Jael Johnson
Most of us can agree that there is never a good time for an injury! But when you’re a busy mom with others depending on you, it can be especially hard to take the necessary care of yourself – not to mention the other million things moms juggle!
Our patient of the month, Jael, managed to do just that though! Despite a rotator cuff tear that made even moving her arm hard to do, Jael, overcame her injury and managed to maintain her SuperMom status!
3DPT: Tell us about your injury that brought you to physical therapy and how it affected your life/lifestyle.
Jael: I was told in February of 2018 that I had a partial rotator cuff tear which ended up becoming a complete tear by the time it was repaired in May of 2018. The complete tear came 2 weeks prior to my surgery, which left me completely debilitated and unable to lift or use my right arm. Because I was limited to use of only one hand, it was difficult to care for my then 5-year-old daughter – helping bathe and dress her, and let’s not talk about doing her hair! It made commuting over an hour to work difficult, as I was uncomfortable in any position. My sleep was also affected during this time, as I was limited to the positions I could lay in. Daily life overall was miserable for me.
3DPT: How where you able to overcome your injury while juggling being a mom?
Jael: I am extremely fortunate to have a wide network of support of both family and friends. I also had a very supportive boss and co-workers who understood my struggles. My 23-year-old son, who lives at home with me and was essential to keeping up the house and helping me with grocery shopping, cleaning and yardwork.
3DPT: Tell us a little about your recovery process. What was/has been the hardest part of your therapy?
Jael: For me, the hardest part has been the time it takes to heal. I tend to want things “right now”. I have to remind myself daily, that for me, this process will take time, and it can’t be rushed. I have already had 2 other surgeries on this same shoulder, and ended up with adhesive capsulitis, aka “frozen shoulder,” so my road to recovery has been long and painful at times.
3DPT: What advice would you give to another people who suffered similar injuries?
Jael: Explore your options and get opinions from at least 2 doctors, if possible. Don’t rush into surgery, unless it’s an absolute necessity. TRUST the process, and DO the work. You can’t just show up to PT 2-3 times a week, and not put in any work outside of that. And remember you can’t heal overnight.
3DPT: Why would you recommend 3 Dimensional Physical Therapy?
Jael: The 3DPT staff are extremely knowledgeable, creative, supportive and most importantly, they love what they do! This is not my first injury they have helped me through, and I’m sure it won’t be my last. I am proud of the work we have accomplished together, and will continue to recommend others that need therapy.