Travel after knee or hip replacement is achievable with thoughtful planning and by following your body’s needs. Dr. Cafferky’s approach emphasizes preparation, movement, and comfort, helping patients enjoy safe, fulfilling travel experiences. By following these guidelines, patients can confidently explore the world with their new joint, embracing the freedom of pain-free movement.

Preparing for ski season after a knee replacement is not only possible—it can be incredibly rewarding with the right approach! By following Dr. Cafferky’s recommended exercises and staying mindful of your knee’s limitations, you can build strength, improve balance, and get back to enjoying the slopes.

Understanding the life expectancy of knee replacements and hip replacement life expectancy helps patients set realistic expectations and plan for the future. Dr. Cafferky encourages patients to be proactive about their joint health and stay active within their limitations. "With the right surgical treatment and post-operative plan, most patients can enjoy 20 years or more of pain-free mobility after joint replacement surgery," he says.

For those whose SI joint dysfunction is the main issue, hip replacement surgery may not significantly impact their SI joint pain. Instead, other treatments specifically targeting the SI joint may be necessary. "Patients should have a thorough evaluation to identify the primary pain generator before proceeding with surgery," advises Dr. Cafferky.

Success in living an active life post-hip replacement hinges on diligent post-operative care. Dr. Cafferky stresses the importance of following rehabilitation protocols, maintaining”

Success in living an active life post-hip replacement hinges on diligent post-operative care. Dr. Cafferky stresses the importance of following rehabilitation protocols, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and attending regular follow-up appointments.

"We are observing a rising trend in younger patients requiring hip replacement surgery – patients in the 40 to 50 age group," remarks Dr. Cafferky. "Hip injuries sustained earlier in life can notably expedite the development of hip arthritis."

Dr. Cafferky emphasizes, "The selection of hip replacement materials is a critical decision, influenced by factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, bone quality, and potential allergies." At this time, Dr. Cafferky offers Metal-on-Polyethylene (MoP) and Ceramic-on-Polyethylene (CoP) replacement options.

"The average age for hip replacement patients has traditionally been older, typically in their 60s plus," notes Dr. Cafferky. "However, we are increasingly seeing younger patients in their 40s and 50s seeking hip replacement surgery to alleviate chronic hip pain and regain full function."

Nathan Cafferky, MD, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, is a leading expert in knee and hip replacement. His exceptional expertise and experience are tailored to the unique needs of winter sports enthusiasts who yearn to return to the slopes.

Nathan Cafferky, M.D., FAAOS (Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons), will join The Steadman Clinic’s orthopaedic surgical team on Oct. 16, 2023. Dr. Cafferky joins The Steadman Clinic’s Drs. Raymond Kim and Joel Matta in the specialty of adult joint reconstruction. He comes to The Steadman Clinic and Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) after practicing for eight years at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery (VSON).

Nathan Cafferky, MD wants patients to know that skiing after a knee or hip replacement surgery is possible. It might seem daunting, but with proper preparation and a focus on ski season readiness, you can hit the slopes with confidence.

Undergoing a hip total joint surgery is a transformative journey towards restoring mobility and improving quality of life. While the benefits of this procedure are significant, it's essential to acknowledge that pain after hip replacement is a natural part of the recovery process. Dr. Nathan Cafferky discusses effective pain relief strategies to help patients navigate through hip replacement pain and discomfort, especially during weight-bearing activities.

Hip osteoarthritis is a progressive disease. What starts as mild pain or stiffness in the morning may eventually lead to more severe symptoms that can affect your mobility and quality of life. But how do you know if your hip pain is the beginning of osteoarthritis?

There are many potential causes of pain in the front of the hip, also called anterior hip pain. Sometimes it’s the result of an overuse injury like hip flexor strains or bursitis, but it can also be caused by a joint disease like osteoarthritis.

If you're experiencing hip pain caused by osteoarthritis, you may be facing the prospect of hip replacement surgery. It's a big decision and one that you may be tempted to put off for as long as possible. Let's take a look at some factors you should consider before deciding to postpone hip surgery.

Damage to any part of the hip joint can cause pain that impacts your day-to-day movements. If that pain becomes prologued or consistent, it's time to see an orthopaedic joint specialist.

Hip revision surgery is a procedure where your previously hip replacement implant is removed and replaced. A revision for a hip replacement is rarer and more surgically complex than the initial joint replacement.

When hip pain progresses to a point where your daily movements are impacted, it’s time to talk with a joint specialist about treatment options.

How do you know when your hip pain is caused by arthritis?