Client Feedback
I'm BUMMED you moved to Colorado! My wife and I visited you in Nevada before you left, and to this day, I have remained impressed--as in having witnessed a miracle--with what you did with Jennifer. Incredible! I so want to learn what you know, but your ability to palpate the "springiness" of the various pelvic structures, not to mention other joints, is seemingly magical. How can you teach that? I really hope to meet with you again. You might recall me--I was the big goof with the allergy to your cats, and my wife Jennifer was the one you assessed and treated. You also noted the anterior slippage of my femur over the tibia, something I later came to understand and having treated that, fixed my persistent knee pain. Thanks for being awesome, and I hope to god you come out somewhere in the west for a seminar sometime!
Tony Ricci - June 2016
I just want to thank you again for helping me out with my back. I feel like I am getting my life back. Medical Doctors, Chiropractors, Acupuncture, Physical Therapy, Physiatrists and Pain Specialists were not able to accomplish in nearly a year and a half (and more than 50 office visits) what you accomplished in twenty to thirty minutes during my first visit. I am still in awe of the fact that I am no longer in constant pain. It has been nearly two months since you treated me and I am continuing to improve in many respects. I am still dealing with some nerve irritation when I sit but I have no back pain at all from sitting. I can walk as long as I like. I am able to do most chores around the house without paying the price afterwards. I am even back to work and teaching a class online this quarter for the university since I can sit with no back pain. I can also still move and turn my mid back at the thoracic lumbar junction where it was frozen before. I am spreading the word about the great work you do. I have shared with my local physical therapist, pelvic floor therapist and the pain doctor I was seeing in Seattle. I have not had to see any of them since I saw you in November. I also shared information with my cousin, (the OB/GYN from Bend, Oregon who also suffers from terrible back pain in the lumbar and SI region) whom I mentioned when I saw you in November. She is very impressed that I am still feeling great nearly two months later. I believe she too will be contacting you if she already hasn't.
My daughter is doing well. She occasionally has some knee pain but not with the same frequency as she had before she saw you in November.
Thank you so very much Jerry. I will keep you posted and I will continue to share with people who have treated me and people who could use your help, the great work that you are doing and giving people their lives back.
Sincerely,
Chantelle Hildreth
I attended the Hesch Method course hoping to gain a better understanding of the SI joint and pelvic area as I feel this is a weakness for me as a PT. After completing the course, not only did I learn how to assess and treat this area but I received some treatment and feel better than I have in YEARS! I have S-curve scoliosis that causes a R sided rib hump. Over the past 2 yrs, my posture and pain has been progressively worsening so I assumed my curve was worsening. I was not able to turn my trunk to the left and I always felt like I had to fight to keep good posture. I was also having more pain with static standing and prolonged walking. During the lab, it was discovered that I had sacral torsion. Jerry performed a treatment to correct the torsion and I immediately felt a difference. My ribs were unlocked, I was able to turn to the left and the constant persistent ache that I have had for years in my mid back was gone. I felt a relaxation of the whole area over the next 30 minutes. I took the course over 2 months ago and am pleased to report that I still feel as good as I did that day. Even family and friends have noticed my improved posture and I can stand and walk much further now. Thank you Jerry for not only teaching this course so I can help my patients more effectively, but also for how you have helped me! I have been telling anyone who will listen to take this course!
Mary Dougherty, MS PT
I have had manual therapy with Jerry Hesch twice and can highly recommend him for his attentiveness and gentle therapy. My coccyx was injured using a rowing machine. The surgeon I saw recommended surgery (duh!) but I wanted to find physical therapy not surgery. I found your website and Mr. Hesch's name listed. I was skeptical of a person listed on a website and it took me a few months to actually make the appointment. I'm so glad I did. While the pain is not completely gone, it is much improved in just two sessions. Please pass the word to others in Southern Nevada that Mr. Hesch can help.
Carol Hotchkiss
Hi Jerry. Its been a while. I am doing great, still have some sensations, my question to you
is can I use the noodles again, If yes how often. My waistline is so much more even now and I feel things changing all the time, haven't worked out yet, just hadn't the chance but am going to start this week.
Its just incredible the changes you made in me, I feel I am almost normal and the best thing is I have been sleeping well with no sleeping pills.
