Patient Testimonials and Case Studies
Case Study: Returning to Weightlifting, and Jiu-Jitsu After a Lumbar Disc Injury and Severe Nerve Related Foot Weakness
Errol, an emergency medicine physician and highly active recreational athlete, developed severe gluteal and hip pain that progressively worsened despite continuing to train. What began as nagging discomfort escalated into debilitating pain, eventually causing significant weakness throughout his leg and foot. He even missed a flight because he was unable to sit comfortably and later discovered he could no longer properly lift his toes. Faced with the possibility of surgery, he chose to pursue conservative treatment first.
A comprehensive evaluation identified neurological deficits and movement impairments that pointed toward a lumbar disc injury rather than a generic episode of back pain. Treatment focused on identifying the root cause of his symptoms and progressively rebuilding function. Rehabilitation began with restoring foot and ankle strength before advancing to hip mobility, hinging mechanics, squatting, and a gradual return to sport.
Errol noticed improvement immediately, with toe movement returning after his first session. Within weeks he was climbing stairs normally, and over the following months he returned to jiu-jitsu, weightlifting, and squatting without the back stiffness he had experienced for years. Today, he has resumed the demanding physical requirements of emergency medicine and the sports he enjoys. His story demonstrates how a thorough evaluation, individualized rehabilitation, and consistent effort can help patients recover from complex lumbar spine injuries and return to high-level activity without surgery.
Case Study: Recovering from Complex Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Returning to an Active Life
Groin tear, hip and knee pain, herniated disc, bladder and bowel dysfunction
Matthew, a 25-year old investment banker and avid recreational athlete, came to Schafer Physical Therapy after nearly two years of persistent pelvic floor dysfunction following a leg press injury. What began as groin pain progressed into hip pain, knee pain, nerve symptoms, increased urinary frequency, and bowel dysfunction, preventing him from running, lifting, swimming, and enjoying the activities he loved.
Before seeking treatment, Matthew had seen multiple physicians and attended three different physical therapy clinics. Although he experienced temporary relief, he never received a comprehensive explanation for why his symptoms were occurring or a structured plan to return to high level activity.
During his evaluation, it became clear that his condition extended beyond the pelvic floor alone. A thorough whole-body assessment identified contributing factors involving his lumbar spine, hips, pelvis, and lower extremities that had previously been overlooked. His rehabilitation combined hands-on treatment with progressive strengthening and movement retraining, focusing not only on reducing symptoms but also on restoring athletic performance.
Within weeks, Matthew noticed meaningful improvements. His bladder symptoms improved from needing the bathroom every 20 minutes to every two hours, his IT band pain resolved, his flexibility returned, and he was able to resume many of the activities he had avoided for nearly two years. Just as importantly, understanding the source of his symptoms and having a clear rehabilitation plan restored his confidence and optimism.
Today, Matthew has returned to an active lifestyle and describes his recovery as transformative. His case highlights how a comprehensive, whole-body approach to pelvic floor dysfunction can help patients with complex symptoms return to the sports and activities they enjoy.
Case Study: Competitive Runner With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Jaw Pain
In this interview, Adam, a former Division I runner and avid marathoner working in finance, shares his experience recovering from chronic pelvic floor dysfunction, hip pain, and jaw tension through physical therapy. As a competitive runner training for the New York City Marathon, he developed persistent symptoms including pelvic pain, burning sensations, pelvic floor tightness, and hip discomfort that affected both his athletic performance and daily life. Despite seeing multiple healthcare providers over the years, he felt that previous treatments addressed only the symptoms rather than the underlying cause.
Adam explains that one of the biggest differences in his care with Philippe at Schafer Physical Therapy was gaining a deeper understanding of why his symptoms developed and how different parts of the body work together. Rather than focusing only on the painful area, treatment addressed his movement patterns, breathing, thoracic spine, hips, and pelvic floor as part of one integrated system. This comprehensive approach, combined with individualized exercises and hands-on treatment, allowed him to steadily regain function while returning to the activities he enjoys.
Beyond the physical improvements, Adam describes the psychological benefit of finally understanding his condition. Pelvic floor dysfunction is rarely discussed openly, and he initially felt isolated and unsure whether his symptoms could improve. Learning that chronic pelvic floor tension could be treated, and seeing measurable progress, gave him confidence and renewed motivation throughout his recovery.
Today, Adam feels stronger, more agile, and better equipped to maintain his body for long term running. He emphasizes that recovery requires consistency, both during physical therapy sessions and with exercises at home, but believes the effort is well worth it. His advice to others experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction or persistent orthopedic pain is simple: there is hope, there are effective treatment options, and understanding the root cause of the problem can make all the difference in returning to an active, healthy lifestyle.
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Great overall experience and progress – more of a full body understanding of how everything ties in together than you would expect. There are others that are good, but Philippe is exceptional. Sessions are 1:1 in a private room with him, not a big factory style setting. Highly recommend.