Getting Back to What You Love After Knee Replacement Surgery
Each month, Iron Physical Therapy highlights a special patient to tell their inspiring story. We want to honor the people who go all in - body, mind and spirit. They show us what’s possible - that you can move on from a setback to do amazing things...to challenge your body, to chase your dreams, to address pain in a healthy way to #getbetterbebetter.
Check out Ellen’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.
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When Ellen realized she couldn't dance through her knee pain, she knew something had to happen. She took that first brave step toward surgery and recovery — and she hasn’t slowed down since.
Her hard work was contagious in the clinic, as well as her smile and laugh. She brought great energy to every session. You can always count on Ellen for book recommendations, and you never know when you'll see her working at The Depot in town!
Flash forward a few months, and this dancer is ready to lace up her shoes and get back to it… Nice job, Ellen!
— Dr. Marnie Wortman, DPT
In ellen’s Own Words…
What keeps you moving — and why is dance such a big part of your life?
I like to keep active by attending classes at my local YMCA. My favorite is a jazz dance class. Dancing is a fun way to exercise while learning the discipline of dance.
When did you realize it was time to stop pushing through the pain and seek help?
Due to knee (both) pain, I have been a patient at Iron PT for over a year. I stopped attending classes about 2 months prior to knee replacement surgery.
How did physical therapy support you before and after your surgery?
Iron PT helped me with strengthening prior to surgery and has been an important part of my recovery. The therapists and staff are both encouraging and challenging, and they also care about the whole person. They push me past where I believe I can go.
What’s something that surprised you about your recovery during this process?
It has been 3 months since my surgery and I am now back to dancing!
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about starting physical therapy but isn’t sure it’s right for them?
I would encourage anyone who is in need of therapy to check out Iron PT.