For two years, my left hip had been bothering me. It would “click” whenever I stood up, which didn’t make much sense at the time. Gradually, the discomfort turned into pain whenever I was active — whether going for a run or taking a long walk with my wife and children. The pain worsened over time, and by the summer of 2022, it was unbearable. I found myself limping and feared I might have torn a ligament. Whenever I stopped being active, the pain subsided, but it always returned once I was active again. For someone who loves staying active, this was a frustrating and discouraging situation.
I decided to get an MRI, and the doctor’s diagnosis shocked me: arthritis in my hip, and the recommendation was a hip replacement. I was stunned and skeptical. Seeking a second opinion, I heard the same diagnosis and advice. Then, a good friend who had undergone hip replacement surgery recommended Dr. McLawhorn for a third opinion. Sure enough, he confirmed the diagnosis.
In January 2023, I underwent a total hip replacement with a titanium rod. The surgery went smoothly, and the recovery was surprisingly easy — especially compared to my two ACL surgeries. Now, I’m back to a fully active lifestyle. I even went skiing in Colorado in both 2024 and 2025 without any pain. Walking long distances is no problem, and sometimes I forget I ever had the procedure — except when I set off the metal detector at airport security!
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. McLawhorn for giving me my active life back!