Josette

Josette, a student athlete at Bishop Eustace High School, came to 3DPT in the summer of 2023 after tearing her meniscus during a recreational field hockey game.  Initially worried about her diagnosis, she was unsure if she was going to be able to get back on the field for her senior seasons of field hockey and lacrosse, both of which she excels in. Even more so, she wanted her senior season to go seamlessly to assist in the transition to college field hockey at William and Mary.

From day one of PT, Josette’s positivity and eagerness were evident. She always arrived to her appointments with a smile and was constantly seeking the next challenge. Her dedication (and hard work) paid off, Josette is now fully participating in both school lacrosse and club field hockey. 

Here’s what Josette had to say about his injury and experience at 3DPT Haddon Township

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

I have played sports all my life, and I had committed to the College of William and Mary to play Division 1 field hockey. Naturally, I was playing field hockey when I tore my meniscus in my right knee this past July. After my MRI, I decided to put off surgery so I could play my senior season at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School. I did platelet-rich plasma treatment with my doctor, began physical therapy at 3DPT in August, and continued therapy during my whole field hockey season. I received meniscus surgery at the end of November which brought me back to my physical therapy team.

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

I was a bit apprehensive about physical therapy because I had never done it before, but 3DPT made me feel right at home. I typically came in three times a week after practice during my season and right after school when high school field hockey ended. My therapist, Rachel Petrucci, did an amazing job accommodating my crazy schedule. The hardest part of physical therapy was having to lock into the right mindset for success once there. Most definitely, my favorite part was the people at the Haddon Township location. I became friends with my therapists, aides, and even some other patients and it was somewhat bittersweet leaving.

Check out this video to see Josette in a friendly field hockey themed competition at the clinic

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

I have talked to many people with similar injuries, and we’re all agreed, physical therapy is so important for long-term strength and mobility. I recommend doing your physical therapy dutifully because it is that important. I would also say don’t ever lose sight of your goal and try to find that balance between driving yourself and listening to your body. If you are impatient like me, listen to the people trying to help you and recognize that recovery is a slow process. Keep working, and while there’s a fine line, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself because you know your body best.

Why would you recommend 3 Dimensional Physical Therapy?

I have found that most that most things in life depend on your attitude. The 3DPT team have hardworking and good-natured attitudes that inspired me on the worst days to have the same. Another great thing about 3DPT was that I felt they used every means available to work me back to full recovery. I think I used almost every machine and tool in the building, from blood flow machines to yoga balls.

What are you most looking forward to doing as it gets warmer now that you’re feeling better?

I am very excited to be able to play high school lacrosse, club field hockey this spring and then on to W&M field hockey this fall. Playing sports is what I love to do, so I am so grateful for all that 3DPT has done for me. It is surreal to walk and run around with no pain. This journey has stressed the importance of my health and not taking my body for granted. Huge thanks to 3DPT for this distinction!

Physical Therapy can help you reach your goals too!

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