In 2021, Chris Rohler began experiencing something unusual. She was having trouble lifting her left leg while walking, making mobility increasingly difficult. The problem appeared suddenly and was accompanied by mild pain in her spine, leading her to believe that the two issues were connected.
Having never seen a spine specialist before, she turned to Google, searching for the “best spine surgeons in Indiana.” This search led her to OrthoIndy and orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. John Dietz.
Choosing OrthoIndy and Dr. Dietz
When she first met with Dr. Dietz and his physician assistant in November 2021, they conducted X-rays and began monitoring her condition.
An MRI would later reveal the full extent of the issue: a narrowing of her spinal canal (spinal stenosis) with spondylolisthesis (degenerative spinal instability), along with disc wear. These conditions were compressing her nerves, preventing proper foot function and making even simple movements difficult.
Facing the diagnosis and setting goals
Chris was surprised by her diagnosis but found comfort in knowing she was in expert hands.
“Dr. Dietz was highly informative, ensuring I understood every aspect of my condition and the best path forward,” said Chris.
Her ultimate goal was simple but essential – she wanted her everyday life back. As a lifelong walker, Chris had been struggling to enjoy her daily strolls, often needing a walker for support to move around her home. Sleep had also become a challenge because of increasingly persistent pain.
After her diagnosis, Chris pursued physical therapy, which helped manage her pain and limited mobility for a while. However, by 2024, her condition had deteriorated to the point where she couldn’t walk for more than 20 minutes without experiencing numbness in her feet and risking a fall.
Recognizing that surgery was now the best option for her future, she scheduled her surgery with Dr. Dietz in February 2025.
A life-changing procedure
Her procedure with the OrthoIndy spine team and Dr. Dietz at OrthoIndy Northwest Hospital went well. After spending a few days in the hospital, she was released with a renewed outlook on life.
Unlike some procedures that require extensive physical therapy, her recovery plan was straightforward – she just needed to start walking again to regain strength and function.
Despite the surgery being so recent, Chris is already experiencing a noticeable improvement. Just a few weeks after the procedure, she has returned to socializing, walking around stores with friends, and enjoying life without the constant mobility struggle. While her nerves are still regenerating, she’s confident in her progress and excited about the road ahead.
Chris describes her journey with OrthoIndy as smooth and stress-free.
“Dr. Dietz and his team were always available through the patient portal, answering any questions I had along the way,” said Chris. “Their level of surgical expertise, combined with the team’s open communication and patient-centered approach, made all the difference.”
Advice for others
Chris has always considered herself to be a “go-getter.” So, when she knew surgery was the right choice, she was ready to move forward without hesitation. She trusted Dr. Dietz and the OrthoIndy team to provide the expert care she needed.
Chris’ advice to others facing similar health challenges is simple: “Just follow the instructions, and you’ll be fine!”
Thanks to OrthoIndy’s exceptional care and surgical expertise, Chris is on her way to regaining the active lifestyle she loves.
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Learn how OrthoIndy can help get you back to what you love doing most. Schedule an appointment with our team today.
