Amelia Regains Confidence in Her Knee
Bluegrass Orthopaedics is proud to acknowledge our latest Comeback Champion - Ms. Amelia Brooks!
After having undergone two surgeries on her left knee at different orthopedic practices, unfortunately Amelia Brooks continued to experience instability in her knee. Due to this concern, she visited sports medicine specialist Dr. Owen McGonigle at Bluegrass Orthopaedics in Lexington, KY in the autumn of 2022. Following a course of physical therapy and an MRI, it was revealed that the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL), responsible for crucially stabilizing the patella, had become excessively stretched and failed to adequately secure her patella in its proper position.
"I was incredibly disappointed," she remember, "But, Dr. McGonigle was open to answering any question that I could possibly think of, which was very comforting."
Just shy of Amelia's 22nd birthday, she decided to undergo her 3rd reconstructive knee surgery.
"On the day of my surgery, as I anxiously awaited in the hospital bed, Dr. McGonigle and his team entered the room and provided me with comforting reassurance. They assured me that I was in capable hands and expressed confidence in my ability to have a successful outcome. While performing the surgery, Dr. McGonigle observed that my knee had even greater laxity than initially anticipated. He remarked that the hypermobility of my knee cap was the most severe case he had ever encountered."
Within 24 hours, Amelia began her physical therapy at Bluegrass Orthopaedics, embarking on a 6-9 month journey towards recovery. Despite the challenges ahead, she maintained an optimistic outlook and unwavering dedication to the process. Fortunately, by diligently adhering to her physical therapy regimen and focusing on building strength and stability, Amelia experienced a quicker recovery than anticipated. Recognizing the significance of instilling trust in her knee, Amelia understood that this would be the pivotal factor in overcoming the numerous complications she had faced in the past.
"Each person I worked with - BJ, Lacey and Erin - constantly pushed me to help me get stronger and healthy in a safe manner. The past 6-7 months have been physically and mentally challenging though I owe it all to them for my success."
Amelia said the greatest lesson for her that came out of all of this was being self-disciplined. "I had to complete my exercises at home and I learned how to take care of my body allowing me to heal efficiently. I want to thank Dr. McGonigle and his staff for the care they provided and would highly recommend them to anyone."
To learn more about our sports medicine specialist, Dr. Owen McGonigle, please click here!
