SPORTS MEDICINE
In August 2024, Serge, a lifelong runner who had completed more than 35 marathons, suffered an injury that made day-to-day life seem more challenging than the toughest race course.
He was running in the woods when he slipped and fell into a split position. The awkward landing caused a serious muscle tear that severed his hamstring from the bone.
The injury made an immediate impact on his quality of life. Serge lived on a third-floor apartment, drove a car with a standard transmission, and, in addition to all his running, walked his dog for several miles a day. After his hamstring tear, he was struggling to get around on crutches, and he had temporarily moved in with a friend.
Eager to return to his life, Serge visited Dr. Keith Monchik, sports medicine surgeon at Ortho Rhode Island. Given the severity of Serge’s injury, Dr. Monchik recommended surgically reattaching his torn hamstring to the bone. From Serge’s first appointment, Dr. Monchik’s experience and expertise were reassuring.
“I had a lot of confidence in him,” Serge said. “Dr. Monchik definitely set my mind at ease that my procedure would go well.”
As expected, the surgery was a success. Serge resumed light running in December 2024, and his return to marathon training was not far behind. In April 2025, just eight months after his surgery, he successfully ran the Paris Marathon, completing the course in just over four hours. He has since run several other races, including another marathon, and has had no issues with his hamstring.
“As a sports medicine surgeon, it’s crucial to understand the goals that motivate your patients. Caring for athletes means tailoring their treatment plans to optimize for a successful return to sport,” Dr. Monchik said. “I am fortunate to work with patients like Serge, who are driven to get back to doing what they love. There is nothing more rewarding than helping patients reach that goal.”
“Freedom,” said Serge, summing up the thrill of restored mobility. “Being able to get around and live my life. My running friends are my social network, and if I hadn’t had this surgery, I don’t know if I would have gotten that back.”
“A lot of athletes, we push ourselves. We don’t know the meaning of ‘taking it easy,’” Serge explained. “Dr. Monchik’s care allowed me to take time off, knowing I’ll be back at it and better than ever.”
“Go see Dr. Monchik!” Serge said with a smile. He added, “Have it done. Why wait? I had been having nagging injuries for a long time. My surgery with Dr. Monchik gave me the opportunity to hit the reset button, and all those other nagging injuries are gone now.”
Learn more about sports medicine care with Dr. Monchik
