Aquacare/Fitness Forum Physical Therapy

Athlete of the Week – Joelle Wise

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Any time an athlete steps on the field, an injury is possible. For Joelle Wise, a promising field hockey player at Indian River High School, a devastating knee injury during the 2022 preseason could have spelled the end of her athletic aspirations. Instead, it became the beginning of an inspiring comeback story, showcasing the crucial role of physical therapy in helping athletes return to the sports they love.

Wise, a member of the class of 2025, recalls the moment that changed everything. “It was during a preseason practice,” she says. “I heard a pop, and just like that, my junior year plans were turned upside down.”

The diagnosis was severe: Wise had torn her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and meniscus – a triple threat that could sideline many athletes permanently.

Following surgery in September, Wise faced a daunting recovery process. “I was in a wheelchair for months before graduating to crutches,” she shares. “The thought of getting back on the field seemed impossibly far away.”

Enter Aquacare Physical Therapy in Millville, recommended by Wise’s orthopedic surgeon. Under the guidance of physical therapist Connor Drislane and his team, Wise embarked on an 11-month journey that would not only heal her knee but redefine her understanding of perseverance and strength.

“After not using my knee or legs much for more than six months, I had lost a significant amount of strength,” Wise explains. “I essentially had to start over, rebuilding my strength and stamina from scratch.”

Drislane emphasizes the importance of a tailored approach in cases like Wise’s. “With such a comprehensive injury, especially in a sport like field hockey that demands quick directional changes and stability, we had to be methodical in our rehabilitation plan,” he says.

The therapy regimen was diverse and challenging. “We focused first on regaining her mobility and re-educating the muscles’ ability to fire correctly and efficiently,” Drislane details. “It’s crucial that each exercise and intervention, throughout each phase of her rehabilitation, have a specific purpose in Joelle’s recovery.”

Wise admits that the process wasn’t always easy. “There were days when progress felt slow, and the exercises were tough,” she says. “But the team at Aquacare always kept me motivated. They helped me see the bigger picture – getting back to the sport I love.”

As months passed, Wise’s determination began to pay off. Gradually, she regained strength, flexibility, and confidence in her rehabilitated knee. The therapy didn’t just focus on her injury; it prepared her entire body for the rigors of competitive field hockey.

“Once she was ready, we began involving more sport-specific exercises,” Drislane explains. “This included lateral movements, quick starts and stops, and exercises to mimic the prolonged loading of her knee that is required in field hockey. Our goal was not just to heal her knee, but to make her a stronger, more resilient athlete overall.”

Wise was able to return to the field for her junior year season and is excited to enter her senior season this year.

“I feel stronger and more aware of my body,” Wise enthuses. “The injury and rehab process taught me so much about proper movement and the importance of overall fitness in preventing future injuries.”

Wise’s experience at Aquacare left such a positive impression that she now works part-time at the front desk.

“The therapists have become like family to me,” she said. “I’ve seen firsthand how they change lives, and I’m proud to be a part of that, even in a small way.”

Her story serves as an inspiration to other young athletes facing similar setbacks. It underscores the vital role that dedicated physical therapy plays in not just healing injuries, but in helping athletes return to peak performance.

“Joelle’s journey is a testament to the power of personalized, committed physical therapy. It’s not just about healing an injury; it’s about rebuilding an athlete, both physically and mentally,” Drislane said. “Seeing athletes like Joelle return to their sports, stronger and more passionate than ever – that’s why we do what we do.”

Aquacare Athletics is proud to partner with Out-Train, a personal performance and fitness company based in Sussex County. Out-Train works with high school and college athletes to help them boost performance, gain muscle, and train smarter.

To connect with Aquacare Athletics, contact Connor Drislane at [email protected].

Aquacare – Millville is located at 38069 Town Center Dr., Unit 15, Millville. Schedule a free consultation at Aquacare – Millville by calling 302-539-3110.

Aquacare also provides in-home physical therapy services. Skip the clinic and schedule your physical therapy in your home, workplace, fitness center, or community pool. Learn more about Aquacare PT PLUS: www.aquacarephysicaltherapy.com/pt-plus.