In this interview, Lon tells us about living with chronic hip pain, coming stateside for his procedure, his amazing experience with Dr. Nourbash at BOS, and how his new hip has changed his life for the better.

Hello Lon! Describe how chronic hip pain affected your life before your surgery. What were your most disruptive symptoms? How did they intrude on your life?

I had constant severe pain that limited everything I did. I could only walk with a cane over short distances and that with a hunched posture. The pain kept me from sleeping well. Essentially, I was limping from chair to chair or chair to car and back.

7,000 miles is a long way to travel for surgery! How did you hear about Barrington Orthopedic Specialists all the way in Guam, and what made you choose Dr. Nourbash as your surgeon?

I had originally planned to have my hip replaced in Japan but COVID closed the country to non-Japanese. The constant pain made it clear that I could not wait. I started to do internet research on options on the US mainland, especially in the Chicago area where I have family.

My mom knew of several people that had their hips replaced at St. Alexius Hospital and were very pleased with the results. I decided to concentrate on Northwestern and St. Alexius and researched the surgeons that worked there. Dr. Nourbash stood out in my searches for patient satisfaction over both the surgery results and how the patients felt that he treated them personally.

Describe your experience with Dr. Nourbash and the team at BOS. How did they help you before and after your procedure?

My experience with Dr. Nourbash and BOS [was] uniformly positive. I was pleased with the initial consultation, the procedure, and the follow-up meetings. I appreciate Dr. Nourbash’s good humor and positive attitude throughout the process and especially just before and after the surgery. Dr. Nourbash was also very kind to my wife just before and after the procedure and personally called her to let her know immediately post-surgery that everything went well. I think that my rapid recovery, limited incision, and ability to limit pain pills to Tylenol three days after the procedure speaks to his surgical skills.

The staff at BOS were great throughout, especially in dealing with the vagaries of communication and internet in the Western Pacific. They were able to work around obstacles and help me to provide the required documents and to answer questions that I had.

How’s it going with your new hip? In what ways has it improved your life?

I love my new hip! I especially appreciate that I no longer have constant pain in my life. I can walk where I want to, after not being able to walk on uneven surfaces for over a year. My posture is back to normal, and I get a lot of comments on how people forgot I was this tall. Finally, people keep telling me that I look younger now that I no longer have the constant severe pain in my face. I am looking forward to continuing [to gain] strength so that I can safely get back to freediving and spearfishing over the reef here in Guam.

If you could say anything to someone considering a hip replacement, what would it be?

Do not delay. You will not regret going through with the procedure and will be surprised how quickly you will recover.

It’s summertime in Greater Chicago, and the team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists wishes you a happy warm season! We hope you stay safe and have fun, whether you’re at home or on vacation.

This month, we have an exciting patient testimonial from Bill, who wanted to talk about his experience after receiving life-changing knee replacement surgery from Dr. Paul Nourbash. Keep reading to learn more about Bill’s experience!

“Pain Free for the First Time in Years:” Bill’s Knee Replacement Helps Him Take His Life Back

Tell us about your knee pain. How was it affecting you before your knee replacement?

It affected every aspect of my life. I was in pain all the time.

What brought you to Barrington Orthopedic Specialists and Dr. Nourbash? What stood out to you about the practice?

I had seen Dr Nourbash years ago for a shoulder issue and had spoken to him briefly then about a possible knee replacement. I was impressed with both his knowledge and his demeanor.

Why did you ultimately decide to undergo a total knee replacement?

To get my life back.

How was your experience with Dr. Nourbash and the team at BOS?

The experience was positive.

What was your recovery process like? How did the BOS team assist you? What was the most rewarding part of rehabilitation? The most difficult part?

The recovery process was much less painful than I anticipated. Working with Beth was a pleasure. She’s one of the best therapists I’ve worked with.

How do you feel now? Is your rehabilitation complete, or still in progress? How has your life improved with your new knee?

I feel great. My life has improved in every aspect. My rehab is complete, although I continue to stretch and work the knee. I’m pain free for the first time in years.

What would you say to someone else considering a total knee replacement?

Call Dr Nourbash!

Thank you to Bill for answering these questions for us! If you’re interested in learning more about knee replacement as an option for finding long-term relief, schedule an appointment with us. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Nourbash, visit his profile here.

To be scheduled with a physician at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, contact our office at (847) 285-4200 or schedule online here. For urgent needs when our physician’s offices are closed, visit our Immediate Orthopedic Care (IOC) in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Total knee replacement can be a life-changing procedure for those suffering from severe knee pain and limited mobility. In this patient Q&A, we hear from Carole, who underwent a total knee replacement surgery with Dr. Paul Nourbash at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists.

Dr. Nourbash is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in total knee replacement surgery. He has helped countless patients like Carole regain their independence and quality of life through this transformative procedure.

