Elizabeth’s Story

Regaining Independence After Hip Surgery Complications

When Elizabeth McColgan first came to MOTIONrehab Hull in January 2025, she was facing a long road to recovery. Following a serious fall that resulted in a fractured hip and three surgical revisions due to infections, Liz was dependent on her husband, Tony, for almost every aspect of daily life.

At the beginning of her rehabilitation journey, Liz was using a Sara Stedy with Tony’s help just to transfer from one place to another. She was unable to stand with a wheeled Zimmer frame or take steps, even with assistance. The impact of the injury and subsequent complications had significantly affected both Liz’s independence and Tony’s daily routine, as he had become her full-time carer.

Liz’s initial goal was modest but meaningful: to walk independently around her home using a wheeled Zimmer frame. Working closely with the MOTIONrehab team, she achieved that—and more.

As her confidence and strength grew, so did her goals. With dedicated support, Liz began to regain her independence in ways she hadn’t imagined at the start. She now walks independently indoors with a stick, can get in and out of her house and car on her own, and has even returned to activities she once enjoyed, like cooking. One milestone moment was her first shower in a long time—something many of us take for granted, but for Liz, a huge step in reclaiming her autonomy.

Today, Liz uses either a walking stick or a four-wheeled walker outdoors, manages stairs confidently, and has moved back into her upstairs bedroom. She now attends clinic-based physiotherapy sessions independently and continues to push herself in her rehabilitation journey.

Her ongoing goals focus on building even more strength in her right leg, improving her walking quality both indoors and out, increasing her endurance, and further developing her balance.

Elizabeth’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with the right support, determination, and a personalised rehabilitation programme. With MOTIONrehab by her side, Liz is well on her way to living life on her own terms once again.

For more information about MOTIONrehab’s Intensive Neurological Rehabilitation Programmes, or to book an assessment, please call MOTIONrehab’s Client Services Team on 0343 841 0123 or email info@motionrehab.co.uk