10 questions to ask your doctor if joint replacement is considered as a treatment option for relieving your pain...

This "Resource Center" gives you general information for considering joint replacement as an option for relieving your pain. The questions below take you a step further, providing a way for you to discuss this procedure -- as it applies to you and your pain -- with your doctor.

Click here to print out these questions and take them along on your doctor visit:

1. Are there any other pain relief options for me that could work as well as joint replacement?
2. If I have joint replacement, how much will it relieve my pain?
3. How is the procedure done?
4. What do you do to manage the pain after the surgery?
5. What are the risks or complications of joint replacement?
6. How long will I be in the hospital -- and how soon after having the procedure can I get back to normal daily activities?
7. Is joint replacement covered by my health insurance?
8. After the procedure, will I continue to see you or my regular doctor for follow-up care?
9. If I decide to have joint replacement, which kind of prosthesis do you think will be best for me? Why?
10. If I have joint replacement, will you perform my surgery?