Active Aging: Maintaining Mobility & Independence With Orthopedic Surgery

Maintaining Mobility And Independence With Age

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but time increases the possibility of injury and illness. Mobility also declines with older adults moving less and opting for a sedentary lifestyle. Older adults, however, can benefit from the concept of active aging. With active aging, there is a more engaging and active lifestyle across physical, mental, and emotional boundaries. In other words, active aging optimizes health issues that disrupt quality of life so older adults can participate in physical activity and social engagement. Studies show mobility and independence have a direct impact on lifespan, but joint conditions can disrupt these benefits. With orthopedic surgery, aging adults can overcome chronic conditions and achieve a new lease on life.

Common challenges of aging

Mobility is tied to physical health and, over time, will affect mental well-being and social connections. Poor mobility leads to increased chronic disease, higher financial costs, and emotional distress. Aging comes with mobility issues, as wear and tear causes joints to degenerate. As movement is more painful, active aging declines. Older adults, especially women, are at risk of developing osteoporosis, where bones become more porous. This condition increases the risk of fractures from the simplest of falls. Joint-related conditions are a catalyst for social and emotional decline. Regular movement can reduce the risk of chronic disease and boost longevity. Joint issues may need attention first.

Which joint conditions impact your aging?

Moving around seamlessly requires full use of the major joints, including the hips, knees, and ankles. Upper body joints also matter, with shoulder, elbow joints, and the spine contributing to active aging. Osteoarthritis, the wear and tear of cartilage among joints, is the most common challenge to active aging. Spinal conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis impact mobility. Fractures in the hips and ankles are also common and need long periods of physical therapy.

How orthopedic surgery helps active aging

Speak with an orthopedic surgeon about joint-related issues and a desire for improved active aging. The surgeon will suggest non-surgical and surgical treatments. If non-surgical solutions fail, such as pain management and physical therapy, surgery can help. Orthopedic surgery addresses musculoskeletal injuries, chronic conditions, or challenges. Perhaps the most effective option for aging adults is a total joint replacement. The procedure removes the damaged joint and installs a prosthesis to significantly reduce pain and improve mobility. Joint replacements are common in the hips and knees but can happen in other major joints. Spinal surgeries such as laminectomy, disc removements, and spinal fusions address damage to the spine, reducing symptoms. Surgeons can also repair fractures or stabilize bone with internal fixation procedures. The orthopedic surgeon will choose the best option based on the patient’s injury, health, and long-term goals.

Getting back to your best with rehabilitation

Studies show that joint replacement and other orthopedic surgeries can reduce pain, improve physical activity, and address chronic conditions. At the same time, the surgery is a single step in a complex plan to restore mobility. Patients must go through physical therapy to acclimate the body to the new changes. Therapy also builds strength, improves flexibility, and promotes pain-free mobility. Recovery can take several months, so follow the medical team’s instructions for the best results. Afterward, incorporating low-impact exercises and maintaining joint health will ensure the changes last for years.

Surgery can promote active aging

Movement without pain or discomfort becomes an invaluable ability with age. Mobility has a direct impact on health and lifespan as aging adults can exercise, remain active, engage with others, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Ignoring chronic pain or depending on pain management will not address this issue in the long term. Orthopedic surgery can help with joint replacements or other procedures that reduce pain and improve movement. The minimally invasive nature means the orthopedic procedure can be planned, and the patient can leave the same day to begin recovery. This strategy empowers aging adults to take proactive steps toward a vibrant, independent life.