A Fresh Start: Patient’s Successful Knee Replacement Made Possible by Orthopedic Partnership Between OrthoIndy, Carrum Health and Purdue University

The following patient testimonial is a result of the collaborative partnership between Purdue University, Carrum Health and OrthoIndy, established to provide exceptional orthopedic care to employees (and spouses covered on a Purdue medical plan) across the state of Indiana.                               

OrthoIndy knee patient Sharon Smith, whose covered on a Purdue medical plan via her spouse, had been living with chronic pain for years when multiple physicians informed her that she would eventually need both knees replaced due to advanced bone-on-bone arthritis.

A few years after her diagnosis, she underwent a right knee replacement with a provider outside of OrthoIndy. While the results were acceptable, the experience left her wondering if there might be a better path forward.

That opportunity arrived when her husband’s insurance through Purdue University directed her to OrthoIndy for her left knee replacement.

Finding A New Provider

Sharon chose OrthoIndy total joint replacement surgeon Dr. Michael Cross for her knee replacement after being immediately impressed by his caring and approachable demeanor during their first consultation. As her treatment progressed, that positive first impression was continually reinforced by the quality of care she received.

“As I found out, Dr. Cross is a genuinely kind and attentive physician whose bedside manner made a difference in my care,” said Sharon. “He took time to explain the procedure, answer all my questions and made sure I felt informed.”

A Personalized Treatment Plan with OrthoIndy

Sharon’s care plan at OrthoIndy was comprehensive and well-organized. Her surgery was scheduled for August 2024, followed by approximately three months of physical therapy focused on restoring strength and mobility.

From pre-operative education through post-surgical follow-up, Sharon felt fully supported by the OrthoIndy team.

“Compared to my first knee replacement, my experience at OrthoIndy far exceeded my expectations,” said Sharon. “Dr. Cross and the entire team were truly professional throughout every step of the process.”

Sharon also said she appreciated the high level of communication and the wealth of information provided to help her prepare and recover with confidence.

A New Knee, a Fresh Start

Now well into her recovery, Sharon is thrilled with her progress.

“Today, I am feeling great, and my knees feel better than they have in years,” said Sharon.

Since her knee replacement with OrthoIndy, Sharon has successfully completed a 5K, walks her dogs daily, tends to her garden, plays with her granddaughters and has returned to regular exercise, including biking and strength training, to rebuild muscle tone.

She also no longer struggles to stand, and her knee feels nothing like it did before the surgery.

Looking back, Sharon describes her time at OrthoIndy as nothing short of wonderful. She has no complaints about any part of her experience and emphasizes the professionalism, compassion and dedication of everyone involved in her care.

“I would do it again in a heartbeat,” Sharon said. “OrthoIndy gave me back the ability to live the life I want. For that, I’m incredibly grateful.”