At 71 years old, Jerry is the embodiment of an active lifestyle. He lives by a personal mantra: “You can’t fight aging, but don’t get old.” For him, there’s a big difference. Aging is a natural part of life–but getting old is optional. Jerry chooses to stay young at heart and active in body, through windsurfing, surf foiling, snowboarding, and even teaching others on the slopes.

But last year, that lifestyle came to a screeching halt.

A Wake-Up Call on the Water

While windsurfing off the coast of Charlestown, Jerry began experiencing unusual difficulty lifting his leg in his wetsuit. He initially suspected a strained or torn hip flexor, but the pain persisted and worsened until it became clear that something more serious was going on.

A Customized Surgical Plan

Jerry consulted with Dr. Mouhanad El Othmani, a highly respected orthopedic surgeon with the Joint Replacement Center at University Orthopedics, known for performing anterior hip replacement procedures. Dr. El Othmani was immediately impressed by Jerry’s level of physical activity. As he got to know him, it became clear that this was not a typical case of age-related arthritis—Jerry’s hip had deteriorated much faster than expected, and his pain was unusually severe.

Dr. El Othmani recommended the anterior approach, a muscle-sparing surgical technique that avoids cutting major muscles and tendons, allowing for a quicker, less painful recovery—perfect for someone as active as Jerry.

From Surgery to the Slopes

By the time Jerry had his surgery in December, his pain was at an unbearable level—what he described as an 11 out of 10. It had affected the chiropractor’s ability to work, his mobility, and his overall quality of life.

Recovery wasn’t painless, but Jerry approached it with determination and a “positive mental attitude.” Within weeks, he was already thinking about returning to snowboarding. With medical approval—and a bit of caution—he hit the slopes again.

His first run back was transformative. As he glided and turned, he realized he was pain-free. While he felt some fatigue, the joy of returning to the sport he loved far outweighed the effort.

Back on the Water—and Pain-Free

When the windsurfing season returned, Jerry didn’t hesitate. He suited up, hit the water—and for the first time in a long time, felt zero pain. His mobility was fully restored, and his strength had returned.

The success of the surgery, combined with Jerry’s determination, made a powerful comeback story. Today, he continues to do what he loves: snowboarding, windsurfing, foiling, and inspiring others to keep moving—regardless of age.

A Message for Others Facing Joint Replacement

Jerry’s story is a testament to what’s possible when expert surgical care is combined with patient perseverance and a commitment to living fully.

His advice for others considering joint replacement is simple: Don’t wait. If you’re told you need a hip replacement, trust your surgeon and believe in your ability to recover. Surgery isn’t the end—it can be the beginning of a whole new chapter.

As Dr. El Othmani emphasizes, “This surgery isn’t just about relieving pain. It’s about restoring quality of life—whatever that means to each patient.”

Whether you’re 31 or 71, don’t let age define you. Let your passion lead the way.