Back in February, my mother 89 year-old mother started suffering from lower back pain that she…read moreinitially attributed both to her spinal stenosis, diagnosed many years ago, and old age. After a short hospital stay for x-rays and pain management, it was found that she had a slipped disc. Any thoughts of rehab had to be postponed, however, as she got sick with COVID-19 soon after. She recovered, but it left her a bit weak and unsteady.
I called my girlfriend, a former gymnast, dancer, and now, doctor of physical therapy, who is director of rehab medicine for a hospital system in another state, and asked for advice. "You CANNOT go to some random PT clinic and expect them to be able to help your mother! It has to be someone who specializes in the spine, and thoroughly understands movement and the body. Whoever it is has to have the very specialized education and training to know how to get your mom back to functioning at the high level she's used to. " She called back a few minutes later. "I just found your guy."
Dr. Sparacio, who goes by Jack, was friendly, welcoming, and professional from the first phone call, addressing all of my questions and concerns, including assurance that all COVID-19 safety protocols were in place at his clinic. Jack was to be out of town that week, but assumed me that all of his therapists were equally qualified. As promised, Cameron knew exactly how to work with my mom and get her started. Friendly, upbeat, and thoroughly professional, he clearly was someone who enjoyed his job.
All subsequent sessions were with Jack, who gave Mom his full attention as he worked with her. He carefully explained how to do the exercises, as well as the purpose of each. In addition, Jack took the time to engage with and get to know my mother, listening as she told stories of her life and career. Though obviously a people person, it became clear that this was an important component of Jack's method of treatment.
The space itself is clean and organized, but the "feel" is inviting and informal, even as profound and important healing work is done.
My mother says that she can't thank Dr. Jack Sparacio and his staff enough for giving her the tools to feel and function so much better! Neither can I!