Knee injury doesn’t stop Gordon Russo from playing tennis

Gordon Russo returns to the tennis court after knee injury

Gordon Russo has played tennis for over 20 years. While on the court, Gordon planted his leg and injured his right knee.

“I immediately felt weakness in my leg and decided I needed physical therapy if I ever wanted to play again. I chose Baudry Therapy Center and worked with their team of physical therapists and assistants through the Return to Sport program.”

Gordon came to Baudry Therapy Center with a painful, swollen knee that prevented him from playing tennis. His great attitude and determination was the reason he was able to return to the court.

“Our bodies have tremendous ability for healing.” says Rich Baudry.  “For people like Gordon, the key is often just giving them “know how” to get better.  Through a comprehensive evaluation, we were able to prescribe the right exercises and activities to restore full knee function.”

Gordon said, “Baudry’s excellent staff helped me to strengthen my thigh and gluteal muscles which really gave me the confidence to return to playing tennis.”

When is it safe to Return to Sport?

The #1 predictor of injury for athletes is a previous injury. So when an athlete is injured, BRIO’s Return to Sport team gets to work with evidence-based care that gives our clients the confidence they need to resume athletic activities. Read more

Are you or someone you love unable to do the things you love – whether that is tennis, running or picking up your grandchildren? If so, call Baudry Therapy Center | BRIO today and learn how you can return to your activities pain-free!

 

Margie gets a new lease on life at 77 with physical therapy

Physical therapy helps turn back the age clock

Margie Morton, an active 77 year old, has a new lease on life after her physical therapy and wellness training.  Her amazing attitude on aging, along with her determination and hard work, allowed her to return to the activities that she loves pain-free…walking, biking, exercising, tennis and shopping! Here’s how Margie turned back her age clock:

I started experiencing hip pain this year, which resulted from two old car accidents. In both cases, I was rear-ended and suffered disc injuries in my lower spine and upper neck. I’ve always been active for my age, but I began walking with a slight limp so I decided to see hip and back specialist.

My doctor recommended a personal trainer to strengthen my muscles, but I have not had much success with trainers. My husband suggested Baudry Therapy Center where he is currently in therapy for Parkinson’s. He thought a fitness program run by physical therapists would be beneficial.

“The Baudry/BRIO team helped Margie work through the issues, by providing a pathway for success. And then all it took was the belief, hope and determination to get back on track,” said Rich Baudry.

Margie’s Physical Therapy and Wellness Results

After receiving manual therapy from the Baudry Therapy team, my limp was gone and my hip pain was much better. I increased the strength in my leg and no longer needed to push to rise out of a chair. Stairs are now a piece of cake.

My walks have even improved and I feel great after my hour-long workout. I can even shop the rest of the day!  Not sure if my husband is totally happy with that!

Unexpected benefits

I’ve lost a few pounds but I’ve lost significant inches in my core which has improved my posture. I’ve had to go down two dress sizes.  I feel better, look better and my pain level is much improved.

A New Outlook on Life

I began to accept that being out of shape and in pain was part of getting older, but Baudry sure changed my outlook. I feel confident about the exercise they suggest. Baudry therapists constantly assess your body and your progress. The facility is modern and and very well kept. I have recommended them to all my friends and several have joined. Everyone there is very helpful and friendly, from the receptionist to the therapists.

A Baudry | BRIO Champion

When asked about Margie’s PT success, Rich Baudry said, “Margie’s physical therapy and fitness program was built with her felt needs and desires in mind. Her success has been based on her trust in the team, and her willingness to put in the work. So often people give up on the things they love because of aches and pains they wrongly assume they will just have to live with. And many times the medical advice they receive squanders hope and falls short of solving the problem.  But through education, guidance, and commitment, there is always the potential to get better. Margie sure proved that, another Baudry/BRIO champion! We are proud of her efforts and love that she is able to again enjoy the things she loves.”

If you or a loved one is experiencing any type of pain, call Baudry Therapy Center.  We can help you turn back your age clock and get back to doing the activities you love!

Junior tennis player back on court after shoulder injury

Junior tennis player returns to court after shoulder injury

Jojo Sandoz is a competitive, high school tennis player at Jesuit High School. One day while practicing his serves at practice, Jojo’s arm began hurting. When he finished out his basket of serves, Jojo began experiencing extreme levels of pain in his shoulder.

