Rhoda Hehn’s worn down knees caused constant pain for 20 years.
The Belleville resident recently decided it was time for change, and entrusted her care to SSM Health orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kashif Ali.
“I realize now that I had actually forgotten what my knees should have felt like,” she said.
Steroid injections and other therapy tactics didn’t help Hehn’s chronic pain or loss of mobility. She couldn’t bend her knees, and had to complete tasks by bending at the waist.
Walking long distances or standing for long periods of time was also impossible.
“I was bow-legged and my feet were always bothering me,” she said. “Something had to be done, and I’m so happy that I went to get help.”
In February, Hehn received a bilateral knee replacement utilizing the Mako Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery System at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Janesville. She was walking and beginning physical therapy within a matter of hours, with Dr. Ali and the orthopedics care team at her side.
“It was extremely emotional to be able to stand there after surgery and not hurt,” she said.
After one night in the hospital, Hehn was able to return home.
Her husband of 31 years, Jeff, served as her orthopedics coach, helping to guide recovery and provide assistance in-between physical therapy appointments and checkups. The rest of her family also pitched in.
“I was a little nervous about getting both knees fixed at once, but I think success really has to do with attitude and having a good support system,” she said.
Today, Hehn is back to spending time with her children, working as a branch manager at a siding and roofing company, and making mustard for her hobby business, Rhoda’s Mustard. She hopes to fully return to gardening this year, as it is something she has missed greatly.
“I would tell anyone who is in pain to not wait and to go get the help they need,” she said. “Everything I did was so worth it - you really should be enjoying life right now.”
Learn more about SSM Health Orthopedics or to request an appointment today.
