Hey everyone! My name is Daniel Dewberry and I have been working as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist in the rehab team at Absolute Balance since December 2021. From the age of nine right up until my mid-twenties I loved to play basketball, playing it socially and competitively. Throughout my time playing I sustained many injuries to my right knee, ranging from MCL tears to patella dislocations. When I look back and reflect on how I went about my rehabilitation, I have regrets not committing to the process whole heartedly.
As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist today I understand that exercise rehabilitation is an essential part of any recovery process after an injury or surgery. It is important to complete your exercise rehabilitation because it helps you regain your strength and mobility, reduces pain and inflammation, and prevents further injuries. Exercise rehabilitation also helps you improve your balance, coordination, and flexibility, which are important for your overall health, well-being, and ability to play sport. Not completing your exercise rehabilitation program can lead to several risks, such as chronic pain and disability. It can also lead to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and loss of range of motion. Not completing your exercise rehabilitation program can also increase the risk of re-injury.
These are all things I wish I fully understood and was aware of being a teenager and wanting to continue to play competitive sport. Over 10 years later with multiple similar injuries I am forever having to complete some form of rehabilitation for my knee. This has unfortunately led me having to continue to avoid engaging in specific activities that I once used to love and enjoy – so to everyone and anyone who has sustained an injury I thoroughly encourage you to be patient, be thorough and trust the rehabilitation process. It will save you the trouble later in life!
Daniel Dewberry
Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM)
Exercise Rehabilitation Services ‑ WA