From Pain to Play: Johnny's Journey with Knee Replacement Surgery

For Johnny, a lifelong sports enthusiast and former college ice hockey player, staying active has always been a part of his identity. But over the years, increasing knee pain and instability started slowing him down, impacting not only his love for sports but also his ability to keep up with his five grandchildren. Determined to reclaim his active lifestyle, Johnny turned to Dr. Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez at TruOrtho for a solution. In November 2016, he underwent a left knee replacement, followed by a right knee replacement with Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez just one year later.

The Decision to Take Control

After years of managing pain and struggling to play sports comfortably, Johnny reached a point where he could no longer ignore his symptoms. "The pain was becoming too much, and I couldn't move like I used to," he shared. With his knees consistently rated at a 7 out of 10 on the pain scale, Johnny knew it was time to act. After thorough consultations with Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez, he felt confident that knee replacement surgery was the path forward.

Focused and Determined Recovery

Johnny was determined to make his recovery as efficient as possible. "I was laser-focused on a quick recovery and made sure to follow every instruction to the letter," he recalls. His personal goal was to recover within six weeks, and he committed to physical therapy with unwavering dedication. His advice for others considering surgery is clear: "Do your research, trust your surgeon, and DO your physical therapy… and then some more." Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez's support and expert guidance played a crucial role in helping Johnny meet his recovery goals.

Johnny playing for St. Louis University Club Hockey, 1975

Back on the Ice: A Full Circle Moment

Today, Johnny’s journey has come full circle. With both knees strong and pain-free, he’s not only riding his bike, exercising, and playing with his grandchildren, but he’s also back on the ice—where his athletic journey began back in 1961. In 2021, he took to the rink again and has continued playing ice hockey through 2024. Reflecting on his return to the sport, he says with pride, “I tell people, ‘Hey, at 70, I still can skate and play Ice Hockey”.

Words of Encouragement

Johnny’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of expert care and dedication. For those considering similar surgery, he says, "I highly recommend it if you're suffering like I was. Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez is an amazing surgeon. Trust in her and your recovery process—it’s worth every step."

Dr. Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez and her team at TruOrtho are committed to helping patients like Johnny rediscover their passions and lead active lives. If you or a loved one is facing joint pain, consider reaching out to TruOrtho. Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez's expertise and personalized approach to orthopaedic care can make all the difference in your journey to recovery.

Transformative Triumph: Christina's Path to Total Right Knee Replacement

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. CPM Machine: Utilize the Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine to aid recovery. Start at 90 degrees and gradually increase to 120 degrees before sleep.

5. 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.

6. Do the Exercises: Follow your physical therapist’s exercises to gain strength and mobility. Consistency is key to a successful recovery.

7. Use a Grabber: A grabber tool can be very helpful for picking up items from the floor without straining your knee.

8. Organize Your Space: Ensure all necessary items are within easy reach, and keep cords safely out of walking paths to prevent tripping.

9. 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.

10. 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.

Jeannie's Journey: From Knee Surgery to Champion Rider

Jeannie Webb riding her award-winning colt at the American Paint Horse World Championships.

Jeannie Webb's remarkable journey exemplifies the life-changing impact of knee surgery. After undergoing total knee surgery in May 2023, Jeannie's determination and commitment to recovery were nothing short of inspiring. Opting for a tissue-sparing procedure, she quickly progressed, bidding farewell to her walker within a week and diligently attending physical therapy sessions.

Just six weeks post-surgery, Jeannie defied expectations by attending the American Paint Horse World Championships in Ft. Worth. To her delight, she not only watched her new colt compete but also mounted him to accept his Top 10 awards in two events.

Returning home in July, Jeannie wasted no time in pursuing her passion for riding. With dedication and determination, she and her colt practiced daily, forming a strong bond. Their hard work paid off when they entered their first show together, emerging as champions in the Ranch Riding category.

Jeannie's heartfelt gratitude extends to Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez and her team at TruOrtho. "Thank you, Dr. Marshall, for all your encouragement and support," she says. Their expertise not only restored Jeannie's mobility but empowered her to pursue her dreams with newfound confidence.

Congratulations to Jeannie on her remarkable achievement! Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and exceptional orthopaedic care. Thank you, Jeannie, for sharing your inspiring story of success with us all!

For those seeking transformative orthopaedic care, TruOrtho stands as a beacon of hope and healing. To embark on your own journey of transformation, visit TruOrtho or contact us today at 210-878-4116.