Jojo rested and iced his shoulder for a few days, but the pain did not subside.

Jojo said, “I couldn’t extend my arm without feeling terrible pain. It was even affecting my everyday activities.  When I would write, I would experience radiating pain in my shoulder.  I knew I had to do something.”

He decided to go to Baudry Therapy Center | BRIO for a physical therapy evaluation.

“The physical therapists at Baudry | BRIO performed dry needling and taught me exercises to do at home.  They also showed me how to warm up properly before playing tennis, which actually helped me hit the ball better than I did before,” said Jojo Sandoz.

“Jojo came to physical therapy with a great mindset.  His willingness to learn and take ownership is why he was so successful with his rehab.  I have no doubt he will continue to be successful on the tennis court and beyond.” said Kevin Dessauer.

Jojo said, “My experience at Baudry Therapy Center | BRIO was fun. I always enjoyed going to physical therapy. Everyone was so nice and just plain fun to be around.”

If you are someone you know has been injured playing sports, don’t settle for playing with pain. BRIO’s Return to Sport program can help! Our physical therapists utilize several reliable tools to measure ability and clearly identify when an athlete is ready to initiate a safe return to sport. READ MORE

 

Physical therapy relieves law student’s neck pain

Long hours of studying causes neck pain for law student

Courtney Harper, a law student at Loyola University, spends much of her time studying and reading case studies. Prolonged periods of sitting and poor reading posture caused severe headaches. She also felt pain radiating down her neck and into her shoulders.

The constant pain was unbearable. It made it impossible to focus on her school work. Courtney enjoys exercising and walking her dogs as a stress relief. However, the pain made it difficult to participate in her favorite activities.

Courtney turned to Baudry Therapy Center for pain relief. Her physical therapist, Kevin Dessauer, performed manual therapy followed by functional exercises to help relieve her pain.

“Courtney is just one of several students and workers that present with neck pain due to long hours at the desk.  The human body is not designed to be locked into these positions for hours on end. This is why the body can break down.  The good news is manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises can help. They can reduce the repetitive strain on the body, relieving pain and restoring function.  Once the body is restored, postural awareness and ergonomics help keep the pain away,” said Kevin Dessauer, DPT

“After completing three weeks of physical therapy, I felt even better than I did before the pain started. Not only did the pain go away, but Kevin taught me exercises to increase strength, keep me active and to avoid the pain returning. My experience at Baudry Therapy Center gave me the confidence to return to doing the activities that I love,” said Courtney Harper.

If you are experiencing neck or back pain from prolonged sitting or poor posture, physical therapy might be right for you. Learn more about manual therapy to see if it can return you to the activities that you enjoy!

 

Back and shoulder pain relieved for this golfer

Golfer’s back and shoulder pain relieved with BRIO’s Return to Sport program

Fred Herman has been playing golf for the last 25 years. While on the golf course, he developed chronic back and shoulder pain making it very difficult to play his favorite sport. Here’s how Fred got back to the golf course:

About three years ago, I had a whitewater rafting accident which exacerbated my chronic low back and right shoulder pain. I had conservative treatment by my doctors, physical therapists and athletic trainers for the next two years. In October 2015, I had low back surgery and in February 2016, I had right shoulder therapy.

I was very fearful that the combination of the back and shoulder injuries and subsequent surgeries may cause me to give up golf. In my profession, a diversion like golf is a necessity to relieve stress and it was also a major part of my social life and leisure travel. I thought a lot about alternatives if the worst outcome had occurred. Learning Bridge was not a happy alternative. As a kid, I played baseball, basketball and football. I played racquet ball and baseball in adult leagues as a young professional.

At the age of 40, I took up golf. I’m 66 now and golf is a major part of my leisure time. From the get go my outward approach was positive and upbeat.

A confidence boost with Baudry physical therapy

I had been a Baudry client for a few years and have great confidence in my therapists and the Baudry staff. My confidence was boosted when I began post-surgery recovery. The Baudry folks assured me that there was no medical reason I shouldn’t be able to get back to golf.

Physical Therapy is very dependent on the desire of the client to work hard, but it is also very dependent on the skill of the therapists. Baudry Therapy Center’s team of therapists are sensitive, exceedingly professional and easy to work with. They know how to treat all kinds of injuries and conditions. I know because I know what they have done for my shoulder and back. I know because I see what they are doing for other clients, too.

