Is surgery right for arthritis?
Most people living with arthritis find that symptoms improve through non-surgical care like exercise therapy, education, and healthy movement. But in some cases, surgery may be discussed when pain and stiffness make daily life very difficult.
Surgery is usually considered when:
- Pain severely limits walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping
- Joints are visibly deformed or unstable
- Conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections have not helped enough
Surgery is never an automatic next step. The decision depends on your age, activity level, joint condition, and goals. A conversation with your orthopedic specialist can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks together1 2 3.
Common surgical options for arthritis
If arthritis progresses despite conservative care, your doctor might discuss one of the following:
- Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Damaged joint surfaces are replaced with metal, ceramic, or plastic components to reduce pain and restore movement. Most common in hips, knees, and shoulders.
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Two bones are joined together to eliminate painful motion, often used in smaller joints like the ankle or wrist.
- Osteotomy: Realignment of bones to reduce stress on one side of the joint, sometimes used for younger patients with localized knee or hip arthritis.
Each option has its own purpose and is chosen based on which joint is affected, the arthritis type, and how much joint damage is present2 3 4.
What to expect during recovery
Recovery after arthritis surgery takes time and planning.
Timeline:
- Early weeks: Pain, swelling, and limited mobility are normal. You’ll begin guided exercises soon after surgery.
- 1–3 months: Gradual improvement in strength and motion with structured rehabilitation.
- 3–12 months: Most people regain significant function, though some stiffness or fatigue can persist.
Risks and challenges: Infection, blood clots, incomplete relief, and the possibility of needing another surgery later. Joint replacements typically last 15–20 years for many people, depending on age and activity2 3 5.
Did you know?
About 90% of people with hip or knee arthritis never need surgery. Regular strength and movement training can reduce joint pain and improve mobility just as effectively as surgery for many cases of osteoarthritis2 3.
Sword’s digital programs have helped people with chronic pain reduce symptoms and improve function at home, with recovery outcomes similar to traditional care4.
Can surgery be avoided?
For many people, yes. Exercise-based therapy and education often reduce pain and improve function enough to delay or avoid surgery. Research shows that active, guided exercise can be as effective as surgery for many with moderate knee or hip osteoarthritis [2][3].
Digital physical therapy programs like Sword’s combine personalized exercises, education, and cognitive support to help people move better and regain control of pain at home. In clinical trials, Sword’s digital care achieved similar pain and function improvements to in-person rehabilitation for chronic musculoskeletal conditions, with fewer dropouts and high satisfaction [4].
[Physical Therapy for Arthritis →]
How Sword can support you before and after surgery
Physical therapy can play an important role in preparing for surgery, supporting recovery, and, in some cases, helping people manage symptoms without surgery. Sword offers physical therapy programs designed to support you at different points along that journey.
Sword supports recovery before and after surgery, with care designed to fit into your life. You receive high-quality physical therapy at home, guided by licensed clinicians and supported by smart technology.
- Care that adapts as your body and recovery needs change
- Licensed physical therapists guiding your care at every stage
- Non-invasive, evidence-based physical therapy programs
Support for preparation, recovery, and long-term movement health
Clinical insight
