[jss]

Cynlite,

In five years the M6's have survived four marathons, one Ironman, and probably a dozen or so 100 mile races/rides. I always assumed that it would be spine problems that sidelined me; not a hip. We'll see. I'm doing the home therapy the hip guy prescribed. I'll keep Tai Chi in mind. Right now I'm ecstatic that I can finally tie my shoe again! I've heard that knee surgery is orders of magnitude more difficult to recovery from than the hip. So you give me hope.

I was one of Clavel's early international patients. Back then he didn't prescribe therapy for cervical patients like he does now. I don't know if it's beneficial or not. I do know that we far more enjoyed walking around Barcelona than we would have me sitting in therapy. Had there been a problem we had ready access to Clavel; or more likely one of his associates.

I'm convinced that more opinions is usually a good thing. If they converge it will give you confidence that you're moving in the right direction. Clavel is an endurance athlete also; we've even done one of the same races, though not at the same time. So he certainly understands someone wanting to get back out there. The only caution I'd give you specifically about Spain is that very few people speak English, and chivalry didn't make it south of the Pyrenees. You will feel more 'at home' in Germany and you will have a great outcome if you pick an experienced surgeon that produces a steady stream of good outcomes.

Good luck!