Approaching ACL Rehab Like Marathon Training
Ryen is a Montclair runner, skier, busy dad, and now Iron Caldwell’s Patient of the Month.
After an ACL tear and meniscus repair from a skiing injury, everything had to pause. But his mindset didn’t. Ryen treated ACL rehab the same way he approaches marathon training, by focusing on small victories each day and continuing to move forward.
In his DPT’s words…
“Ryen’s dedication to the ACL rehab process has made him an even stronger athlete!”
— Dr. Geno Mayes, DPT and Iron PT Owner
In Ryen’s Own Words…
The Power of Community
One of the best parts of running, skiing, and being active is the community of friendly faces all enjoying the endeavor of being active and challenging ourselves and each other.
That sense of support became even more important after my ACL injury.
My wife really helped me get through recovery by taking on more than usual, which was already a ton, so I had time to recover and go to PT.
Also, the team at Iron made it fun to come in and helped me see the opportunity in every challenge. They knew me well enough to push me just enough (“one more”) and also give a me a few “spa days” when I was at my limit.
Facing an ACL Injury
After tearing my ACL and injuring my meniscus while skiing, my first thought was:
How do I get back to 100% and how quickly can I do it? I knew I was in a hole, but I also knew the only way out was up.
Treating Rehab Like Marathon Training
I focused on small victories every day, leveraging my experience marathon training to keep moving forward.
My family also kept me energized along with the positive energy and vibes of the entire Iron team.
For anyone early in the recovery process, my advice would be:
Surround yourself with people who motivate you to put in the effort and time to get better.
Keep with it and pushing harder.
It’s not meant to get easier, you are meant get stronger.
The Moments That Made It Worth It
My first run sticks out as a turning point. So does my first box jump and my first ski run.
Dealing with an ACL injury or trying to get back to running? Start here.