Regards, Lynn
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
When I came to Focus Physical Therapy I was under the impression that my right leg was longer and that's just how it was. After meeting with Peggy she concluded that my torso was twisted forward on the right side; creating the leg length difference. After doing the Hesch exercises for 2 weeks the leg length difference had disappeared. Something else that went away with it was the low back pain on my left side. All that is left now is my right foot pain, which will be investigated by my physician per Focus' recommendation. She discovered a bump on the upper instep of my right foot. I was told in the past cerebral palsy caused my leg length difference and was ecstatic to find out the real problem had a very simple solution. Thanks again!!
-Z.E.
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
When I started at Focus I could barely walk. I had life long problems with back pain and wearing out my left shoe insole. Within 10 minutes of meeting Peggy she not only had a solution, but she knew why I kept wearing out my insole. After 6 weeks of the Hesch Method I had no more back pain, I walked without a limp, and my insoles are still in 1 piece! I will miss our visits.
-Z.A.
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
After several years of dealing with a chronically, very sore hamstring, I was referred to Focus by Dr. Dan Francis. Dr. Dan treats me for scoliosis in my low back, but he thought some PT may help with the discomfort in the hamstring. Peggy completed my evaluation and recommended that I try the "Hesch Method" which is designed to "even" out the pelvis. The Hesch Method is a group of 6 different positions -not exercises per se- which are very easy to perform. From one appointment to the next, there was virtually NO PAIN in the hamstring area! Almost instantly it became easier to run (and more enjoyable!) and just function with day to day things. It has been six weeks since I began with Focus, and things are still feeling great. I still do the "Hesch Method" 2-3 times per week, but it's a small price
to pay!
-F.E.
I heard about some great results from Mr. Hesch’s work. I went to see Mr. Hesch and after the first visit I thought he did more for me than all the chiropractors, osteopaths, and any other healer that I had seen in the past 20 years. My knee hurt for years, off and on. My stomach has also been a problem and it’s better. My rib cage has been out of whack for 5 years, after a fall, and it’s much better. My neck has also been a real problem for 30 years and it’s hard for me to believe how great it feels now. So all I can say is, we’re very lucky to have Mr. Hesch available to take a look at us. I’ve seen him twice now and I just keep getting healthier.
Don Phillips Las Vegas, NV
Dear Jerry, I want to express my deep appreciation for your thorough consideration and treatment of my chronic foot and ankle problem, which in spite of a 5 year history was resolved in two treatments.
The persistence of this condition has resulted in considerable lifestyle implications, having rendered me unable to walk more than a few blocks. In addition, regular treatments for this condition were costing me an average of 4 or 5 thousand dollars per year. To finally have a resolution to this problem, in only 2 visits, was not only liberating, but astounding to me.
I think the success that I experienced was due in no small part to your advanced level of understanding of how the foot and ankle works and your innovative thinking about movement patterns, associated pathologies and treatment. You are “connecting the dots” about the body in very interesting and clinically meaningful ways. Many thanks.
Betty Muise
Its just incredible the changes you made in me, I feel I am almost normal and the best thing is I have been sleeping well with no sleeping pills. Regards.
Lynn
The Hesch Method treatment really helped me a lot, both immediately when I got off the table and over the next couple of weeks. Now when I have a very long day at the hospital, I get the home program done, and I get immediate relief. There is definitely an immediate change.
Burt Parker, MD
Radiologist and avid runner treated in two brief sessions with the Hesch Method
Good evening Jerry, When you corrected my upslip, since then I have been feeling so much better I cannot tell you. Since this afternoon I have told my wife 5 - 6 times that I have no back pain even after a full day of work, as I am so excited. I have not felt this good in a long while. Again thanks.
Nitin Jain, PT
Following a single treatment during a Hesch Method Workshop
I want to express my deep appreciation for your thorough consideration and treatment of my chronic foot and ankle problem, which in spite of a 5 year history was resolved in two treatments. The persistence of this condition has resulted in considerable lifestyle implications, having rendered me unable to walk more than a few blocks. In addition, regular treatments for this condition were costing me an average of 4 or 5 thousand dollars per year. To finally have a resolution to this problem, in only 2 visits, was not only liberating, but astounding to me. I think the success that I experienced was due in no small part to your advanced level of understanding of how the foot and ankle works and your innovative thinking about movement patterns, associated pathologies and treatment. You are “connecting the dots” about the body in very interesting and clinically meaningful ways.
For the benefit of others who might have chronic problems of a similar nature, I hope that you will be able to educate and communicate your ideas successfully to other practitioners.
