Getting back to Lifting After Back Surgery with Physical Therapy

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.

Read Joseph’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.

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What can I say about Patient of the Month Joe? When he was presented with a challenge post Laminectomy surgery, this man knew he didn't have time to sit around and wait. As a busy dad of two, he knew his young kids weren't going to take it easy on him, so he better keep moving! This hard worker always comes in with a smile from start to finish and we know there will always be a few laughs when he walks in the door!

- Dr. Marnie Wortman, DPT

In Joseph’s Own Words…

1) List Three Words to Describe You:

Passionate, dedicated, perseverance

2)  What Brought You Into Physical Therapy?

In August I had emergency back surgery to repair two herniated discs in my back which caused a drop foot in my left foot

3) How would you describe physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a place where you can get assistance in increasing mobility in areas that may be limited.

4)  What exercise or technique helped you most?

I think its been a combination of everything. Balance, core movements & stretching all have played an equal role.

5)  What would you say to someone who is living in pain and putting off physical therapy?

Don’t wait to get physical therapy. Chronic pain, or any pain for that matter, usually doesn’t just go away on its own. PT will help with your healing both physically and mentally.

6) What are you excited to get back to after physical therapy?

Working out. Over the past year I went from lifting 5-6 days a week to none. Also, being able to be more active for both my kids. The last few months have been a struggle but day by day it’s been improving.

6) What did you enjoy most about the physical therapy experience?

The interaction with the Iron staff. Physical therapy is a long process, and they make it very enjoyable. I think most importantly they explain and walk you through the entire process. How to perform each movement along with the reason behind each one.