Other surgeries for arthritis
Sometimes treatments such as medication and physiotherapy are not enough to manage your arthritis pain and problems with day-to-day function. Your doctor may refer you to a surgeon to see if an operation (surgery) is right for you.
What kinds of surgery are performed for arthritis?
Not all arthritis-related bone and joint problems can be treated through surgery. Surgery can:
- Repair damaged tissues (e.g., torn tendon)
- Remove damaged or painful tissues (e.g., painful synovium)
- Rest damaged or painful joints (e.g., ankle fusion)
- Replace damaged joint surfaces with artificial parts (e.g., joint replacements - hip, knee, shoulder, wrist)
Learn more about hip and knee replacement surgery.
Learning if surgery is an option for you
Talk to a surgeon to discuss your options and the benefits and risks of surgery. Visit the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation website for more information.
