Fay, a longtime resident of Thailand and devoted ballet dancer and teacher, found her life turned to suffering from chronic hip pain. After two years of struggle in mobility, she finally sought medical help. This article details Fay's experience, from the initial diagnosis at Samitivej Hospital to her successful recovery and return to ballet.

In 2017, Fay woke up to a locked groin muscle, a significant setback for a ballet professional. Initially relying on massage therapy, she underestimated the severity of the problem. Over the next two years the pain worsened,   impacting her ability and enjoyment of dance. A pivotal moment came when a simple walk on the beach became an ordeal,   forcing Fay to confront the situation.

Fay sought consultation at Samitivej  where she had been a patient for 35 years. Dr. Kriskamol impressed her with his attentiveness and focus on her specific needs. Dr  . Kriskamol recognized the challenge and was enthusiastic about helping Fay regain her pre-injury abilities and return to the stage.

Dr. Kriskamol diagnosed Fay with osteoarthritis of the left hip. Considering her demanding career, a special implant was chosen to optimize post-operative range of motion and facilitate a return to her active lifestyle. The surgery was successful, but the journey wasn't over. A dedicated rehabilitation program under the watchful eye of Samitivej's expert rehabilitation team became an integral part of Fay's recovery.

One of the biggest concerns for ballet dancers like Fay is regaining full range of motion. Dr. Kriskamol understood this well, and the success of the procedure is a testament to his expertise. Fay regained her pre-illness mobility, evident in the full range of motion achieved without any limitations and confirmed by postoperative X-rays.

After her hip surgery, Fay's dedication to recovery was impressive. Despite initially needing a walker, she diligently followed her rehab plan and monitored her progress. Determined to return to ballet, she surprised everyone by successfully standing on pointe just 3-1/2 months after surgery, defying the doctor's recommended wait time of six months. This achievement symbolized her perseverance and her passion for dance.

Fay's story offers valuable insights for those considering hip replacement surgery. She emphasizes the importance of pre-surgical preparation, including weight management and targeted exercises to strengthen the body. A fitter body promotes faster healing and a smoother recovery process, while managing weight puts less stress on the joint during recovery.  

Another surprising benefit of modern surgical techniques   is minimal pain. Fay managed her pain with anti-inflammatory medication, avoiding stronger pain relievers. This is thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and effective pain management protocols. Finally, physical therapy plays a crucial role. The therapist's initial observation of Fay's strength highlighted her dedication to both dance and overall fitness, which undoubtedly aided her recovery.

Fay's journey is an inspiring testament to the life-changing potential of hip replacement surgery. It highlights the importance of early intervention and the expertise of a medical team that personalizes care to address individual needs and goals.
Fay’s final message is a powerful one: "Don't suffer in silence. If you're experiencing pain, seek medical advice and don't be afraid of surgery. With advancements in medical technology and a dedicated healthcare team, a pain-free and active life awaits you."   For Fay, this translated to a remarkable 90-95% recovery, exceeding expectations and allowing her to continue dancing well beyond what she thought possible.