Lindsey and Ryan walking

A severe foot injury nearly ended Lindsey Buczkowski’s soccer career. Her unwillingness to take no for an answer kept that from happening – and provided her a path for her future.

Lindsey suffered a severe Lisfranc, or midfoot, injury on a routine play during her high school sophomore season.

Finding Motivation | Ryan Shazier's 50 Phenoms

The injury meant more than just the end to that season. It required surgery – Lindsey’s doctor installed a plate and screws to stabilize her foot – and months of difficult rehabilitation just to regain normal use. It also threatened her ability to play soccer again, with some family and friends suggesting she hang up her cleats.

Continuing to Fight | Ryan Shazier's 50 Phenoms

But Lindsey wouldn’t let that happen. She and her athletic trainer adopted the motto of “no surrender,” and Lindsey lived up to it. She pushed through her rehab, celebrating small improvements along the way. And eventually, she ended back in the place she hoped to: on the soccer field, where she played her final two seasons of high school.

Never Miss a Beat!

Receive text updates from Ryan Shazier’s 50 Phenoms

Message and data rates may apply. Text the word STOP to opt out and HELP for help. Click here to view the privacy and terms.

The entire process allowed Lindsey to appreciate the importance of determination, but it also provided her with a potential career. Now a student at Penn State University, she is interested in pursuing a degree in physical therapy or a similar field, to help others in her situation.

Learning to Let Go | Ryan Shazier's 50 Phenoms

In fact, Lindsey already has done that. She helped in the medical tent of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, and she also provides advice to other people going through Lisfranc injuries.

“I just really enjoy being there for people, and I want to be an inspiration to others to get back to what they love doing,” Lindsey says.

About UPMC Orthopaedic Care

When you are dealing with bone, muscle, or joint pain, it can affect your daily life. UPMC Orthopaedic Care can help. As a national leader in advanced orthopaedic care, we diagnose and treat a full range of musculoskeletal disorders, from the acute and chronic to the common and complex. We provide access to UPMC’s vast network of support services for both surgical and nonsurgical treatments and a full continuum of care. Our multidisciplinary team of experts will work with you to develop the treatment plan that works best for you. Our care team uses the most innovative tools and techniques to provide better outcomes. We also are leaders in research and clinical trials, striving to find better ways to provide our patients care. With locations throughout our communities, you can find a provider near you.