Knee injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries in the Army and are typically caused by rigorous physical training. These injuries can have a significant impact on a young soldier’s military career and threaten the loss of their occupation. Studies show that military personnel over age 40 are more than twice as likely to develop osteoarthritis as civilians.
But, there is good news for servicemen and women who struggle with joint problems. Modern advancements in technology and total joint arthroplasty (knee replacement), offer a viable solution for injured soldiers looking to continue their military careers.
A study conducted at the San Antonio Military Medical Center, spearheaded by Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush (MOR) joint replacement surgeon Tad Gerlinger, MD, explored the likelihood of soldiers returning to duty following total joint arthroplasty surgery. The study found that an overwhelming 86 percent of patients returned to duty. Of those, 70 percent were deployed to the combat zone and completed a full tour as assigned.