Our Patients Say It Best

Walking with her head held high - Maureen Bishop

Orthopedic surgeons are specially trained to help patients manage certain conditions, relieve pain, restore mobility and independence, or return to work and other daily activities. To find an orthopedic surgeon near you, contact us. 

Coloma resident, Maureen Bishop, spent years living with knee pain. As a nurse and clinical educator, her job required her to be on her feet for hours at a time. When the lack of cartilage in her knee joint began to cause a deformity in her leg and impact her ability to walk, it affected her both physically and mentally. 

“I felt very unstable most of the time and had to use a walking stick to maintain my balance,” said Maureen. “I lived with a constant fear of falling which was almost a bigger obstacle for me to overcome than the pain itself.”  

Prior to surgery, Maureen had tried steroid injections and a lubricating solution, also known as synovial fluid replacement, within the joint hoping it would provide the relief she needed. However, when the pain continued to return, she knew it was time for a more permanent solution. Wanting to receive care close to home, she sought the advice of orthopedic surgeon, Jeffrey Postma, DO.  

"I was really thankful that Dr. Postma took the time to listen to my concerns and explain my treatment options,” said Maureen. “He was very compassionate and professional. I never felt rushed.” 

Due to the severity of her condition, Dr. Postma suggested she replace the joint in her right knee first as it was causing more pain. Maureen had her first surgery in June 2017.  

“I never had any major surgery prior to this one so I didn’t really know what to expect,” said Maureen. “I felt very supported by my entire care team. Lakeland Hospital Watervliet is a great place to have surgery–everyone did a wonderful job.” 

Although the first surgery was a success, the pain in Maureen’s left knee was still present and the deformity in her leg and hip continued to worsen. She knew it was time to take care of the problem once and for all. Again, she turned to Dr. Postma who performed her second knee replacement surgery in May 2020. After each surgery Maureen completed physical therapy with Lakeland Rehabilitation in Coloma.  

“The rehabilitation team was very supportive,” said Maureen. “There were times when my spirits got low and they kept me going. I also really valued the follow up care I received in the office."

Eight weeks after her second surgery, Maureen returned to work with two straight legs and a more confident outlook on life.  

“I’m much more confident in my ability to walk now,” said Maureen. “I feel so much better both physically and mentally.”  

Watch more of Maureen's journey below: