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Patient Testimonials:
MY REVISIONAL FOOT SURGERY
I hope this testimonial will in some way help others who have been disappointed by previous foot surgeries and who may feel dejected or frightened by the prospect of having yet another. My story is probably similar to those of many others, and my heartfelt wish is that those in such circumstances will choose to consult with Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg.
Whether trekking some miles along the Hudson or exploring every street of a small town in Tuscany, walking is my pleasure, as well as a necessary part of my fitness plan. A few years ago, it became more and more uncomfortable to walk in any type of shoe, and I opted to have a bunionectomy on each foot. There was such crushing pain after the first surgery that I really dreaded the second but went through with it nonetheless. I used crutches for two months each time and continued to feel discomfort and pressure in each foot for over a year.
I was completely distressed when the pain returned in one of my feet after only a couple of years. I could walk less far with each passing month and eventually had to admit that the previous surgery had failed and to accept that I needed revision surgery. After feeling overwhelmed by hours of researching on the Internet, I finally read about Drs. Delmonte and Greenberg and was so impressed by their credentials, their approach to pain and the many testimonials from people who had wonderful experiences under their care.
I walked into Dr. Delmonte’s office nervously and tentatively and left having asked about possible dates for the surgery, confident that I would have a terrific result. Dr. Delmonte spent a remarkable amount of time explaining the x-rays, the current problems, the solutions, recovery time, all of it. In fact, he answered every one of my questions before I could ask it. I wasn’t at all sure that I would be one of those who experienced little discomfort after surgery, but I had already reconciled myself to intense pain yet again. Anything less would be a gift.
Dr. Greenberg assisted Dr. Delmonte since this surgery was a “re-do”, and I felt so fortunate to have this done by two of the very best. During surgery, I felt pressure on the foot but nothing else. They seemed quite pleased with the result, so I was hopeful too. I knew that I had a few hours before the pain block wore off, so I settled in at home and waited. From the past surgeries, I knew that the pain would hit all at once, and I wanted to be ready for it. In fact, I stayed up half the night waiting, but it didn’t happen then or at any later time. I was dumbfounded and, at our next meeting, asked Dr. Delmonte for an explanation for this miracle. In the next weeks, I sometimes felt a ping here or a twitch there, but it wasn’t at all uncomfortable. I happily took it as a sign of healing. Indeed, I was wearing sneakers and able to walk a few blocks in just five weeks.
I have actually enjoyed going to the office for follow-up visits. Both doctors and the staff are so friendly and obviously on my side. Dr. Delmonte’s enthusiasm knocks me out every time! I thank both Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg during every visit, but I leave feeling that it wasn’t enough. How can I convey all the ways in which they have changed my life? I wish they could see me in the gym or doing a fast walk along the river, but I’ll just trust them to know that their extraordinary work goes with me every step of the way.
~Linda
PAINLESS BUNION SURGERY
"I had heard the horror stories... "Bunion surgery is the WORST. So painful...long recovery..." I had seen a few doctors before I found Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg. (I always have to get a few opinions, of course!) But as soon as I had my first appointment with Dr. Delmonte and his caring staff, I knew I was in the right hands. I was nervous, but they assured me that the horror stories were justified because other doctors don't use the same technique Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg use. They are particularly careful with the soft tissues of the foot so as to have a speedy recovery and pain-free experience. They even gave me two phone numbers of past patients I could call and hear it directly from their mouths. And I called them! And both ladies told me that they had a great experience, recovery and result. They told me the surgery wasn't painful, neither was the recovery. And they assured me that Dr. Delmonte and his staff would be with me every step of the way. And that's EXACTLY the kind of attentive care I received. Doctor's rarely give out their personal cell phone numbers...I had them on hand for any questions or concerns after my surgery. Dr. Delmonte was so accessible and no question went unanswered. The entire process was pretty much pain free; I don't want to say completely because no surgery is completely pain free. But I was pleasantly surprised that I rarely needed my pain medication that was prescribed to me. My foot feels incredible now; I have great flexibility and can participate in all the activities I enjoyed prior to my surgery: working out, dancing, etc. I plan to have my other foot operated on soon, and I will definitely be going back to Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg. They really are the best!"
