How I Got Active Again: From Physical Therapy to Mudderella

"I Used to Play Volleyball"

How I Battled Foot Pain to Be Active Again

Meet Leanne, our May patient of the month! When she first started PT, her mantra was, "I used to play volleyball, but I can't do it anymore."

Leanne thought she was a retired athlete who may never play again since her foot just wouldn't cooperate! But with her fierce determination and hard work, she not only began to run, but also signed up to complete a rigorous outdoor obstacle course, the Mudderella! Leanne proved to herself that she doesn't need to limit herself to practicing yoga, but can get out there and stay active! With summer coming, look out for her on the court!

In her Own Words…

Three Words That Describe You: Determined, Compassionate and Gregarious

What brought you to PT? I have struggled with on-going foot pain during activity for over 5 years. I had given up on being able to be active since the doctors ran out of options, and the first round of PT elsewhere had not succeeded. I was frustrated that even yoga was now painful and decided to give PT another try but this time with Iron PT.

How have you benefitted from PT? I thought if something hurt during physical activities, I shouldn't be doing it. Through PT, I learned the safe way to work through the pain and build strength which eventually has substantially reduced my pain. I'm now able to run, hike and will even play volleyball this summer.

What would you say to someone with the same injury? If you already have stress fractures, I would strongly recommend having PT right after you get out of the boot. You lose more strength in those 6 weeks booted than you realize and once the stress fractures develop arthritis, it becomes a life long injury.  

What are you most excited about getting back to?

I'm excited about just being able to chase my dog around the yard and go for hikes without pain. I'm also signed up for a Mudderella in May and will start to play volleyball again this summer. My future goal is to travel to South America for a 2 week yoga retreat!