Pre and Post-Surgery Knee Injury Rehab: Chuck Smith’s Patient Story

Sep29th 2023

When Chuck Smith, an avid basketball player, suffered a severe knee injury early in 2023, his first and only choice when it came to deciding on a physical therapist was Robbie Bolton and his staff at Evolve.  “I knew Robbie from Baton Rouge Ancient Athletes, it was a no-brainer to go see him,” remembers Chuck.

Pre-Surgery ACL Physical Therapy

Chuck tore his ACL, MCL, meniscus, and partially tore his LCL playing basketball in January. Although he didn’t have surgery until April, he began physical therapy immediately. While Chuck had never formally done physical therapy, he was familiar with the process. “My mom is a physical therapist, so whenever I needed anything growing up she would take care of it.” 

During the few months before his surgery, Chuck and the team at Evolve went through a pre-op training regimen.  This individualized treatment plan included a variety of “prehabilitation” exercises, including:

  • Balance and Proprioception
  • Strength Training
  • Range of Motion
  • Manual Therapy
  • Modalities

Through this process, his MCL and LCL were able to repair themselves. 

Post-Surgery ACL Physical Therapy

Since his surgery in April, which only required the ACL and meniscus to be repaired, Chuck is at Evolve two to three times a week rehabbing his knee. “I enjoy it as much as you can. I’ve worked with all of the techs, they’re great and we like to joke around a good bit,” says Chuck.

Chuck’s post-surgery physical treatment plan has included:

What has really made his journey back to the court and experience at Evolve stand out is the incredible service, consideration, and care that receives each and every time. 

“I’m a type-1 diabetic and Robbie is always aware of how I’m feeling and what I need. He takes care of me. They always go the extra mile. They’ll even bring me an Icee from time to time.”

From a fun, loose atmosphere to a knowledgeable, experienced, caring staff that is focused on getting athletes back on the court, field, track, and course, Evolve Physical Therapy in Baton Rouge is here for you.