Highschool freshman
Emily Gardner’s full ACL tear took her out of her freshman season, but she’ll be ready for sophomore year thanks to Dr. Daniel Zanotti and the PT team at CFO.
Highschool freshman, Emily Gardner, is a front row hitter in competitive club volleyball year round. While in Chicago, at a game on Easter weekend, she was close to the net for a tight set, scored the point, and came down hard.
Emily says, “I didn’t think I tore my ACL, but I heard a pop and wasn’t sure what it was, but I could walk on it.”
Her parents in the stands were holding their breath. Emily’s Mom, Kim, says, “Our hearts sank. We hoped it was a strain and sprain. But we got home and went to the CFO injury clinic to get X-rays and MRI results. It was a complete tear of the ACL.”
In addition to the left ACL tear, Emily had a torn meniscus, and Dr. Daniel Zanotti knew that reconstructive surgery was the best treatment for both injuries. Unfortunately, it meant Emily would be off her Freshman High school team, but would be ready to play again in her Sophomore year, which is the season that matters for college recruitment.
“I love volleyball,” Emily says, “It’s like my life. I want to play D2 Volleyball in college on scholarship.”
Kim, Emily and family are pleased with Emily’s post surgical recovery. Kim is a nurse and has been impressed with the low post-surgery pain levels and the physical therapy support Emily has received from CFO and her school Athletic trainer, who works closely with Emily’s PT team.
Kim says, “She never needed all that much pain medication because there was not much pain to speak of. Six months out from the April surgery, and she’s running on a 12% incline on the treadmill with no pain and she’s had no pain through all of rehab. And, this has not gotten her spirits down. She’s amazing.”
Emily has taken charge of her rehab and works diligently at her PT appointments, home and school, where she can use the high school gym with her Athletic trainer.
Emily says, “I have a Physical Therapy team that has really helped me, and at-school PT has been cool. I miss playing a lot, but I should definitely be playing next year.”
Everyone here at CFO is rooting for Emily and wishing her and her family the best of luck on next year’s season. If your student athlete is injured at a game, come to our CFO Injury Clinic or call 440.329.2800 to make your appointment today.