Thanks,
Shaina
Hello, my name is Sandra Frias.
A couple of years ago I found myself in the office of Dr. Paul M. Greenberg and Dr. Rick J. Delmonte. I was referred to Dr. Delmonte after visiting a doctor by the name of Glenn Weiss. Dr. Weiss recommended me to Dr. Delmonte because after trying every foot brace and orthopedic shoe, he knew I had to take my problem to the next level. He recommended that I get a flat foot reconstruction surgery and that’s where Dr. Rick J. Delmonte stepped in.
Coming from a person who never experienced any kind of surgery, you can image how afraid I was of the thought of having it, but I couldn’t have fell into better hands than Dr. Delmonte and his team. I can honestly say that he’s the best orthopedic surgeon in the world. He made me feel so comfortable and at ease throughout the entire surgical procedure including after the surgery. I couldn’t believe how relaxed and how certain I was that his was the right decision to make. He assured me that the flat foot reconstruction surgery would fix my flat foot problem and get rid of my pain, and he was 100% right. It was the best health decision I had ever made and the surgery couldn’t have gone smoother.
Dr. Delmonte attended to my every need and made me feel like I was his only patient. It’s been three years now since my surgery and I haven’t had any problems with my foot. I wouldn’t trust any other doctor with my feet other than Dr. Delmonte. Not only was he the best, but his staff was amazing too. They were caring and sensitive to me. I knew I was in good hands the minute I stepped into his office. I would’ve never made it through this surgery without Dr. Delmonte and his great staff. If you need any type of health with your feet, I urge you to see Dr. Delmonte, you won’t regret it.
MY 1ST MPJ ARTHRODESIS (FUSION)
Hi Rick,
Do you believe that it is almost seven years since I had my first MPJ fusion!!! I don't think of it often but last Friday I treated myself to a pair of Ferragamo shoes and sat there recalling how you gave me my life back. Pretty dramatic statement for me but I had returned from Europe in May 2003 thinking it would be my last trip. I was in such incredible pain that I could not enjoy my usual haunts and walking across the Seine was out of the question.
After consulting with you I couldn't wait until the surgery. I knew that I had to keep my foot elevated for a few days and then use crutches for several weeks and anticipated a lot of pain and discomfort. I dreaded going to work on crutches and spending the rest of my summer avoiding weight-bearing activities. Much to my surprise I had little pain and did not need to take painkillers. Using crutches was harder than anticipated but I adjusted and eventually navigated the NYC buses. But nothing prepared me for the Northeast Blackout of 2003! I was working on the 18th floor of a building on West 45th Street. When the power outage occurred I thought that I would wait until the electricity was restored. Several hours later I was faced with the choice of being alone on the floor with no air conditioning or walking down 18 flights. With colleagues in front and behind me I made it down and then managed to walk 34 blocks home and up 12 flights of steps. It took a long time but it was okay because I was not in any pain. I never could have managed this before having the surgery.
I now walk, use a treadmill, bike and go up and down stairs with no problems. I did have to give up my 4" heels but it had become too painful to wear them anyway. I have gradually gone from a running shoe to a flat, then to a low pump and -- last Friday -- I bought a 2" heel and am thrilled! My only regret is that I didn't see you sooner!
With tremendous gratitude,
Ronny
I have been a runner since I was 12. I have run dozens of marathons and countless road races. As a teacher I am on my feet all day too. Five years ago, when I was 37, I developed a bad case of plantar fascitis. Doctors Greenberg and Delmonte treated me with physical therapy and orthotics but it was only after shock wave treatment did I feel like the fascitis was truly gone. I have been pain free since. Last week I ran the Philadelphia Distance Run (13.1 miles in 1:39) and will be running the Chicago Marathon next month!
Geoffrey Perry
A foot operation:
This was never my idea of a good use of my time. Then the top of my left
big toe began to throb. Over the past 5 or 6 years the throb turned into
a sharp stab and then it became m ore difficult to jog or walk long
distances. And forget it if any of my three beautiful children stepped
on my foot. I am a mother of three kids, 12, 10 and 8, and the wife of a
very sports-oriented, and energetic husband. And, did I mention we have
a golden retriever? I began feeling like my grandmother, the pain from
my aching foot started affecting my overall attitude and probably has
accounted for some of the other aches I have recently ended up having.
