Physical Therapy Helps High School Teacher Get Back on Her Feet After Double Foot Surgery

Each month, Iron Physical Therapy highlights a special patient to tell their inspiring story…because we know recovery is more than just going to appointments! We want to honor people who go all in - body, mind and spirit. They show us what’s possible. - that you can move on from a setback energized to do amazing things...to challenge your body, to chase your dreams, to address future pain in a healthy way, to #getbetterbebetter. Read Tina’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.

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This October, Tina is Iron Physical Therapy’s Patient of the Month from our Midland Park, NJ clinic…and this journey has been anything but easy for her! When she needed to have foot surgery on both feet, this busy teacher & cheerleading coach knew the best time was the summer. While Tina’s road to recovery has been a long one, the hard work she's put in has never wavered - from a wheelchair, to crutches, to walking without anything. See how it played out below!

What brought you into physical therapy?

When I first started physical therapy, I knew the whole process was going to be challenging after having surgery on both feet…but knowing the environment and the staff are so supportive would make it seem less rigorous.

The recovery process can sometimes be a long one. How have you stayed positive during this time?

Although I still have a ways to go, having such an encouraging support system both in and outside of PT has kept me positive.

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

There is no reason to be in pain, especially if you can help it, and PT can really be a game changer. Often times people think you have to have a serious injury to go to PT and that isn’t the case.

Any advice for others who are recovering from an injury/surgery like yours? What have been some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

CELEBRATE THE SMALL STUFF!! I have really learned that progress is progress, no matter how small it may seem. Also, do your research - be prepared for what you may experience and understand the process.

What are you most excited to get back to doing after physical therapy?

I am most excited to get back to a more normal gym schedule, including kickboxing.

What lessons from PT do you think your own students could learn from?

I think a lesson that my students could learn is to be patient, like I have. Recovery takes time and is a process. No matter what challenge you face in life, You are responsible for your progress, the work you put in will determine how well you do.