“I needed a hip replacement in my mid-thirties, and with two little boys to chase after, finding the best of the best was incredibly important to me… I truly wouldn’t have chosen anyone else for such an important surgery. Dr. Rachala didn’t just fix my hip — he changed my life. Now two years out, I’m beyond grateful and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of orthopaedic care.”
Earlier this year, a patient — who wished to be referred to here as J.F. — shared her experience receiving hip care at UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine (UBMDOSM).
As a mother of two young children and a hardworking HR business partner in her mid-thirties, staying mobile and active is very important to J.F. She had hip issues from birth that were initially corrected but worsened over time, eventually leading to severe arthritis that caused too many limitations.
That led her to seek care from Sridhar R. Rachala, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in lower extremity joint replacement and reconstruction. After a thorough evaluation and discussion of her options, Dr. Rachala recommended a treatment plan focused on restoring her mobility and improving her quality of life.
Here, J.F. shares her personal experience receiving hip replacement care from Dr. Rachala, followed by physical therapy from the UBMDOSM team:
What made you seek UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for treatment?
My research and reading Dr. Rachala’s reviews. I needed a hip replacement in my mid-thirties, and with two little boys to chase after, finding the best of the best was incredibly important to me. Before meeting Dr. Rachala, I visited several doctors in the area, but many of those appointments felt more like I was shopping for a car than making a major medical decision. I felt rushed, pressured and like just another case number.
Dr. Rachala was the complete opposite. He took the time to explain my diagnosis, the procedure and his recommendation clearly and thoroughly — then gave me the space to process it all. I never felt pressured, just well informed.
What was the diagnosis and recommended treatment?
Severe arthritis; hip replacement.
Can you tell us about the trust you built with your physician and the care you received?
Dr. Rachala genuinely cares about his patients, and it shows in every single interaction. He was honest and direct but extremely supportive and caring. I didn’t feel like a number. I have never had such care and compassion from a medical experience. His PA, Penelope Lyn McClurg, PA-C, was also patient with my many questions as I evaluated the process and procedure and how it best fit my life.
I truly wouldn’t have chosen anyone else for such an important surgery. Dr. Rachala didn’t just fix my hip — he changed my life. Now two years out, I’m beyond grateful and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of orthopaedic care.
What was the best part of your experience with UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine?
The knowledge, care and expertise.
Can you describe your rehabilitation process? How long after surgery did it take for you to return to your previous activities?
Physical therapy at UBMDOSM was great, as well. I was feeling myself around three months and was fully back to normal around six months. Before the procedure, I couldn’t even take my kids to the park or the grocery store. Now, we’re hiking and playing easily together.
What are you doing now to actively prevent a recurring injury?
Keeping myself in shape.
What does feeling better mean to you and your life?
I’m not wasting my life sitting around and wishing I could do things. I’m actively involved in my two young children’s lives and living every minute to its fullest.
What advice do you have for those dealing with a similar injury?
Don’t wait; see Dr. Rachala.