So, I went to see Dr. Delmonte. I had seen Dr. Greenberg
a few years before. He and I had decided being off my feet for a few
weeks wouldn't work when the children were younger. Now, Dr. Delmonte
examined my foot, took x-rays, and explained in a very clear way how the
structure of my foot was incorrect, and how he would alter it so that my
foot would work as it should. He also gave me the option of having the
surgery done in the office. I went home to think it over, which didn't
take long.
I seek medical professionals who are interested in
working with me to optimize my health and well-being. I felt very
comfortable with Dr. Delmonte's approach. He took time to go over the
initial examination, the pre-operation issues and post-operative plan.
He told me throughout our discussion that this was going to be a
successful situation. I really liked having the option of not having to
go to hospital, which would involve the pre-surgery protocols, general
anesthesia and the recovery room, and the risk of infection. I had a
varicose vein removed a number of years ago, at St. Lukes' Roosevelt,
and although it went off without a hitch, it was a long day, and a long
wait in the recovery room twiddling my thumbs. And, my parents had had a
good friend who went into a hospital, albeit not in New York City, for a
knee replacement, who ended up dying from an infection he got from the
hospital.
So, yesterday I arrived Dr. Delmonte's office, Belvedere
Podiatry, after having had breakfast. The nurse took me into the
examination room where the operation would take place. Dr. Delmonte
numbed my foot. He had said it would be the most uncomfortable part of
the procedure, and he was right. It stung a big but it was totally
tolerable. I sat in an examination chair, tilted back. The nurse prepped
my foot and put a curtain in front of me. I plugged my Ipod into the
sound-blocking earphones she gave me, got out my book and started to
read. Dr. Delmonte told me he would tap my leg if he needed me and I
should wave around the curtain if I felt more than pressure or
vibration. I felt a pain once right after he started. He numbed by foot
a bit more. Then I read my book, listened to my Ipod and did indeed feel
small pressure and vibrations from the saw he was using; but, nothing
unpleasant.
I was finished in one hour, went home with my husband in
a taxi equipped with a very fashionable "boot" and shower cover for my
foot. I am camped out on the bed with my foot up and iced. I have been
enjoying working on the computer and having my family take care of the
running around for a few days. I have pain medication to take but have
been fine with Tylenol. I really liked the post-operation x-ray and am
looking forward to walking pain-free. I'd do it again in a heartbeat!
~Genevieve Griffin
Hello Dr. DelMonte,
I am having a problem writing this e-mail as I wish to
thank you very, very much for your expertise and compassion in the field
of podiatric surgery as I was a recepient of your accumulated knowledge.
The problem is, " thank you" does not say what I am feeling. You were
very informative regarding my pre and post surgery procedures. You could
not have been more understanding on what I was going thru regarding my
concerns and fears on in-hospital stay and anesthesia. I am still in awe
how unbelieveable the surgery went in your office and the local
anesthesia procedure utilized. You explained in detail exactly what
would occur and the empathy shown by your assistant was remarkable. I
must tell you I was my worst enemy, it is amazing what the mind can
conjure up. But, thanks to you none of the images I projected was true.
You proved my mind wrong, thankfully. I will never be able to thank you
and your wonderful staff for all that you did for me. And, for all of
your future patients I can only share with them, "they could not be in
better hands". Thank you and bless you, Dr. DelMonte.
Your eternal patient,
~ Esther
Dr. Greenberg has restored my quality of life
through the corrective surgery performed in November 2008. Prior to the
surgery the foot pain and functional limitations that I experienced did
not allow me to continue with my running. I have been running more than
30 years so this was devastating. The surgery itself took about an hour
and was done in his office. With the aid of a special protective boot I
walked out the door that afternoon and returned to work after only a
couple of days. Following about 20 weeks of healing and therapy I was
able to resume my running again and enjoy the active life style that I
had enjoyed in my life. Thanks Dr. Greenberg!!!
Sincerely
Kristin Rowe
New York City
I have had the luck to be associated with Dr.
