Hockey Hall of Famer and retired defenseman for the New York Islanders, Denis Potvin is thankful to the surgical team at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for helping him get back to doing what he loves.
After experiencing debilitating ankle pain that led to surgery, Potvin is back to golfing, fishing, and simply walking without pain.
Scheduled for Surgery
Potvin was experiencing pain from an Achilles tendon injury, which are typically a result of overuse and repeated stress to the tendon.
Potvin initially met with Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Dr. Craig Breslauer, and was immediately told he needed to have surgery on his ankle. Feeling unsure, Potvin sought a second opinion, leading him to try more conservative treatment options for several months, postponing the surgery.
After seeing no improvements with conservative treatments, Potvin returned to Dr. Craig Breslauer for an Achilles tendon repair surgery. He recalls feeling very comfortable with Dr. Breslauer stating, “His manner was wonderful.”
Following his successful surgery, Potvin began his eighteen-week recovery.
“Less than two years later,” Potvin recalls. “It’s as though nothing ever happened.”
“Dr. Breslauer made it fun, and he was right,” Potvin stated. “He was right the first time he saw me. And he was just phenomenal.”
Potvin recommends South Florida Orthopaedics
Having played fifteen years in the NHL, Potvin endured many injuries, but admits that his recent ankle injury, was the most uncomfortable injury he has ever had.
“Dr. Breslauer told me he does hundreds of these surgeries,” said Potvin. “That’s what really made me comfortable. I didn’t have to go anywhere else.”
Today, Potvin is enjoying his summer playing golf, fishing, and he is planning to visit his family in Canada.
“If something else came up, yes, I would go back to South Florida Orthopaedics,” Potvin shared. “First choice!”
For more information about common foot and ankle conditions and treatments at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, please visit our Foot and Ankle page.
To request an appointment, please call (772) 288-2400.