Back On His Feet
Walter Krochmal's Story
Walter Krochmal leads an active life. The 63-year-old pharmacist works
full-time and is on his feet virtually the entire day. During his time
off, he enjoys woodworking, maintaining his yard, and traveling with his
wife.
Krochmal would not be able to do the things he loves if he had not had
hip replacement surgery at The Miriam Hospital. Prior to his operations,
he experienced soreness in both hips and fatigue when he attempted to walk
even short distances. This prompted Krochmal to see orthopedic surgeon Roy
Aaron, MD.
X-rays of Krochmal's hips confirmed that osteoarthritis was the cause
of his discomfort. He decided to have his right hip replaced.
The first procedure was so successful that Krochmal had his left hip
replaced about a year later. He was at The Miriam only four days after
each procedure, in rehabilitation for one week following his second
operation, and out of work for twelve days following each replacement.
Krochmal says The Miriam team was exceptional-from the pre-admissions
staff to the physical therapists.
Six months after his second operation, Krochmal feels like a new man.
He experienced mild muscle soreness for a short time after rehabilitation,
but the pain has since subsided. To others considering hip replacement
Krochmal offers this advice: "Do it. It's really not that
bad." Krochmal urges other patients to "follow the doctor's
instructions" during recovery. He warns that patients should not
"push their luck" by doing minimal exercises or by working out
excessively. He adds that it is also helpful to have a caregiver during
recuperation; he feels fortunate to have his caring wife.
Walter Krochmal says The Miriam stands alone. We're glad to see him
do the same.
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