Even though such as calcium can help keep bones strong and healthy, some people may have to resort to surgery to fix their discomfort. A new study suggests that the previous mortality rate for patients post-op recovery may be wrong.

While previous studies have indicated that the heightened risk of death during recovery for patients who elect to have knee and hip replacements lasts between 60 and 90 days, new findings from the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery suggests that scientists can only determine the enhanced risk up to 26 days.

“Previous studies suggesting that increased mortality exists for as long as 60 or 90 days post hip or knee replacement surgery may be wrong,” said lead author of the study, Dr. Stein Atle Lie. “We believe the risk is tied to a much shorter duration.”

However, while the risks can only be determined up to 26 days, the researchers were quick to point out that there was only a .1 percent mortality rate, making the surgery relatively harmless to most patients.