Six Months, One Mission: Officer Craig’s Return to the Force

Samuel Craig, a police officer with the Granite Falls Police Department, experienced a life-changing injury in late 2023 after a snowboarding accident left him with a torn ACL, meniscus damage and a partial MCL tear. The injury occurred just a day before he was scheduled to work, and it left him unable to walk. When his orthopedic doctor told him he’d be out of work for a long time, the news was devastating.

Samuel began physical therapy with Frye Regional Piedmont Therapy about a month before undergoing surgery. The early stages were incredibly challenging. He was in severe pain and couldn’t move his leg. “I remember lying on the therapy table thinking, ‘How am I ever going to walk again,’” said Samuel. But with the guidance and motivation of the physical therapists at Piedmont

Therapy, he slowly began to regain strength and confidence. The therapy sessions were tough, but they kept Samuel focused and moving forward.

More than anything, Samuel credits his progress to a shift in mindset. “Once I stopped focusing on how far I had to go and just focused on getting a little stronger each day, everything changed,” shared Samuel.

Just six months post-surgery, Samuel passed his Biodex test, which is performed to assess the patient’s isokinetic strength. He was cleared to return to full duty on the Fourth of July weekend in 2024.

“Getting back to work felt like winning a personal battle,” he said.

Today, he’s back to enjoying the activities he loves, including fishing, hiking, swimming and running. Although he’s holding off on snowboarding for now, Samuel feels stronger than ever. His recovery journey is a testament to the power of physical therapy, determination and a resilient mindset.

Frye Regional Piedmont Therapy offers a wide range of services in physical, occupational and speech therapy. The team specializes in orthopedic and sports injuries, neurologic and vestibular conditions, speech and swallowing disorders, lymphedema and Parkinson’s-focused therapies. With a commitment to high-quality compassionate care, Frye Regional Piedmont Therapy is honored to care for every patient, close to home. To find a provider, visit FryeMedCenter.com/Piedmont-Therapy or call 828.728.8317.

###