Living With Joint Pain? Consider Your Options
posted on Friday, August 21, 2026
Joint pain can make everyday activities, from taking a walk with your spouse to enjoying time with your grandchildren, more difficult. While some people may assume ongoing hip or knee pain is simply part of getting older, persistent pain or limited mobility may be a sign that it is time to seek help.
We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Jason Hough, an orthopedic surgeon with Northwest Iowa Bone, Joint & Sports Surgeons, to talk about joint pain, treatment options, joint replacement, and recovery. Dr. Hough performs total joint replacement surgeries at Spencer Hospital, where our team works with patients throughout their treatment and recovery.
When Should You Seek Help?
Common reasons to see an orthopedic specialist include ongoing pain, loss of range of motion, or an injury involving a joint such as the hip, knee, or shoulder.
If you have an injury, give it a day or two to see if the pain improves. If pain continues for more than about 10 days, it may be time to have it evaluated.
An evaluation does not automatically mean surgery. We begin by learning about your symptoms, performing an examination, and using X-rays when appropriate to determine what may be causing your pain.
Finding the Right Treatment for You
We don't automatically jump to surgery. Depending on your condition, treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, or injections.
We offer several types of injections that may help reduce joint pain and improve mobility. These can include cortisone shots, joint-lubricating injections, and PRP injections that use a patient’s own blood. While these treatments don’t repair the underlying arthritis, they may provide temporary pain relief and help patients stay active without surgery.
When Is Joint Replacement an Option?
There isn't one specific X-ray or number that determines when someone needs a joint replacement. Instead, we look at how pain is affecting your everyday life.
If arthritis is making it difficult to walk, keep up with family and friends, attend activities, or do the things you enjoy, it may be time to discuss joint replacement.
At Spencer Hospital, total joint replacement surgery typically takes about an hour or a little more. Patients can often begin walking with assistance the same day, and most patients go home the following day after an overnight stay.
Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement
Spencer Hospital offers robotic-assisted joint replacement using Mako technology. This technology helps provide additional precision during surgery and allows us to account for each patient's individual anatomy and joint alignment.
The goal is to provide a personalized approach to joint replacement and help patients move toward a smoother recovery.
Recovery Begins Right Away
Physical therapy begins the day of surgery, with patients working with our team to safely begin moving and walking.
Recovery is different for everyone, but many patients notice meaningful improvements within the first several weeks. By around six weeks, patients are often feeling significantly better and are excited to return to more of the activities they enjoy.
For us, one of the most rewarding parts of joint replacement is seeing patients regain their strength, stamina, and independence. Whether it means walking with a spouse, attending a grandchild's game, or simply moving through the day with less pain, our goal is to help you get back to the life you want to live.
Don't Ignore Persistent Joint Pain
You don't have to simply accept ongoing hip or knee pain as a normal part of aging. If pain is affecting your ability to do the things you enjoy, we're here to help you understand your options.
To learn more or schedule an appointment with Northwest Iowa Bone, Joint & Sports Surgeons, call (712) 262-7511.
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