my Story

Bernice Weatherspoon

My new hips deserved hands-on care.

For 55-year-old Bernice Weatherspoon, total hip replacement was not a choice – it was a necessity.  Ms. Weatherspoon was diagnosed with degenerative joint disease in both of her hips over 15 years ago.  She explains that her condition progressively worsened to the point that she could barely function.
“My hips were so bad before my surgery that I couldn't walk without support – I couldn’t put on my own shoes or get in and out my car without struggling,” states Weatherspoon.
When it was recommended she have both of her hips replaced, she knew it was going to be a challenge but she didn’t want to continue living life in constant pain.  She had her right hip replaced on March 24th and her left hip on May 27th.  Her physician recommended she attend physical therapy at High Pointe and she started the week following her first surgery.
“Ms. Weatherspoon came in with an amazing attitude,” states Jessie Carter, PT.  “She not only pushed herself but encouraged other patients to think positively and try hard.”
Therapy following a total hip replacement includes exercises to strengthen the hip and leg muscles, improve movement, and retrain the body how to walk “normally” again.
Weatherspoon states, “I haven’t walked normally in so long because I was in pain – my body had to relearn what to do.”
At High Pointe, therapists are encouraged to spend time with their patients – especially in the early days following surgery.  Carter states, “It’s our job to help patients learn normal movement patterns again -- that requires hands-on care.”
When Weatherspoon completed therapy for her first hip replacement, she joined High Pointe’s Get Fit program.  “I wanted to keep everything I worked so hard to get – plus I wanted to stay in shape for my second surgery," she states.
As a member of the Get Fit program, Weatherspoon was able to come into the clinic and continue all of the exercises she was taught in therapy.  She stayed in the routine of working out and continued to advance independently.  If she had any questions or concerns, her physical therapist was available for consultation.
Weatherspoon explains that therapy following her second hip replacement has been easier than her first. “This is better than I expected," she states.  "I’m so thankful to be where I am at.”
Carter adds, “Ms. Weatherspoon has done everything right – she had an excellent surgeon and an attitude to match.  She has worked very hard to get to where she is at.”