Golf: Full Steam Ahead

I am back to golf full steam ahead. My surgeons who each have their own PT departments had no hesitation accepting my request to do my post-op recovery at Baudry. In the words of my shoulder surgeon, “Baudry does great work with my shoulder patients.”

Return to Sport Training

I have resumed my training at Baudry in between PT sessions. The training is an integral part of my recovery. This isn’t just any athletic or sports fitness training. At BRIO, Baudry’s in-house training program, we work with Physical Therapy Assistants who are outstanding professionals. With the benefit of on-site and immediate consultation with the PTs, I know that my athletic training is tailored to my needs, my sport and my chronic or acute conditions. Unlike other “certified” trainers with whom I have worked, these folks are not just certified. They are professionals who are college educated and have earned advanced degrees. They keep up-to-date certifications in the latest therapy and training techniques.

Through the PT and training process I began dieting and although Baudry has its own diet program, they never pushed it on me. They supported the weight loss program I was on. They also have a full line of home exercise tools and devices, as well as a new line of supplements. I have benefited from all of them. They are excellent!

One of the most rewarding parts of our job is to see patients return to doing the things they love. We are so proud of Fred’s journey back to the golf course. If you or someone you love is experiencing back and shoulder pain, call Baudry Therapy Center today. You don’t have to live with pain!

 

Neck and back pain doesn’t stop this outdoorsman

Neck and back pain doesn’t stop this outdoorsman

Cary Des Roches is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys all types of outdoor activities, especially hunting and fishing. One day, he began to experience neck and lower back pain. The pain radiated down to his extremities. Unable to perform any level of activity, Cary came to Baudry Therapy Center for physical therapy.

Here’s Cary’s journey back to the outdoors:

When I arrived at Baudry Therapy Center, the therapists gave me a comprehensive evaluation and treated me with dry needling and functional exercise. They also gave me a customized treatment plan with the necessary tools and stretching techniques to eliminate my pain.

In addition, Baudry gave me the proper education and take-home exercises to keep me active and pain-free. Physical therapy allowed me to take control of my health and resume my prior activities without pain or limitation.

My level of improvement has been a pleasant surprise given my pain level and limitation of movement at the beginning of my treatment. I am more than satisfied with my results and am happy to return to the outdoors!

For people like Cary, pain can come on suddenly and without warning.   These conditions are often set up by sedentary work habits, which leave people tight and vulnerable for an injury. So what is the best thing for recovery?

The key points to recovery are an early intervention, an active based therapy program, and taking an active role in recovery.

Cary did just that! We’re so proud of your hard work, Cary! We wish you the best on your next fishing or hunting trip!

How Can Dry Needling Help You

Baudry therapists use trigger point dry needling techniques to provide relief from muscle tightness, joint mobility, and symptoms of pain and dysfunction.   Learn More

Calf injury doesn’t stop tennis player from returning to sport

Tennis player returns to the court after severe calf injury

Mary-Marshall Seaver, an avid tennis player and tremendous athlete, has been active all of her life. She’s been playing tennis competitively for the last five years.  While playing singles, Mary-Marshall stretched out to her left to return a wide serve and felt her left calf “pop”.  After suffering a severe calf injury, she thought she’d never play tennis again. Then she enrolled in BRIO’s Return to Sport program:

My calf injury was so bad I had to be carried off the court piggy-back style. My MRI showed grade two tears of the gastroc and the soleus muscles, a complete rupture of the plantaris tendon, and a hematoma in between the two torn muscles.

At first, I was unable to wiggle my toes. For over a month, I was unable to stand on my left leg, and needed crutches to move around. It was difficult to imagine playing tennis within the foreseeable future. Then I found Baudry Therapy Center | BRIO.

There is absolutely no way I would have been able to return to tennis safely and successfully without Baudry Therapy Center | BRIO! Their challenge was to get me ready to return to the court, both physically and mentally. And they did!

Return to Sport program elevates strength and fitness levels

Through the BRIO Return to Sport assessment tests, the physical therapists identified weaknesses in my movement. These were not weaknesses I was aware of; in fact, they identified issues that were likely the cause of my original injury.

