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How Physical Therapy Can Help with COVID Recovery – Jimmy Reynolds’ Success Story

James “Jimmy” Reynolds, a member of the ‘50’s and ‘60’s American doo-wop group, The Edsels, contracted COVID-19 near the end of 2020. He was in the hospital for another issue and was scheduled to be transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility. However, after he no longer tested positive for COVID, his family made the tough decision to bring him home instead of admitting him to the rehabilitation facility. At home, his wife and children took care of him 24-hours a day. Jimmy remembers relying on a wheelchair during that time because he wasn’t able take more than a few steps without needing to rest. COVID had taken most of his strength.


In February 2021, Jimmy’s doctor recommended physical therapy. That’s when he found Tracie Yarrison, Physical Therapist and Evan Hall, Physical Therapist Assistant, the in-home team from Phoenix Physical Therapy’s Austintown, Ohio clinic. The plan was to meet with him two times a week. After discussing his rehabilitation goals, the team created a custom home program that was designed to help Jimmy gain strength and increase his mobility. He began with simple standing exercises to improve his strength, as well as sit-to-stand exercises. He even took a few steps. But none of the exercises were easy for Jimmy. “I remember not even being able to make it to my kitchen,” Jimmy said. But with each visit he grew stronger. And with diligence and help from his therapists, in time he was able to walk a little further, eventually allowing him to transition from his wheelchair to a walker.

Jimmy recalls the day he asked Evan if they could walk to the corner store as part of their therapy session. Evan asked, “Do you think you can make it?” Jimmy replied, “I know I will.” And sure enough, they made it to the corner store. Jimmy said at that moment he knew he was well on his way to living his life the way he was used to, spending time with his family and enjoying music.

His four-month journey to get back to feeling like himself was not easy, but Jimmy says it was worth every bit of hard work. He’s now driving his car and enjoying everyday activities like he did prior to having COVID, thanks to his hard work and help from his therapists.

Our expert team of Physical Therapists can help improve your endurance and strength after being diagnosed with COVID-19. Our team will listen to your recovery goals and create a customized treatment plan designed to get you feeling back to your best self.

If you or someone you love is struggling to recover from COVID-19, you are not alone. Phoenix Physical Therapy is here to help you. Find a Phoenix Physical Therapy location near you.