I was a noncompetitive runner for several decades, but in December of 2016 developed right medial knee pain which did not resolve with conservative measures. A torn right medial meniscus was diagnosed, in the setting of significant degenerative change to the knee. Both my sports medicine MD (non-surgeon) and the orthopedic surgeon to whom he referred me told me that I was not a surgical candidate given the multiple cartilage defects in my knee, and I was told that I would have to adjust to a new normal of very limited activity, and that I would require a joint replacement sooner rather than later.
I have learned that, when one has a medical problem that physicians tell you cannot be solved, it often pays to seek a second opinion. I was fortunate to seek that second opinion from
Dr. David Hartigan. After reviewing my MRI and examining my knee, he told me that he believed that addressing my torn meniscus was worthwhile, even in the setting of my other degenerative changes. He was truthful and upfront so that I understood that my knee would never be normal again, but that he felt that chances were good that my symptoms would be improved and that I would be able to resume at least some improved level of activity. He operated on my knee in June of 2018; my recovery was relatively low-pain and simple. Dr. Hartigan prepared me well for what to expect post-operatively.
Since my surgery, my knee has gradually improved a great deal. As Dr. Hartigan stressed, I have not and will not run again so as to protect what cartilage remains, even though I miss running tremendously. However, I can do pretty much every non-impact activity that I want now. I can ellipticize without problem, ride my bike without any symptoms at all, and swim. I can walk long distances faster than most people I know. Most importantly, I have been able to hike again without issue. This 5th of July, one year after my surgery, I hiked with my family to the summit of Mt. Humphrey, the tallest peak in Arizona at 12633 feet, using sport hiking poles to limit impact, and had no problem with my knee whatsoever. I was elated!!
If you are looking for a skilled, knowledgeable and competent orthopedic surgeon to address your joint pathology, I highly recommend Dr. Hartigan!
-Cecilia