Paul Greenberg and his excellent office for many years. I first came to
his practice over 10 years ago, when he was working with his father, and
he took my case -- to fix a bad bunionectomy that was performed by
another doctor. Not only was Dr. Greenberg efficient and careful, he
explained what needed to be done and helped me get through my paralyzing
fear of doctors and surgical procedures. He accomplished the surgery and
the follow-up care with excellent attention and intelligent knowledge of
his field. I recently developed a very painful heel spur, which after
many months of inattention, helped me remember my good experience with
Dr. Greenberg. Luckily he was not only available, his office
professionalism and expertise had only gotten better. While he was
treating me for the heel spur, which he diagnosed and attended to
immediately, I decided to deal with the painful bunion that had
developed on my other foot. Two months ago, with my fears still unabated
and with Dr. Greenberg's kindness and patience and surgical
capabilities, I had the surgery and am now walking well and pain free.
Dr. Greenberg's associate, Dr. Rick Delmonte, attended to me when Dr.
Greenberg was away from the office, and he too was smart, efficient,
professional and kind. Both gentlemen proved to be two of the finest
doctors I have ever been lucky to be associated with. They both spoke to
me with precise explanations of my diagnosis and any procedures I would
need to go through; they told the truth as to what to expect in terms of
short term discomfort and long term recovery. They followed through with
phone calls and genuine concern for my immediate well being and healing
process. They were always available for phone calls and further
explanations of any concerns that came up during the course of recovery.
They accommodated all my appointment needs and they dealt with my
insurance company directly. It is with great pleasure and relief that I
rave about these two good men as examples of knowledgeable doctors who
know their craft and know to help and communicate with their patients.
Laura Rakowitz
There was no question in my mind; I was going to go
through with the removal of my hammertoe and bunion once I had reached the
point where nothing in my shoe wardrobe felt comfortable. I thought I was in
for a difficult procedure and a very painful aftermath from what I had heard
from many others. Much to my delight the procedure was so easy and it left
me with nothing beyond mild to moderate discomfort afterwards. I only
reached for a pain pill at bedtime for the first six nights to ensure a good
nights sleep. It is now 5 weeks later, I am into a sneaker and a few of my
shoes and I am so pleased I chose to do this procedure and also chose Dr.
Paul M. Greenberg to perform it. I have found him to be highly skilled,
gentle, patient and friendly.
Audrey Turetzky
Joseph Goldin, New York City, New York, July 2004
"I have been a diabetic for over 20 years. In that time, I started
experiencing neuropathy in my toes, that gradually encompassed my feet,
ankles and lower legs, and is now starting to manifest in my hands. The pain
involved is incredible, words like burning, cramping, numbness only start to
describe these feelings. I have seen neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and
at least six podiatrists in that period. I tried neurontin, which helped me
sleep, but knocked me out for too much of the next morning. In the last few
years, I have had complications due to the diabetes: charcot joint, hammer
toes, infections, osteomyelitis etc. These problems have caused the need for
numerous operations, prolonged hospitalization and extended convalescence at
home. When Dr. Rick J. Delmonte explained to me about neuropathy
decompression procedure, and the possible success rate, I elected to have it
done. Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg performed the operation on June 3rd.
For me there was no overnight miracle, but I have regained some feeling, and
hope that as time goes by, this will increase. Even if there is no further
increase in feeling, if I had even this much a few years ago, I would
probably have not lost over 100K in income, and medical expenses that cost
the insurance companies in excess of half a million dollars."
Alan Wolfer, New York City, New York, June 2004
"I am a non-diabetic whose heel and later foot pain began about one year
prior to my recent successful surgery by Dr. Delmonte. First I developed
soreness along the inside area of my left foot, and I was given an orthotic
to wear by my first podiatrist. Then he inserted a pad to cushion the area.
The soreness turned to pain which increased in intensity with time.
