KATRA, SEPT 13: A 68-year-old woman from Basohli, who had been bedridden for nearly four years, is now walking again after undergoing three successful joint replacement surgeries at Narayana Hospital, Katra. Mrs. Ramita Sharma, who had suffered from severe osteoarthritis in both knees for over two decades, underwent both knee and hip replacement surgeries performed by Senior Joint Replacement Surgeon, Dr. Vikas Padha.
Mrs. Sharma’s ordeal began in 2002 when she first experienced knee pain, which progressively worsened over time. By 2015, she was unable to walk due to the intense pain, and by 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, she became completely bedridden. The family had lost hope that she would ever walk again after years of suffering and failed attempts at treatment.
In a turn of events, Mrs. Sharma’s family learned about a free medical camp organized by Narayana Hospital in April 2022 in Basohli. The camp was led by Dr. Vikas Padha, known for his expertise in joint replacement surgeries. Despite being bedridden and unable to leave her car, Dr. Padha attended to her at the camp and diagnosed her with severe osteoarthritis in both knees and extremely weak bones due to her prolonged immobility.
Dr. Padha advised total knee replacement surgeries for both knees, assuring the family that despite the challenges, Mrs. Sharma could walk again. The family agreed to proceed, and in October 2023, she underwent her first knee replacement surgery. For the first time in nearly four years, she was able to get out of bed, although with the assistance of a walker.
However, during her rehabilitation, Mrs. Sharma suffered a hip fracture due to her fragile bones just three months after her initial surgery. In January 2023, Dr. Padha performed a successful hip replacement surgery, which allowed her to recover and continue her rehabilitation.
Several months later, Dr. Padha performed a second knee replacement surgery on her other knee, completing the series of three joint replacement surgeries. After completing the procedures, Mrs. Sharma regained her ability to walk pain-free, a feat that seemed impossible just years before.
Today, Sharma not only walks comfortably but also performs her daily chores and goes for walks outside, a significant improvement after years of suffering and immobility.
