For many residents of the Four Corners region, life is lived outdoors. From challenging hikes in the San Juan Mountains to lively games of pickleball, the community thrives on an active lifestyle. So when injury strikes and forces our beloved activities to the sidelines, the impact can be profound.
Just ask Durango resident and former mayor Melissa Youssef.
She recently experienced the frustration of injury, but thanks to the expert care of orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matt Smith and the dedicated team at CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital, Mercy Sports Medicine and Mercy Orthopedics Associates, Melissa is on the path back to enjoying the outdoor activities she loves.
When the Outdoors Call, But Your Body Says No
Melissa’s story resonates with anyone who’s ever felt their body seemingly betray them. An active individual, she found herself increasingly limited by persistent pain.
“I was feeling so fragile and weak that I couldn't play pickleball. I knew I shouldn't be skiing,” Melissa recalls. “I was just at a point where I couldn't do the daily activities that I wanted to do.”
This wasn't just about missing out on a few games; it was about a shift in her ability to engage with the life she loves. The simple joy of being active, running around a court, or even the thought of climbing mountains felt out of reach.
Finding Answers and a Path Forward with Mercy Orthopedics
Knowing something was seriously wrong, Melissa turned to a trusted source.
“My husband said right away, ‘You need to see Dr. Smith,’” she shares.
Upon her initial consultation, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matt Smith and his team at CommonSpirit Mercy Orthopedics Associates wasted no time in thoroughly assessing her situation.
An MRI was ordered, providing crucial insights into the root of Melissa’s pain. The results confirmed her fears: two tears in her left glute. Dr. Smith meticulously reviewed the different surgical options, ensuring Melissa understood each step of her potential recovery journey. The decision was made to proceed with surgery, marking the beginning of Melissa’s path back to full strength.
The Road to Recovery: Small Steps, Big Victories
Following her successful procedure with Dr. Smith, Melissa embarked on the crucial next phase of her recovery: rehabilitation. This wasn't a quick fix, but a dedicated process of rebuilding and restrengthening, guided by the skilled physical therapists at Mercy Hospital’s Integrated Physical Therapy.
Melissa recalls the challenging yet ultimately rewarding nature of this period.
“I started real basic PT in about six weeks (post-surgery), but there was definitely moments in PT that I would be like, ‘Oh my God, I did it.’”
These moments of triumph, even over seemingly simple tasks, were profound.
“Relearning how to walk again. These little things, they mean a lot because it's progress. It's slow progress.”
The journey of regaining strength after a significant orthopedic procedure can be daunting, but Melissa’s dedication, combined with the personalized care she received, has made all the difference. Her therapists understood her desire to return to her active lifestyle and tailored her program to help her achieve those goals, carefully pushing her boundaries while ensuring safe and sustainable progress.
A Power Team for a Powerful Recovery
Melissa’s story is an example of the comprehensive, patient-centered care available right here in Durango. She emphasizes the invaluable role played by the entire team involved in her recovery.
“We're very fortunate to have such talented doctors in our area … and to have that kind of surgery and be home in Durango,” she says. “Dr. Matt Smith and all the support staff is just a power team.”
The collaborative approach, from the initial diagnosis with Dr. Smith to the ongoing support of rehabilitation specialists, highlights the strength of CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital, Mercy Sports Medicine and Mercy Orthopedics Associates. Our teams understand that recovery is not just about a successful surgery; it's about empowering patients to reclaim their lives and passions.
Ready to Reclaim Joy in Movement
Today, Melissa is looking forward to rediscovering all the activities she put on hold. While she plans a cautious return, her enthusiasm is palpable.
"I'm going to return to pickleball carefully," she says with a smile.
Her love for the outdoors, for running around a court, incorporating weight routines, and climbing mountains, is rekindled and stronger than ever.
For anyone in the Four Corners region experiencing pain or limitations that are holding them back from their active lifestyle, Melissa’s message is clear: Don't wait. With teams like Dr. Matt Smith and the compassionate professionals at Mercy Sports Medicine and Mercy Orthopedics Associates, regaining your joy in movement is not just a possibility, but a reality.
“I tell you, I will not take it for granted. Just returning to play and returning to activities. I am ready.”
To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit CommonSpirit Mercy Orthopedics Associates or Mercy Sports Medicine.