Injections came next, three over a period of six months. The diagnosis
became plantar fascitis. From that point came, exercises, ice, more
injections. the pain spread to my entire foot. A sheet touching my toes
caused pain. Standing and walking became acutely painful. I went to a second
podiatrist, had a new orthotic made, continued home exercise, and began
three months of PT, whirlpool, tens unit, ultrasound, massage, exercises
targeted to strengthening the muscles, ligaments, etc., and finally a night
splint. The general foot pain subsided but I was left with acute pain
focused at the outer portion of the heel adjacent to the ankle. Common sense
suggested that with a focal point there had to be nerve involvement. I
thought to seek a new approach and was referred by an old and trusted friend
(in whose debt I will be for a long time) to Dr. Rick Delmonte, in New York
City. Dr. Delmonte and his partner Dr. Paul Greenberg concluded, after doing
neurosensory testing, that the pain was coming from the calcaneal nerve
being constricted. Surgery to relieve the constriction was recommended. The
surgery was done on April 22, 2004, using the technique developed by Dr.
Dellon in Baltimore. The rest is history. I will be sevety-five (G-d
willing) in July and once again look forward to what I have always enjoyed,
a good walk, aerobic exercise, and therefore being able to enjoy a few more
calories. You have made it possible for many of us to do more than just go
on living. I hope, Dr. Dellon, that your smile is as big as that on Dr.
Delmonte's face when I next waltz into his office."
Sincerely, Alan Wolfer
Alan Wolfer, New York City, New York, April 2004
My Soul
What purpose does G-d for my Spirit provide,
except to make my Soul arise;
Why rise, my Spirit asks G-d for me,
enough it makes me smile within;
Not good enough does G-d reply,
except it makes another smile
(written April 23, 2004 the day after surgery by Rick Delmonte, DPM of New
York City, N.Y., and written to Dr. Delmonte as he has made it possible to
relieve his chronic foot pain.)
Anthony Ferone, Westchester, NY, September 2005
"I am a 70 year old retiree who has suffered from Diabetic Neuropathy for
the better part of ten years. Initially, I lost feeling in my feet and
ankles. As the years went on, the numbness was accompanied by a constant
feeling of "pins and needles" and pain in my feet. I became so uncomfortable
and lost so much sensation that I had to give up an enjoyable part- time job
as a school bus driver as I feared that my driving had become impaired.
I spent the last three years searching for something that would end my
discomfort. I consulted a renowned neurologists who attempted to treat the
neuropathy with drugs and electrical stimulation. These treatments were not
successful. I tried putting "magnets" in my shoes as there was research that
indicated magnetic force would relive the numbness, pain and tingling I
experienced on a daily basis. The magnets did not help . I even participated
in a clinical trial for a new drug that was supposed to relieve the symptoms
of diabetic neuropathy. Unfortunately, this new drug did not help me either.
It appeared that I had exhausted all options that modern medicine had to
offer.
Fortunately, as I was reading my daily New York Post, I saw Dr. Delmonte's
add for a new treatment called Nerve Decompression Surgery that would
relieve the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. At first I was skeptical, as I
thought my doctors had advised me of all possible treatments that existed.
But my pain and discomfort was getting worse, so I decided to call Dr.
Delmonte and make an appointment to see what this procedure was all about.
I made the trip from Westchester into Manhattan a week later. Dr. Delmonte ,
who I found to be kind and patient , explained the procedure to me and
indicated that I may be a candidate. I made necessary appointments and the
test were completed. Dr. Delmonte indicated that he would perform the
surgery. Finally I had real hope that I could be helped.
I am now one month post surgery on my right foot and I am glad to report
that I am experiencing noticeable improvement. I now have movement in my
ankle and increasing sensation in my foot. I look forward to increasing
improvement and plan to have the procedure performed on my left foot within
the next month.
I would encourage anyone who has suffered as I have to consider meeting Dr.
Delmonte and consider having this procedure. All you have to lose is the
pain.
Merwin S. Goldsmith, New York City August 29, 2005
"It's been 6 months since you performed the 3 zone nerve decompression
operation on my foot and leg. I am happy to report that it's healing
beautifully and I no longer have the burning, tingling pain in that limb.
There is a considerable amount of sensory improvement too. My balance has
improved and I can't wait to have this performed on my right leg in
November. This has changed my life and I'm grateful for your work. Many,
many thanks for the relief. I expect to be dancing the Russian "kazatske"
very shortly. -Merwin
Raymond Williams, New York City, June 2005 and September 2005
Like most Type-two diabetics I didn't know that I had it until it was too
late. I'm sixty-six years old and I've probably had it since my early
twenties and can state that with a high degree of certainty because for as
long as I can remember I was always warned by physicians (mostly during
annual employment check-ups) that my "sugar was spilling over into my urine"
and that I should have it looked into. Like most know-it-all young men I was
sure that 'they' didn't know what they were talking about so I did nothing!
