At TruOrtho, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care and transformative experiences for our patients. Christina Davis's journey is a testament to our commitment to quality and compassion. After suffering from knee pain for over four decades, Christina underwent a total right knee replacement with Dr. Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez. Here’s her inspiring story.
The Decision to Undergo Surgery
Christina's knee troubles began at 18 after surgery for chondromalacia of the right patella. Despite the surgery, her knee never fully recovered, leading her to avoid sports and other activities for most of her life. Persistent inflammation and pain limited her mobility, despite years of physical therapy. In 2018, a severe meniscus tear exacerbated her condition. By 2023, the pain had become unbearable, prompting Christina to explore surgical options.
After researching various surgeons, Christina decided on Dr. Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez at TruOrtho. "During my first appointment with her, I knew I was right," Christina shared. Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez's thorough review of her medical history, comprehensive examination, and clear communication instilled confidence.
Preparing for Surgery
Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez and the TruOrtho team ensured Christina was well-prepared for her surgery. Christina appreciated the detailed consultations and preoperative care, which included new X-rays, physical examinations, and measurements. The team scheduled her surgery and provided a clear financial estimate, easing her concerns.
The Surgery and Immediate Recovery
Christina's surgery was a success. "My surgery was Monday morning, I left the hospital at noon on Tuesday with a cane," she recalled. The support from the TruOrtho team and her caregiver, Sara, was invaluable during the initial recovery phase. Sara, a dear friend, helped Christina navigate the first few days post-surgery. Christina's quick return to her daily activities, including visits to the local senior center, was crucial for her physical and mental well-being.
The Recovery Journey
Recovery brought its challenges, including pain and the need for assistance, but Christina remained positive. She highlighted the importance of staying active, engaging with her community, and following her physical therapy regimen. "I feel like I have my very own Justice League team," she said, expressing gratitude to Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez, the TruOrtho team, and her physical therapist, Dr. Anthony Pavlich at Airrosti.
Christina’s brother, Ben, played a vital role in her recovery. He organized her home for optimal recovery, setting up extension cords and power strips to safely charge her devices and medical equipment. He even taped down the cords to prevent tripping and ensured everything was within easy reach.
Life After Surgery
Christina's life has significantly improved since the surgery. "I now know that my knee will be so much better than it has been since I was 18," she said. At just under four weeks post-surgery, Christina was already riding a recumbent bike at the gym, an activity she was previously told she would never be able to do. She looks forward to playing pickleball, a new possibility thanks to her successful surgery.
Words of Wisdom
Christina's advice to others considering knee replacement is straightforward: "Don't put knee replacement off. There is no fear here. None." She emphasizes the importance of early intervention to improve quality of life and overall health.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Christina shared several practical tips for others undergoing knee replacement surgery:
Prepare at Home: Have all prescriptions filled in advance and organize medications clearly. Use a weekly pill organizer and label medications with both their generic and brand names.
Healthy Eating: Stock up on healthy frozen meals and snacks to make post-surgery life easier. "Meal Simple" meals from HEB were particularly helpful for Christina.
Ice Hydration Unit: Use small frozen water bottles to keep your ice hydration unit effective. Prepare multiple sets of bottles to easily switch out melted ones.
CPM Machine: Utilize the Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine to aid recovery. Start at 90 degrees and gradually increase to 120 degrees before sleep.
Stay Active: Get out of the house and engage with your community to maintain physical and mental health. Visits to the senior center helped Christina stay positive.
Do the Exercises: Follow your physical therapist’s exercises to gain strength and mobility. Consistency is key to a successful recovery.
Use a Grabber: A grabber tool can be very helpful for picking up items from the floor without straining your knee.
Organize Your Space: Ensure all necessary items are within easy reach, and keep cords safely out of walking paths to prevent tripping.
Manage Pain: Understand that recovery pain is different from pre-surgery pain. It's a sign of healing. Stay on top of your pain management plan as prescribed.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or neighbors. Emotional support is crucial during recovery.
Final Thoughts
Christina’s journey underscores the transformative power of expert care and patient dedication. Her story inspires others to take proactive steps toward better health and reminds us of the profound impact of a caring medical team. At TruOrtho, we celebrate Christina's achievements and remain committed to supporting all our patients on their path to recovery.
If you are experiencing similar issues and are considering knee replacement surgery or any other orthopedic procedure, we encourage you to contact TruOrtho. Our dedicated team is here to provide the best possible care and help you regain your quality of life.
