“I had been experiencing pain in my right knee for at least two years which was getting progressively worse. This was affecting my walking and I found myself limping. I wasn’t able to walk as far as I would have liked, and standing for any length of time was painful. My sleep was being disturbed as I could feel the knee aching and I was struggling to sleep on my side. During the day I was taking eight paracetamols to help control the pain but unfortunately this wasn’t helping.
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Jonathan Eldridge was recommended to me by a friend and I found him to be very approachable. I had an initial consultation with Mr Eldridge in December 2020. He examined my right knee and informed me that I would need a partial replacement. Before Christmas Mr. Eldridge’s secretary rang me and booked my surgery for January 2021.
On the day of my operation I arrived at midday and the registration procedure was very slick. I was impressed with the social distancing measures that the hospital had put in place.
I was escorted to a seat in the waiting room, a form was filled out and then I was asked to go to Level 3 where a nurse would be waiting for me. As I got out of the lift a nurse greeted me by name which made me feel like a celebrity! The nurse then took me to my room.
Within a very short space of time a nurse came to take more details from me. She was shortly followed by the anaesthetist and then Mr. Eldridge. Both the anaesthetist and Mr. Eldridge explained to me what would happen during the operation. I walked down to theatre and the next thing I knew I was awake in the recovery room.
I stayed in hospital for two days’ post operation. During this time, I was visited by the anaesthetist and Mr. Eldridge to see how I was recovering.
The nurses were all very attentive, both day and night, particularly when one thought my oxygen levels were low which was checked by the doctor. During my stay I had physiotherapy with Physiotherapist, Daniel and came home with instructions to continue them at home.
Since returning home I have had three virtual physiotherapy appointments with Senior Physiotherapist, Jarrad which have worked well and been re-assuring. I had a 10-week post operation follow up consultation with Mr. Eldridge who was happy with my progress.
Above: On the left is Sally’s knee just days after her surgery. The right was taken in May 2021.
It is a pleasure to be able to walk easily again. I can now walk normally without a bad limp. When standing for any length of time I can now use both legs fully without favouring my better leg. In addition, my step count has vastly improved - up to 13,000 on occasion; most days I do in excess of 5,000. I have even been able to use an exercise bike! I can also walk 1.5 miles to the local shops and back without discomfort. Most importantly, I'm able to get comfortable in bed and, hence, am sleeping much better.”