I paid no attention to what I was stuffing into my mouth; I didn't exercise
and I ate sweets like they were going out of style. As you can guess this
eventually caught up to me with a vengeance. Immediately upon my retirement
in June of 1999 I started with the early, classic symptoms of diabetic
neuropathy: numbness in the balls and toes of both feet. It wasn't too bad
at first but I looked into it by visiting a neurologist (I should mention
that I was somewhat active with regard to physical exercise but not terribly
religious about it). Tests were taken and we agreed to keep a close eye on
it. About eight months later I received my first visit from the 'beast'. The
'beast' is what I identify with as the burning sensation in my feet and
accompanied by violent spiking in both lower shins and ankles. At that point
in time I revisited my neurologist and he mentioned that a major
pharmaceutical company was doing a 'blind' trial test on a new drug for
epilepsy but it was believed that it would also address the pain from
neuropathy. I was in luck (or so I thought) and I was enrolled into the test
and requested to keep a 'pain' diary for two weeks. But because I didn't
score high enough on the pain scale I was jettisoned from the trial.
Seven months later I was ready to hang myself as the 'beast' reached new
levels of torture, with burn/spiking sensations that were off the charts, so
to speak. Because of this I was allowed reentry into the 'trial' and I
received actual medication (or placebo) for sixty-four weeks. To make a long
story short, the drug worked less-than marginally and after the sixty-four
weeks (with no meaningful success) I left the trial study and graduated to
Neurontin. I started with three hundred milligrams per day and this was
slowly and steadily increased to a daily dosage of eighteen hundred. The
laws of diminishing returns now kicked into effect: I was taking more
medication but getting less relief. Neurontin was however; very successful
in making me sleepy and lethargic but was never fully successful in
relieving the burning pain. I should not forget to mention that this ordeal
was also wreaking havoc on my wife. She was constantly worried about me and
our conversations seemed to focus on "how were your feet today?"
Furthermore, this was becoming contagious within our circle of friends and
relatives and I didn't want people looking at me and thinking of my feet.
It was at this point that I could only achieve short-term relief by
aggressively increasing my exercise workouts. Most likely, any relief was
attributable to the increased circulation to my feet. But because of this
aggressiveness my glucose became so low that I started experiencing
lightheadedness and I decided to have that checked by my regular physician.
And here is where my good luck to hold. During this routine check-up I was
informed of good work being done in the field of neuropathy by a podiatric
foot surgeon named Rick DelMonte of St.Luke's hospital. I called his office
to schedule a pre-PSSN sensory test and a week later I took the test. At
this juncture I was given a surgical 'green light' by Dr. DelMonte and a
second pre-op' evaluation exam was scheduled with his co-surgeon, Will
Samson. Doctor Samson's evaluation was necessary and they performed the
first operation to my left foot on June 16th, 2005 at St. Luke's hospital. I
was discharged the same day and sent home for rest and recuperation. Surgery
to my right foot was performed twelve weeks later on Sept. 15th, 2005.
In my case the healing process was the same for both feet: one to two weeks
of bed rest with the operated foot being elevated higher than the level of
my heart with minimal walking. I should mention that during the first two
weeks there was never any serious pain whatsoever. Of course there was some
soreness to my ankle but only to my ankle.
The third week commenced with some walking and light 'toe-tapping' assisted
by crutches. After the sutures were removed (by the end of the third week) I
was able to hobble around the house, using only a cane. By the end of the
fourth week I returned to my health club, resuming a light exercise
schedule. At the end of week five I returned to my three weekly Pilates
classes and by week seven I was back to my normal exercise schedule: bike
riding, treadmill, etc.
The results of my surgery are that I am free of burning/spiking pain
altogether. Other than the medication that I was given for post-operation
discomfort (and that was minimal to my surprise) I haven't taken any
Neurontin since September 15th and feeling to my feet is returning in a
rapid manner. To me this sensation is akin to having one's foot fall asleep
in a movie theater and then reawaken at the end of the show. I have noticed
that since my last operation (September 15th) that sensation is subsiding
and I'm optimistic that this phase will end soon. Additionally, I reach new
plateaus weekly with the most recent being a greater sense of balance.
