Sunday, July 6, 2014

The Miracle of Modern Mecicine

Well, I finally did it; I got my right hip replaced after 7 years of arthritis slowing me down and causing pain.  After all that procrastination, I found the operation a piece of cake, silly me.

Around 2007, when I first experienced discomfort, I had an 
x-ray taken and was told that arthritis was present; and that eventually I would need a new hip. I was not impressed with the diagnosis, so I set off on a path to cure it naturally. Since I am a believer in the mind/body connection, I put off surgery by going to chiropractors; energy workers, Chinese doctors, supplementing and changing my diet, etc. However, all was for naught. As a matter of fact, I waited so long, that by the time I had the operation on June 10, 2014, my surgeon had to spend extra time because the bones had actually fused together. Huh? I knew it had gotten worse but didn't realize it was that bad!

Now that it's done, I'm so relieved, literally!!! It all came about so naturally too. I was referred to a doctor at the Bone and Joint Institute by a colleague who had had both her hips replaced last year. I was impressed with the place immediately; a very smooth operation. My doctor, Dr. Ritesh Shah, seemed like the perfect surgeon with his beautiful long fingers, and super confident attitude. 

I have no experience with hospitals; for good or for bad. I've only been in one once and that was to deliver a baby almost 28 years ago. Luckily, I was fortunate that my doctor was affiliated with Lutheran General Hospital. A highly rated hospital where I got excellent service; from the pre-op tests to the volunteer who wheeled me out 2 days later, I was taken care of in a superb manner.

Ironically, in the way-way back (from 1970-1973), I worked there part-time in the radiology department located in the old building's basement. I had a job after high school and during summers while in college doing the billing for the radiologists. At that time, it was a small, single standing building; now, it's a compound.

Anyway, the dreaded deed is done, and on reflection it wasn't bad at all. I didn't need to take any pain meds after the first night. I only took meds in order to sleep. I have spent the past three weeks sleeping on my back with an abduction pillow between my legs preventing me from turning on either side. Unbelievably enough, this was the hardest part of the whole experience! 

After 16 years at work, I've taken the summer off and am enjoying my free time. Thanks to my ever-helpful son and girlfriend-in-law, and many friends and visitors, I want for nothing. I can sit outside and get fresh air, and I can move without the old arthritis pain. 

I am amazed by the advances in modern medicine; at the same time, if I never spend another night in a hospital bed, I'll be ever so grateful.