Conditions We Treat
At Littleton Adventist Hospital, our dedicated orthopedic team specializes in treating sports injuries, degenerative conditions including arthritis and adult or childhood orthopedic trauma.
Elbow, Forearm & Wrist
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Foot & Ankle
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Hip |
Shoulder
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Knee
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Helping You Stay ActiveFor individuals suffering from severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery can be a life-changing experience. Just ask Mickey Foster, 62, of Littleton.In early spring 2010, Foster began noticing moderate pain in his groin area.
"I thought I had pulled a muscle," says Foster. "My son is a physician, so I called him for advice. He suspected I had arthritis in my hip and explained that pain often starts in the groin. Sure enough, by summer, the pain moved from my groin to my right hip and became so excruciating I couldn't walk, sit, or climb stairs."
Foster's son recommended he see Robert Thomas, MD, orthopedic surgeon on staff at Littleton Adventist Hospital, for care. X-rays confirmed that Foster had severe arthritis and would benefit from a hip replacement. In October 2010, he underwent joint replacement surgery.
"Dr. Thomas was excellent at explaining my options and allowed me to make the decision about whether the implant material would be metal, plastic, or ceramic," says Foster. "I found these options to be a bit confusing, but Dr. Thomas thoroughly explained the pros and cons of each, made his recommendation, and ultimately gave me the power to choose which I felt was best for me. That really impressed me."
Foster had a great outcome following surgery and is looking forward to returning to golf and other activities.
"We have a fully integrated program that includes both operative and nonoperative solutions to joint pain," says Dr. Thomas. "We place a strong focus on education, and it's important for community members to understand we have a great deal of experience in joint surgeries. We perform these procedures on a regular basis, not an occasional basis. They're a big part of our practice."
With access to orthopedic trauma experts, fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians skilled in arthroscopy, and experienced orthopedic surgeons offering the latest in joint replacement technologies and procedures, patients with arthritis can return to pain-free living faster than ever before.
"The structure of our orthopedic program allows us to get to know every patient," says Theresa Johnson, director of physical medicine and respiratory care at Littleton Hospital. "The hospital has grown over the years, but we strive to maintain a personal touch to patient care."
From the May 2011 issue of Your Health Your Hospital. |
