Anyone experience problems with USB ports ?

I seem to be having problems with the USB ports on my laptop. I first used a Compact Flash Card Reader which worked okay for a few days and then stopped. I obtained a replacement that has been working until recently. I now also find problems with my cordless mouse as well as the cable hook-up between digital camera and laptop. My concern is that I may be headed toward replacing the USB ports (2). I can't believe that they wear out that quick. Anyone else encounter a similar problem ? I probably should get some kind of adapter and wear that out rather than the laptop ports.

Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks.