and regain a broader range of motion.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Regain the ability to perform daily activities with ease and confidence.
  • Improved Function: Less pain may improve your ability to walk and exercise, which may increase both your healthspan and lifespan.

Pre-Operative Guidelines

Optimizing Your Care: We work closely with your Primary Care Physician, local optimization clinics, and/or specialists to improve your health and minimize your risk of complications during the surgery. It is incredibly important to create an environment that decreases your risk and enhances your recovery. This starts with maximizing your health! We frequently focus on optimizing health in the following areas.

  • Diabetes Management: For patients with diabetes, stabilizing blood sugar levels before surgery is crucial for optimal healing and recovery. Achieving an Hgb A1C below 7.0 is our goal.
  • Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is essential. Weight management contributes to improved surgical outcomes, reduced complications, and faster recovery.
  • Smoking/Tobacco Cessation: Smoking has routinely been associated with higher risks of wound healing complications.
  • Blood Pressure Control

Post-Operative Guidelines

Rehabilitation Protocol:

  • Physical Therapy: Following a structured physical therapy program is integral to the success of joint replacement surgery. Physical therapy helps rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and optimize joint function.
  • Activity Gradualization: Patients are encouraged to gradually increase their activity levels under the guidance of healthcare professionals. This approach ensures a safe and effective return to normal activities.

Potential Risks

While joint replacements are generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential risks:

  • Infection: Though rare, infections can occur at the surgical site.
  • Blood Clots: Blood clots are a potential risk, and preventive measures are taken to minimize this possibility.
  • Implant Dislocation: This occurs when the artificial joint components move out of place.
  • Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels is a rare but possible complication.
  • Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to materials used in the implants.
  • Joint Stiffness: Some patients may experience stiffness, which can be addressed through appropriate rehabilitation.
  • Persistent Pain: While joint replacement typically reduces pain, some patients may experience persistent discomfort.
  • Loosening of Implants: Over time, wear and tear can lead to the loosening of joint implants.

At San Marcos Orthopedics, we prioritize your well-being throughout the joint replacement journey. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and guiding you towards a more mobile and pain-free life. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal joint health and overall well-being.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a revitalized, pain-free life.