Again, Many thanks.
Betty, Canada
Seven years of nagging, shooting pain with anterior pelvic tilt resolved in two sessions, in spite of numerous prior Manual Therapy sessions
Jana, Nevada
I saw Jerry Hesch for shoulder and back pain, seven years after an auto accident. An Orthopedist had told me just to live with it, and a Chiropractor had told me to sign up for 40 weekly visits. Jerry's treatment took 5 minutes and the issue was resolved
Scott, Nevada
I can not say enough about this gentle, patient man with a God given ability to heal people. He has dedicated 30 years of his life to perfect a method to fix the unfixable. His hands can feel what no Doctor or test can tell you. No longer does a person have to suffer in silence for the rest of their life when they are told no cure is in their future. My life as I knew it was taken from me when I was diagnosed with pudendal and ilioinguinal neuralgia. Jerry helped me get it back in just 5 sessions. I prayed for a cure, God sent me to Jerry. I am so blessed that he did. So grateful to you,
Cheryl, Maryland
During my second pregnancy, I had severe interstitial cystitis and pelvic pain, to the point where it was difficult to sleep or roll over in bed. Adjustment of my pelvis decreased my interstitial cystitis symptoms considerably, and relieved my pelvic pain.
Kelly, Nevada
Before I came to see Jerry I had suffered for three years with local pain in the L5-S1 area that was a result of an awkward landing from a jump during a rock climb. The pain was originally acute and tapered off to 2-3 level while standing (sitting is the only way to relieve it). The MRIs didn't indicate anything specific other than dried out disks and I don't have any sciatica. I have visited multiple orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors and physical therapists over the years while undergoing manipulative therapy, traction (P90X) facet injections and PT without any improvement to the constant 2-3 level pain.
I went to visit Jerry since it was obvious that I had an anterior pelvic tilt and I thought perhaps this could be improved by the Hesch Method. After the two visits I saw moderate improvement in the body (postural) position, however, the symptoms were not relieved. On the second visit Jerry tested my spine in the Yoga Child Pose Position using Hesch Springing with Awareness. Both Jerry and I were surprised to note that the 3rd Lumbar motion segment was much more symptomatic that the L4-L5 and L5-S1. Previous care had focused on the L5-S1 lower part of my spine. Jerry also indicated that it was surprisingly hypermobile and he suggested an additional diagnostic test, which I am am considering. I was pleased to accomplish the above in two visits and I do see value in the Hesch Springing with Awareness method of evaluation, which had not been utilized prior to this visit. As an engineer, this method of evaluation makes sense given that it evaluates a fundamental property of connective tissue in a manner that no other test does, which is viscoelastic creep.
I plan to keep up the specific self treatment exercises, perhaps pursue the additional diagnostic test that was suggested at some time in the future, and hope to see a reduction in pain that would correspond to the improvement in posture.
Dan, Florida
This letter will serve to introduce you to Jerry Hesch, MHS, PT, who I met when searching for a physical therapist in the Henderson, Nevada area concerning treatment for pelvic, low back, coccyx, and joint pain, as well as costochondritis.
Prior to my first appointment, I spoke with Dr. Hesch regarding my medical issues and found him to be professional, straightforward and honest when discussing what type of treatment he could and could not provide to me regarding my pelvic conditions. He thoroughly explained to me his methods of treatment and discussed in detail how important it was that I give him feedback regarding his treatment, as provoking pain was not part of his approach.
So that he would be prepared for our first meeting, Dr. Hesch also requested that I email to him a synopsis of my medical history so that he would have time to research the various aspects and prepare the pertinent questions.
He treated posture and movement dysfunction of my pelvis/SIJ with joint mobilization and instructed me in self-corrective exercises. A home exercise program was taught and modified for strengthening of this condition. He noted upper body weakness and also taught strengthening for this area.
He thoroughly reviewed the x-rays taken of my coccyx to date, and took his own time to search the world research literature. Dr. Hesch suggested that I have additional imaging studies of my coccyx and that I seek an integrative pain management doctor for treatment of this condition, and to address pudendal neuralgia, bladder pain, and Vulvodynia. Previously, these problems had been addressed by several pelvic floor therapists, without any lasting benefit. He coached me in ways of getting through the health care maze and obtaining local care, which heretofore had been elusive.
