Sports Medicine Success Story Spotlight

Paige Renz I Classics Eagles

“I was incredibly lucky to

have Geoff as my Physical Therapist and Julie as my Athletic Trainer. They,

along with my amazing surgeon, Dr. Edwards, are the best team I could have asked for.”

Paige Renz, a soccer player for Classics Eagles recently returned to the game after ten long months on the sidelines after suffering an ACL injury. She was treated by a dedicated team of medical professionals including Peter Edwards, MD, Geoff Omiatek PT, MS, AT, SCS, TPI-1 and Julie Meadows MS, AT, who worked to get Paige out of the office and back on the field. Paige agreed to share her thoughts about her injury and recovery, with a goal to help other players through her experience.

What was your initial outlook and mindset when you were injured?

When I was first injured, I thought that I wouldn’t be able to play soccer again. Even if I was physically able to return, I was afraid of getting re-injured. I also feared that I wouldn’t be as good of a player or as confident as I was pre-injury.

Describe your visits with your physician and staff?

The staff at Orthopedic ONE was always helpful and inspired me to want to get better! Dr. Edwards, Geoff and Julie explained medical terminology in “Paige terms”, making sure I understood everything and addressing my concerns.

Can you comment on the overall rehabilitation protocol and how any Orthopedic ONE physical therapists, doctors, and/or athletic trainers were able to help you achieve your goals? (Different stages, steps, exercises, goals, accomplishments, setbacks, etc)

I was incredibly lucky to have Geoff as my Physical Therapist and Julie as my Athletic Trainer. They, along with my amazing surgeon, Dr. Edwards, are the best team I could have asked for. Although I found PT to be very challenging and even painful at times, it all paid off in the end.

Parent’s Perspective: Knowing that Paige was being treated by the doctors and rehab team that works with the Columbus Crew went a long way toward easing our concerns. I felt confident that Paige was being cared for by a group of healthcare providers who are experts in ACL reconstruction and rehabilitation, and understand the physical demands of soccer. Best of all, they proved during ten months of rehab that they know how to relate to and inspire teenagers for the long haul!

How were you able to stay motivated throughout the process?

It was not always easy, but I tried to remain positive by focusing on the small goals ahead of me . . . getting my knee to bend, walking, running, and then finally playing soccer!

What is the biggest thing you learned from the injury and completing the rehabilitation process?

In soccer and in life, there is always someone who can’t do something that you can. Don’t take anything for granted, because it can be taken away from you in an instant!

Do you have any advice for an athlete going through a similar situation?

Don’t immediately give up after an injury. If you are willing to put in the work, you can be back on the field before you know it!

How has your injury and recovery changed you both on and off of the field?

On the soccer field, I feel more appreciative to have the opportunity to be playing this sport. Off the field, I have learned that with desire and hard work I can achieve my goals.

Click here to learn more about our Sports Medicine Services