Aquatic
Having recently undergone a valve replacement and triple bypass, I was finally allowed to come home from The Chateau in Rochelle Park where I was undergoing rehab. During the discharge procedure, I was asked if I wanted to try their Aquatic rehab program. Assured that Medicare covered it, I agreed to something I knew nothing about.
Today, Monday, was my first trip back to the Chateau at 96 Parkway to the Aquatic section. The fact that the outdoor temps were in the 90's didn't hurt that decision. Stefanos Pantagis., MD, my doctor in regular rehab, is the Medical Director for the Aquatic Rehab.. He examined my chest, took out some stitches and applied a pack so that the healing wound would not get wet.
I then underwent a verbal exam asking why I chose aquatic therapy and what did I want to achieve. I might say that I achieved a good deal of it in that first session.
After that, I changed into my bathing suit and into the pool area. Instead of walking right into the pool, I was walked around the top perimeter escorted by a beautiful consort, Margita Djonovic. She walked me around and around until she felt I was ready. Down the steps I walked, very carefully into the arms of Dina Schino, a certified aquatic physical therapist.
Dina is a delight! We spent about 1 ½ hours together in the pool, non-stop. She started me out with basics, walking backwards and forwards, sideways and gravitating into some supports to keep my body and head afloat. Told to relax, it was a no brainer. Dina worked my legs, bending and twisting, went to work on my ankles and later had me walk a treadmill in the water propelled by me.
When I finally left the warmth of the pool, my body felt immediately stronger. Getting dressed, I was able to come home without fatigue, make dinner and then sit down to write this story.
Among the staff at the Aquatic Advantage Rehab are: Sue Roman, Program Director and Adriana Fernandez, consulting Doctor of Physical Therapy. I heartily recommend this type of therapy for your aches and pains. Call 201 336 9300, ask for the Aquatic Center and see if they can help you or visit www.omnihsnj.com!
Kinda got bawled out today at my 2nd session. I left out Christina Kucukyan, Community Service Director's name. I tried to explain that I was surrounded by so many pretty ladies that it was difficult for me to keep track!
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