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From Pain to the Pavement: A Slocum Staff Member’s Journey to the Eugene Marathon

June / 6 / 2024

At Slocum Orthopedics, we’re passionate about helping our patients Live in Motion. For many individuals facing orthopedic conditions or injuries, the ability to enjoy favorite activities and maintain independence can feel out of reach. That’s where our dedicated team of board-certified specialists comes in, providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to help our community members reclaim their quality of life.

This commitment to Live in Motion extends to our own team, as Slocum staff member Jacque Schmidt recently demonstrated. After years of hip pain preventing her from participating in the activities she loved, Jacque turned to Slocum for help. “For too many years, my hip pain prevented me from being able to participate in activities,” Jacque shared. “It also caused me to not want to participate, for fear of making my hip issue worse and knowing how much pain I would feel the following day.”

Under the skilled care of Dr. Mark Mildren, a fellowship-trained, board-certified physician specializing in hip and knee replacement, Jacque underwent total hip replacement surgery. Just ten months later, she proudly joined her fellow Slocum team members at the Eugene Marathon, completing both the 5k and the half marathon. “This was my first Eugene Marathon and my very first marathon,” Jacque said. “Not only did I get to reap the rewards of a great workout, but I was able to participate in an enjoyable event that not only involved my coworkers but also our community and beyond.”

Total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant. This advanced treatment can dramatically reduce pain, increase mobility, and restore a greater range of motion for patients suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, and avascular necrosis. For individuals who have exhausted conservative treatment options without success, total hip replacement can be a life-changing solution.

At Slocum, we’re dedicated to providing the most advanced treatments and technologies available to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Jacque’s story is a testament to the power of expert orthopedic care and the resilience of the human spirit. “I finally feel as close to my old self as possible,” she shared. “While I’m not sliding into home plate or diving to dig that volleyball, I’m able to go hiking or walking or even do an extended shopping trip. I’m excited and eager to participate in more activities and am currently planning where and when I will be signing up for the next marathon.”

As the official orthopedic providers for University of Oregon Athletics since 1967, we’re proud to bring the same level of world-class care to all of our patients. If you’re experiencing hip pain or considering total hip replacement, we invite you to learn more about this advanced procedure and schedule a consultation with one of our expert physicians. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or simply looking to enjoy daily activities without pain, our team is here to help you.

 

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