Patient Testimonials

In 2020, I had an artificial C6/7 cervical disc replacement surgery done by Dr. DuBois. My younger brother had the same procedure done by Dr. DuBois a couple of years before that. Because of the successful surgery and the great experience my brother had, I trusted him completely. Other doctors and rehab therapists had told me I’d have to have a fusion, but I am so glad I listened to my brother instead and had the disc replacement done. With the pain I’d had in my neck and arm for the previous two years, I could no longer do the activities I liked to do such as running and cross-country skiing even with physical therapy. The last few months before surgery, my disc herniated, and I was in excruciating pain which is what caused me to go to Dr. DuBois.

Dr. DuBois’ surgery took all that pain away and the recovery was a breeze. No neck braces and minimal rehab needed! After 6 months, I was running again and was even able to run a half marathon only a year later. This was my goal after just turning 50! Dr. DuBois did an excellent job on my neck surgery, and I will not hesitate to go back if I ever have cervical problems again. He listens, cares, and is very competent and thorough with his work. I would also highly recommend the disc replacement surgery if it’s an option over a fusion. I had a much easier recovery and more mobility in my neck compared to my friends who have had fusions.

I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Ockuly, Anne Merrill, and the entire orthopedic team. From my first visit through my post-surgery follow up, they provided exceptional care, professionalism, and compassion. Dr. Ockuly took the time to explain everything clearly and answered all my questions. Thanks to their expert guidance and support every step of the way, I am back to full strength and mobility. I am extremely grateful! It is rare to find a medical team that combines excellence with such genuine kindness. Many thanks to this amazing team.

Dr. Arntson and his team have done an incredible job working with me through the entire process. I needed to work on bringing down my BMI for a safer surgery. With his recommendation, I used the cortisone injections to bring some relief while working on my health. Dr. Arntson was patient, encouraging, and he was supportive as I worked at getting things in line for surgery. After an adrenal drop, we stopped the cortisone injections and then scheduled surgery because I had no other option to get out of pain. The knee had nothing left as the bone-on-bone grinding had increased the pain.

Dr. Arntson and his Team are super encouraging. Their teamwork is amazing, and they truly collaborate with each other very well. I would, and have, highly recommended Dr. Arntson and his Team to those needing orthopedic surgery. I give that recommendation without wavering, and I honestly believe he is an incredible surgeon. You can’t go wrong making Dr. Zachary Arntson your choice as surgeon. He is the best!

Three months after my full knee replacement, Dr. Ockuly cleared me for full participation of my physical activities. He even encouraged me to get after it! While the first two weeks after my surgery required a lot of attention (as he mentioned prior), he assured me that things would get better with physical therapy and by following the prescribed exercise routines. I am an avid golfer and didn’t anticipate playing until late June/mid-July. As of today (mid-May), I was told I can resume playing!

I would highly recommend Dr. Ockuly and his Team. I have mentioned him to several people already. I am very satisfied with the surgery, the results, and the Care Plan they initiated for me. They answered all my questions, addressed my concerns, and told me I could “get back to normal life” much sooner than I had anticipated.

I want to sincerely express my gratitude to Dr. Neil Johnson. He was extremely professional and his attitude to my issue was full of sympathy and empathy. Thank you!

Dr. Michael R. Johnson performed knee replacement surgery on both of my knees, one in late 2022 and the other in early 2023. I was able to travel to Norway in October of 2023 and had no issues with walking or hiking. I highly recommend Dr. Johnson!

Dr. Ockuly performed a total reverse shoulder replacement for me in May. Prior to my surgery, I was not able to work over head or shoot my shot gun. I love to go bow hunting and was not able to shoot my vertical bow. He told me I would be shooting my bow by Fall. It was true and I couldn’t be happier. The TCO team was excellent.

I was suffering from extreme shoulder pain in both shoulders for about 7 years which got progressively worse over time. It was caused purely by arthritis with no history of damage from an accident or injury. I went to my local TCO clinic in Vadnais Heights for an opinion by a trained physician and was introduced to Dr. Nels Leafblad.

During the appointment, I was impressed by his medical background and that he treated damaged shoulders. A thorough evaluation determined my need for a total replacement of both shoulders. Feeling more at ease with Dr. Leafblad, we both agreed to replace one shoulder in 2024 and the other in 2025 if the first was successful. A great decision! Dr. Leafblad’s confidence and positive manner led to a very positive outcome.

Now, here I am in May 2025 with two newly replaced shoulders, a good attitude, and most importantly, no pain. I am completely back to performing house and year work while being also to play golf again. I feel like I was led to TCO and Dr. Leafblad. Now I have a new lease on life at age 78.

Dr. Ridley performed surgery on both of my hip replacements. The experience was great with instant relief and no complications. My first hip was done at the Blaine location in November 2024 while the second hip was done at the Plymouth location in May 2025. Both locations had amazing staff. It was a great experience, and I would highly recommend Dr. Ridley for any orthopedic needs.

This was my first time having surgery. As someone with chronic pain and EDS, I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to dance again. I was afraid that I wouldn’t be listened to, or my chronic issues would not be taken seriously. Desmond and Hanna were a bright light throughout the ups and downs of my recovery. They responded to every setback with compassion, creativity, and patience. We had a lot of laughs, which is essential for healing (and my comedic ego). I am truly grateful for them both. Now, I am back on the dance floor, showing off my skills, and heading to Vegas to perform in front of approximately 700 people!