Share review of Professor Damian Griffin OBE TD VR BM BCh MA MPhil FRCS(Tr&Orth)

Professor Damian Griffin OBE TD VR BM BCh MA MPhil FRCS(Tr&Orth) 2023-05-05 Person 5 5 0

I am so incredibly grateful that I found Professor Griffin. He was the second consultant that I spoke to when I began struggling with my left hip. I had severe FAI symptoms on the left and was struggling to tie my left shoe and walk for more than about 20 mins. It was painful and I was slightly in denial as I am an exercise junkie and love all sport! I am in my early 50s and did not want to slow down my sporty lifestyle. The first consultant, in one sweeping statement, informed me that I would need a double hip replacement. He would not say when, only that it was definitely on the cards. He suggested steroid injections first which I did with him and which provided limited relief. He then booked me in for a hip arthroscopy procedure. At this point, I looked for a second opinion and thankfully found Professor Griffin. I initially met him over Zoom and then in person. His calm, measured and informative approach was so refreshing. He talked me through my scans in great detail, was happy to answer any questions and was very clear about my prognosis. My left hip has a slightly shallow socket and a labral tear. He carefully examined my range of movement and balance control. I had been working very hard with a physio and trainer between my two meetings with Professor Griffin and my pain had reduced considerably at this point. He explained exactly why the hip strengthening was working to alleviate my pain and that, given how my body was now supporting itself successfully, I would not be looking at any surgery for now. I asked if I would eventually need a hip replacement. Professor Griffin said that my shallow socket did make a hip replacement more likely than for the average person but not necessarily so if I continued training my body well. Professor Griffin is everything you wish for in a consultant. He is thoughtful, non alarmist, informative and kind. Surgery is a huge step and he makes you feel like he has your best interest at heart. I am grateful to be his patient and will not hesitate to consult him again if my symptoms change.