Patient Story of: Daniel Martinez

Since a traumatic car accident in 2006, I lived with compartment syndrome and drop foot - conditions that caused relentless, constant pain. Over the years, I endured 21 surgeries in an effort to save my leg, but despite everything, my condition continued to deteriorate. Walking became a struggle. Even the simple act of placing my foot on the ground was painful. Standing for more than a few minutes was nearly impossible, and gradually, I lost the motivation to do much of anything.

The moment I realized something had to change is one I’ll never forget. I had narrowed my footwear down to a single pair of shoes that had molded perfectly to my foot—the only ones I could tolerate. One day, I couldn’t even keep them on for more than two minutes. In that moment, I felt completely stuck and hopeless.

That’s when I began researching alternatives and discovered osseointegration. As I explored my options, I came across Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch. The decision wasn’t easy, but hearing other patients’ stories gave me the confidence to move forward. I had considered other procedures, but I didn’t want to exchange one form of pain for another. I was searching for a true solution - a chance to reclaim my life.

In June 2025, I underwent a below-the-knee amputation with osseointegration. From that point on, everything changed.

One of my first milestones was walking out of the prosthetist’s office on my new leg. I used crutches for a few weeks, but it quickly became clear I didn’t need them anymore. One moment I will always carry with me was when my daughter stood on my feet and took steps with me. After just a few steps, I was in tears. It was something I had dreamed about for years.

Today, my prosthetic feels so natural that I sometimes forget it’s even there. Being “Back in the Game” means everything to me. It means playing with my kids without hesitation. It means walking freely without holding anyone back. It means confidently saying, “I’m good to go,” without a second thought.

I’m golfing again pain-free. Before surgery, finishing a round felt impossible. Now, I enjoy every moment. I’m even wearing sandals again, something I hadn’t done in nearly 20 years. I can move freely, go up and down stairs with ease, and live without constant pain.

But the biggest transformation isn’t just physical - it’s everything. I’m more present as a husband, father, friend, and business partner. My confidence has soared. I think more clearly. I feel like myself again.

For so long, others had to slow down for me or adjust their lives around my limitations. That’s no longer my reality. I feel whole again.

I’ll never forget a moment on vacation in early 2026 when someone asked if I needed a break. For the first time in years, I answered without hesitation: “No, I’m ready to go.” That moment meant everything. It was freedom.

I’m incredibly grateful to Dr. Rozbruch and his entire team. What they do goes far beyond surgery - they give people their lives back.

To anyone considering osseointegration, my message is simple: it’s life-changing. I wholeheartedly recommend it - and there’s no better place than HSS.