Knee Replacement Helps Diane Continue to Care for Patients and Enjoy "Semi-Retirement"

View a Message from Diane about Her Knee Replacement Experience

Diane, 58, recently joined her husband in semi-retirement in their cabin near Jackson Hole, WY. “I work a few days a week as a nurse, and the rest of the time I spend on recreational activities such as cycling, horseback riding, hiking, cross country skiing and swimming. I’m a really active person.”

This wasn’t always the case. Prior to knee replacement surgery, even Diane’s family noticed how her knee osteoarthritis impacted her. “My family said I limped when I walked and it was painful for them to watch me. It was especially difficult to go to work everyday, since my work is essentially everywhere and I have to be mobile to get there!”

Formerly a nurse in New York City, Diane spent a large part of her workday walking up and down subway stairs en route to visiting patients in their homes, located throughout Manhattan, which osteoarthritis made it very difficult for her.

For many years Diane knew that she’d eventually have to undergo knee replacement surgery. Twenty years ago, she injured her right knee during a trip to an amusement park. Her doctor explained that due to her injury, Diane would eventually develop osteoarthritis in her knee.

Over the years, Diane underwent three separate arthroscopic surgeries in her right knee to correct the wear and tear osteoarthritis caused. Ultimately, Diane realized that she could no longer watch her once active life pass her by anymore, so she and her surgeon decided it was time for total knee replacement.

According to Diane, her knee replacement surgery went very well. Her doctor chose an implant called a Sigma® Rotating Platform knee, which is designed to bend and rotate. This implant is available exclusively through DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc.

During her recovery, Diane worked very hard at her rehabilitation, and at one point even rewarded herself. “Six weeks after surgery, my husband and I took a cruise to Alaska. I did my physical therapy on the boat!” It wasn't easy, by any means, but thanks to Diane’s commitment to her rehabilitation and exercise program in the weeks following surgery, her condition steadily improved and she was able to regain her mobility.

Now semi-retired, she says, “Without knee replacement surgery, I wouldn’t be doing what I am doing now. I work three days a week and I play really hard the other four days. I’ve traded the subway steps of New York for the hills of Wyoming. I couldn’t be happier!”

Important Safety Information

The performance of knee replacements depends on weight, age, activity level and other factors. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with current infections or conditions limiting rehabilitation should not have this surgery. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can tell if knee replacement is right for you.

Last Updated: 07/27/2008