Amanda Polyniak

AMANDA POLYNIAK: CORNELL WOMEN'S SOCCER PLAYER (D1: IVY LEAGUE)

In the Fall of 2023, I was slide-tackled from behind during what I would eventually find out to be the last game of my high school soccer career. After being carted off the field in pain, an x-ray later that night revealed that I had a displacement fracture of my fibula. After getting an MRI about a week later, it was also determined that I tore the ATFL in my ankle, as well as sprained many other ligaments. Surgery was necessary to repair the damage, with a recovery time of about 4-6 months. This injury was not only devastating as I was unable to play in the semifinal game of the tournament, but it also made me question whether I would be adequately prepared for my college soccer career ahead of me.

I quickly began physical therapy just a few weeks after surgery with Vinny at HSS. During my first appointment, Vinny was very attentive and made sure to address all of my questions. His attention to detail and care for his patients was quickly noticed. From day 1, I knew that I was in good hands and immediately trusted Vinny with my recovery. As I progressed through rehab, Vinny was very thoughtful in the exercises he gave me. It is clear that he does his research, and knows the science behind the exercises. For example, Vinny got approval from my surgeon to use the BFR, which he explained would help to grow my quad muscles without putting too much pressure on my ankle. Sure enough, within a few weeks, I could see great improvement in the muscle strength of my quad. This helped to speed up muscle growth, which I had lost due to the injury.

Additionally, as an elite athlete, clearly, I was eager to get back to playing soccer as quickly as possible. It was evident to me that Vinny had experience with similar athletes, and ensured that I was able to achieve my goal safely. In fact, when I went for the first check-up with my surgeon, I was informed that I was way ahead of the rehab protocol. Vinny worked with me to make sure I hit every milestone on schedule. My surgeon determined that I could return back to soccer after 5 months if everything went well, and Vinny ensured that I was beyond ready. With his expertise, I felt extremely confident in my ankle, and knew that I was prepared to make a safe return to the field. Once I received the all-clear from my surgeon, I hit the ground running, literally. After a few weeks of getting back into it, I felt like the player I was before my injury. Even as I trained the hardest that I ever had to prepare for my college soccer preseason, I had no worries about my ankle.

I recently finished my first season playing Division I Soccer at Cornell University and my ankle wasn't even noticeable. This season could have looked very different if it weren't for Vinny's attention to detail and dedication to my recovery. I am grateful that Vinny was able to play a huge role in my return to the field and I would highly recommend him for any athletic injury!

(Photo credit: Rob Christy Photography)