Recovering from a tibial plateau fracture can be a long and challenging journey, especially when the injury requires complex reconstructive surgery. For Dan Kriesant of Inverness, Illinois, that journey meant learning to walk again after his fractured tibia healed out of alignment. Under the care of Dr. Charles M. Lieder, an orthopedic trauma surgeon at IBJI, Dan underwent surgical correction that included re-aligning the bone with plates, pins, and staples. While the procedure was extensive, it marked the beginning of a recovery that would ultimately allow him to return to the active lifestyle he loves.
Recovery didn't end in the operating room. Through dedicated physical therapy and rehabilitation, Dan rebuilt his strength one step at a time with the support of the IBJI rehabilitation team. As his mobility improved, he realized he wanted to regain not only everyday function but also the confidence and endurance to return to activities like long walks, dancing, and spin classes. He continued his progress through the IBJI Health Performance Institute, where individualized fitness training, nutrition guidance, and ongoing coaching helped him push beyond recovery and toward long-term wellness. "I've danced for more than four hours without leg pain," Dan shared. "I'm able to do things I never thought possible."
Today, Dan hopes his experience encourages others facing orthopedic surgery or a serious leg injury. One of the most important lessons he learned was the value of trusting your physician and committing fully to the recovery process. Following Dr. Lieder's recommendation, Dan quit smoking after 32 years to improve his surgical outcome, a decision he says changed his life. His advice to others is simple: don't stop after surgery. Successful tibial plateau fracture recovery requires dedication to rehabilitation, strength training, and healthy lifestyle changes. With the right orthopedic team and a commitment to recovery, it's possible to regain mobility, return to the activities you enjoy, and achieve results that once seemed out of reach.