Anne (name changed to maintain client privacy), a Northwest Neighbors Village (NNV) member, has always been active - staying fit at Curves and the YMCA while traveling to 37 countries. However, as knee arthritis and back pain worsened, maintaining her fitness routine and continuing her travels became more challenging.

She first heard about Van Derhoof Physical Therapy after attending a virtual presentation on urinary incontinence hosted by NNV. Encouraged by the presentation and realizing her back pain could be connected to her incontinence issues, she decided to seek help from Ali Van Derhoof Thomas, a physical therapist and owner of Van Derhoof Physical Therapy.

Tackling Incontinence and Back Pain Anne initially sought therapy to address urinary incontinence, which was beginning to interfere with her active social life. Ali worked with her on lifestyle changes while also focusing on strengthening Anne's pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in both bladder control and spinal stability. Through targeted exercises like bridges, squats, and Kegels, they strengthened Anne's core and hip muscles, which in turn helped reduce both her incontinence symptoms and back discomfort.

Ali also assessed how Anne's home environment might be contributing to her back pain. They determined that her old mattress was not providing adequate support, and because she is under five feet tall, her bed was too high. "Ali explained that my feet should touch the floor when I'm sitting on the edge," Anne said. To fix this, they replaced her mattress and box spring, making it easier to get in and out of bed and improving her overall comfort.

Building Strength and Mobility With her home environment improved, Anne and Ali turned their focus to strengthening her legs and improving mobility. Before therapy, even standing up after sitting for a long time was difficult. "I used to struggle to get up after lunch with friends," Anne shared. "Now, I have no problem standing and walking afterward."

Ali developed a customized therapy plan to address Anne's knee pain and posture. "Ali challenges me during my sessions - she won't let me say no," Anne said with a laugh. Since starting therapy, she has noticed real improvements. "My knees don't hurt as much, and my strength with day-to-day movement is better." She no longer relies on her cane as much and has noticed significant changes in how she walks.

A Long-Term Commitment to Movement Beyond the physical benefits, Anne enjoys the convenience of therapy at home and the personal attention she receives. "Ali tailors the program to each individual and their needs," she said. "Having one-on-one support from her and her team makes all the difference."

Anne knows that staying independent means staying active. "Ali tells me I have to do this for the rest of my life - and I know she's right," she said. For her, physical therapy is key to remaining confident and engaged in life. Her goal is to build stamina and get back to traveling, and she's committed to putting in the work to make that happen.

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It is rewarding to hear stories from members whose interaction with NNV has had a meaningful impact. What have you learned from NNV programs or services that have sparked a change? Let us know at info@nnvdc.org or 202-935-6060.