Ankle injuries can be debilitating for people who enjoy sports, especially those who rely on their feet and ankles. This was the case for Vince, an avid golfer who had been struggling with chronic ankle pain for years following an emergency surgery.
With Dr. Narendra Patel at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, Vince found a long-term solution to his pain. Dr. Patel is a board-certified, fellowship-trained podiatrist whose experience and expertise in ankle replacement surgery made him the perfect fit for Vince's needs.
Keep reading to learn more about how Dr. Patel and the BOS team were able to help Vince tee up without pain or stiffness.
Hello Vince!
Tell us a bit about life before your ankle replacement. What were your symptoms? How were they affecting your daily life?
45 years ago I was involved in a head-on car accident. Both bones broke and the ankle was destroyed. I underwent surgery and was told in 5-25 years I would have severe arthritis. Over the years the arthritis built up to the point I struggled to walk and do everyday things. Basically, my symptoms were extreme pain and stiffness.
Why did you ultimately decide to pursue ankle replacement surgery?
I pursued ankle replacement surgery because my family kept telling me I needed to do something before it got to the point of not being able to walk.
How did you find Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, and what stood out about Dr. Patel?
We had friends that had gone to Barrington Orthopedic for other surgeries and they recommended we go there. My son looked through all the specialists and told us Dr. Patel would be a good fit.
Tell us a bit about your procedure. What did your ankle replacement entail?
A 3-inch screw was removed, and there was a lot of scar tissue that had to be cleaned up before the new ankle was put in. Because of all the scar tissue the surgery went longer than Dr. Patel expected.
What has your recovery process been like? How did the BOS team assist you?
The recovery process was slow due to some areas that took a while to heal. The BOS
Team was excellent, including all the PT therapists.
What has been the most rewarding part of your rehabilitation? The most difficult part?
The most rewarding part of my rehabilitation is every day I improved and now I am back to playing golf and walking without pain. The most difficult part was getting the strength back in my whole body.
How is your new ankle? Has it changed things for you?
My new ankle is working out great. Yes, it has changed. Prior to the surgery after I had played a round of golf I would walk off the course with a stiff leg. Now after golf I walk out like any other person would.
What would you say to another person considering ankle replacement surgery?
I would tell them to get it evaluated and not to be afraid to have the surgery.
Visit Greater Chicago’s Top Ankle Surgeons
If you’re struggling like Vince was, the team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists can help. With a team of top ankle surgeons in the Greater Chicago area, including Dr. Patel, we specialize in ankle replacement surgery and other advanced treatments for foot and ankle conditions.
Don't let foot or ankle pain hold you back any longer. To learn more about Dr. Patel, visit his page on our website. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, contact our office at (847) 285-4200 or schedule online here.
