How Physical Therapy Helped Dawn Get Back to What She Loves

After a complex knee surgery, Dawn began physical therapy with Covenant Health Therapy Center – West Knoxville. After two months of consistent therapy, she is back to hiking, driving and enjoying daily life without pain. Regaining her strength and movement has allowed her to get back to the routines and adventures she loves most. 

Dawn is an ultrasound technologist at Covenant Health Parkwest, so she knows the standard of care Covenant Health provides and trusted she would be in good hands. She and her husband, Terry, have been married nearly 35 years and have two grown sons, Kyler and Chase. Originally from a farm in Ohio, Dawn enjoys hiking whenever she gets the chance.  

Surgery and a Fresh Start 

After experiencing ongoing pain from an unstable knee implant, she underwent a total knee replacement revision to relieve her pain, performed by Ryan Dabbs, MD, orthopedic surgeon with Covenant Health.  

After surgery, Dawn began physical therapy with Covenant Health. 

Individualized Therapy Plans 

From her first visit, Dawn felt supported. “They treat you like family,” she said. “I get one-on-one time with the therapists where the focus is completely on my plan. It is very individualized, and I appreciate that.” 

Her physical therapist, Grant Disney, PT, DPT, designed a treatment plan that focused on safe motion, improving strength and reducing pain at a pace that matched Dawn’s comfort and goals. 

“When Dawn started therapy, her knee movements were very limited and uncomfortable,” Grant said. “We focused on restoring motion first, then gradually built strength and function. Progress looks different week to week, so we aim to recognize the steady improvements that matter most.” 

Milestones That Matter 

As therapy progressed, Dawn reached important milestones that brought her closer to her normal routines. 

“Her pain tolerance improved, her strength increased and her confidence returned,” Grant said. “Seeing her get back to hiking has been a major step.” 

Dawn agreed. “I can walk trails again, and my knee feels stable. I don’t have pain anymore,” she said. “Therapy helped me get back to the things I enjoy most.” 

Grant noted that Dawn’s determination played an important role in her progress. 

“Dawn brought such a positive outlook to every session,” Grant said. “Her humor and determination made a huge difference. She showed up ready to work, even on the tough days, and that commitment helped her get stronger week after week.” 

Why Dawn Chose Covenant Health 

Dawn has trusted Covenant Health for her therapy needs since 2016. As both an employee and patient, she values the advanced tools, expert clinicians and the compassionate care she receives at each visit. 

“They have always been patient and kind,” she said. “Every clinician is willing to help, and they truly operate as a team.” 

Grant shared a similar perspective. “Our goal is simple: provide expert care, set clear goals and create a plan that fits your life. We want you to get back to the things you love.”  

Expert Therapy Care 

Dawn encourages others to seek care with Covenant Health. “I would highly recommend this physical therapy group. They take care of you and go out of their way to help. Covenant Health feels like home.” 

 Covenant Health Therapy Centers offer convenient locations, advanced techniques and dedicated one-on-one care to help you recover with confidence. 

Find a Covenant Health Therapy Center location near you and take the first step toward recovery by calling to self-schedule today.