Bouncing Back After an Injury
Jonathan Paulus
Aug, 2020
Physicians: Joseph Farber, MD
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.
When he is not in the classroom, Lakeshore elementary school teacher, Jonathan Paulus, likes to stay active. During any given week you can find the 37-year-old St. Joseph resident playing basketball, running, lifting weights, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
While playing a game of pick-up basketball with friends, Jonathan noticed some discomfort in his left knee. Not thinking the pain was anything significant, he continued to play through it. In the days that followed he tried his best to keep weight off the impacted knee, assuming it was a sore muscle. However, when he could no longer straighten his knee, he knew it was something serious and would require medical care.
Jonathan began researching a solution to his injury. With multiple recommendations from friends and family members, he made an appointment with orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, Joseph Farber, MD.
“I was excited to learn that Dr. Farber’s previous experience included working with collegiate athletes,” said Jonathan. “I felt like he understood that returning to an active lifestyle was my top priority.”
Following an MRI scan, Jonathan learned he had torn his meniscus, the rubbery knee cartilage that protects the shinbone from the thighbone. This type of tear is one of the most common sports-related injuries.
“Dr. Farber took into account the activities I enjoyed doing and my everyday lifestyle,” said Jonathan. “I was ready to get moving again and I felt like he wanted what was best for me.”
Jonathan discovered he would be a good candidate for arthroscopic knee surgery, which would offer him the best option for regaining his mobility. The procedure created two small incisions through which Dr. Farber inserted a small, pen-sized tool allowing him to trim the torn cartilage away and repair the surrounding damaged ligaments. Using a minimally invasive approach, Jonathan experienced less scaring, small incisions, and a short hospital stay.
The surgery was a success and within a matter of hours after the procedure Jonathan was up and walking.
“My surgery took place on a Friday and I was back to teaching three days later and getting around without a cane or crutches within a week,” said Jonathan.
To continue strengthening and stabilizing the muscles around his knee, Dr. Farber recommended physical therapy. Dedicated to his therapy plan, Jonathan continued to progress and was soon able to return to his regular activities.
Nowadays, Jonathan is excited to be back living life without restrictions. He started biking and jogging regularly. Basketball came soon after. He is looking forward to keeping up with his energetic family, especially with the new addition of their second child.
Watch more of Jonathan's story in the video below: