Finding freedom from knee pain
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Wednesday, April 29, 2026
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Blue Rock resident Tom Rayner had lived with knee pain for over a decade. Even simple walks and daily tasks made him uncomfortable and frustrated. Ready for lasting relief, he began looking for a solution that would help him move freely again.
“I tried over-the-counter medications for years, along with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory shots, but nothing was working,” Tom said. “I was starting to lose hope that I could walk without pain again.”
As a small business owner, Tom’s offseason is from November to January. This was a window of opportunity for him to seek options for lasting treatment. His primary care physician referred him to Corey Jackson, D.O., Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon at the Genesis Orthopedic Center.
Nothing but bone
When reviewing his X-rays with Dr. Jackson, Tom saw that no cartilage remained in his knees. Cartilage acts like a cushion in the joint. It helps bones move smoothly and keeps them from rubbing together.
Dr. Jackson explained that this was a condition called osteoarthritis, which was why other treatments Tom tried hadn’t worked. Dr. Jackson and Tom discussed having joint replacement surgery for both knees.
“At the Genesis Orthopedic Center, we understand how challenging it is to live with knee pain,” said Dr. Jackson. “Osteoarthritis patients like Tom have pain from swelling and stiffness every day. Replacement surgery is often the next step. While we don’t usually replace both knees so close together, Tom’s work schedule was important to him. He was committed to his recovery.”
Dr. Jackson walked Tom through every step and showed him the new joint that would be placed in each knee, helping him feel confident in his decision.
“When Dr. Jackson explained everything, I knew I’d made the right choice. His team was caring, professional and always ready to help.”
Back to work
Tom had his left knee replaced in November 2025 and started physical therapy. After positive results, he had his right knee replaced a few weeks later. He felt immediate improvement.
“After a total knee replacement, we immediately start physical therapy to help patients regain strength and mobility,” Dr. Jackson said. “Tom went to therapy twice a week and did light strength training to rebuild his muscles.”
Tom appreciated that Dr. Jackson’s office and his therapy sessions were in the same building. “It was convenient,” Tom said. “I got to know my entire care team, and I felt comfortable asking questions.”
Tom returned to work in February, in time to prepare for his busy season. He’s looking forward to a summer without pain and enjoying time with his grandchildren.
“I appreciate everything Dr. Jackson did to help me regain my active life,” said Tom. “The best thing is that I can walk around without pain. I can go to the grocery store with my wife again, something I haven’t been able to do in a long time.”
