Judy Mace

Judy has always enjoyed an active lifestyle of biking, skiing, swimming and working out at the gym. When arthritic pain and discomfort forced her to hold back she knew that action had to be taken.

"Walking and standing became very difficult, particularly for any length of time. I loved to walk and the exercise that it provided, so I felt very limited. Getting in and out of my car was extremely painful. Sleeping was interrupted with the discomfort." Judy was living with direct bone-on-bone contact in both hips caused from severe osteoarthritis. Judy recalls, "I lived with the pain and the sound of bone-on-bone with every step."

Judy and her surgeon decided that double total hip replacement, also called bilateral hip replacement, was the best option for her. Judy says, "He gave me his best advice as to which joint replacement would be best for me, what would work best for my body and the replacement that he has had the most success with."

Within a span of two months, Judy had both hips successfully replaced. Effective physical therapy and excellent planning skills led to her rapid recovery. However, Judy wanted more than just a recovery. Judy states, "My ultimate goal... To get back to work, the gym and enjoying life... being pain free!"

Since the surgeries, Judy has returned to her active lifestyle. "I am now able to do all that I was unable to do prior to the replacement and I am a much happier person," exclaims Judy. She often forgets that the surgeries even took place until she engages in an enjoyable and painless activity that sparks her memory. Judy states, " I love getting down on the floor with my grandchildren!"

Judy does have advice for those who are considering joint replacement. "Don't wait and don't hesitate to go forward with the surgery. Have a very positive attitude, and be thankful that there is something that they can do to remedy this situation."

This article is meant solely for educational use and is not meant to replace or promote one orthopedic surgeon's advice or practice over another. Individual results may vary. Surgery involves potential risks and requires recovery time. The life of any joint replacement will depend on your age, weight, activity level, and other factors. Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine if surgery is right for you. Please click here to search for a local orthopedic surgeon.

The persons named in this article have consented to be named and have given Biomet, Inc. the exclusive right to use their personal and medical information for educational purposes.