Q. What is a joint coach?

A. A joint coach is usually a family member, friend or caregiver who will be by your side to help guide you through your joint surgery process. The coach should go with you to doctors and other healthcare appointments to learn the process and expectations of your care team.

Q. Why is attending the joint education class important?

A. This free class is tailored to those who are scheduled for or are thinking about joint replacement surgery and is presented by our orthopedic care team. Salina Regional Health Center takes pride in giving patients quality healthcare. The class will teach you how to begin living a more active life after your joint replacement surgery. You will meet the orthopedic care team, including an orthopedic surgeon, the clinic staff, physical and occupational therapists, a registered nurse and care manager. You will have a chance to ask questions and learn about your new joint, surgery and the recovery back to an active lifestyle.

Q. Where will my surgery take place?

A. Salina Regional Orthopedic Surgeons perform all surgery and procedures at Salina Regional Health Center, located at 400 S. Santa Fe Ave.

Q. What happens if I or a loved one needs to go to the ER for emergent orthopedic care?

A. Salina Regional Orthopedic Surgeons will see you in the emergency room for any emergent or trauma needs. They will also provide follow-up care to you or your loved ones at their clinic, located at 520 S. Santa Fe Ave., Ste. 240. Salina Regional Health Center’s ER is modern and fully equipped to handle whatever comes its way. Our ER has four trauma/cardiac event suites, 26 total patient rooms, a dedicated radiology area with CT scanner, and a spacious waiting area. The ER is staffed with physicians, registered nurses and support staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Q. What is a hip or knee arthroplasty?

A. Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to restore the function of a joint. Most joint surgery involves the hip and knee, with surgery on the ankle, elbow, shoulder and fingers being performed less often. A joint can be restored by resurfacing the bones. An artificial joint (called a prosthesis) may also be used. Various types of arthritis may affect the joints. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a loss of the cartilage or cushion in a joint, and is the most common reason for arthroplasty.

Q. Why might I need arthroplasty?

A. Arthroplasty may be used when medical treatments no longer effectively relieve joint pain and disability. Examples can include arthritis, degenerative joint disease, reduction of the cartilage or lining on the ends of the bones, bone-on-bone grinding causing pain, stiffness and loss of function, traumatic injury or osteoarthritis. There may be other reasons for your healthcare provider to recommend arthroplasty.