Precise Elbow Replacement Helps Snowbird Stay Active

Getting older doesn’t mean giving up the activities that bring you joy—but sometimes, it means finding the best care solution to help you keep doing them. Judy H., a retired teacher who divides her time between Indiana and Florida, learned this firsthand when dealing with severe elbow arthritis pain that made doing simple tasks impossible.

Like many active seniors, she tried working through the pain, determined not to let it slow her down. But this resilient retiree knew it was time for a change when she could no longer manage everyday movements without wincing. After having a total elbow replacement procedure performed by Dr. Greg A. Merrell at Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center, Judy H. is grateful to be again enjoying her golden years—on her terms.

This is her story.

Judy H.’s Patient Story

Hometown: Pittsboro, IN
Age: 82

The First Big Sign Something Was Off

A few years ago, back when my husband and I still had our larger, 45-foot motorhome, is when I realized how much pain I had and how my left arm wasn’t working like it used to. It’s what stands out in my memory.

We’re snowbirds and go to the same place in Florida every year for winter. We had just arrived at the resort where we always stay, and my husband joked that I had two choices—give him directions to help him back the motorhome into our reserved lot or get behind the steering wheel and follow his parking instructions. 

Since I’m better at taking directions than giving them, I volunteered to drive the motorhome and back it in. But that’s a tricky thing to do, even if you have help. Those spots are hard to get into.

As I turned the steering wheel, I felt a sharp pain and realized I couldn’t move my left arm as I wanted it to. Those twisting movements caused intense sensations that radiated from my elbow. It really hurt.

Life, Interrupted

My elbow pain kept intensifying. Would you believe that I was even having trouble using a curling iron? That was frustrating. 

I also struggled to put food into the oven and take it out. My arm didn’t have the stability to feel comfortable cooking.

More and more, I found my left arm was hurting whenever I had to make any twisting motions. Daily activities were becoming practically impossible because my elbow arthritis symptoms were worsening. I tried to stay upbeat and mask how much it hurt, but I finally got to the point where I couldn’t hide how much pain I was in.

My problems with using my elbow had gotten so frequent, nearly constant, that it was stopping me from doing what I wanted to do. I’m an active person—and I like being active!—so that motivated me to talk to my primary care doctor to find out why my elbow hurt. I told him about the issues that I’d been having. He suggested physical therapy as a first step.

Searching for Elbow Pain Relief

I went to my first physical therapy appointment optimistically. I wanted it to work, so I followed all of my physical therapist’s instructions. 

My physical therapist was very nice. But after several sessions, my elbow just wasn’t feeling better. I told him I was still struggling to use my left arm and make it do what I used to without a second thought. 

I remember my physical therapist being candid with me when I said that. He said, “I think you’re beyond what I can do for you.” Then, he suggested that I go to Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. He said they’re amazing, and I should see one of their elbow specialists.

Another reason I chose to go to IHTSC was my daughter. Over 20 years ago, she went there for care and only had great things to say about her experience. 

With those two strong recommendations, I didn’t feel like I had to do additional vetting. I trusted both of them. I figured that IHTSC has an excellent reputation for a reason, so I made an appointment without hesitation. They were right. I have absolutely no regrets.

Exploring Elbow Care Options

My first appointment with Dr. Merrell went well. He suggested starting conservatively with shots, so I got two elbow joint injections a few months apart to see if they would help. The injections were X-ray-guided to ensure the medication’s placement was as precise as possible, but unfortunately, they didn’t really make a difference. They weren’t the solution.

Though my elbow care at IHTSC started with those shots, Dr. Merrell was wonderful. He made sure I understood upfront that he had a plan and wouldn’t give up on me. He trusted he would help me get to a better place no matter what. So, I wasn’t nervous when the injections didn’t do the trick. 

Dr. Merrell mentioned at the start that I might need elbow replacement. I know having surgery can be scary for some people, but the possibility didn’t worry me because he’s a pro. Also, over the years, I’ve had four big surgeries—three knee replacements and even a shoulder replacement, and those procedures all went well. 

When we talked about my having an operation, I thought, well, if it’s what I need, it’s what I need. I figured that even though I’m old, I could handle it.

Success With Elbow Replacement

Preparing for surgery to replace my elbow was simple because Dr. Merrell and Mollie Hanlon MS, NP-C, MBA, the nurse practitioner who works with him, are super caring people. They knew what they were doing and always gave me information I didn’t even know I needed. 

