College lecturer and part-time paramedic Michael Littlehales has enjoyed his first pain-free ski holiday after a hip replacement operation at The Horder Centre.
Michael 63, had a left hip replacement three years ago after a lifetime of sport, including marathon running, had caused irreparable damage to the joint. Before the operation, skiing, and other sports were painful, but Michael was able to tackle the slopes in Saalbach, Austria, without any aches and pains earlier this year.
Michael, who lives in Golden Cross, near Hailsham, said: “My experience at The Horder Centre was absolutely brilliant. I was treated like a human being and all the staff were fantastic – very professional and caring.”
Although Michael, who asked to be referred to Horder Healthcare surgeon Hugh Apthorp, has given up running following his operation, he now cycles regularly and plays tennis.
He said: “Although I was initially surprised when I was told I needed the operation because the hip hadn’t been causing me much pain, the x-rays revealed that it was shot to pieces. I am very glad now that I had it done and can’t speak highly enough of Mr Apthorp and his team.”
90% of patients experience a large reduction in hip pain following a total hip replacement, which allows them to return to their normal daily activities.