Suzanne’s Story

Hospice Chaplain Finds Relief and Recovery with Tenex Procedure for Achilles Tendon

For over 25 years, Suzanne Fabick has been a devoted hospice chaplain, offering comfort to patients and their families during end-of-life care. Alongside her deeply fulfilling career, the 64-year-old mother of two has remained highly active, enjoying activities like jogging, yoga, Pilates, and volunteering. Her passion for social justice and staying fit has always been central to her lifestyle.

However, after running the Detroit Free Press half marathon in 2022, Suzanne, who had never experienced major health issues, began to feel pain in her left side. Initially attributing it to wearing improper running shoes, the pain started in her hamstring and gluteal muscles before affecting her Achilles tendon. “I thought it was just muscle strain or maybe osteoporosis,” Suzanne recalls. “But when it didn’t go away, I sought help.”

Suzanne visited Henry Ford Medical Center-Bloomfield Township for physical therapy, which initially provided some relief. But when the pain persisted, her physical therapist recommended that she see Henry Ford Foot and Ankle Surgeon Nicole Brouyette, DPM.

A new path to healing: The Tenex procedure

Dr. Brouyette evaluated Suzanne and suggested a procedure called Tenex, a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic Achilles tendon pain caused by tendon degeneration.

“It works by using a specialized instrument that combines ultrasound imaging with a tiny, vibrating probe,” explains Dr. Brouyette. “The probe breaks down and removes damaged tissue from the tendon without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. This process helps reduce pain and allows the tendon to heal more effectively.”

Dr. Brouyette adds that Suzanne was a great candidate for the procedure because she had chronic Achilles tendon pain that hasn’t responded well to conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, or anti-inflammatory medications.

“It is particularly beneficial for her tendon that has degeneration (tendinosis) rather than a full tear. Athletes and active individuals often choose this option because it offers a quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgery.”

With the pain continuing to disrupt her ability to walk and engage in daily activities, Suzanne felt confident in Dr. Brouyette’s recommendation. She underwent the Tenex procedure in July 2024, hopeful that this approach would provide lasting relief.

A steady and smooth recovery

Suzanne was pleasantly surprised at how quickly she recovered from the procedure.

“I had the procedure on a Thursday, and I was back to work and driving by Monday,” she says. “I followed Dr. Brouyette’s instructions carefully, wearing a boot for two weeks and avoiding physical activity that could strain my foot. I took it slow, and it paid off—I’m now able to resume my normal activities without any pain.”

Reflecting on her recovery, Suzanne compares her experience with that of her brother, who had surgery years ago for a similar Achilles tendon issue.

“His recovery was much more difficult,” she says. “After seeing how quickly I healed, he told me he wished Tenex had been available when he needed treatment.”

Advice for others seeking Achilles tendon treatment

Having experienced chronic pain herself, Suzanne emphasizes the impact it can have on every aspect of life. She is immensely grateful to Dr. Brouyette for her thorough explanation of the procedure and her consistent support during the recovery process.

“I’m so thankful to Dr. Brouyette for her expertise and responsiveness,” Suzanne says. “She always reminded me to take it easy and heal at my own pace, and now, I can walk, work, and enjoy my activities pain-free. The Tenex procedure has truly improved my quality of life.”