“The operation was transformative.”
After several years of trying to manage hip pain through physiotherapy exercises and pain relief injections, Thelma McGough underwent hip replacement surgery that provided rapid results.
Talking about her pre surgery symptoms, Thelma, 83, said: “I have a really high pain threshold, but there were times I was in tears. I could barely walk and had to use a stick. My leg would often give way.
“When pain is continuous, it is not only limiting but it has a very wearing effect on your outlook on life.”
A visit to her GP resulted in a referral to an Advanced Practitioner who provided tailored exercises for Thelma to perform. But the pain continued. A steroid injection provided pain relief, which lasted for several weeks. A second injection followed but failed to provide further relief.
A second referral to an Advanced Practitioner at The Horder Centre in Crowborough was the next step in Thelma’s journey.
“I explained at that appointment I had been through all the recommended steps. He agreed I had tried everything and was able to refer me for an immediate X-ray following the appointment.
“By the time I arrived home, I’d received a phone call to say I had an appointment to see Mr Senthil Velayudham in three weeks.
“During the consultation, he discussed all the processes I had already undergone. I thought I was going to have to continue with the battle to obtain surgery, but Mr Velayudham was very pragmatic. He saw the X-ray results, recognised the need for a hip replacement and said it could be done. The timescale was significantly shorter than I expected.”
Thelma’s minimally invasive hip replacement surgery was in January 2024. Recovery at The Horder Centre was smooth before she was discharged home to continue her recovery.
“I was in and out very quickly and had no complications,” said Thelma. “I was given medication to take home and provided with a booklet of exercises, which I followed. One exercise, I was unable to do at first but Mr Velayudham advised me to just do what I could and said it would eventually happen. Now, I can easily do that exercise.”
“Within five to six weeks I was driving again.”
“The operation was transformative. Within two months, I was fine. To not have pain is miraculous. It’s a game changer.”
“Minimally invasive hip replacement restoring patient’s hip biomechanics combined with modern anaesthetic techniques help reduce pain and speed up recovery process. An enhanced recovery programme allows patients to recover swiftly and safely, returning to good level of function.”
Mr Senthil Velayudham
We provide outstanding patient experiences
The Horder Centre is an award-winning Centre of Excellence that offers patients a unique therapeutic environment. Specifically designed for orthopaedic surgery, our facilities include a physiotherapy inpatient gym and courtyard gardens designed by clinical experts to enhance recovery. Finance options available.
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