Pickleball Champion Battles Back: Tim Bane’s journey with pickleball started in 2014 when he first stepped onto the court. He immediately felt a connection with the sport, drawn to its intensity and the competitive spirit it instilled in him. His enthusiasm for the game was matched by his wife, Dianne, who also embraced the sport. Together, they formed a formidable mixed-doubles team and competed in the Delaware Senior Olympics. However, while pickleball brought joy, it also brought pain for Bane—pain that would ultimately change the course of his life.
The Impact of Pain and the Decision for Surgery
“I started experiencing a lot of knee pain, to the point that I found myself limping off the court after a match, and sometimes even needed to use a cane. The pain got worse and worse, until it was just unbearable.” – (Tim Bane)
His knee pain worsened over time, becoming unbearable. In search of a solution, Bane consulted Dr. Wilson Choy, MD, an orthopedic specialist at Beebe Healthcare’s Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates. Bane hoped conservative treatments, like medication and physical therapy, would offer relief.
Although these measures provided temporary comfort, the pain remained persistent, leading Bane to the realization that surgery was the only option. In 2017, he underwent a successful total joint replacement on his left knee.
“Once I got back out there, I realized how much I had been compensating and relying on my right knee to push through. The damage was done. Over time, the pain in my right knee became just as unbearable as the left had been, and I knew that I would eventually need to have that one replaced, too.” – (Tim Bane)
But as his left knee healed, the damage to his right knee became just as painful. He knew that eventually, he would need another surgery.
A Second Surgery and the Return to Pain-Free Play
In April 2024, Bane underwent a second knee replacement, this time on his right knee. Once again, Dr. Choy performed the surgery at Beebe Healthcare. Today, Bane is pain-free and able to play pickleball without concern.
“The decision to have both knees replaced absolutely changed my life. I can play pickleball every day if I want to, and I never have to stop and consider what my knees can handle. I am so grateful for the care I received because it has allowed me to do what I love.” – (Tim Bane)
Alleviating Chronic Pain and Achieving Patient Goals
Bane’s experience highlights the importance of personalized care in orthopedic treatments. For many patients, the goal is not just to relieve pain, but to return to the activities they love. Dr. Choy noted,
“As I meet with patients, we work together to alleviate the pain associated with disabling arthritis, and we also talk about the steps we can take to achieve their long-term goals.” – (Tim Bane)
For Bane, his goal was clear: to return to the pickleball court. But for other patients, the goals are just as varied—whether it’s kayaking, traveling with grandchildren, or returning to work.
“Getting back on the pickleball court was the key goal for Mr. Bane. Another recent patient wanted to be able to get back onto his kayak, so he can pursue his love of wildlife photography. Some patients want to travel with their grandchildren and explore the world through their eyes. Many just want to get back to the work they enjoy.” – (Tim Bane)
Trust in Local Care: Beebe Healthcare
For Bane, choosing Beebe Healthcare for his knee replacement was an easy decision. Throughout his life, Beebe had been his trusted healthcare provider, offering expert care for a variety of health needs, including cardiology, hernia repair, and even back and shoulder treatments.
“I have been through a lot, health-wise, but in every experience, I have had doctors who are experts and who also truly cared about me, by my side. I feel that we are very lucky to have this level of quality care available locally.” – (Tim Bane)
Dr. Choy emphasized that joint replacement surgery is a collaborative effort that requires the commitment of both patient and healthcare team.
“Going through a total joint replacement surgery is not an easy feat. The patient’s medical needs have to be optimized by their care team to decrease the risks for complications after such a major procedure, and they must understand the critical importance of physical therapy in the recovery process.” – (Dr. Choy)
“Our job as orthopedic surgeons is to continuously strive to make improvements in the care delivery process. We study and explore ways to manage musculoskeletal diseases, and technology continues to streamline and optimize the surgeries we perform for each individual patient who seeks our care.” – (Dr. Choy)
News in Brief: Pickleball Champion Battles Back
Tim Bane, a local pickleball champion, underwent double knee replacement surgery after enduring years of chronic pain. After his left knee replacement in 2017, Bane’s right knee also required surgery, which he underwent in April 2024.
With both knees now pain-free, Bane can fully enjoy his passion for pickleball. His story emphasizes the importance of patient-centered orthopedic care and the role of trusted local healthcare providers like Beebe Healthcare in improving quality of life for patients.
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