ReJoyce and Restore
Knee replacement increases mobility
March 18, 2025
2 minute read
Knee replacement increases mobility
Since the early 1960s, Joyce Firebaugh and her late husband, Morris, shared a love for long hikes in the mountains of Colorado and Wyoming.
But in recent years, Joyce, an 84-year-old retired teacher from Racine, struggled to walk up the stairs to her condo, so hiking was not a possibility.
With advanced arthritis in her right knee, Joyce opted for knee replacement surgery performed by John Nettrour, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and Medical College of Wisconsin faculty member.
Over the years, Joyce had received cortisone shots for the pain. But by the time Dr. Nettrour first saw her in October 2023, a knee replacement was the best option.
“Octogenarians still are good candidates for knee replacements as long as they’re in good health and are motivated to do the required rehabilitation,” Dr. Nettrour said.
Joyce was highly motivated. She already had planned a family vacation to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming in summer 2024, hoping to hike Inspiration Point trail, a 3.6-mile round-trip hike with rough terrain.
“I wanted to commemorate Morris’ love of the mountains with my family,” Joyce said. “Dr. Nettrour said that was absolutely doable.”
She had knee replacement surgery in February 2024 at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital, part of the Froedtert & MCW health network.
“The worn surfaces of the ends of the femur and tibia bones are removed and then covered with either a cobalt chrome alloy or a titanium cap,” Dr. Nettrour said. “A plastic insert locked into the top of the tibia prevents metal-on-metal contact.
“The surgery is typically followed by six weeks of rehabilitation. After six to 12 weeks, people usually can do the things they like to do. Joyce was a great patient and worked hard to recover.”
Joyce completed the Inspiration Point hike in August. As she slowly descended a steep part of the trail that is only wide enough for one person, a group of people below her, who were waiting to ascend, started applauding when Joyce’s daughter, Susie, told them Joyce was 84 years old.
“I was very happy with the care I received and with Dr. Nettrour — I love that man,” Joyce said. “I have no restrictions. I climb the 16 steps to my condo every day — pain free.”
To see an orthopaedic specialist, call 414-777-7700. Learn more at froedtert.com/joint-replacement.
The Joint and Spine Center at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital serves as the health network’s hub for total joint replacements and elective spine surgeries.