I will finalize this testimonial with some hindsight: Initially, I wondered
if I were too old for this surgical procedure. To my everlasting pleasure
that was not the case. I'm sixty-six years old and I handled this very well.
If anything, using crutches helped me develop upper-body strength to an area
that was getting a little soft. My second thought was that I could forego
the operation, increasing my dosage of Neurontin to combat an
ever-increasing level of pain. This would have been a mistake; one that I
would have regretted for the rest of my life. Lastly, this process required
that I expend about six months of minimal hardship in order to enjoy the
rest of my life pain-free. I'm sure that any rational person would agree
that the good returns of this surgery surely outweigh the time spent during
recuperation. And last but not least, I (and my wife) have had the pleasure
of coming into contact with two very fine surgeons- Doctors who've changed
my life and we will be indebted to them forever.
Stephanie Haen, New York, December 2005
Before meeting Dr. Delmonte, I spent the better part of a year going from
provider to provider trying to find an accurate diagnosis and treatment for
my medical condition. After doing some research of my own, I discovered Dr.
Delmonte. On my first visit to his office, he took the time to get to know
me and began to work systemically in looking for the cause of the pain I was
experiencing. He was always upfront and honest with me throughout the
process and always took the extra time needed to answer my questions. After
ruling out all other possible causes, I was diagnosed with idiopathic
neuropathy in both feet, an unusual condition for a young person who does
not have diabetes. Dr. Delmonte encouraged surgery, but only as a last
resort after trying multiple other treatment options. At this point, I
couldn't stand for more than a few minutes without severe pain.
I underwent the first nerve decompression surgery in January of 2005. Though
the recovery process was a gradual one, my quality of life vastly improved.
Not only was I able to return to work without fears of how I would get
through the day, but I was also able to dance for the first time in three
years on my wedding day in October of 2005! A year later, I am still
noticing improvement.
I am currently recovering from a second decompression surgery in my other
foot and I am hopeful because of the improvements I am feeling each day!
Without Dr. Delmonte's help, I don't know where I would be right now. Thank
you, Dr. Delmonte, for taking the time, having the patience, and going the
extra step in helping me to understand and improve my condition.
Josephine Castillo, New York City 5/2005 (left leg), 12/2005 (right leg)
Dear Dr.Delmonte,
I'm writing this letter of thanks to you for saving my mother's legs. My
mother Josephine Castillo suffered for a long time in pain because of the
poor circulation in her legs because of her diabetes. Before we came to know
you, previous doctors suggested that my mom have her foot amputated. Since I
was always taught to get a second opinion, you were my second opinion and
you gave us hope that you could save her legs and you did it!!! Your new
procedure was smooth all the way and with not alot of pain after the
surgery. My mom can walk now and because of your caring manor in treating
patients. I have my mother back all because of you. I strongly urge you to
continue your work in this path in the fight against diabetes and change the
minds of theses doctors who are not open to change. Amputating legs of
people is not the only answer it should be the last and only resort. In
closing, again many thanks to you and your staff.
Sincerely, Andrea Principe
Anna Cannistraci, Valley Stream, NY January 2006
Just recently, I've had the opportunity to have surgery by Dr. Rick Delmonte.
The following will describe my experience with Peripheral Neuropathy. For
the past number of years, I have been seen by four doctors, who have told me
there was no hope for my relief of the pain and discomfort. As a result,
pain killers were the only remedy to create some sort of comfort. In
addition, I was very discouraged and depressed. After seeing a special
medical report on Dr. Delmonte on CBS news I quickly called for an
appointment. The report showed how through surgery, people with my condition
have hope. Dr. Delmonte examined me and I began to believe that I was going
to be free from my suffering. I went in with tears and left with a smile. He
explained what I had and how the surgery can eliminate the tingling, burning
and shooting pain caused by type 2 diabetes. A computerized test was used to
show the severity of my condition, and an appointment was made for surgery.
Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Samson were very professional and dedicated. Their care
and concern made me feel comfortable.I am proud to say that I am pain free,
no discomfort, and wearing shoes again. There was restoration of sensation
at the bottom of my feet. No more tingling, burning or shooting pain. The
tip of my left toe is numb, which was caused by a prior surgery which I had
years back by a previous doctor.
I thank Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Samson for their dedication and commitment in
helping people with neuropathy.
" You have taken steps beyond your field for the care of your patients."
Thank You,
Mrs. Anna Cannistraci
Gilbert Snowden, Greenwich, CT December 2005
As a type II Diabetic with severe neuropathy, I am extremely happy to have
been introduced to Rick J. Delmonte and Dr. William Samson and the procedure
known as Nerve Decompression. Approximately 6 years ago, I experienced a
serious health condition that attacked my auto immune system and
unfortunately resulted in the onset of Type II Diabetes. The auto immune
problem was resolved but the Diabetes was something I would have to live
with for the rest of my life. That was tolerable but what was not at all
tolerable was the neuropathy that I had. I had no feeling from my toes to my
knees and suffered with cramping and tingling and burning twenty four hours
a day, seven days a week. Although I actively sought relief, I was
constantly told that the neuropathy was something I would just have to live
with. Wow, what a way to live! Constant discomfort and the fear of hurting
yourself and not even knowing it. How does one cope? Quality of life is fair
at best. You learn to cope and make adjustments to how you perform everyday
activities and grin and bear it! The nights were the worst time of the day
for me. Constantly rubbing my calves would only sooth the discomfort and
allow me to fall asleep. My wife can tell stories about how she would watch
me rub my legs while I was asleep; it was part of my life. Whenever I could
remove my shoes I would rub my feet and calves for some soothing comfort, it
was a horrible situation. After having a friend tell me about a CBS Health
Watch segment he saw that included an interview with Dr. Delmonte and one of
his patients who had the Nerve Decompression procedure I immediately set up
an appointment. I met with both Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Samson and went thru
the required testing and "YES" I was a candidate for the procedure. Excited
and anxious with some apprehension I was scheduled for the procedure on
12/29/2005. The celebration of the New Year was the best I could have ever
had!
The nerve decompression surgery that Dr.'s Delmonte & Samsom performed was
what I consider to be a miracle. The procedure was totally painless and 100%
successful for me. Unfortunately, I had a slight set back in my recovery
with a wound problem but even with that I had immediate relief and feeling
in my foot, toes and calf. What a wonderful thing it is to not have cramps
and pins and needles in my leg and foot. I have warmth and a normal pink
coloring in my right leg and foot. It's quite nice now to actually feel the
shower water on my foot. I have not had warm feet in years!
I, without hesitation, recommend this procedure to anyone who has diabetic
neuropathy. I am anxious to have my other leg/foot done the results are so
fantastic.
Not only was I pleased with the procedure I was equally pleased with both
Dr. Delmonte & Dr. Samson. I found both of them to be professional,
thorough, cautious, concerned, caring and dedicated. Both doctors have a
wonderful bedside manner and were very accessible to me as the patient. As I
mentioned earlier, I had a wound problem and Dr. Delmonte was in constant
contact with me even on the weekend. What more could someone ask for? It was
obvious to me that both doctors are truly dedicated to helping individuals
with diabetic neuropathy. It was a refreshing experience to have had two
such wonderful and professional physicians.
In 2009, I consulted with Dr Rick Delmonte to discuss the options for relieving the discomfort I was experiencing in both of my feet. The conclusion of the meeting was bilateral bunion surgery. At hearing such a recommendation, one would think that I would have been a bundle of nerves at the mention. But Dr Delmonte has a way about him that puts everything at ease. During our consultation, his expertise resonated clearly as he carefully detailed the surgery, the recovery, and the outcome. His professionalism and positively wonderful bedside manner only made me feel more at ease about my circumstances. And as expected, the surgeries went off without a hitch, my recovery smooth, and today I enjoy my high heels once again without pain.
I should also mention the lovely office staff. They were helpful throughout the entire process and are just wonderful people.
I wholeheartedly recommend Dr Delmonte. He is an expert in his field, a professional, and just a really nice guy.
-Mara M.
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