Hannah
Hannah is a dancer who has been coming to physical therapy at 3DPT in Haddon Township intermittently since 2021 for treatment of generalized joint hypermobility. Hypermobility affects the structure and function of connective tissue, particularly the ligaments and tendons that support and stabilize joints. (Dancers can often fall into a category of general hypermobility – think super flexibility and moving beyond the normal range of motion!) Hypermobility is more than just being super flexible or “double-jointed” though. More severe forms can cause joint instability and dislocations, leading to chronic pain and other issues. The good news is that Hannah and others with hypermobility disorders can benefit from Physical Therapy by performing prescribed exercises to alleviate pain, stabilize joints, improve strength, and improve exercise tolerance.
In the summer of 2024, Hannah returned to 3DPT Haddon Township to work on increasing strength. Unfortunately just a few weeks later, she dislocated her shoulder and since then has had numerous additional dislocations resulting in need for continued PT, many tests and doctor’s appointments. Despite the setbacks though, Hannah has maintained her positive mindset. She shows up to PT each week eager and ready to work with a smile on her face!
Hannah was selected as patient of the month for her dedication to her rehabilitation while also continuing to do what she loves – dance! It has been an absolute pleasure watching Hannah grow over the years and we can’t wait to see what else she accomplishes.
Here’s what Hannah had to say about her journey at 3DPT Haddon Township:
Tell us about what brought you to physical therapy and how this affected your life.
I started going to PT again last summer for strengthening. Then my shoulder started to pop out a lot. This affected my life because I couldn’t do the things I love.
What has been the hardest part of your therapy? What was your favorite part of physical therapy?
My recovery process is going well especially with people by my side like Rachel, Tasha, and Kennedy. The hardest part is the mental part of it. My favorite part of physical therapy is how Rachel tries to make it fun (and she gives me snacks).
What advice would you give to other people who suffered similar injuries or going through the same situation?
The advice I would give to people in a similar situation is to not give up and it will get better in time.
Take a look at Hannah in action at 3DPT Haddon Township with her PT, Dr. Rachel Petrucci.
(P.S. Rachel loves working with individuals living with Ehlers Danlos and Hypermobility Disorders! She has over 2 years of experience and has completed EDS ECHO Certification coursework through the Ehlers-Danlos Society)
Why would you recommend 3 Dimensional Physical Therapy to your friends?
I would recommend 3DPT because the people are really nice and caring.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My favorite winter activity is thinking about summer 🌞
If you or a loved one is living with hypermobility, Physical therapy can help!
Physical therapists can help individuals with hypermobility by providing exercises to alleviate pain, stabilize joints, improve strength, and improve exercise tolerance. PTs can also use manual techniques to reduce tissue tension in times of increased pain. Your therapist will work with you to maximize your function so you can return to doing all the things you enjoy!
Some of the symptoms that PT can help with include:
- Feeling of instability in joints
- Frequent joint subluxations and dislocations
- Chronic ankle instability/sprains
- Jaw pain and clicking
- Chronic fatigue
- Headaches
Click HERE to make an appointment with a 3DPT physical therapist