A common sports injury turned dangerous — how University of Missouri Health Care saved an athlete’s leg
University of Missouri Health Care
Columbia, Mo.
Courtesy of University of Missouri Health Care
What began as a routine sports injury for a Missouri college soccer player quickly escalated into a life-threatening medical crisis, ultimately leading to a complex, leg-saving effort at MU Health Care. Madeleine Gillman, a longtime athlete, developed a chronic stress fracture in her right tibia — commonly known as shin splints — after years of playing soccer. The injury required surgery in 2022, but complications during the procedure left her with severe tissue damage, bone loss and infection, putting her at risk of amputation.
Gillman’s surgeon referred her to MU Health Care’s Limb Preservation Program. There, a multidisciplinary team led by orthopedic specialist Brett Crist, M.D., worked to stabilize her condition and rebuild the damaged bone. Doctors treated the infection and removed dead tissue before using advanced techniques to regenerate bone and restore function, part of a coordinated effort involving surgical, imaging and rehabilitation expertise aimed at preserving the limb.
After months of treatment and recovery, Gillman was able to keep her leg and move forward with her life and career. She completed nursing school during her recovery and now works in health care, drawing on her personal experience to support patients facing similar challenges.