Middle School Athlete Returns to Play After a Year of Back Pain: Ryan’s Comeback Story

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

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Ryan is an eighth grader who plays basketball and lacrosse, and from the start he’s stood out. He is such a great kid, he always works hard and is very motivated!

After nearly a year of back pain and 12 weeks sidelined from sports, Ryan stayed committed to every part of his plan. His family has been incredibly supportive, which made a long recovery feel doable.

Now that he’s cleared to return to play, Ryan is looking ahead to the teams he wants to make and the goals he’s setting as he heads into high school. His progress is a reminder that consistency and the right support can carry you through the toughest stretches.

— Dr. Jeremy Nardiello, DPT

In Ryan’s Own Words…

What sport did you miss the most while you were out, and why?

Basketball. I missed summer league and sleep away camp.

How did you keep yourself busy and positive when you couldn’t play?

Strength training and working on my shooting.

What was one thing in PT that really helped you feel stronger or more confident?

Getting my core stronger. It will help for both basketball and lacrosse

What are you most excited to do now that you’re cleared to play again?

Get back to playing with my teammates and friends 

Do you have a goal for your first season back in basketball or lacrosse?

To help lead my team to league championships in basketball and lacrosse. 

Who encouraged you the most during your recovery, and what did they say that stuck with you?

My parents, they always pushed me to keep going

What advice would you give a fellow teammate who has been sidelined by an injury?

Remember that you can push through this if you commit to #getbetterbebetter at physical therapy