Married Couple Gets New Joints Together on the Same Day With Dr. Eric Nelson

Pam and Ron M., a couple from Eagle Bend, recently embarked on a journey to relief from the pain and limitations of arthritis. On September 27, they both underwent joint replacement surgeries at Alomere Health Joint Replacement Center. Pam had a hip replacement, while Ron had a knee replacement, both procedures performed by boardcertified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Eric Nelson of Heartland Orthopedic Specialists.

Pam’s journey began in July when an X-ray revealed advanced hip arthritis. She had previously received a knee replacement with Dr. Nelson and sought his expertise again, this time for both herself and her husband, Ron, who had experienced persistent knee pain for years. When the possibility of same-day surgeries was suggested, the couple, with the support of their family, decided to proceed together. Their youngest son and daughter-in-law have been dedicated caregivers throughout their recoveries.

“We'd lay in the bed, one of us on each side doing our exercises,” Pam explained the process of the couple’s physical therapy in recovery. “It's a lot of teamwork, a lot of extra time together.”

Today, both Pam and Ron are thriving. They're finishing their physical therapy, making steady progress in their recovery. Their goal is to return to the activities they love, including camping by the lake and being able to walk around and enjoy the views.

“I don't regret it. That's for darn sure. And, I don't think [Ron] does either. Anybody who's thinking about doing it, they should do it. Not even think twice. It's been a good, good outcome,” Pam said.

With a summer of lakeside camping ahead, they are eager to enjoy activities without the pain they experienced last year. The couple credits Dr. Nelson and the entire Heartland Orthopedic Specialists team, along with their supportive family, for their successful recoveries.

“And, having the doctor we had—he's just a neat guy. He really is. He just gives you that little boost you need when you don't feel like things are healing the way you want them to,” Pam said, recalling her experience with Dr. Nelson.

About the team at Heartland Orthopedic Specialists and Alomere Health Joint Replacement Center, Pam said, “Everybody we worked with there—oh, they're awesome. I'd recommend anybody having anything done to go there. Everybody's always smiling and helping you. You didn't have to ask a bunch of questions; everybody was there with the information. They talked you through everything. It was a good, good experience, that’s for darn sure.”

Through our dedicated Joint Care Program, we are so honored and proud to be part of stories like Pam and Ron’s every day. If you or your loved one are living with chronic joint pain, don’t hesitate to call us at (800) 762-1177 to get the care you deserve with one of our world-class joint care specialists. You can also schedule an appointment online today.