Hello Carole! Tell us about your symptoms before your knee replacement. How was your condition affecting your daily life?

Carole was experiencing pain in her right knee. For several years, she had been going to BOS to get cortisone injections with Dr. Schroeder and had an excellent experience. The shots lasted a long time and allowed her to keep working.

However, in early 2023, Dr. Schroeder suggested: “If this doesn't work in two months, come and see me.” She returned two months to the day and was advised that she needed knee surgery for long-term relief.

What ultimately led you to choose total knee replacement surgery?

Though Carole was anxious about receiving a knee replacement she agreed that because her arthritis was “bone-on-bone,” the cortisone shots were not going to help in the long term. Carole says: “Had I known surgery was going to be this easy, I would have had it done years ago.”

What brought you to Dr. Nourbash?

Carole chose Dr. Nourbash because he came with high recommendations from Dr. Schroeder and other people she knows.

What was your recovery process like? How did the BOS team assist you?

After the surgery, Carole found it difficult to move her leg. The day after the surgery, she had difficulty with walking, but she didn't experience any pain. Instead, she mostly felt anxious. But the staff were all encouraging, helpful, and pleasant, answered questions within the same day, and helped Carole immediately when she had a reaction to a medication.

Carole had total knee replacement surgery at the Joint Center at St. Alexius Medical Center. Everything happened exactly as Dr. Nourbash said it would, like clockwork and on time. Even after 9 at night, Dr. Nourbash came to see her, assuring her by saying, 'I don't forget about any of my patients. Are you doing okay?' He took the time to make Carole feel comfortable and well-informed, and his whole demeanor was geared toward that goal.

Carole says that BOS is “the whole package.” The physical therapy team was right there, and Beth and Katie were excellent. Dr. Nourbash himself provided specific instructions for recovery, including nutrition.

Carole says, “I wouldn’t even think of going to another physical therapy place.”

What was the most rewarding part of post-op rehabilitation? The most difficult part?

Carole aimed to regain independence by navigating stairs unassisted while avoiding risks, which was difficult at first. After spending four days at her daughter's home, she acquired a walker from the hospital and was measured for the right fit. Next BOS arranged for four in-home physical therapy visits and then transitioned to BOS rehab.

Carole didn’t just notice her progress on her own – the BOS team showed her how much she had progressed. She also appreciated the sanitation and availability of resources at the facility. Carole has been discharged from BOS rehab with great success and is following a home exercise program that is designed to help her regain even more independence.

To anyone considering a total knee replacement, Carole would say this: she wishes she had done it sooner with the team at BOS.

Thank you for answering these questions for us!

To learn more about Dr. Nourbash, visit his page on our website! If you’d like to schedule a consultation, contact our office at (847) 285-4200 or schedule online here.

Don’t wait another day living with knee pain. Visit Barrington Orthopedic Specialists and get started on the road to recovery!

Another life has been changed by total knee replacements we perform at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists. At 80 years old, Karen decided it was time to take her life back and restore her mobility with a knee replacement from Dr. Paul Nourbash, and she couldn’t be happier.

Keep reading to learn how care from a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon like Dr. Nourbash changed Karen’s life and gave her back her ability to walk.

Hello Karen! Tell us how your knee pain was affecting your life prior to your surgery. How long have you been experiencing the pain? What impact did it have on your day-to-day?

I have been experiencing pain and discomfort for several years. Impacted my walking, was bow-legged, and had trouble walking up the stairs. I was also limping.

Why did you ultimately decide to pursue a total knee replacement?

I needed more quality of life. I wanted to start walking again some distance, and I’m turning 80, so what am I waiting for?

Describe your first consultation. What made you choose Dr. Nourbash and Barrington Orthopedic Specialists as the team to perform your surgery?

I have been with Barrington Orthopedic Specialists since the practice opened and was treated by Dr. Schroeder. He did my first knee replacement on my left leg, and when I decided to take care of my right knee, several people that I knew recommended Dr. Nourbash. He was very informative, engaging, and has done enough knee replacements where I felt comfortable.

Tell us a bit about your procedure with Dr. Nourbash. How long did it take? What was involved in your total knee replacement?

From start to finish, it took approximately 8 hours. The surgery itself took 80 minutes, which to me was amazing. I didn’t have any staples (yay!) or stitches on the outside. I had what was referred to as a zipper bandage. My scar is almost non-existent. I walked almost immediately and was able to do some therapy at the hospital before I left to go home. Felt good enough that I didn’t have to stay overnight.

What’s the hardest part of getting used to a knee replacement? What was the most rewarding part?

Honestly, I’ve had such a wonderful experience that I have zero complaints, and maybe getting my strength back in the knee was hardest. My leg is now straight, not limping, and I can walk and do stairs pain-free.

Have Dr. Nourbash and the BOS team been helpful to you throughout your recovery?

