
Dr. Prapon Govitvattana
Dr. Prapon Govitvattana
General info
Treating with understanding, caring for every emotion and the mental state of patients
Elderly people often face problems with bones and joints, such as knee pain due to aging and long-term use, or back pain, hunched posture, and spinal curvature caused by bone degeneration. They may also suffer from spinal compression, which leads to a stooped back, appearing shorter, and an increased risk of falling.
Gaining experience and learning to build understanding
With over 38 years of experience in the medical field — and with the doctor himself aging too (laughs) — it has helped him understand patients in the same age group more deeply. He speaks the same language, listens to music from the 60s, which creates a connection and trust with the patients. Moreover, it’s essential to understand the nature of the elderly, who may sometimes experience forgetfulness. That’s why when it comes to medication, the doctor aims to prescribe simple, easy-to-take medicine in small quantities to prevent confusion, especially since older patients often have to take medications for other conditions like heart disease or diabetes. These factors must be taken into account when prescribing, and communication with family members is also important to explain how to properly care for the patient at home.
Addressing chronic pain in the elderly… with understanding
Pain often comes with age, so most patients who seek treatment are elderly. “For me, treating elderly patients with bone and joint problems requires understanding their emotional world. Elderly people tend to be introverted, so we need to step into their world and earn their trust. Start by chatting about their daily life — who they live with, what they do at home, what kind of work they used to do. Ask about past memories, favorite places, favorite songs. This builds trust and familiarity, helping them relax. Then we can gradually explain the treatment steps and how to take care of themselves going forward.”
Dedicated to improving treatment… Genuinely creating happiness
“I believe every doctor feels the same — seeing patients with better quality of life, free from suffering, seeing them smile and laugh makes us smile too. Especially elderly patients who often fear surgery and endure pain with bowed legs, losing their joy in life. But after we take time to explain the treatment process, the pros and cons, and they agree to undergo surgery, their lives can brighten up. They can travel abroad easily, without being a burden. Their appearance improves, the pain disappears. Knowing we’ve helped them in this way is deeply fulfilling.”
A memorable case: 90-year-old patient undergoes knee replacement
The doctor still remembers a 90-year-old patient clearly. He wanted a knee replacement surgery. The medical team helped prepare him until he was fit for the operation. After surgery, he could walk well, sit, stand, and move around comfortably. He was able to go out and enjoy meals with his children and grandchildren despite his age. In truth, the elderly don’t want much — just not to be a burden to their families. Once they are free from pain, their mental well-being naturally follows.
Education
- 1975 Doctor of Medicine , Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
Schedule
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic
General Orthopedic