OrthoIndy patient Vicki Bernath had dealt with back pain on and off for years. At a relatively young age, she had been diagnosed with spinal stenosis, but she managed the discomfort.
However, by May 2024, her pain worsened significantly. And, a month later, it was no longer just pain – she was experiencing weakness in her right leg and couldn’t trust it to support her while walking. The condition progressed quickly to the point where she began dragging her leg, making even simple movements difficult and frustrating.
A Clear Diagnosis with a Path Forward
Determined to find answers, she scheduled a visit to OrthoIndy, where she underwent an MRI.
“Before going to OrthoIndy for my back pain, I had already previously seen orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mihir Patel (retired) for a few knee and shoulder surgeries,” Vicki said. “I also had several family members who received exceptional care at OrthoIndy, so going back for my pain this time was an easy decision.”
After her scans were completed, OrthoIndy spine surgeon Dr. John Dietz and his physician assistant promptly followed up with her results. Vicki’s diagnosis was clear: she had a herniated (slipped) disc, causing her spinal discs to press up against her nerves, along with spondylolisthesis, a condition where the vertebrae shift out of alignment. These issues were causing her leg weakness and mobility challenges.
For Vicki, the diagnosis was a mix of emotions – relief that the pain wasn’t just in her head, but it also created a sense of urgency to find a solution. She knew something had to be done, especially since her condition had deteriorated so quickly.
Dr. Dietz explained her options, and together, they developed a treatment plan tailored to her goal: to regain full use of both legs and return to her active lifestyle, which included her passion for hiking. The memory of struggling through a hike in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, just weeks earlier due to pain fueled her motivation to move forward.
Surgery and Recovery
Vicki’s surgery took place in July 2024, and while the procedure was successful, her recovery required time and patience. She remained in the hospital for five days, a slightly longer stay due to low blood pressure, but the care she received during this time made all the difference.
One caregiver in particular, Tonya, a night tech at OrthoIndy, stood out. Tonya provided exceptional support during Vicki’s stay, going above and beyond to make her comfortable. Being in the hospital for an extended period can be emotionally challenging, and Vicki was feeling homesick. However, Tonya’s kindness, compassion, and willingness to help, even with the simplest tasks like getting to the bathroom, made a lasting impact.
After returning home, Vicki’s rehabilitation plan was carefully structured. For the first three months, she focused solely on walking. By October 2024, she began physical therapy three times a week and gradually rebuilt her strength. The sessions continued through December 2024, and by her first follow-up appointment, she had made incredible progress. “That moment was a major milestone in my journey, just knowing I could do this and make a full recovery,” said Vicki.
Getting Back to the Life She Loves
Today, Vicki is feeling stronger and healthier than she has in years. While she still has arthritis in other areas of her spine, the pain that once consumed her daily life is gone. She can now walk for over an hour and a half without issue – an incredible improvement from where she was just months ago. She no longer has limitations, and best of all, she’s planning new hiking adventures for the near future.
Reflecting on her experience, Vicki described Dr. Dietz as a rare kind of surgeon – one with not only top-tier surgical skills, but also an exceptional bedside manner.
“OrthoIndy is the place I always go for orthopedic care,” said Vicki. “And I am grateful to have had a surgeon like Dr. Dietz, who has a God-given talent for surgery.”
For Vicki, OrthoIndy wasn’t just about fixing a medical condition – it was about reclaiming her independence, mobility and the life she loves.
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Learn how we help our patients get back to what they love doing most with specialized orthopedic care at orthoindy.com.
