Joint Replacements In Younger Individuals

by Denise Quentin, MS, CPT

Since the early 2000s, joint replacements have skyrocketed in people aged 45–54—hip replacements have more than doubled, and knee replacements jumped by about 188%. Meanwhile, numbers for those 65 and older have actually gone down. The average age for a joint replacement is now around 69 and trending younger. So why are more people getting these surgeries earlier in life? A big reason is the increase in sports and physical activity, which unfortunately also means more wear and tear—and more injuries—that lead to joint damage.

When it comes to joint replacement surgeries, every case is different. Doctors have to decide whether a replacement is truly necessary or if other treatments could delay or even avoid surgery. Joint replacement is still a major procedure with a long road to recovery, so it shouldn’t be taken lightly. As mentioned earlier, younger people are staying active longer—whether that’s through recreational leagues, masters competitions, or just regular workouts.

Being active is great for overall health, but as we get older, how we care for our bodies before and after exercise becomes even more important. A proper warm-up—at least 10 minutes—helps raise your core temperature and prepares your body for movement, reducing the chance of injury. On the flip side, a cool-down helps bring your heart rate back down, prevents stiffness, and supports recovery. These small habits should become non-negotiable as we age.

The main reason people consider joint replacement is pain—especially when that pain interferes with daily life or doing the things they love. Chronic joint pain can lead to muscle loss, reduced mobility, and even mental health challenges. Not being able to move freely or participate in your favorite activities takes a toll, physically and emotionally.

The good news? Joint replacements are generally very successful, with less than 1% of surgeries failing or needing a revision. However, younger individuals—especially those under 40—tend to have a higher revision rate due to increased activity and mechanical wear. Studies show that certain health issues like diabetes, inflammatory diseases, or a history of substance use can also make recovery more difficult and increase the risk of complications. These are important things to weigh before opting for such an invasive procedure.

One well-known example is skiing legend Lindsey Vonn. In April 2023, she had a partial knee replacement after years of intense training, competition, and repeated injuries. Rather than a full replacement, doctors focused on repairing the damaged lateral side of her knee while preserving the healthy parts—helping with recovery and keeping the door open for future skiing.

Vonn had retired in 2019 but still dealt with knee problems, including being unable to fully extend her right leg—something that affected everyday life. She even described feeling like her body was “broken beyond repair.” At just 40, she was much younger than the average age for a partial knee replacement, which is typically 60–65. Her story shows how even elite athletes are facing these surgeries earlier in life to preserve their mobility and quality of life.

Joint replacements should only be done when absolutely necessary. They’re invasive and the recovery process is no joke. Take hip replacements, for example—a hole is drilled into the femur to anchor the new joint in place. If someone gets a replacement early in life and stays active, they may need a second one 20 or so years later. But the femur can only be drilled into so many times, making future replacements more complicated and less effective.

That’s why it’s important to explore all other treatment options first—like physical therapy, strength training, and other non-surgical methods. There are also joint preservation techniques, such as cartilage restoration or osteotomies (a surgical procedure that realigns bones), which can help maintain natural joint function for longer. For younger individuals who want to stay active, these alternatives can make a big difference. Once a joint is replaced, its lifespan starts ticking—and revision surgeries are often harder and less successful than the first.

The good news is there are ways to delay joint replacement—and they start with daily movement and proper nutrition. A lot of people work sedentary jobs, and sitting for long periods can seriously impact joint health. Even just five minutes of walking or stretching here and there can help keep your joints mobile and prevent stiffness.

If you use your lunch break for a workout, warming up and cooling down are even more important. After sitting for a while, your body needs extra time to get moving safely. And after a workout, a solid cool-down—stretching, foam rolling, hot/cold therapy, or yoga—can help you recover and stay loose. Don’t forget to fuel up afterward with water and protein-rich foods to support your muscles and joints.

With joint replacements on the rise, taking care of your body from a young age is more essential than ever. Warming up, cooling down, and staying consistent with strength training and stretching are all key. Focus on weight-bearing exercises like farmer carries to support bone health and joint stability. The goal isn’t just to stay active—but to stay active without pain. Prioritize movement, recovery, and good nutrition now to help avoid surgery later and keep your body moving for years to come.