In order to recognize National Physical Therapy Month (NPTM) this past October, I set out to highlight our recently renovated facility and experienced staff at Adirondack Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy Center. After arriving, I took photos and video of the facility and new equipment, then met with the Director of Sports Medicine, Dan Dichiera, PT, DPT ,AT. Soon I would meet Dan’s next patient, which is where this story really begins. Into the waiting area, arrived Rumar Green, navigating with crutches and followed in by his mother, Shannon, and younger sister. Shannon’s son is only sixteen years old. She seemed determined to get him healthy and back to his normal teenage activities. Rumar is a student and athlete at Proctor High School here in Utica, NY. As a Junior, he made the Varsity football team as a running back and special teams, kick off and punt returner. Rumar had missed the team’s first scrimmage but was ready to go for the second pre-season match against West Genesee High School. While carrying the football, Rumar planted his left foot to cut and change direction but his cleat stuck to the turf causing his upper leg to rotate while the lower leg remained planted. As soon as it happened, Rumar thought to himself that he would be out of football for a while. His season would, in fact, be over. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which connects the shin and thigh bones within the knee, and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his left knee. As I watched Rumar make his way to the assessment room, I could sense his determination. I asked him what his goal is after recovery. He wants to play football again next season and to dunk a basketball. I believe he will accomplish these goals and much more. Please continue to follow Rumar here and on our Facebook, Twitter and Vine accounts as I document his grueling recovery each week here at Adirondack Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy Center. |
 |
| Kevin Foresti Marketing and Public Relations |