“Why live with pain or limited movement any longer than you have to?”

Cassandra’s Story

What was life like before joint replacement?
I didn’t realize how painful my life was. I stayed active, but I moved much more slowly. Simple daily movements were a struggle.

What was the turning point for you?
I decided to move forward with joint replacement when I needed help getting up from sitting on the edge of the pool.

What is life like now?
Now, I have no pain. I’m back to hiking, walking long distances and gardening. Inside the house, I can walk up the stairs briskly. Life is as it was six years before my surgery. Probably the most surprising thing is that I can now sneeze without bracing myself for pain.

What advice would you give others considering joint replacement?
My advice to others considering joint replacement is to stay as active as you can prior to surgery. If possible, talk to your physical therapist and see what exercises you can do to strengthen your muscles before surgery. Don’t wait. When your orthopedic surgeon tells you that you’re heading down the replacement path, listen. Why live with pain or limited movement any longer than you have to?