For more information, contact:

Kristina Findlay (847)384-4034 findlay@aaos.org

Lauren Pearson (847)384-4031 lpearson@aaos.org

For Immediate Release
07/20/2009

Golfer Tom Watson’s Orthopaedic Surgeon Available for Comment on Golf After Hip Replacement
Dr. Joel Matta Can Discuss Physical Possibilities for Aging Athletes

Rosemont, IL

What:

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) congratulates golfer Tom Watson on his stellar performance at the 2009 British Open. Academy fellow (and Watson surgeon) Dr. Joel Matta is available to discuss the nearly unlimited possibilities for aging athletes, thanks to advances in orthopaedic surgery. Dr. Matta says athletes who have had hip replacements can reemerge to give top-level performances, propelling back into serious competition.

Who:

Dr. Joel Matta, an orthopaedic surgeon from St. John’s Health Center, Orthopedic Center, Santa Monica, CA. and spokesperson for the AAOS.

Why:

Dr. Matta can share insight about top athletes and educate consumers by sharing helpful tips about:

• how to know if you are a candidate for joint replacement;

• what to expect before and after joint replacement; and

• how to speed up a successful recovery.

He also can share information about new techniques and best surgical practices for joint replacement in aging adults.

Additional:

Enjoying golf pain-free at any age is possible! Older golfers have enjoyed tremendous athletic success post orthopaedic surgery. For instance:

• Greg Norman, who had arthroscopic hip surgery, multiple back surgeries, and shoulder surgery, still went on to tie for third place in the 2008 British Open.

• Jack Nicklaus had a long, successful career in golf, even after a 1999 hip replacement.

• Studies show that 90 percent of golfers who had a total hip replacement returned to playing golf.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:
With more than 35,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (www.aaos.org or www.orthoinfo.org) is the premier not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals, champions the interests of patients and advances the highest quality musculoskeletal health. An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician who treats the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.

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Media

• 2009 Annual Meeting Online Press Kit
• Media Resources