Arthritis can be debilitating, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In the UK alone, according to the Versus Arthritis charity, an estimated 10 million people live with the condition.
For many, a joint replacement is the only way to relieve their pain and improve mobility. However, millions of patients are currently stuck waiting for this life-changing operation.
Since the pandemic, there has been a huge backlog of joint replacement procedures. As elective surgeries were cancelled or postponed, those waiting on a joint replacement have been left in limbo.
Here we’ll explore the impact of waiting for treatment with arthritis.
The far-reaching effects of delaying surgery with arthritis
Delaying surgery for arthritis doesn’t just prolong discomfort – it can also lead to a decline in overall health and quality of life. As arthritis progresses, joint damage can become more severe, making future treatments less effective and recovery more challenging. Chronic pain and limited mobility can also contribute to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Economically, the impact is also huge. According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), between October and December 2023, approximately 2.8 million people aged 16 to 64 were not working due to long-term sickness.
Among those who hadn’t returned to the workforce following the pandemic, one in five reported being on an NHS waiting list for medical treatment. Statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) also indicate that one in five people economically inactive due to health reasons cite arthritis, osteoporosis, or other musculoskeletal conditions.
The cost of waiting for treatment with arthritis
Research suggests that delaying procedures like total knee replacements (TKR) can be less cost-effective in the long run. A study conducted in India examined the lifetime costs and quality of life for patients with severe knee osteoarthritis who either delayed or proceeded quickly with TKR.
The study found that patients who delayed TKR had higher lifetime healthcare costs and enjoyed fewer quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Those who received a TKR without delay at age 50 experienced a better quality of life and accumulated more QALYs over their lifetime.
While delaying surgery reduced the cumulative risk of needing a revision surgery, the overall benefits of early surgery outweighed the potential risks and costs associated with waiting.
The cost-effectiveness of surgery also decreased with each year of delay.
Getting back to activity
Waiting to receive a joint replacement for arthritis can lead to prolonged pain, decreased mobility, and a diminished quality of life. Early intervention with procedures like joint replacements can significantly improve daily functioning and overall well being. It can also reduce the long-term economic burden on both patients and society.
If you’re experiencing severe joint pain or have been advised to consider a joint replacement, it’s important not to postpone the surgery. Early treatment can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the activities you enjoy.
Don’t let arthritis hold you back any longer. If you’re waiting on a knee replacement, book an appointment with Mr Shah Punwar today.
