"Hip Replacement, treatment and recovery"

I had a total hip replacement at Mount Stuart Hospital and stayed with them for six days after the operation.

I had previously attended day surgery for Cortisone injections into the hip.

One of the great things is that its a small hospital and you can get to know the faces and names that work there, I had nursing staff whom I had met in day surgery who were supporting me following my hip replacement.

Following my operation I was unable to bear weight for the first month on my leg; all of the staff were fantastic as they helped me build confidence in using crutches and other aides.

I was concerned about pain management prior to the op but I have to say the staff made sure I had no pain at all, providing appropriate medication as and when I needed it (or was able to take it).

Following the anaesthetic I had to have a catheter fitted, the nurse helped put me at ease and managed my dignity through the process.

All the staff were friendly, happy and supportive I really think that it is this level of care which has helped me recover so well and kept me at my ease throughout.

My consultant and physio team were also great, explaining at every step what had happened, was happening and why I needed to do the things they were asking; they also guided me on how things should feel and what to expect - if staying on hospital can ever be a good experience, this was for me an excellent one.