Tearing your ACL is not something you expect at my age...nor do I recommend it! I am 44 years old, a mom of two energetic little girls, a veteran music teacher and professional musician. One mis-step in a Taekwondo assessment last summer landed me in the care of Orlin and Cohen. Having never experienced a serious injury in my life, I had no idea of what to expect on the journey to recovery. I met James Curley days after finding out that I needed ACL reconstruction. He guided me through two months of prehab, while helping me to better understand both the procedure and the recovery that would come after. During the months leading up to surgery James increased the intensity of my regimen. I got to the point where I could walk with confidence without the brace or crutches. Dr. Julian Sonnenfeld performed my surgery at the end of October. He was patient with my many questions and always listened to and addressed my concerns. Less than 24 hours after my discharge from the hospital, I was back to PT with James. During each session James methodically assigned exercises and slowly but surely I regained quad strength and muscle control. In just under 4 weeks I was strong enough to go back to work. My PT sessions would continue for the next several months. Slowly I transitioned from the post-op brace and crutches to walking on my own. With each passing week James adapted and modified my program to meet my specific goals. I progressed from basic strengthening and flexibility exercises to agility drills, box jumps and even running. Throughout the journey James evaluated my muscle strength, communicated clearly with me about my progress and formulated new goals. As I prepare for discharge I would like to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to the entire staff of the Woodbury PT office. While I primarily worked with James, at times I also saw Julie, Louis and Roma - all of whom were amazing. The aides that assisted in my exercises also gave me a great deal of encouragement and support. I am just under 8 months post-op and still practicing the exercises that James recommended with the goal of returning to martial arts in due time. I do not recommend tearing your ACL...but if you do the team at the Woodbury O&C office will guide you through the arduous journey back to normalcy.