Twana Simmons-Taylor, a retired Research Analyst from Indianapolis, knows all too well what it’s like to push through arthritis pain and take the journey to regain mobility and quality of life.
For years, Twana dealt with the gradual and relentless pain of degenerative arthritis in both hips – no specific injury, just the wear and tear that comes with time. What started as occasional discomfort slowly grew into constant, debilitating pain that made it difficult for her to sit, stand or even walk. “It got to the point where I couldn’t even get out of bed some days. The pain was overwhelming,” she shared.
After being referred to Central Indiana Orthopedics, Twana set out on her path to regain mobility. But the journey wasn’t immediate – due to separate health issues, Twana had to take time to get to a healthier weight before surgery could be scheduled. “It was a year before I had my first hip replaced. It was a lot of hard work, but I stayed focused because I knew I wanted to get back to my life,” Twana said.
In June 2024, she had her first hip replacement surgery on her right hip, affectionately named “Sparkle.” Just a couple of months later, she was back in the operating room for her second surgery on her left hip, “Dazzling,” in August. The closeness of these surgeries was a blessing, as the immediate improvements from her first surgery motivated her to push forward with the second.
“I was so ready for the second surgery. Once the first hip was done and I could move again, I couldn’t wait to get the second one taken care of to get back on my feet,” Twana shared.
The recovery process was hard work. For Twana, physical therapy became her daily routine to regain strength. “Physical therapy was my job every day. It was tough, but I was determined,” she said. “Within a couple of months after my second surgery, I was walking, taking care of myself and helping around the house. My family had to take care of me and everything else for so long, and I was just so grateful to be able to help again.”
Throughout it all, Dr. Joseph Jerman and the entire care team at Central Indiana Orthopedics provided the support Twana needed every step of the way. “They were always there for me, always checking in and making sure I had what I needed,” Twana said. “One of my physical therapists even asked me who my doctor was because she saw how well I was doing. I can’t thank them enough.”
While Twana’s journey isn’t finished, the progress she’s made has been nothing short of inspiring. “I wake up now and feel like I’ve won. I’m living again, and that’s something I never thought I’d say when I was stuck in bed,” she said.
Twana’s story is a shining example of determination, hard work and the power of excellent care. Her journey proves what’s possible with the right team and right mindset and she’s excited about the future. “I’m not just surviving anymore, I’m living. And I’m so thankful for the team at Central Indiana Orthopedics for helping me get here,” she said.
If you or someone you know is dealing with the kind of pain Twana faced and is ready to take the first step toward recovery, our team at Central Indiana Orthopedics is here to help. We’re dedicated to providing the best possible care and support every step of the way. Learn more about our services and how we can help you start your own recovery story at ciocenter.com/services/surgery-revision/.