I arrived distressed at Hatboro-Willow Grove Physical Therapy in the first quarter of 2024. I was struggling both mentally and physically, barely able to walk or stand. My neurosurgeon had recommended physical therapy, explaining that my issues stemmed from a pinched nerve in my lower back.Upon arrival, I was paired with a physical therapist named Jenn Freeman, PT, DPT. Jenn was kind and thorough during her initial evaluation. After our hour-long session, she reassured me, saying, “Don’t worry, Brad, we will get to the bottom of this.”Having gone through years of physical therapy after a serious accident two decades earlier—where I learned how to walk again and manage my chronic pain—I was naturally skeptical that Jenn could get me back on track, especially after experiencing so many physical therapists over the years. At that point, I could barely walk or stand, and I had spent the past two years seeing various specialists, each providing different opinions on my physical condition. I could also see in Jenn’s eyes during my initial consultation and evaluation that I was not in good shape, but she sounded determined to help me, which gave me some hope.To shorten the story, after about three weeks of physical therapy with Jenn Freeman, PT, DPT, she asked me, “Brad, have you ever had X-rays of your hips and knees?” I looked at Jenn in disbelief, thinking, “Why would you ask me this? I’m here for a pinched nerve in my lower back, as my neurosurgeon said, and you’re not a neurosurgeon.” The thought crossed my mind: why are you asking me about my knees and hips?I replied, “No, I haven't had X-rays on my knees or hips, Jenn!” She responded, “Do me a favor, Brad, and ask your primary care physician for a prescription to get this done.”Taking Jenn’s advice, I figured I had nothing to lose, and to my surprise, the X-rays revealed that my right hip and both knees were bone on bone. I couldn't believe it! A physical therapist had just uncovered an issue that my neurosurgeon and at least a half dozen other specialists had overlooked, despite their years of experience.Following this revelation, I consulted with David Craft at the Rothman Institute, a highly regarded surgeon, and underwent knee and hip replacements. Now, I am back to being fully functional after enduring years of intense pain and struggling to walk. If it weren't for Jenn Freeman, PT, DPT, at Hatboro-Willow Grove Physical Therapy, my life would still be a daily battle.I am now almost fully recovered, moving around well, and I am “HAPPY.” 😁 I want to give Jenn Freeman, PT, DPT, a big shout-out: thank you, Jenn, for saving my life. You have been one of the best physical therapists I’ve ever worked with. Your knowledge and kindness will undoubtedly help many others in the future. God bless you, and I truly mean that from the bottom of my heart! 😍
