Patient Testimonials

Richard F. Levine, Poughkeepsie, NY – knee replacement surgery
Dear Dr. Nestor,
When we discussed my double partial knee replacement prior to my June surgery, I told you that my goal was to return to the active life style that I was accustomed to. Well, I am happy to report that eight months later I have met and exceeded my goals. Note that prior to the surgery, I wore a deloader brace on one knee and the other knee did not let me walk for more than 50 yards without needing to stop to ease the pain.

• August: I resumed golf but was temporarily sidelined by a hernia needing repair. Too bad you could not have found a way to improve my short game when you improved my knees.
• September: I drove to Michigan to see my son and grandchildren. I then flew on to Santa Fe and southern New Mexico where I was able to hike into Carlsbad Cavern and around Gila and White Sands parks.
• November: I resumed playing racquetball on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Although I was generally pretty sore the next day, this has greatly reduced over time. (An Aleve or Celebrex also helps on occasion). I usually only play twice a week but it is truly great to be back on the courts. I must admit that I don’t move like I used to but maybe that is also a product of being 69 years old.
• January: Although, the northeast snow conditions left a lot to be desired, I skied for the first time and found no problem at all.
• February: I took my yearly western ski vacation, this time in Utah. We met my son, daughter-in-law, and grandkids in Park City for four days. Then I took a day off when they left, and skied three more days. I skied in a foot of fresh powder at Snowbird on Feb 29th. Skiing is a lot less stressful on the knees than racquetball.
• March: I left for my annual three foursome men’s only golf trip with long time friends. This year we went to New Orleans for 5 days of golf and enjoyment. Last year I wore a brace on one knee, took medication, and walked as little as possible. This year, I strolled as much as I could.

The bottom line is that I can do most everything I want and am not limited by the discomfort that sometimes follows my activities. Finally, I can truly say that I would make the exact same decisions I made last spring and want to deeply thank you for your advice, and skill, and thank the staff of HSS as well.