Interview Outcome

When I did my interviews, I got a lot of inside information from both perspectives of the physical therapy process. This helped because I can now show and give insight to the audience or people reading my magazine as to what physical therapy is really like to the patient, and therapist.


Questions for patient (Pablo Der Boghossian):

Why was physical therapy your choice of treatment?

"I believe that physical therapy has the tools to rehabilitate any injuries, in this case, my knee. i understand that physical therapy is the profession that rehabilitates function and makes you stronger after and injury or surgery."

What was the cause of you needing physical therapy?

"I was in physical therapy due to post-op ACL repair, which means i tore my ACL ligament and had surgery to repair it. This happened while i was playing soccer."

Has physical therapy helped you?

"Definitely. I was able to get back in the game!"

If it has, how long did it take for you to feel the effects in relation to your injury/pain?

"Since I had a complex surgery, I started feeling better a month after. I started physical therapy 2 weeks after the operation. With all the exercises I was receiving day by day, my pain was decreasing and I was feeling more confident."

How long was your treatment?

"I received 4 months of physical therapy."

How long did it take until your full recovery?

"After id been discharged from physical therapy, the physical therapist gave me a home exercise program so I could continue the protocol towards my goals. It took another 4 months until i was fully recovered."

If you played any sports, how did it feel to play after your rehab had been completed?

"I felt great, pain free and strong, but it took me another 2-3 months to regain 100% confidence."

Questions for therapist (Ana Mendez):

What is the most common condition you treat in this office?

"Due to the older population of the city, the most common thing that i see is low back pain."

What is the most important piece of information that a patient will take with them from physical therapy?

"we give the patient after their first treatment a home exercise program so they can exercise the days they don't come to therapy. They are also given tips and advice for correct body mechanics to avoid re-injuries and prevent new ones."

What is the key for a successful outcome of the rehabilitation process?

"To be successful the patient must be consistent, focused, and committed throughout the rehabilitation process. It is essential for the patient to follow the physical therapist's instructions, not only at the clinic but also at home.

Who can benefit from physical therapy?

"Any person who has experienced any kind of muscle or joint pain or has been involved in any accident which has led to an injury. Physical therapy can also help people with any balance problems, or that have become weak for any reason."