“Having my hip replaced was the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Kathleen’s Story

What was life like before joint replacement?
I used to walk my dog three to five miles a day.

What was the moment you knew you needed to move ahead with surgery?
The pain became so unbearable that I could only take my dog around the block. I was having major difficulty going up and down stairs, walking short distances, sitting and standing. My entire world as I knew it was falling apart. I thought “I am too young to live this way,” and I knew something needed to be done.

What is life like now?
Having my hip replaced was the best thing I’ve ever done.

What advice would you give others considering joint replacement?
My advice to others suffering from joint pain is to listen to your doctor and therapist, do the exercises prior to and after surgery, and know that ice is your best friend.