At the appointment before my surgery, Dr. Merrell told me it would be a good idea to wear something sleeveless on the day of my elbow replacement. He said it would make it easier and more comfortable for me to get dressed to go home after the procedure because I’d have a large cast on my arm. I’m so glad he mentioned that. That’s just one example of how Dr. Merrell is always two steps ahead. He shared many tips that I would have never thought of, and his advice made everything much easier.

Also, I appreciate how Dr. Merrell and Mollie never rushed through my visits. They always took the time to answer all my questions, tell me what was happening, and share what to expect. Anytime I had something I wanted to ask them, it was comforting to know I had a number to call because Mollie gave me her direct number. 

When Mollie shared it, she said, “If you have any questions about anything or if something is bothering you and you need help, don’t call the office. Just call me because I can get you answers from Dr. Merrell ASAP.” 

Many medical practices claim to be patient-centric but don’t consistently act that way. At IHTSC, you never doubt that everyone is focused on patients’ needs first and foremost. You know they care and want to help you.

Help With the Healing Process 

After surgery, I needed to do occupational therapy, and I did that, too, with IHTSC. I had my appointments at the office in Avon because that’s closer to my home. I worked with two different therapists at IHTSC, and they were both great. 

When my cast came off, one made me an orthosis that fit like a glove. It stretched from my armpit to my hand. That custom brace made me feel more confident using my arm again after my elbow replacement. It helped me get back to doing more normal day-to-day things.

We took therapy one step at a time. I never felt pushed to do anything I was uncomfortable with during my sessions. Both of my therapists were listeners. They were friendly and encouraged me to update them on where I was and ask questions about my progress.

I remember telling my therapist when I wanted to do this or that. She kept me positive and on track. That first time I told her about a specific goal, her cheering me on boosted my confidence. She said, “Well, that’s great! Let’s make that your new goal for the week. Here’s what we can do to make that happen.” I could tell she was rooting for me and not just going through the motions.

Back in Action

I might be retired, but I’m still keeping busy. I like to stay active and have a tendency to push it. Since my elbow replacement surgery, I sometimes try to do 19 things all at once because my left arm feels good again. 

I have a close friend who passed away recently, so I’ve been helping his family clear out his motorhome. It’s been quite a bit of work, but I’ve had to take it slow. I don’t want to ruin this new elbow. When I find myself with that sort of go-go-go mindset, I put on the arm sock I got from IHTSC to remind myself, “Hey, slow down. Don’t overdo it.”

Today, my arm’s function has improved dramatically since my elbow replacement and is getting closer to 100%. I still sometimes struggle with using my curling iron, but that’s more due to my never having had any talent for doing my hair than lingering arm problems.

The way I look at it, I still might not know how to style it well, but at least I don’t have pain when trying to use my curling iron—and I have Dr. Merrell to thank for that. The surgery he performed has helped so much.

It means so much to me what he and all of the staff at IHTSC did. I loved my whole experience. It’s easy to tell that Dr. Merrell always goes above and beyond for his patients. 

IHTSC is unparalleled. There’s no place like it. 

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Find Elbow Pain Relief at IHTSC

Not everyone needs surgery for elbow pain, but when dealing with severe arthritis—like Judy H. battled—specialized elbow care can make all the difference. At Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center, our experts are committed to providing comprehensive upper extremity care to help you regain function that improves the quality of your life.

How We Help

Since 1972, patients across Indiana and throughout the U.S. have trusted IHTSC’s top-rated elbow surgeons. Our experienced specialists treat every elbow injury and disorder, even the most complex conditions like severe arthritis requiring joint replacement.

“Dr. Merrell is a true expert who cares so much about his patients. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone. I’d give him more than five stars if I could.”—Judy H., elbow replacement patient

See a Specialist at IHTSC

Get the care you need from IHTSC’s team of world-renowned elbow pain doctors, advanced practice providers, and prominent occupational therapists. 

Request an appointment today and take the first step toward a life free of elbow pain. If you prefer to schedule by phone, call us at (317) 751-5904.

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You Might Also Like:

• Active 80-Year-Old Can Do It All After Wrist Replacement Surgery
• What Causes Elbow Arthritis Pain? What Are the Best Treatment Options?
• Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Seeing an Elbow Pain Doctor When You Hurt

Medically reviewed by Greg A. Merrell, M.D.