By Matt Browning
Eisenhower Middle Schooler Reed Thomas tore his ACL last summer while playing basketball. He was going for a loose ball when an opposing player fell on the back of his knee.
After surgery, Thomas chose Advanced Physical Therapy for his recovery and rehabilitation. It was a long, arduous process, as he attended sessions twice a week for six months starting last September.
“I used progressive type of exercises and tasks that helped build the muscles back after knee surgery,” Thomas said. “These included weights, agility, and plyometric exercises.”
Thomas was pleased with his experience at APT and said the staff was his favorite part.
“The staff for sure (was my favorite part),” Thomas said. “Rikki and Cale were fun, and really kept me focused. The exercises were actually really fun, and helped a lot.”
Staying focused on the work ahead is one piece of advice Thomas would give to any athlete needing physical therapy.
“(The advice I would give) would be to do all the exercises they tell you to do, and not slack off because it will only make you fall behind,” Thomas said. “The staff can definitely tell when you didn’t do your ‘homework’ and they don’t let you off the hook.”
