A 69-year-old is back on the tennis court just eight weeks after a total knee replacement.
Charles Bailey, from Worcester, underwent the procedure at Droitwich Spa Hospital in January and has marked a strong return to active life following decades of knee problems.
He said: “I started playing football at the age of 13 and made my first-team debut at 19.
“I scored on my debut, but I collided with the goalkeeper and smashed my right knee.
“I never played again.”
Told at the time that the injury was too severe to repair, Mr Bailey was left with permanent ligament damage and long-term knee problems.
Despite this, he maintained an active lifestyle and focused on mobility and strength.
His first knee replacement took place in his late 40s, which allowed him to take up tennis and remain active.
In December 2025, another setback occurred.
He said: “I stood up from my desk and felt a crack in my left knee.
“The pain was unbearable and I couldn’t walk at all.”
Following his own research, Mr Bailey chose to see consultant orthopaedic surgeon Mr Yuvraj Agrawal at Droitwich Spa Hospital.
He said: “I had my consultation within a week and was given a surgery date soon after that first meeting.
“I knew there was a chance I could have been left waiting months or even years in pain and that’s why I sought out Droitwich Spa Hospital.”
He underwent surgery in January 2026 and stayed just one night in hospital.
He described his care as excellent, praising the organisation and support from the team.
He began an intensive rehabilitation programme after being discharged.
He said: “From the moment I met Mr Agrawal, I had complete confidence.
“I set myself weekly goals and followed the rehabilitation plan closely.
“It was about consistency – rest, ice, exercise, and repeat.”
Eight weeks later, Mr Bailey achieved his goal of relacing up his tennis shoes.
He said: “I’m getting stronger every week and I’m about 80-85% there now.
“Compared to how I was before surgery, the difference is just incredible.”
