As the proud parent of a successful student-athlete, Tammi Boyd makes it a priority to attend all her son’s games to cheer him on. However, when debilitating back pain started to hinder her ability to be there for her child, Tammi started looking for answers.

“I wanted to fight to make sure I was there for him,” said Tammi. “I didn’t want to miss anything.”

A resident of Middle Tennessee for over 20 years, Tammi sought out medical advice in the area. However, after multiple visits to various providers, she was tired, frustrated and still in pain. Finally, she began to regain hope when she consulted John Klekamp, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon at Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee.

“When I started seeing Dr. Klekamp, I felt stronger, and I felt like he cared,” said Tammi. “He told me the truth.”

Dr. Klekamp attributed Tammi’s severe back pain to bone-on-bone impact resulting from degenerative disk disease. While the condition is treatable, surgery was required to relieve Tammi’s pain.

Tammi was initially scared to have surgery, but knew she needed it to continue to be present for her son. Dr. Klekamp reassured Tammi that this was the correct course of action after exhausting all non-invasive methods.

“He prayed with me, talked me through the X-rays and made sure I understood everything that was happening,” said Tammi. “You don’t find many doctors like that anymore.”

Eventually, Tammi’s condition required two surgeries – one in 2019 and another in the spring of 2023. Dr. Klekamp placed a total of eight screws to relieve the pressure in her back.

After the second surgery, Tammi remained in the hospital for six days.

“Dr. Klekamp came to see me every day,” said Tammi. “He came when I was laughing, and he came when I was crying.”

Tammi completed physical therapy, recovered quickly and was back on the sidelines cheering on her son pain-free. She is forever grateful to Bone and Joint Institute and recommends the orthopaedic group to anyone who will listen. 

“What sets Bone and Joint Institute apart is not only our expertise, but our providers’ ability to connect with their patients and identify their individual needs,” said Dr. Klekamp.

Tammi now has a new outlook on life, is looking forward to being as active as she can and reminds others to listen to their bodies.

“I feel good, and I’m comfortable walking and cheering for my son,” she said. “But most importantly, I’m there.”