Resident Stories

Continuous, compassionate care
Linda Dokter

Aug, 2015

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.

For Linda Dokter, pain was a constant companion she only escaped while sleeping. With severe osteoarthritis from two bad falls, she was left with severe pain in her right leg and throughout her knee. Though Linda had visited various physicians seeking a solution for her pain, she didn't feel the trust and security needed to take the next step toward healing until meeting with Jeffrey Postma, MD, of Community Bone & Joint.

From the moment Linda met Dr. Postma, and they recognized their shared Dutch ancestry, she felt at ease. He not only did a thorough examination of her knee, he asked her many questions. Seeing that Linda had a piece of paper with questions written down, he told her, "I don't want you to leave until all of your questions are answered," and she didn't. He answered her questions, addressed her concerns, and reassured her. For the first time, Linda felt comfortable pursuing a solution to her pain through a knee replacement, and it was due to the security she felt in the compassionate, personable care of Dr. Postma.

Dr. Postma conducted Linda's knee replacement at Lakeland Hospital, Watervliet. It went smoothly and the next step was rehabilitation. After coordinating with Dr. Postma and her family physician, Linda decided to start her rehab at Pine Ridge Rehabilitation Center, and follow up with Homecare physical therapy. Linda was pleased with the level of physical therapy she received through Pine Ridge and Homecare, but one associate in particular really touched her.

Kevin Kutchie, PTA, one of Linda's Homecare therapy providers, really impressed her. Kevin made a point of encouraging Linda as she regained strength to return to the activities she loved.

"I wanted to be able to water my flowers, and he helped me learn how to navigate through my yard with my walker, so I could water my flowers again," said Linda. Similarly, Kevin helped prepare Linda for her return to work, helping her adjust to getting in and out of her car.

"I am so thankful, blessed, and glad to have it done," said Linda. "It has made such a difference. I can now walk or stand without pain or a limp, and I no longer dread going to the store because I have to walk. I can now carry my grandson without any pain."