Gamechanger: A Soccer Star's Comeback from Knee Surgery

Navigating Knee Injuries: A Common Challenge for Athletes

Facing a knee injury is often an unavoidable part of an athlete’s journey. For professional athletes like Kristen Edmonds, New Jersey soccer star, confronting the reality of a sports injuries and the possibility of surgery is a significant aspect of their careers. From torn ligaments to cartilage damage, understanding the types of knee injuries an athlete can commonly face is the essential first step towards reaching a full recovery. Fortunately, Kristen has had Dr. Sunil Thacker of the Seaview Orthopaedics Sports Medicine Team on her side since she sustained her first injury at seventeen. Now, as an adult and professional athlete, Kristen continues to rely on Seaview Orthopaedics and Dr. Thacker for her orthopedic care, ensuring that she is in the best possible condition to continue her passion.

Recognizing the Signs of A Knee Injury

At the end of her last season, Kristen felt an abnormal sensation in her knee which was causing her to feel stuck when she turned or walked. After attempting to rehab and push through, it became evident to her that she was struggling to get through her day-to-day routine, let alone run on the soccer field. Understanding the urgency of her situation, she returned to Dr. Thacker for a thorough assessment.

Diagnosis: A Critical Step in Recovery

Upon evaluation with Dr. Thacker, Kristen discovered that misplaced cartilage in her knee  was causing this issue, and that she would require knee surgery in order to get back onto the soccer field. Following her procedure, Kristen attended physical therapy to help regain strength and restore mobility in her knee, a vital component in the recovery process for athletes.

The Path to Recovery: From Surgery to the Soccer Field

Now, at just over 4 months post-op, Kristen is thrilled to return to the field for another season of her soccer career. With unwavering support from her medical team and loved ones, she is back to pursuing her passion for soccer. Her return serves as a reminder that with dedication and expert support, even the toughest of knee injuries can be overcome. 

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Seaview Orthopaedics Sports Medicine

Knee Orthopedics

Meet Dr. Sunil Thacker

Dr. Sunil Thacker is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine. He is a graduate of UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, training at the level 1 Trauma Center.  He went on to earn his fellowship in sports medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, in Philadelphia, PA, during which time he took care of numerous professional NFL, MLB, NHL, PGA and NBA athletes including members of the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Flyers, and Philadelphia Phillies, as well as collegiate athletes from the University of Delaware and Rowan University.  His practice also focuses on joint preservation arthroplasty.

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