For years, local farmer John Karlik was hindered by his arthritis and deformity pain that severely limited his ability to work on his farm.

Karlik visited foot and ankle surgeon Nicholas L. Strasser, MD, at Slocum Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, who recommended a two-part process to remove excess bone mass and replace the damaged ankle joint. Dr. Strasser is fellowship-trained in foot and ankle surgery and is one of the only surgeons in Eugene that performs ankle replacements.

"Ankle replacement candidates typically have arthritis from injury to the ankle, like John did from ankle sprains," says Dr. Strasser. "An ankle replacement can get patients on their feet and back to active lifestyles." 

After having his two surgeries, Karlik is active working on his farm and cycling 100 miles a week.

"Before, I used to plan my day around walking. Now, I don’t even think about it." Karlik says.