By Frequently, I see patients whose first question is, “Am I ready for replacement of my arthritic joint?”
This is not a question that is easy to answer, and the answer depends on many factors and variables:
- Joint Replacements have an excellent outcome, with greater than 90% of patients reporting that they are glad they proceeded with the surgery and are better than before surgery.
- Patients often ask if they are too old for surgery. Well, I believe that age is a relative factor. Some 50 year olds have multiple medical problems, while some 90 year olds have no medical issues and are not even taking any medications. So age must be evaluated by each individual.
- There are many treatments for arthritis of a joint:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Anti-inflammatory injections
- Support aides, like canes or walkers
- Braces or shoe modifications
- Weight loss
- Physical strengthening
- The main reason for undergoing joint replacement is pain! However, limitation of activity or loss of function is another reason people think about undergoing surgery.
- The best answer to the question, “Am I ready for a joint replacement?” is, “You will know when it is time.”
If you want to discuss the options of surgical treatment for your arthritis, please make an appointment here or by calling 918-392-1400. By seeing you in person, myself or another member of our qualified joint replacement team can provide you an individualized assessment and discuss your concerns and expectations.
Tulsa Bone & Joint Associates has two surgeons who are second-generation orthopedic surgeons for TBJ. Dr. Scott Dunitz and Dr. Jason Griffin are continuing the tradition of orthopedic excellence established by their fathers, Dr. Norman Dunitz and Dr. James Griffin.
“The pinnacle of my orthopaedic career was being able to follow my father and work side by side in the field of medicine we both love. He taught me so much about orthopedics and was a true pioneer in medicine. More importantly, he showed me that everyone, and every role, has value and is essential to achieving success. These are key components that I strive to emulate in hopes of coming close to the greatest orthopedist I have ever known, my father, Norman L. Dunitz.”
– Dr. Scott Dunitz
“Being at TBJA, a practice that my father helped to start and build, means so much to me. Continuing his legacy, taking care of his former patients, and building onto his foundation here is something I cherish the opportunity to do. Being able to work side by side for a few years and merge our techniques was also invaluable learning. Dad passed onto me a belief that patient care is the absolute priority in what we do. At TBJA, we have a practice environment where that belief is ingrained into its mission. It’s my great honor to continue his legacy here.”
-Dr. Jason Griffin
Tulsa Bone & Joint is proud to carry on the legacy of excellent patient care established by Dr. Norman Dunitz and Dr. James Griffin. Maybe someday we will even have a third generation of orthopedic surgeons to report!
Top photo: Drs. Jason and James Griffin are pictured here enjoying their favorite hobby, flying.
Bottom photo: Drs. Scott and Norman Dunitz are pictured here performing surgery side-by-side.
