By Mike Orzechowski, PT, DPT
Matt B. is an exceptional swimmer. He loves distance freestyle events and the 200 meter butterfly. He recently finished 2nd in the Mile at Eastern Zones (one of four U.S. zones). Last summer Matt competed in five open water races, placing 1st in two races and in the top 3 in three additional races. Matt’s success is due to his strong work ethic and the enthusiasm he has for his sport. He practices seven days a week often attending two practices per day.
I met Matt B. in January 2015, when he decided to come to Dresher Physical Therapy for a swimming-related injury. Upon speaking with Matt, I was immediately struck by how dedicated and passionate he was about swimming. He was very committed to his physical therapy and was extremely faithful to his home exercise program.
Overuse injuries and tendonitis/bursitis are very commonly associated with sports participation, especially endurance sports such as long- distance swimming and running. With such a rigorous training and competitive event schedule, Matt has been treated over the years at Dresher PT for shoulder tendonitis, knee pain, and elbow pain.
During Matt’s rehab, I used several approaches to eliminate his problem. I utilized stainless-steel soft tissue release tools, known as HawkGrips, to decrease the scar tissue adhesions that Matt had developed throughout his soft tissue. In conjunction with hands-on manual stretching and a very specific and individualized exercise program, we were able to quickly eliminate Matt’s symptoms. Matt’s total commitment to his recovery and Dresher P.T.’s expertise in sport-specific rehab had him back in the pool in no time!
Matt also excels in the classroom. Given the amount of time he spends in the water, this is impressive and admirable. He is planning on graduating in 2019 and is debating taking a year to train for the Olympic trials in 2020. Though he may also go directly to college to swim. Continued good luck, Matt. You have a bright future ahead of you!
If you, or someone you know is suffering from a sport-related injury, contact one of Dresher Physical Therapy’s two great locations in Blue Bell and Fort Washington. We will help your achieve your goals!
