OrthoIndy patient Elissa Haines lived with worsening knee pain for years, a result of arthritis that gradually limited her daily life. She had seen a provider outside of OrthoIndy but was told to wait at least another decade before considering knee replacement.
Within two years, the pain reached a tipping point. Standing became a struggle, and even simple movements left her exhausted and frustrated.
At just 45 years old, with a busy life, a husband and a 13-year-old daughter, Elissa realized she could no longer wait. She needed a solution that would restore her mobility and let her reclaim her life.
Finding Immediate Care
Elissa eventually found her way to an OrthoIndy Urgent Care, where she was seen immediately by an orthopedic specialist. Imaging at her same-day appointment revealed that her cartilage was deteriorating. For the first time, Elissa understood why everyday activities had become so painful, and she now knew knee replacement surgery was the next step.
In a matter of days, Elissa was scheduled to see OrthoIndy total joint replacement surgeon Dr. Patrick Millikan. And from the moment they met, she felt confident she was in the right place. Dr. Millikan listened carefully, clearly explained the knee replacement process and focused on helping improve her quality of life.
“Hearing that I needed knee replacement surgery was scary at first,” said Elissa. “However, OrthoIndy ended up doing such a wonderful job to reassure me and explain the process to me.”
After years of being told she would need to wait because of her age, Elissa felt an immediate sense of relief knowing someone was ready and willing to help.
A Fast, Clear Care Plan
Elissa’s care plan began with a knee replacement on her right knee in January 2025, followed by eight weeks of structured physical therapy designed to rebuild strength, flexibility and mobility. Once she regained confidence and stability in her right knee, she underwent surgery on her left knee in April 2025, followed by another eight-week course of targeted physical therapy.
With this carefully coordinated plan, Elissa proceeded with double knee replacement. Both surgeries and recoveries went smoothly, thanks in large part to her dedication to physical therapy and at-home exercises. Her care team monitored her recovery closely, adjusting exercises as needed to optimize her strength and overall mobility.
“Immediately after surgery, I could not believe how much stronger I felt,” said Elissa. “I honestly don’t know what we would do if I did not have the surgeries. I believe that God brought Dr. Millikan into my life at the perfect time and He used him to help my situation.”
A Full Recovery
Today, Elissa feels better than she has in years.
“I no longer have to find parking as close to the building as possible,” said Elissa. “I’m no longer looking for a chair to sit in when I enter a room, and I don’t have to think about how far it is to walk in a store before I go in.”
One of Elissa’s proudest moments came at a recent concert, where she walked the entire distance and stood for much of the show – something she never could have done before surgery.
“I just want to say thank you to Dr. Millikan and the OrthoIndy team for taking such good care of me,” said Elissa. “My life has really been changed by getting these surgeries completed. I have goals for continuing to strengthen my knees and entire body.”
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Are you experiencing chronic knee pain? OrthoIndy can help, schedule an appointment with our team today.
