Local Patient Regains Strength & Mobility After Expert Care With Dr. John Baldauf

Desert Orthopaedic Center is proud to share the recovery of longtime first responder, Norm R., who returned to an active, demanding lifestyle following two hip replacement surgeries performed by board-certified orthopaedic surgeon Dr. John Baldauf. His story highlights the care and expertise of the Desert Orthopaedic Center team, restoring movement and improving quality of life. Desert Orthopaedic Center provides expert orthopaedic care at multiple convenient locations throughout Las Vegas, including 2800 E. Desert Inn Road, Suite 100; 8402 W. Centennial Parkway, Suite 100; 8205 W. Warm Springs Road, Suite 250; and 8689 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 105 as well as in Henderson at 2930 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway, Suite 100. Patients seeking expert orthopaedic care are encouraged to call 702-731-4088 to schedule an appointment.

For more than five decades, Norm has served his community as a firefighter, paramedic and rescue specialist. Years of physically demanding work began to take their toll, and by 2017, severe arthritis in his left hip made even the simplest movements like standing up or walking painful and difficult. Despite his determination to keep working, Norm knew it was time to seek help.

Under the care of Dr. Baldauf and the Desert Orthopaedic Center team, Norm began with conservative treatments, including physical therapy and cortisone injections. When those measures no longer provided relief, Dr. Baldauf recommended total hip replacement surgery. After completing a six-week prehabilitation program focused on strength and balance, Norm underwent his first hip replacement and was walking within hours of his procedure.

Just over a year later, when his right hip began to fail, Norm returned to Dr. Baldauf for a second successful replacement. Through continued therapy and commitment to recovery, he regained full mobility and strength.

Now at 69 years old, Norm continues to serve as a wildland fire line paramedic and medical unit leader, responding to emergency assignments across the country. He also maintains an active lifestyle through regular CrossFit training, where he proudly keeps pace with athletes who are decades younger.

“Our goal is always to help patients get back to doing what they love,” said Dr. Baldauf. “Norm’s determination and hard work are truly inspiring, and his recovery shows how advanced orthopaedic care can help restore both movement and confidence.”

Desert Orthopaedic Center is proud to share real patient stories that inspire others and show how expert care and determination can lead to lasting recovery. Norm credits the Desert Orthopaedic Center team for helping him return to the work and activities he loves, a testament to the power of perseverance, skilled care and advanced joint replacement techniques.

To learn more about patient stories like Norm’s or to schedule an appointment with an expert at Desert Orthopaedic Center, please call 702-731-4088