It’s no secret that chronic pain can be severely debilitating and difficult to manage, but that’s exactly what Patricia Gussis did for 17 years before receiving hand and upper extremity treatment at University Orthopaedic Associates. Now that she is living practically pain-free, Patricia is happy to share her experience at UOA with hopes of inspiring others in pain and also seeking treatment for their injuries.

On December 3, 2007, Patricia fell while power walking and jammed her arm—sustaining multiple fractures and extensive nerve damage in the arm, shoulder and wrist. She underwent several conservative therapies without success and without having any discussions with her provider about surgery.

During the following years, Patricia could barely lift her arm above her midsection. Her range of motion was severely limited to the point she could no longer do certain everyday activities, such as blow-drying her hair. Eventually, Patricia’s massage therapist encouraged her to return to UOA and inquire about new treatment options. It was then that she learned that a torn rotator cuff was the primary source of her pain and other symptoms.

Dr. Timothy Leddy, a UOA board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with a specialty in hand and upper extremities, suggested to Patricia that she undergo reverse total shoulder replacement surgery, along with wrist surgery. Patricia recalls being extremely excited about learning surgery was an option, given it wasn’t brought up as an option in the past.

After years of living with pain and limited range of motion in the arm and shoulder, Patricia was delighted to finally have surgery in October 2023. Her post-surgical pain was minimal and gradually went away after about two weeks. During the months that followed, Patricia worked closely with Gregory Roth, an occupational therapist at UOA who helped her strengthen her arm and shoulder and regain range of motion.

More than one year later, Patricia is thrilled to report that her arm and shoulder are 100% better, though there are rare times when she pushes it that she feels mild pain. Her day-to-day pain is practically nonexistent, and she continues to walk for exercise.

Patricia gives high praise to the staff at UOA—particularly Dr. Leddy and Greg, who guided her through every step of treatment and recovery. She recognizes Dr. Leddy for being extremely personable, answering all her questions and making her feel very much at ease. She adds that she’s never worked with a group more professional than that at UOA—another reason she drives 3.5 hours from Delaware to UOA for treatment.

Most importantly, Patricia thanks Dr. Leddy and the team for taking on her case and is grateful that her surgery was a complete success.

University Orthopaedic Associates offers a full range of orthopaedic services, including treatment for injuries of the hand and upper extremity. If you are experiencing arm, wrist or shoulder pain, contact UOA at (732) 537-0909 to request an appointment and learn more about your treatment options.