From Achilles Surgery to a New Perspective: Basketball player Rediscovers the Gift of Movement
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 Nicholas’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.
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Nicholas came to us after undergoing an Achilles repair, with one big goal… to return to the sport that he loves. After playing basketball in college and overseas, it was clear that his mission was to return to the court with the same explosiveness and tenacity that he previously played with.
Nicholas started therapy with commitment, determination, and the patience required to nurture a successful outcome in such a long and enduring recovery. What makes him most special through these months has been his positive attitude and the laughs he has shared with staff and other patients. He has now returned to running, jumping, with a return to basketball looming on the horizon.
— Dr. Jeremy Nardiello, PT, DPT
In Nicholas’s Own Words…
Looking back on 2024, what has this recovery journey taught you about yourself and your ability to overcome challenges?
It taught me that significant change will take time, no matter how fast you’d like it to go.
What has been the most rewarding moment of your recovery so far, especially as you’re getting closer to stepping back on the court?
Jumping and squatting for the first time was something I was surprised I could do, especially after not even being able to stand at one point.
What part of physical therapy surprised you the most?
Understanding the nuance of injuries and recovery. The science behind it helps me understand the journey more clearly.
Thinking back on your basketball journey—playing in college, overseas, and now recovering from this injury—what keeps you motivated to keep pushing forward?
I didn’t really have a choice. It felt like a responsibility I knew I had to complete.
How has rehab for your Achilles changed your perspective on staying healthy and active as you head into the new year?
It taught me to just enjoy life and be present with my body. Now that I can run again, I realize how much I missed being able to get a good cardio workout in.
As the last Patient of the Month of the year, what message would you share with someone starting their own recovery journey?
Anything can happen to anyone. Everything changes, but the present is what you have now. Stay active and healthy for as long as you can because one day you may not be able to.