Chase Fynan

3DPT’s patient of the month, Chase Fynan, came to 3DPT with a diagnosis of spondylolysis, a type of fracture in the lumbar vertebrae, from playing baseball. This type of fracture can be caused by performing repetitive stress on the spine. Chase was put in a firm plastic back brace for almost 3 months before transitioning to a soft brace. He has been coming to PT consistently and working so hard!! Chase’s positive attitude and hard work ethic has been refreshing and inspiring. He is determined to reach his goals and will tackle any obstacle we throw at him! 

Here is what Chase had to say about his injury and his road to recovery with 3DPT:

Tell us what brought you to physical therapy and how this affected your life.

Chase: I had an old baseball injury that caused severe pain in my lower back.  My vertebrae was fractured and the area was swollen.  I was unable to play baseball and had to wear a brace that kept my back immobilized.  Once the brace was on me for about 6 weeks the doctors at Rothman decided I should start with a PT routine and he recommended 3DPT

Tell us a little about your recovery process. What has been the hardest part of your therapy?

Chase: Being in the immobilizing brace was a bummer!  It was for half of the summer and the first part of my Junior year.  I did not play with my summer baseball team at all.  I was not allowed to lift or twist.  Once I got into PT I felt like I would be able to become more physically active and started feeling stronger.  My brace has been upgraded to a softer but supportive brace that I only have to wear during physical activities.  I am still in PT and the exercises are getting increasingly more challenging and I am able to keep up with the program that 3DPT is doing with me.

What advice would you give to other people who suffered similar injuries or are going through the same situation?

Chase: The brace might be uncomfortable but stick with it because your back will heal in time and once you start PT you will see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Why would you recommend 3 Dimensional Physical Therapy?

Chase:The therapists are really friendly and relatable.  I feel comfortable asking questions and I know that I am getting stronger with the program that Katlin has me on.

What are you most looking forward to that you may not have been able to do with your injury?Chase: Working out, especially now that I have more strength in my core with the exercises that I am doing.  I also like playing pick up basketball with my brother on the weekends and helping my mother with her business.