Sharon Debose's relationship with the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge (BJCBR) exemplifies the profound impact of comprehensive care. Her decades-long journey with the clinic highlights how, under a single establishment, a patient can find solutions to varied orthopedic challenges.

Knee Reconstruction Following a Traumatic Injury

Sharon's association with BJCBR began in December 1999 following a severe car accident. A head-on collision smashed the steering column, and her knee bore the brunt of the impact. The result was a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus. Sharon was somewhat familiar with Dr. Gerard Murtagh from a previous knee condition, so she chose him for her care following the traumatic injury. Quickly, Dr. Murtagh intervened, performing a reconstruction and beginning a two-decade-long journey to see her undergo nine surgeries.

Despite the intricate surgeries and reconstructions, Sharon's faith in Dr. Murtagh never wavered. She fondly recalls how he custom-made a knee implant for the knee replacement surgery she eventually underwent in 2014. It was an experience quite different from the "shelf doctors" she's encountered. Unlike those physicians, Dr. Murtagh ensured her knee would be a perfect fit just for her, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Sharon's orthopedic journey wasn't limited to her knees. Post-accident, she experienced right shoulder complications, again addressed by Dr. Murtagh. And in a twist of fate, another car accident in May 2021 compounded her left shoulder issues, leading to a replacement surgery in February 2022. When asked about her experience with shoulder surgery, Sharon said, "Dr. Murtagh is good with knees, but he's great with shoulders. What he does is so far above what other doctors in Louisiana are doing, in my opinion."

Care for Multiple Orthopedic Conditions

Beyond the knees and shoulders, Sharon encountered other orthopedic issues. Bunions and toe problems brought her to Dr. Patrick Hall, a doctor Sharon's mother was so fond of that she endearingly wished she could "shrink and put in her pocket." Under his guidance, she underwent three surgeries, including bunion procedures for both feet.

Additionally, hand issues led Sharon to Dr. Tyson Garon, whose gentle and caring nature left an indelible mark on her. After successfully treating her arthritis-inflicted fingers, she eagerly anticipates another visit for her thumb issue.

Lastly, complications from her second accident drew her to Dr. Christopher Belleau. Addressing her muscle tightness and disc degeneration, he conducted an MRI and proposed neck injections as a solution.

Sharon's story underscores the importance of comprehensive care. By placing patient needs at the forefront, the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge offers a beacon of hope, showcasing that no matter how multifaceted a diagnosis is, there's always a solution waiting under one roof.