About five years ago, I began feeling pain in the area of my left hip and thought nothing of it. As time passed the pain got worse. Soon it was to the point where I could not do normal every day activities or my job, which involves a lot of walking and getting up and down. It was especially difficult getting up from a down position. The pain became so intense that I couldn’t get comfortable in bed or sleep at night. I realized that it was time to begin looking into a solution.
I wasn’t ready to have surgery and also wasn’t sure if it was the right treatment for me. My medical doctor suggested trying physical therapy, so I opted to try some physical therapy treatments, but it only gave me temporary relief. I realized that I really needed a more permanent solution, so I started researching hip surgery procedures, specialists in hip surgery and hospitals.
About a year later and after much contemplation and visits to three orthopedic specialists, I decided that HSS was the right place to have my surgery performed. During my research of HSS, Dr. Westrich’s name came up and I scheduled a consultation with him. From the time I met Dr. Westrich, Denise Palacios and the rest of the staff I felt very comfortable and confident for the first time. During my consultation, Dr. Westrich confirmed what I already knew and we scheduled my surgery right on the spot. His staff assisted me with the necessary paperwork, pre-op testing and health insurance information and claims.
About a month later, I had my surgery. This was my first surgery and stay in a hospital and I was very pleased by the whole experience. The hospital and staff were all very professional and helpful. I was up and walking that same day. Even after my surgery, Dr. Westrich’s staff has been very courteous. They followed-up with my progress and have continued assisting me with medical documentation.
It’s been an amazing journey and if I knew a year ago that I would feel this great and have my mobility back just after six weeks of recovery; I would've had the hip surgery sooner.