Hot Air Balloon Pilot Back in the Sky After Hip Replacement

When Tony Sandlin started feeling side and back pain getting in and out of his hot air balloon baskets, he knew something was wrong.

Tony has been a hot air balloon hobbyist for nearly 20 years and 12 years ago, he decided to make Midwest Balloon Rides a full-time gig. He needed to be able to climb in and out and on top of the baskets to work on burners and when he started feeling pain, he called Forté on the recommendation of a friend.

Tony realized the pain he was feeling was actually hip pain, despite never having hip issues before. He met with Dr. Joseph Maratt, who determined that Tony needed his hip replaced.

The process went so smoothly, Tony asked Dr. Maratt if he really did the hip replacement – he was amazed at the lack of pain following the procedure. So when he determined that he needed his other hip replaced, he knew exactly where to go.

“I’ve been telling people, ‘Don’t be afraid of getting the hip done. Don’t wait until you’re 70 years old. You don’t have to – it’s not as bad as you think it’s going to be,’” said Tony.

Thanks to Dr. Maratt and the team at Forté, Tony is back in the sky and feeling better than ever.

Don't let joint pain stand in the way of what you love most. Our team is here to listen to you, and provide a quick diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to help you get back to living a full life. Request an appointment online or by phone at 317.817.1200.