Finding Freedom: One Busy Mom's Journey Back to an Active Life
At 46, Rachel Ramos faced a difficult reality. The busy strategic relationship manager, wife, mother of three, and owner of two energetic hunting dogs was saying “no” more than “yes” to activities she loved. Years of running marathons and hiking, combined with early-onset rheumatoid arthritis, had deteriorated her knee.
For two years, PIH Health Orthopedic Surgeon Andrew Luu MD patiently explored alternatives like cortisone shots and gel injections. During her final consultation, he asked a pivotal question, “What’s your quality of life?”
“I didn’t even hesitate—my answer was zero,” Rachel recalls. “I was giving up things in my 40s that I shouldn’t be missing. I knew there would never be a perfect time, but we had to do this.”
In June 2024, Rachel underwent total knee replacement surgery using ROSA® robotic technology, a precision surgical system that assists surgeons in achieving optimal implant positioning. Dr. Luu also recommended the Persona IQ® smart knee, an implant with sensor technology that tracks patient recovery data. As a self-described “data geek,” Rachel embraced the technology, tracking her recovery progress through an app.
“The smart knee was life-changing because of the accountability,” Rachel says. “I loved beating my numbers—taking more steps each day, watching my stride improve. It kept me engaged in my own recovery.”
Today, Rachel is back to her active lifestyle and enjoying life with her family and dogs. Her advice? “When you start missing out on things you love, it’s time to talk to your doctor. There are options. You don’t have to accept a diminished quality of life.”
“Rachel’s case exemplifies why patient communication is vital,” says Dr. Luu. “When joint pain affects daily activities and quality of life, that’s the signal to explore treatment options. Advanced technologies like the ROSA® robotic surgical system and Persona IQ®—the smart knee—allow us to provide precise, personalized care that helps active patients return to the lives they love.”
Talk to your doctor to see if robotic surgery is right for you. Learn more at PIHHealth.org/ROSA
