Peter Matthews
Our June patient of the month, Peter Matthews, is the definition of hard-working. Peter first came to 3DPT Haddon Township after having his right knee replaced this past April. If you’ve been around anyone who has had a knee replacement, you know that the recovery can be hard. Peter (who is also a liver transplant survivor and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro on one good knee!) has worked diligently during his rehab process. Peter’s work ethic and positive attitude are admired by all of us here at 3DPT. He is determined to get back to hiking all over the world!
Here is what Peter 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.
Peter: As a liver transplant survivor I advocate for organ donation. In 2021 I climbed Kilimanjaro, to highlight how an organ donor enabled me to keep living. On the descent from 19,340′ I knew my right knee was finally shot. After years of monovisc shots, and wearing a loader brace, my ‘bone on bone’ joint had to be replaced. Doctor Jain of Reconstructive Ortho replaced the joint in April, and I began therapy at 3DPT.
Tell us a little about your recovery process. What has been the hardest part of your therapy?
Peter: I am not a patient, patient. And I hoped to be soon back to my active self. My 3DPT team showed me how I needed to be methodical and focused on my recovery plan—to allow my body to heal. It was important for me to give my body time to recover. After two months, I am back in the saddle and pleased with my progress
What advice would you give to other people who suffered similar injuries or are going through the same situation?
Peter: I suggest the following:
- Exercise as much as possible in the two months prior to knee surgery. This will assist in recovery;
- Have a support team to help in the first week after surgery;
- Sleeping will be affected for some time. I suggest discussing medication with a pcp, to assist sleeping;
- Manage your expectations and rehab slowly
Why would you recommend 3 Dimensional Physical Therapy?
Peter: It’s been great working with the 3DPT team. They’ve been engaged in my recovery and have shown their commitment to my return to full mobility. I’ve noticed the team does not work from a standard ‘play book.’ They adjust the rehab plan as needed, to respond to patient progress.
Mark and the team have been a delight to work with on my rehab journey. I am pleased to recommend them highly to anyone needing responsive guided care.
What are you most looking forward to that you may not have been able to do with your injury?
Peter: Before surgery, I felt discomfort with every step on a trail. I’m looking forward to getting back on the trails, this time pain free. I hope to make a backpack adventure in the fall. My grandchildren are monitoring my progress, to see when the new poppy is ready for fun!
Physical Therapy can help you reach your goals too – climbing mountains or climbing steps. Don’t let pain get in the way you of doing the things you love
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