2 Your Health: AZOPT success story – meet Barbara

David Price

AZOPT is dedicated to providing quality, personalized care by enthusiastic and passionate physical therapists. But don’t just take our word for it. Our patients tell their story best. Like Barbara, who for more than 20 years had unbearable back pain. Read more about her successful experience-.

My name is Barbara and for more than 20 years I had unbearable back pain. Living in Illinois, my life was a broken shell of what it once was. I tried nerve ablations, cortisone injections, chiropractors and pain medication. I moved from Illinois to Arizona, hoping to find better answers and less pain. My pain was so debilitating, eventually, I was confined to a chair, unable to stand, walk a few feet, or do any household chores. But finally, my unwillingness to accept my situation led me Dr. Dennis Crandall of Sonoran Spine, where I learned I had progressive scoliosis that was so severe (55% curve) I would need surgery. In December 2016, I had a fusion to correct my curve to 0% with the placement of two titanium rods to straighten my back. This was actually quite a scary time for me, however, I did know that even though this condition is rare, I was not alone. I looked at websites like https://scoliosisinstitute.com/ and was pleased to find that there was a way for this to be sorted, even if it just took time.

After in-patient therapy at the hospital and home recovery, I was ready for the final step in my rehabilitation. Living in PebbleCreek, AZOPT was not only highly recommended by church friends, but also conveniently located. I was evaluated at AZOPT Goodyear on April 18, 2017 by Trent. At the time of my evaluation, I had pain levels of 7 out of 10 with some numbness and tingling. I was only able to stand and walk for up to an hour at a time. I relied heavily on my husband for things like putting on shoes and socks. At physical therapy, Trent and I worked together to begin rebuilding my range of motion, strength and flexibility. Physical therapy consisted of exercises to strengthen my muscles and manual therapy to improve my flexibility. After four months of physical therapy, I have no pain and 100 percent maximum function! I can now enjoy a beautiful sunset stroll around PebbleCreek and stand for unlimited amounts of time. My husband and I are even planning International travel later this year!

I give Trent and AZOPT all the credit for their methodical yet progressive approach to treatment. Trent gave me exactly what I needed when I needed it. Whether it was treatment in the clinic or exercises at home, I worked hard to accomplish the goals outlined by Trent. I just kept believing that every day would be better and, you know what, it was! I encourage others to not live with constant pain. Life is too short and important to live with constant pain.

Thank you, Trent and the team at AZOPT, for all of your hard work and dedication. I never imagined how wonderful life could be with no pain.

If you, or someone you know, can benefit from the skilled physical therapists at AZOPT, please call 623-242-6908 or visit www.AZOPT.net.