The Strongest Recommendation: Mike Sadowski's Robotic Total Hip Replacement

Severe, bone-on-bone hip pain was a daily reality for local Army veteran Mike Sadowski of Lakewood, Washington. After performing countless jumps during his long military career, Mike developed persistent right hip pain that affected his ability to walk, sit, and sleep comfortably. “I would feel the pain when I was walking, but also when I would sleep,” he said. “It was so painful throughout my entire right side.”

Mike suspected that he might need orthopedic surgery. But finding the right surgeon seemed daunting. Then Mike’s neighbor Marvin recommended Dr. Joshua Johnston of Franciscan Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Associates at St. Clare. Located nearby in Lakewood, St. Clare Hospital has earned national recognition for orthopedic care, including the prestigious Gold Seal of Approval ™ certification from The Joint Commission for both knee and hip replacement.

St. Clare’s reputation for excellence in orthopedic care, combined with his neighbor’s endorsement, made the choice easy, Mike said. Dr. Johnston performed Mike’s robotic total hip replacement on July 14, 2020. Mike was home the next day and walking without assistance — or pain — just three days later. “On the third day after surgery, I picked up my walker, and then I just let it go. I realized I didn’t need it. I couldn’t believe it, but the pain was completely gone,” he said.

After his successful surgery, Mike now offers his own glowing endorsement for Dr. Johnston and Franciscan Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Associates at St. Clare. “Everyone at the clinic was truly outstanding, from Dr. Johnston to the nurses and all the staff. They were pleasant and helpful, and all of the information at their website about how to prepare for surgery and what to expect was outstanding too. I would recommend Dr. Johnston to anyone needing a hip surgery,” he said. “Dr. Johnston is a miracle worker. This experience shows grace working in my life.”