For Mike Lunsford, staying active has always been part of who he is. After a successful career as a real estate broker and business owner, retirement gave him more time to focus on the things he enjoys most, including traveling, golfing, working out and spending time with his seven children and nine grandchildren.
Retirement also gave him plenty of opportunities to stay on the move with a lifestyle that, over time, has come with a few orthopedic challenges. “Unfortunately, I have been through many joint problems over the years,” Mike said. His orthopedic history is extensive, including seven knee surgeries, repairs to both rotator cuffs, Achilles tendon issues and an ankle replacement. After years of injuries, surgeries and recovery, Mike knows his body well – and he knows when something doesn’t feel right.
That’s exactly what happened when he began experiencing problems with his left Achilles tendon. At first, the issue seemed manageable. Mike was undergoing physical therapy for what was believed to be an inflamed or strained Achilles tendon. But while visiting Florida and spending time with his grandchildren, he slipped on a pool deck.
“I thought I had just irritated it more,” he said.
Still, something didn’t seem right. “I had no strength in my ankle, even though there wasn’t much pain,” Mike said. “I’m usually proactive about figuring out the problem and solution.”
When he returned home, Mike met with Central Indiana Orthopedics foot and ankle specialist Dr. Steve Herbst, who ordered an ultrasound. The results revealed a complete Achilles tendon tear. The diagnosis came just before a planned trip to Ireland. While many patients might have expected to cancel their travel plans, Dr. Herbst offered a different recommendation.
“We had a trip to Ireland, and he told me to go,” Mike said. “He operated the day after our return.”
For Mike, choosing CIO for treatment was an easy decision. Dr. Herbst had cared for him before, performing a left ankle replacement and later correcting a bunion on the same foot. Those experiences had already earned Mike’s trust.
“In my opinion, he is the best anywhere for ankle and foot problems,” he said. “He was confident and very clear about the options and his recommendation. Knowing him before, I knew him to be competent.”
Together, they decided surgery was the best path forward. While every recovery journey is different, Mike approached this one with the perspective of someone who has been through the process before. If there’s one lesson he has learned, it’s that healing can’t be rushed.
“I’m not always patient, but I’ve learned it has to heal before you can return to activities,” he said.
Throughout his treatment, Mike says the CIO team made the experience easier. “They are thorough and responsive,” he said. “The care and attention I received from the staff was excellent.”
Although he is still recovering from his Achilles repair, Mike has seen firsthand what successful outcomes can look like. Following both his ankle replacement and bunion surgery, he returned to the activities he enjoyed before surgery.
“In both cases, I fully recovered and was able to do anything I was able to do before,” he said. For someone who loves to travel, stay active and keep up with a growing family, that kind of outcome is invaluable.
“It’s always great to get back to what I like to do,” Mike said.
When reflecting on his experience, one thing stands out most: complete healing. After years of navigating orthopedic issues, Mike has developed straightforward advice for others who may be delaying treatment.
“Don’t wait once you know a surgical repair is essential to recovery,” he said. “Evaluate and then act.”
He also encourages patients to work with providers who take the time to explain all available options. “Sometimes there are options other than surgery that make good sense,” he said. “CIO is good at helping guide you.”
When asked what he would tell someone considering Central Indiana Orthopedics, Mike doesn’t hesitate. “They are outstanding,” he said. “They work with great integrity and put the interests of the patient first and foremost.”
For Mike, orthopedic challenges have been a recurring part of life. But thanks to trusted expertise, successful recoveries and a commitment to the healing process, those challenges haven’t stopped him from doing the things he loves most. Whether he’s traveling with family, spending time with his grandchildren, golfing with friends or staying active in retirement, Mike continues to enjoy life on his terms – and that’s exactly the outcome he was hoping for.
Whether you’re dealing with a new injury or a condition you’ve been living with for years, our team at Central Indiana Orthopedics is here to help. Visit ciocenter.com to explore our neck-to-toe services, meet our physicians and take the first step toward getting back to the life you love.
Mike with 8 of his 9 grandchildren