Another life has been changed by total knee replacements we perform at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists. At 80 years old, Karen decided it was time to take her life back and restore her mobility with a knee replacement from Dr. Paul Nourbash, and she couldn’t be happier.
Keep reading to learn how care from a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon like Dr. Nourbash changed Karen’s life and gave her back her ability to walk.
Hello Karen! Tell us how your knee pain was affecting your life prior to your surgery. How long have you been experiencing the pain? What impact did it have on your day-to-day?
I have been experiencing pain and discomfort for several years. Impacted my walking, was bow-legged, and had trouble walking up the stairs. I was also limping.
Why did you ultimately decide to pursue a total knee replacement?
I needed more quality of life. I wanted to start walking again some distance, and I’m turning 80, so what am I waiting for?
Describe your first consultation. What made you choose Dr. Nourbash and Barrington Orthopedic Specialists as the team to perform your surgery?
I have been with Barrington Orthopedic Specialists since the practice opened and was treated by Dr. Schroeder. He did my first knee replacement on my left leg, and when I decided to take care of my right knee, several people that I knew recommended Dr. Nourbash. He was very informative, engaging, and has done enough knee replacements where I felt comfortable.
Tell us a bit about your procedure with Dr. Nourbash. How long did it take? What was involved in your total knee replacement?
From start to finish, it took approximately 8 hours. The surgery itself took 80 minutes, which to me was amazing. I didn’t have any staples (yay!) or stitches on the outside. I had what was referred to as a zipper bandage. My scar is almost non-existent. I walked almost immediately and was able to do some therapy at the hospital before I left to go home. Felt good enough that I didn’t have to stay overnight.
What’s the hardest part of getting used to a knee replacement? What was the most rewarding part?
Honestly, I’ve had such a wonderful experience that I have zero complaints, and maybe getting my strength back in the knee was hardest. My leg is now straight, not limping, and I can walk and do stairs pain-free.
Have Dr. Nourbash and the BOS team been helpful to you throughout your recovery?
Yes, they have been very helpful, especially Kristen Stompanato, nurse practitioner to Dr. Nourbash.
Tell us about your new right knee. How are you doing? How has it affected your life?
My knee is still slightly swollen and my shin is still bruised, but otherwise the knee is great and functional where I can walk, bend it, go up and down stairs, and it’s perfectly straight. I had home physical therapy for 2 weeks and outpatient physical therapy for 6 weeks. When I finished therapy, my leg was straight at 0 degrees, and my bend was 138 degrees.
What would you say to others who are considering a total knee replacement?
Do it sooner rather than later. Best decision I made. And do your home exercises. Physical therapy is a must, so take full advantage of it. I’m 80 years old and should have done it years ago. It really impacts your life if you can’t even do the simple things like walk.
Thank you for answering these questions for us!
To learn more about Dr. Nourbash, 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.
If you’re living with chronic knee pain, it’s time to make a change. Visit Barrington Orthopedic Specialists and get started on your road to recovery.
