Claudia Delgiacco

My first visit to HSS was in January 2023 due to pain that radiated in the buttocks and calves, which was extremely painful. I have had lower back pain for over two decades, but nothing like I experienced from September 2022 up until my first exam at HSS. I knew it was something that needed attention. I had the pleasure and the warm greeting by Dr. William Zelenty, where I felt extremely comfortable with him immediately. He was personable, knowledgeable, professional, and has the best bedside manners. Most importantly, he was invested in my health. I had an x-ray done that day and from that test he was able to see it was my L4-L5, a pinched nerve and stenosis. We confirmed with a MRI. I had two epidurals on my left and right side which gave some relief, but I knew this wasn’t the answer nor the way I planned to live my life. Dr. Zelenty had given me information about a procedure called a laminectomy which he thought I would do very well and would give me almost immediate relief from that chronic pain and the stenosis, however he left it totally up to me when and if I was ready. I decided to have the surgery on July 14, 2023, and it was the best decision of my life. My surgeon did an amazing job! I went from a prior 10 pain level to 0 pain immediately after surgery. Today is 3 weeks post-op and I feel amazing. I am up and walking, which is something I love and have a passion for. I am up to 7 miles already and can’t wait to walk a marathon. Dr. Zelenty has given me the greatest gift - my life back. My experience with the whole caring HSS team will always hold a special place in my heart.