Move Forward Radio

Move Forward Radio


Bed-Ridden Teen Overcomes Chronic Pain With Physical Therapy

January 26, 2017

January 26, 2017: When Elizabeth first walked into the Mayo Clinic’s Pediatric Pain Rehabilitation Center and saw someone faint right in front of her, she knew that she was in the right place. 

At this point Elizabeth had been struggling with chronic pain and a condition called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, or POTS, for several years. Her symptoms included migraine headaches, vision and hearing problems, and fainting also became a daily occurrence for her. 

Her symptoms were so severe, they forced Elizabeth out of school, into bed, and out from the activities that she loved. Her friendships dissolved, and she struggled to find effective treatments for her numerous ailments. 

That’s when she found the 1-month treatment program at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Her intensive care included daily physical therapy treatments and significant patient education. Gradually, she became stronger and stronger and in less pain.

Her recovery was so significant and profound, Elizabeth is now a sophomore in college studying to become a physical therapist. 

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