I've gone to Gridiron for two different surgery recoveries. I first learned of Eric Tamura through…read moremy personal trainer, and then learned that he and Gridiron were also heartily approved by my surgeon. Thanks to Eric and team (he always seems to have excellent interns, and the other DPT Cameron is awesome too), I came through my first recovery so well that the surgeon remarked on it. Five years later, I am now rehabbing from RC surgery and again, the surgical team are well-pleased with my recovery. This is because of Gridiron PT.
Eric is incredibly knowledgeable, and his practice combines a strong education and nearly two decades of hands-on experience with a wide variety of conditions. This first-hand experience sets him apart. (I've seen everyone from top level athletes, to "regular folk" with aches/pains, to nonagenarians (yes!) living their best lives at Gridiron.)
I ask questions about EVERYthing, and Eric patiently explains the anatomy/mechanics in digestible language, and most important, he covers the why's and how's. I actually take notes.
Eric's manner is professional, yet warm and friendly enough to allow you to physically relax--essential for getting the most benefit from sessions. He also has an encouraging, positive presence, and that helps when you're feeling plateaued.
I agree with other reviewers--Eric has an excellent sense of "patient touch," and is also very gentle--this is HUGE, especially post-surgery!! He is able to do way more than I can myself, and that is what this is about. I am confident and comfortable enough in his manipulation to let this happen, and thus progress much more than working on my own.
Also, in the recovery process, one only sees the surgeon just few times in the long months post-surgery. With Gridiron, I can have more frequent, professional assessments of how much I can do, how much I should do, and what I should NOT do. (I am always directed to the surgical team members, if my questions are best answered by them. And likewise, the surgeon has told me to ask Eric on many issues. Absolutely necessary to have both.)
Equally important is getting "homework" to do on my own. Eric goes through what to do, why we are doing it, and also how to set it up at home (!!) Terrific! This is important in my continuing to improve, and protect, my shoulder, going forward.
Hugely important in the experience, the Gridiron front office staff are fantastic. Christine, Liberty, and Amber are always available in-person, and unfailingly super helpful, no matter the questions. Even when insurance is sometimes a puzzle (coverage is a parallel universe!) Christine and team are happy to have questions reviewed/explained. They work miracles with scheduling (and re-!) and always with a smile. This team is refreshing, in a medical world where provider vs. front-of-house don't always function to the same levels.
I am planning to continue with periodic sessions at Gridiron. Their evaluations, advice, and the actual, physical work, are among the best long term investments I can make.