The physical therapists ensured that my injury healed correctly and completely. Their well thought-out plan was continuously fine-tuned throughout my recovery process. The attention to detail and customized care truly elevates the level of care!

Once my injury was healed, I started doing strengthening and agility exercises which increased my strength and fitness level higher than before my injury.

Customized PT to fit clients’ personality

As an avid high school multi-sport athlete and former world-class kayaker, I love to train, set goals and be challenged.  Kevin recognized that in me and created an environment where I felt like I was training for the Olympics again. But it wasn’t just me. While at Baudry, I saw athletes of all levels and ages being inspired to do their best.

“Returning to Sport” the Baudry way means not only is your area of injury better than ever, but your entire body is primed for your specific sport. Given the severity of my calf injury, I did not expect to step back onto the court stronger and more agile than when I was injured!

PT helps tennis player with hip pain return to the court

Tennis player returns to court after receiving PT for hip pain

Frank Crothers, a long-time tennis player, injured his lower back and hip while he was serving on the tennis court. His back pain did not subside and he continued to experience ongoing hip pain as a result. He decided that he needed the help and chose physical therapy at Baudry Therapy Center. Read how Frank’s hard work in physical therapy got him back on the court:

“I needed the help of a good physical therapist in order to return to playing tennis. I play tournaments at City Park, so solving the back problem was important. Physical therapy helped me pinpoint the areas that really needed extra emphasis through the whole chain of movement.  PT helped me feel better overall, stronger and more balanced. I have been playing since graduating from physical therapy and was even able to play a little during therapy. I gradually improved both the hip and the back and am now playing with no pain. Best of all, my game is improving.

I have nothing but good things to say about my experience with Baudry Therapy Center, as I was treated in a friendly and helpful manner. They gave me useful information about my injury and the exercises and stretches I should do to maintain good shape. I am very, very happy with my outcome and have already recommended Baudry to friends.”

About BTC’s Return to Sport Program

BRIO’s Return to Sport Program begins with an evaluation to identify the injuries that cause the pain and dysfunction that keeps them off of the field. To help determine the readiness for return to sport, our physical therapists utilize several reliable tools to measure ability and clearly identify when an athlete is ready to initiate a safe return to sport. If you have an injury and are looking to return to your sport, or if you want to learn more about our Return to Sport program, call BRIO today or submit your question.

Return to Sport program helps Lacrosse player get back on field

Return to Sport program helps Patrick Willis get back on the field

While playing with the Brother Martin High School Lacrosse team, Patrick Willis got injured on the field. He went to make a cut on and when he pushed off his right leg, he felt a pop.  Immediately, Patrick fell to the ground in pain.  Little did he know then, but BRIO’s Return to Sport program would be the answer to his prayers!  Here is Patrick’s story:

I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to play Lacrosse that year, that I’d never be able to play on the same field as my brother again and that I would let my teammates down.

Then I started the Return to Sport program at Baudry Therapy Center. The physical therapy program pinpointed the areas that I really needed extra emphasis. It also gave me, my parents and my coaches the confidence to allow me to return to Lacrosse.

During my treatment, I saw more gains than others with the same injury. The therapists at BTC | BRIO helped me to get faster and stronger than I was before I got hurt.  I am very happy with the way I was treated.  We have fun all while doing the work to get me better than I was before. And the atmosphere is amazing!

If you have an injury and are looking to return to your sport, or if you want to learn more about our Return to Sport program, call BRIO today or submit your question.

Best shape of his life at 63 years old thanks to Physical Therapy

IMG_98271 (1)Physical Therapy Leads To Running Post-Career

Lee White, 63 years old,  stopped by Baudry Therapy to share his recent accomplishments and we wanted to share his physical therapy success.

White was a high school cross country runner and truly enjoyed the sport in his youth. When he began his career, he was healthy, active and weighed 175 lbs. But work and life responsibilities got the best of him and he started developing poor habits – not exercising, eating poorly, and over-stressing. His weight increased to over 260 lbs over his career.

White decided that he needed to get back in shape. Once he retired, he got back to running. Over the next 3 years he lost approximately 60 lbs. He felt great! But a knee injury and subsequent surgery required him to stop running. White was upset that he couldn’t run, but he didn’t give up.

