Back on His Feet — Close to Home
April 06, 2026
For years, Mike knew he would eventually need knee replacement surgery. The pain had gradually worsened, making everyday activities more difficult and limiting the things he enjoyed most. Still, like many people, he put it off.
“I knew I needed it for a long time,” Mike said. “But you keep thinking you can manage a little longer.”
When the discomfort began affecting his daily routine, Mike decided it was time to take the next step. One of his biggest concerns, however, was where to have the procedure done. He wondered if he would need to travel out of town to receive the level of care he wanted.
Originally from the Chicago area, Mike was used to having access to large hospitals and specialists, and he admits he was unsure about what to expect from a smaller, rural setting.
“I kept thinking; Chicago has some of the best healthcare anywhere,” he said. “I wondered if I should go somewhere bigger. But after meeting Dr. Jensen and the team here, I felt completely comfortable.”
“From the first appointment, I felt at ease,” Mike said. “Dr. Jensen took the time to explain everything, and the staff made me feel like I was in good hands. I could tell they really knew their stuff.” That’s why Mike chose to have surgery close to home.
A Smooth Recovery
Six weeks after surgery, Mike returned to High Desert Orthopedics, Dr. Jensen’s office, for a follow-up visit. During the appointment, the care team checked his progress, reviewed his range of motion, and made sure his recovery was on track.
His results were encouraging.
“Everything looks good,” Dr. Jensen told him during the visit. “Your range of motion is improving, and you’re healing just as expected.”
For Mike, the biggest challenge now is being patient during recovery.
When asked if he had any questions, Mike chuckled and voiced the question that had been on his mind since surgery.
“Can I drive yet?”
For now, the answer was still no.
His wife smiled. “I told him no driving,” she said.
Mike laughed. “You did.”
Moments like that made the visit feel less like a medical appointment and more like a conversation among friends — something Mike says has meant a lot to him throughout the process.
Care You Can Trust, Close to Home
Mike says he’s been pleasantly surprised by how comfortable he’s felt receiving care locally.
“I couldn’t have gotten better care anywhere,” he said. “Everyone here has been incredible. From the nurses to the therapists to Dr. Jensen — I’ve been impressed with everything.”
As his recovery continues, Mike is looking forward to getting back to the activities he enjoys most — including driving and hiking once he gets the go-ahead.
Until then, he’s focused on healing and grateful for the care he received right here in Carbon County.
“I would recommend Dr. Jensen in a heartbeat,” he said. “You don’t have to leave home to get great care.”
If knee, shoulder, or joint pain is limiting your daily activities, you may not need to travel far to find the care you need. Dr. Jensen and the orthopedic team at High Desert Orthopedics provide advanced surgical and non-surgical treatment options close to home, helping patients throughout Carbon and Emery counties get back to the things they enjoy.
To learn more about orthopedic services or to schedule an appointment, contact High Desert Orthopedics at: (435) 637-2663 or speak with your provider about a referral.