Janice Padgett had been struggling with knee issues since before she turned 50. Being an active and involved grandmother, bad knees and limited mobility were simply unacceptable and a major impediment to her lifestyle. Fortunately, she discovered The Bone and Joint Clinic and Dr. David Pope. Between the two, a doctor-patient relationship began that would prove to be nothing short of life-changing.

Conservative Knee Pain Treatments

Given her young age, Dr. Pope initially employed various conservative treatments, including steroid shots, “rooster comb” injections of hyaluronic acid, and physical therapy, in an effort to delay surgery until Janice reached an appropriate age. Finally, 11 years ago, Janice underwent her first knee replacement surgery, and the results were astounding. Before the procedure, she was essentially crippled, using two canes at work and experiencing unbearable pain when moving from a chair to a bed. However, after the surgery, she quickly began to regain her ability to move without pain.

“I would not let anyone in the universe touch me but Dr. Pope. He is the most incredibly kind person in the universe and he just cares about making people better,” Janice shares.

Successful Second Knee Replacement

Encouraged by the success of her first knee surgery, Janice underwent a second surgery on her right knee three years later. This time, she experienced an even more impressive transformation. Instead of the traditional inpatient therapy, a new protocol was implemented. Slow-release medication and a pain management cocktail were utilized to stay ahead of the pain. She underwent at-home physical therapy and, just four days after the surgery, took her first steps and walked in front of her at-home therapist. 

“People are shocked to learn I’ve had double-knee replacement surgery,” says Janice. “They are impressed with how well I’m walking and say my scars are the prettiest they’ve ever seen!”

Today, Janice lives the active life she always wanted. She walks effortlessly through the sand with her grandchildren on their annual beach trip and has even hiked a mountain. Upon reaching the summit, she struck a “Rocky pose” and sent a photo to Dr. Pope, marking the ultimate victory for both doctor and patient.

“Dr. Pope has no idea how much he means to me,” remarks Janice. “He is so intelligent, humble, and caring. He’s just fabulous.”

Over the years, Janice and her husband, Dean Padgett, have seen many orthopedic specialists at The Bone and Joint Clinic for conditions ranging from knees to hips to feet. Through it all, Janice remains certain of one thing - she’ll never go anywhere else.