Slumped Over and Shuffling No More!

Louis arrived for his first appointment at the Southwest Florida Free Pain Clinic slumped over his walker, struggling to shuffle through the door. A couple of months prior, he had stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few things when suddenly pain shot down his legs and he collapsed on the hard tile floor. With a lot of effort, he managed to get up but fell two more times. Fortunately, two strong men happened to be nearby and carried him to his car.

Louis had dealt with pain in his lower back and hip that went down his leg from time to time. He would sometimes use a cane for support when it was really acting up, but this pain was the worst he had experienced. He was staying home because of the restrictions in place from the pandemic and hoped it would get better with rest. It just got worse.

When Louis heard the Southwest Florida Free Pain Clinic was providing free medical care for people without insurance, he called for an appointment. He was taken back by what a welcoming environment he found. Volunteers and even other patients helped him get to the treatment area. Dr. Gruning invested more time with him at his first and follow up appointments than any primary care physician ever had.

After a consistent regimen of physical and massage therapy, acupuncture and chiropractic care, ultrasound, cold laser, and nutrition and lifestyle coaching twice a week at the free pain clinic, he was making tremendous progress. The walker that had literally held him up was left at home, and he began using his cane again.

With continued care, Louis walks to the different treatment areas without his cane and does not need it as much at home. “This place is just great – I can’t even believe it!” he beamed at his last appointment. “I am so grateful to everyone here. Darlene (physical therapist), Thomas (massage therapist), Dr. Janis (chiropractor), and Carly and Dr. Becky (acupuncturists) have done wonders for me. And don’t forget Dr. Gruning! Everyone here is the best – always so friendly and happy to see me,” he shared with a wink and a huge smile you could see despite his mask.

Click here to help someone like Louis with a donation of any amount today. Starting a monthly donation will help us focus our efforts on providing care for the growing number of people in our community who have lost jobs and benefits since the pandemic and truly have nowhere else to go for help. Thank you for making a difference with your generous gift!