Nick Spinnato

In his earlier years, Nick Spinnato partook in activities that required him to be on his feet. "I have always enjoyed music; I have played percussion professionally since I was a teenager." In addition to his busy practice and performance schedule, Nick had time to fit in a series of sporting activity including baseball, football, tennis, racquetball and golf.

After Nick began his teaching career in 1958, he started to notice a dull ache in his joints. "Between the music and teaching, I was on my feet all the time. By the early 1960's, my joint pain was really bothering me."

For years, Nick approached the pain with a "grin and bear it" attitude. "I just dealt with the pain but then I had to back off." In 1965, he took an administrative position within his field. "I didn't have to be on my feet as much." However, the pain did not cease, and just the slightest activity such as walking or climbing stairs became a problem.

Nick incorporated cortisone shots into his regular routine. By 1990, he decided to make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon. His surgeon suggested knee replacement but Nick chose medication as his treatment option. "Instead of joint replacement, I decided to stick with medication."

It wasn't until 2005 that Nick became serious about confronting his knee pain. After a series of treatments with no avail, Nick could no longer take the agonizing pain.

"I used the internet to research everything on knee surgery. I was particularly interested in the pros and cons of doing one knee versus both at the same time. I decided that I wanted both done at the same time and searched for a surgeon that was willing to do them."

After extensive research and a few bouts of apprehension, Nick chose to see another orthopedic surgeon. In October of 2006, Nick and his surgeon decided he was a candidate for bilateral total knee replacement. "After talking with my surgeon, I was determined to do everything possible to make the surgery and my recovery the best it could be. I was prepared to do whatever it took to make it successful."

Six weeks after his surgery, Nick was invited by his surgeon to participate in the local Arthritis Foundation Walk. He and his teammates, "The Jammin' Joints", walked a mile and won a friendly competition amongst the other participants.

When asked about his experience, Nick replies, "I am very glad I did it. I have become a model for some individuals in my golfing group. My experience has helped them make to make the decision [to consult with an orthopedic surgeon]."

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.