Patient profile—Newton-Wellesley Hospital’s ortho docs fixed what was broken

SPONSORED CONTENT: Meet Kristen Vella, an active, busy mom who had been suffering from the effects of a failed shoulder surgery she’d had over five years ago. Despite trying various treatments, Kristen’s pain persisted, limiting her mobility and affecting her overall quality of life.

Determined to find a lasting solution, Kristen sought the expertise of the orthopedic doctors at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, within the Mass General Brigham Medical Group.

After a thorough examination, specialists determined a course of action that has relieved her pain and allowed her to purse an important professional dream.

Kristen’s story, in her own words

I was brought to Dr. Foster and Dr. Simon at Newton-Wellesley Orthopedics due to a failed shoulder surgery that I was told would be a routine procedure. Shortly after having the surgery I knew it wasn’t successful.

I expressed my concerns to my first surgeon on numerous occasions and was told that my shoulder just needed time. I was given multiple injections to try and help with the pain post-surgery. I even had a follow-up appointment canceled on me because I was told there was nothing more they could do for me. For a year, I was in and out of a sling and couldn’t pick up or hold my three-year-old daughter. I ultimately decided I needed a second opinion. I was referred to Newton-Wellesley by my brother, who had experienced a successful surgery with Dr. Foster.

A shoulder to cry on

After meeting with the doctors they confirmed what my body had been telling me—that something was wrong. Although I felt validated, it was devastating to learn that I would need a second shoulder surgery a mere ten months after my first surgery. Still, I was relieved that the doctors listened to me and explained how they knew exactly what course of action to take.

Dr. Foster and Dr. Simon have the best bedside manner of any doctors I’ve ever met with in any medical setting, bar none. They were extremely understanding and reassured me every step of the way. I was able to voice my concerns without being cut off, and they were professional and caring.

I have seen a complete 180-degree change in my condition since having my second surgery. The specific pain in my shoulder that I was experiencing was immediately relieved. While recovery was not easy or quick, the strength has fully returned in my shoulder.

I enjoyed meeting and working with Dr. Foster and Dr. Simon throughout this process. They are down-to-earth individuals who truly care. Dr. Simon especially has a great sense of humor, and my appointments with him always felt like I was checking in with both a friend and a very skilled, extremely smart medical doctor.

I had a very difficult time maintaining a positive attitude until I met with them. My initial doctor made me feel as though I was being weak. He dismissed my feelings and this was especially upsetting given I told him it was affecting me mentally—I wasn’t able to hold my daughter or work out, which are very large parts of my life. I also had been in the process of applying for a job as a United States Federal Probation Officer, and that process includes an extensive medical exam. My timeline on applying for this position was expiring due to my age, and I knew if I couldn’t get my shoulder corrected, I would have to give up that dream. Dr. Foster and Dr. Simon helped me regain a positive outlook by exuding confidence in their plan and listening to my concerns.

I have encouraged anyone I know struggling with an orthopedic issue to meet with Dr. Foster and Dr. Simon. I have referred three people who have experienced successful surgeries with them. I trust and value their opinion and have every confidence in their abilities. I credit these doctors for saving my shoulder and returning me to the quality of life that I was missing out on.

I can add that approximately a year after my surgery, I was hired for my dream job as a United States Probation Officer. I am doing extremely well in my training thanks to them!

Now in Boston!

NEW CENTER: Orthopedics Walk-in
LOCATION: Boston Landing, 73 Guest Street
OPENING: December 2024
DETAILS: An orthopedics walk-in practice.

Ready to experience your own success story? Contact the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Orthopedics Team today, and start on the road to recovery.