If recovering from a serious sports related injury is your priority, look no further. Carolina…read morePhysical Therapy and Sports Medicine is your best choice by far.
I seriously injured my left hamstring during a marathon, which required an ultra-specialized surgery to reattach and repair. Prior to the surgery I phone-interviewed and researched physical therapy provider options. I wanted a no-nonsense, respectful philosophical approach to guide my recovery activities. I spoke with the Center's director, Erin. It was clear that we were aligned here; she included a recommendation that I start physical therapy prior to the surgery, to strengthen my leg and prepare it for rehabilitation. As I had never used crutches prior to the surgery, there was also practice assistance there too!
So I began my relationship with Carolina Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine's therapeutic staff, consisting of Erin, Joe, and Liz, and Amber, as their able assistant.
My pre-surgery strengthening exercises included not only leg strengthening, but also hip and core and balancing and exercises. My post surgery rehabilitation plan was phased over the course of several months, and included the first phase which included quad sets, ankle pumps, abdominal isometrics, and upper body cardiovascular exercise to maintain my fitness level. Phase two weaned me from crutches and included stationary bike exercise, balance drills, gait training, hip and core strengthening. Phase three included a gradual return to light running drills, impact drills, elliptical machine use, in addition to the exercises in Phase two. Phase four included strengthening drills, higher velocity training, and a return to running.
As a result their guidance, I was able to progress through the recovery protocol well ahead of schedule, and have been able to run 9 miles straight without pain in less than four months. In addition, the core and hip strengthening exercises have also improved my running mechanics.
Erin, Joe, and Liz and extremely knowledgeable clinicians, and their pleasant, straightforward approach with me was aided by the atmosphere of the Center, which was always incredibly positive. It is clear that this team enjoys their work and enjoys working together. A real difference maker!