Yes, they have been very helpful, especially Kristen Stompanato, nurse practitioner to Dr. Nourbash.

Tell us about your new right knee. How are you doing? How has it affected your life?

My knee is still slightly swollen and my shin is still bruised, but otherwise the knee is great and functional where I can walk, bend it, go up and down stairs, and it’s perfectly straight. I had home physical therapy for 2 weeks and outpatient physical therapy for 6 weeks. When I finished therapy, my leg was straight at 0 degrees, and my bend was 138 degrees.

What would you say to others who are considering a total knee replacement? 

Do it sooner rather than later. Best decision I made. And do your home exercises. Physical therapy is a must, so take full advantage of it. I’m 80 years old and should have done it years ago. It really impacts your life if you can’t even do the simple things like walk.

Thank you for answering these questions for us!

To learn more about Dr. Nourbash, visit his page on our website! If you’d like to schedule a consultation, contact our office at (847) 285-4200 or schedule online here. 

If you’re living with chronic knee pain, it’s time to make a change. Visit Barrington Orthopedic Specialists and get started on your road to recovery.

After decades of knee pain, a left knee replacement at Ascension Saint Alexius in Hoffman Estates helped a retired barber get back to golf with care from orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Paul S. Nourbash.

For most of his adult life, Ralph Spizzirri learned how to work around his left knee. A former barber who spent decades standing, he first injured the knee as a teenager playing sports. Over time, the damage worsened. By his 40s, his leg had begun to bow, creating a limp that made even short walks difficult. Swelling followed simple activities, limiting sports and daily movement.

Despite the challenges, Ralph stayed active where he could. Golf became an outlet, even as knee instability forced him to wear a brace for nearly 10 years. Standing still could cause the knee to slip out of place, making balance unpredictable and movement cautious. “It was hindering me for many, many years,” he said.

Deciding it was time for surgery

Like many people living with chronic joint pain, Ralph waited longer than he wanted to. Being self employed made health coverage complicated, and he adapted as best he could. But as he entered his 60s, instability not pain became the deciding factor. Walking bone on bone for years left his knee unreliable, and he knew he could not continue safely.

Encouragement from family helped. Ralph’s sister had undergone knee replacement surgery herself and strongly recommended Paul S. Nourbash, MD, an independent, board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement. Trusted referrals from loved ones gave Ralph confidence as he moved forward.

Care centered on comfort and coordination

Ralph chose to have his left knee replacement at Ascension Saint Alexius Center for Advanced Joint Replacement, a center designed specifically for joint replacement care. From preparation through recovery, he noticed the difference of a team focused entirely on hips, knees and shoulders.

On the morning of surgery, Ralph felt prepared. The care team had walked him through each step, and he had taken time to learn more on his own beforehand. His surgery began mid morning, and by early evening, he was already moving with a walker. After demonstrating safe movement and daily tasks, he chose to return home the same day.

Home based rehabilitation followed, with nurses and therapists visiting regularly. Ralph described the care team as consistently supportive and reassuring. Within days, he was bending his knee to 90 degrees and managing recovery without prescription pain medication.

Reaching milestones sooner than expected

Progress came quickly. Ralph transitioned from a walker to a cane within days, then stopped using the cane entirely about a week later. Physical therapy continued both at home and later in a clinic setting, where flexibility and strength steadily improved.

Within two weeks, he was bending his knee well beyond what he had expected. As therapy advanced, his doctor helped guide safe limits to protect healing while supporting Ralph’s goal of returning to golf. By six weeks, he was walking confidently, regaining balance and seeing measurable gains in mobility.

Some discomfort remained, especially when straightening the knee fully, but it never interfered with daily life. When back soreness appeared early in recovery, therapy addressed that too, helping him stretch and move more comfortably overall.

A brighter outlook on daily life

The difference was clear. Ralph recently walked more than a mile and a half, something that had once been impossible without swelling after just a block or two. Everyday movement feels steadier, and the limp he once lived with is gone.

Beyond the physical changes, the experience reinforced something Ralph already knew about himself, resilience. Across multiple surgeries in his life, he learned he could manage discomfort and focus on healing without relying heavily on medication. More importantly, he learned that waiting too long does not always make things easier.

Encouragement for others considering joint replacement

Ralph is open about his experience and often shares it with others facing similar decisions. His advice is simple. If knee or leg pain is limiting your life and care is accessible, consider acting sooner rather than later. For Ralph, knee replacement surgery did more than address instability. It restored confidence in movement and opened the door to activities he enjoys.

Today, he looks ahead to spending more time on the golf course and continuing to build strength, grateful for care that helped him move forward.

If knee pain or instability is limiting your daily life, explore joint replacement options and coordinated care at Ascension Saint Alexius Center for Advanced Joint Replacement.

This blog is intended for general informational use. Any health-related information shared is not meant to provide or replace professional medical advice and does not establish a patient-provider relationship. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.