Hildy Sheinbaum

I was quite an active 63 year old - a Soul Cycle addict, Barre lover, hiker, walker and busy geriatric nurse. When my hip pain began to worsen, I assumed I had aggravated my trochanteric bursitis, and I began taking ibuprofen regularly. But when my excruciating pain kept me awake during the night, and I had a visible side to side limp, I visited my general orthopedist, who ordered an MRI. Multiple tears in several hip tendons and labrum were quickly apparent, and I was told there was no easy fix; physical therapy "could" help. After several months of therapy and no change, I sought additional opinions, and began my journey with HSS.

I saw Dr. Stephanie Buza in the hopes of having surgical intervention. She was thorough and precise, and took time to explain what the issues were - surgery was not an option. She referred me to Dr. Dena Barsoum, a brilliant physiatrist, who was kind, thorough, patient, and an out-of-the-box thinker. After much discussion, she formulated an action plan which included platelet rich plasma (PRP), hyaluronic acid gel injections, and physical therapy. She gave me hope that I would return to my active state with hard work and time.

I worked with Jay Mizuta, a wonderful physical therapist, who was one of the most insightful and helpful PTs I've ever met. At my first appointment, it was quite apparent that he had already read up about my condition, and reviewed the literature and best practices for rehabbing this injury. His approach was like none other. His patience, tenacity, encouragement and method for slow and safe rehabilitation sustained me over many months, as I got stronger and pain subsided. And when I was finally discharged from PT, Jay assisted in transitioning me to Chelsea Long, an exercise physiologist who would assist me in getting stronger and meeting the goals I set for myself.

I have been working with Chelsea for over a year now. In addition to continuous strengthening of my affected hip and surrounding muscles, one of my ongoing concerns has been addressing my osteoporosis through safe weightbearing exercise that would not induce further hip injury. Chelsea has been wonderful in every way - not only focusing on rebuilding my sick hip, but also making sure to take a holistic approach to bolster my core stability and supporting muscles. The regimen she has built for me has been thoughtful, slow and steady. I feel safe and motivated with her, not to mention that she makes exercise fun! And most unbelievably, my bone density testing had shown a 10% increase in bone mass in my hips - from exercise alone!

I am back to hiking, spinning, exercising, and even fly fishing, and feeling great thanks to the village of amazing HSS people who each played a pivotal role in getting me there! I am so grateful!