Mark Mueller's Inspiring Journey Back to the Trails
A Testimonial on Bilateral Knee Replacement
Knee Pain and Surgical Treatment
Fortunately, you don't have to live with knee pain. Orthopedic and sports medicine specialists have many ways to treat knee pain.
If conservative treatments don't offer relief, your injury is severe, or your knee has structural damage, surgery may be necessary, especially in cases of osteoarthritis.
Arthroscopic surgery is an outpatient procedure orthopedic surgeons use to look at, diagnose and treat problems inside your knee. Most patients go home the same day.
Knee replacement involves an orthopedic surgeon who removes any damages parts of the knee joint and replaces them with new parts made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. Knee replacements are intensive procedures, but with medical advancements, many knee replacement patients are also able to go home the same day.
Knee pain doesn't need to limit your life or the activities you want to do. Orthopedic specialists can help you get to the bottom of your pain and get you back on track.
For Dr. Mark E. Mueller, traveling along the Pacific Crest Trail and exploring Yosemite's high country is more than a personal passion — it’s a family tradition. An avid backpacker since the age of 10, Mark's love for the wilderness was instilled by his father, who believed that a true vacation began only when one was miles away from the nearest car. This deep-seated love for the outdoors was shared with his children, who grew up learning the essentials of backcountry survival, from wielding a fishing rod to using a single-burner stove.
Time Takes a Toll
However, after decades of rigorous activity, including years of jogging and long hours on his feet as an emergency physician, Mark's knees began to give out. At the age of 55, he developed severe bow-leggedness and degenerative arthritis, leading to bone-on-bone contact in his knees. Despite the pain, Mark continued to stay active, but the inevitable was clear — he needed knee replacement surgery.
Mark's hesitation about the surgery was understandable, given his medical background. He worried about the risks of surgery and if there would be a negative impact after. A conversation with his nephew, Matthew Mueller, who works in orthopedic joint replacement technology, introduced him to Mako robotic-assisted surgery, a technology that ensures precise cuts with minimal deviation. Matthew and his colleagues highly recommended Dr. Jeffrey Orr, a seasoned surgeon at Barton Health, regarded as, “the only place in Northern Nevada to get Mako surgery.” With his nephew’s reassurance and the expertise of Dr. Jeff Orr, Mark decided to move forward.
With the Mako system, I am able to perform less invasive surgery during a joint replacement. For some patients, this can mean less pain and shorter recovery time.
— Dr. Jeff Orr, orthopedic surgeon
In February 2022, at the age of 70, Mark underwent a bilateral knee replacement surgery — both knees at the same time. He meticulously prepared for the procedure, undergoing physical therapy to strengthen his thigh muscles and arranging for a supportive recovery environment. The surgery was a success. "When I woke up and wiggled my toes, I immediately noticed my knees were straight," Mark recalls. "I hollered in joy!"
With the help of minimal pain medication, Mark was up and walking with a walker within 24 hours of surgery.
A Triumphant Return
Mark's goal was to return to the wilderness, carrying a 35-pound pack on the Pacific Crest Trail, within a year. He reached that goal, and over time, worked up to hiking eight miles a day! His knees, now straight and strong, have allowed him to reclaim the joys of backpacking.
With eight grandchildren to inspire, Mark plans to continue the family tradition of backpacking, promising each grandchild a special trip once they turn 9. His story is a testament to the advancements in medical technology and the power of perseverance. "Life is unpredictable, but with the support of family and the right medical care, you can overcome significant challenges," says Mark.
Dr. Jeffrey Orr is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Tahoe Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, treating patients throughout the Lake Tahoe and Carson Valley region. Learn more about orthopedics at Barton Health online at BartonHealth.org or call 530.543.5554 to schedule an appointment.