After his surgery, he started physical therapy at Baudry Therapy and made great progress. He did the work and was able to get back to running! He is finally back to where he was 3 years ago before his injury. In July, he charted 53 miles and a total of 289 miles for the year!

“Running helps me in every dimension of my life. I am physically stronger, healthier and mentally more alert than I’ve ever been,” White said.

When asked what his secret is to getting back in shape White said, “I set goals for myself and I got educated. I also took the advice of the professionals here at Baudry Therapy and I didn’t give up.”

We love hearing success stories from our clients.  If you are looking to get better and return to the things you love, please call Baudry Therapy Center today!

How Direct Access Decreased Patients’ Recovery Time

Direct Access: Baudry patients take control of their back pain

Louisiana is now a “Direct Access” state, allowing patients the ability to receive physical therapy treatment without the need of a doctor’s referral. Essentially, they can start therapy the minute they feel pain which has proven extremely effective for our clients. Read what two of our Baudry Therapy patients had to say about direct access:

“I started having low back and sciatic nerve pains a few weeks ago. With direct access, I was able to get to Baudry Therapy Center and receive physical therapy treatment within 5-7 days after my symptoms started. Had I waited to see a chiropractor or a doctor to receive a referral, I wouldn’t have been able to receive treatment that quickly. After two PT sessions, my pain was gone and I was able to return to tennis and golf.  Receiving physical therapy treatment so quickly decreased my recovery time. I now have a better understanding of how to take care of myself moving forward.”

“I was three months post-partum and I bent down to pick up my newborn and immediately felt something in my back pull. The pain was debilitating and I could barely stand.  I called Baudry Therapy Center and was seen the next day. I could barely walk in their front door, but after receiving physical therapy treatment, I was able to walk out completely upright and with no pain. Within 2-3 days of my physical therapy treatment, my soreness was gone and I was back to 100%. My pain would have been prolonged had I been required to get a doctor’s referral. As a mother, it’s crucial to be able to care for your newborn. Thanks to direct access and BTC, I didn’t skip a beat!”

DIRECT ACCESS ADVANTAGES:

  • Faster treatment of acute injuries, produces better outcomes.
  • Improves communication and collaboration between health care providers in Louisiana.
  • Allows patient’s to choose the health care provider of choice.
  • Reduces healthcare cost for patients and for Louisiana.
  • Reduces medication use through the use therapeutic healing, not pain pills.

Learn More About Direct Access and Access FAQs

 

Pyramid of Success: Industriousness

The first building block for achieving success: Industriousness

pyramidJohn Wooden, American college basketball coach with ten national championships over a 12-year span, built his career and his teachings on the Pyramid of Success. The first building block on the road to success is Industriousness.  What does that mean? Industriousness – (adj.) Energetic in application to work or study. Synonyms: diligent.

John Wooden wisely stated, “You must work hard on the right things in life.” He was always trying to learn more and improve his coaching abilities. “Go out and do your best and work hard because in the end you will achieve more than taking the easy path.”
We want to highlight a BRIO client that epitomizes the definition of Industriousness. Whether playing football, lacrosse, rehabilitating from knee surgery, or coaching younger players, Patrick Willis epitomizes industriousness.
Three months out from ACL surgery, Patrick is well ahead of schedule. Never stepping away from a challenge, Patrick tackles everything with industriousness.
In this video, Patrick tells us about his knee injury and his rehabilitation so far.  He also defines what industrious means to him and how hard work has helped him achieve success.
 Stay tuned to our blog for the next two building blocks of success: Friendship and Loyalty.
About the BRIO 2016 Fitspiration Wall: Make Each Day a Masterpiece

The Baudry Therapy/ BRIO team wants to help you accomplish your 2016 goals – whether that means losing weight, becoming pain-free, running a marathon, or writing your name without help! No goal is too large or too small. The 2016 BRIO FITSPIRATION WALL, located in the Baudry Therapy Center, focuses on the teachings of John Wooden and his Pyramid of Success. Our clients have found that it helps them track their goals and celebrate their successes!  The BRIO team is ready to help you Make Each Day a Masterpiece!  Stop in and declare your goal, write inspirational words to fellow clients, or commit to an event in which to participate.  Not sure where to begin? Ask one of our therapists or health experts to help develop a roadmap for your journey.  We guarantee that our team, along with your peers, will help keep you motivated so you can conquer your 2016 goals.