“We love that Sydney’s treatment plan is very tailored. We can’t say enough good things about Megan.”
Growing up, Sydney and her brothers were highly active. The triplets enjoyed spending their weekends at their local Y.M.C.A to play basketball. “She’s always been an athlete from soccer to gymnastics, Sydney loves sports,” highlighted Sydney’s dad, Marc.
Sydney played competitive sports all her life, but when she finished her eighth-grade basketball season and began her high school career, she started noticing chronic pain in her neck, back, and knees. “She’s had injuries throughout the season, such as coming down hard on her legs and bumping knees. Those small incidents come with playing basketball, but it got to the point where she was in constant pain,” added Marc.
“I was having trouble going up and down the stairs, running, walking, and sitting or standing too long. My body would just hurt. I had to sit out of some of my basketball games,” noted Sydney. She even noticed the pain lingering during the off-season and was having difficulty sleeping. That’s when her family sought an opinion from a rheumatologist and orthopedist, who recommended physical therapy.
Physical Therapy at Children’s Specialized Hospital
Sydney’s family was referred to Physical Therapist Megan Ambuske at Children’s Specialized Hospital in East Brunswick, New Jersey. “In just a short time, we saw quite a bit of progress with Sydney and knew we needed to continue seeing Megan,” highlighted Marc.
Her physical therapy sessions focus on improving mobility, strength, and dynamic sport-specific activities to ensure she can return to the court safely and effectively.
“We adapt our weekly treatment plan based on the demands of Sydney’s schedule, ensuring we address her needs and provide the appropriate care to help her perform at her highest level,” highlighted Megan.
“We’ve recently been working on strengthening the muscles around my knee, stretching, squatting, and using the leg press. It’s definitely all helping. I barely feel pain anymore,” emphasized Sydney. “I love coming to Children’s Specialized Hospital because it’s so welcoming, and I can talk with Megan about anything.”
Marc added, “We love that Sydney’s treatment plan is very tailored. We can’t say enough good things about Megan.”
Getting Back on the Court
Sydney has been doing physical therapy for over a year and has made significant progress. She returned to playing basketball and being in the gym more consistently, mostly pain-free. Sydney was even named M.V.P. of her high school basketball team.
In addition to her weekly sessions, she follows a home program that is frequently adjusted. “Our ongoing therapy allows us to address any concerns that arise as she continues to play and as the physical demands of her training evolve,” noted Megan.
“The exercises and little tricks of the trade that Megan has shared with her have been so beneficial. When she does have pain, she uses the tools to get through it,” stated Marc.
“I’m learning to take cues from my body, and if something hurts, I know to address it and not ignore it. I’ve also learned the importance of stretching. I never realized how much it could help,” highlighted Sydney.
For others going through a similar challenge, Marc and Sydney encourage you to give physical therapy a chance. “Exercising hurts when you’re in pain, but sometimes you need to work through it to get better, and you need to be consistent with it,” noted Sydney. “Consistency is the most important part. You need to trust the process.”
Learn more about physical therapy at Children’s Specialized Hospital.
Learn more about Physical therapy at Children's Specialized Hospital.