Dr. Hesch treated the costochondritis by way of costovertebral mobilization, manipulation and he taught self-treatment. He suggested that he reassess these segments within a few months.
He also took time out of his schedule to write two letters to my primary care physician in which he addressed my hypermobility syndrome along with Fibromyalgia, and stressed that he believed the hypermobility syndrome to be a big player undermining my pain syndrome. He posed a few relevant questions and made a few suggestions for future consideration, giving thought to avoid overwhelming me with too much at once.
When I was struck with severe sciatica on a weekend when out of town, I called him and he gave me suggestions as to what type of self treatment to do to ease the pain until I could see him the following week.
"Regarding further treatment, he let me know that anytime I needed to make an appointment, I could easily get in to see him. During the course of care, it became apparent to me that he would thoroughly review my file (more than once), and make a list of questions and concerns.
Dr. Hesch has a mind that is constantly working; researching care, and probing for solutions. His model of care delivery is both one-on-one and whole-body, addressing the inter-connected relationship of the body. I also wish to point out that his care is never passed on to another person, such as an assistant or technician. Because of the complexity of my medical condition, I felt that this model of delivery of physical therapy care was very appropriate.
Lisa, Nevada
Dear Dr. Hesch, It has been about a year since I last spoke with you. I am writing to let you know how I am doing and to thank you for your guidance and help. Without your interventions, I truly feel that I would be in a totally different physical (and mental) state.
I had a total hip replacement to treat advanced osteoarthritis in March, 2006. My surgeon assured me that the surgery had gone well and by measurement, my legs were the same length. However, I was experiencing a leg length discrepancy which created other issues: lower back pain and increased pain in the “other” hip joint. I went through ten weeks of physical therapy aimed at strengthening and rehabilitating my hips. The therapy indeed improved my reconstructed hip but I began experiencing increased pain in the “other” hip which was significantly affected with osteoarthritis as well. An assessment before leaving physical therapy determined a “slight twist’ in my pelvis-probably caused pre-surgery as I compensated for the hip immobility and pain from the osteoarthritis. My therapy plan was to continue strengthening exercises and use a heel lift to lengthen the “shorter” leg. Although my hip strength improved, the pain in the “other” hip increased, and the “shorter” leg was still shorter!
A friend had heard of your physical therapy methods and encouraged me to search for more information. Through this process I ended up contacting you directly. Your help made a huge and significant difference in the level of pain that I was experiencing. After my first “telephone assessment” and instructions for exercise, I began exercising daily. I was amazed that very simple maneuvers led to such relief. I continued strengthening exercises along with your pelvic exercises. My pain level was decreased to a tolerable level so that I could participate in daily activities without the intense pain.
I underwent the second total hip replacement. After this surgery I was able to locate a physical therapy department that utilized your techniques and was treated there post-surgery. My pelvic issues were identified, assessed, and treated. I am no longer under their care but feel that I have learned a great deal. Your initial instructions were continued and expanded in my therapy sessions. I was able to see a huge and significant difference in two treatment plans, physical therapy departments, and in my results and rehabilitation. My experience confirms the power and necessity of addressing pelvic issues!
I still use many of the exercises on a daily basis and some only when the need arises.
I am a true believer in your methods and share my experience with anyone who will listen!! Thank you for taking the time and your patience in teaching me about your techniques.
Sincerely,
Elaine Parker, Director
Adult Secondary Education
Tony Ricci - June 2016
I just want to thank you again for helping me out with my back. I feel like I am getting my life back. Medical Doctors, Chiropractors, Acupuncture, Physical Therapy, Physiatrists and Pain Specialists were not able to accomplish in nearly a year and a half (and more than 50 office visits) what you accomplished in twenty to thirty minutes during my first visit. I am still in awe of the fact that I am no longer in constant pain. It has been nearly two months since you treated me and I am continuing to improve in many respects. I am still dealing with some nerve irritation when I sit but I have no back pain at all from sitting. I can walk as long as I like. I am able to do most chores around the house without paying the price afterwards. I am even back to work and teaching a class online this quarter for the university since I can sit with no back pain. I can also still move and turn my mid back at the thoracic lumbar junction where it was frozen before. I am spreading the word about the great work you do. I have shared with my local physical therapist, pelvic floor therapist and the pain doctor I was seeing in Seattle. I have not had to see any of them since I saw you in November. I also shared information with my cousin, (the OB/GYN from Bend, Oregon who also suffers from terrible back pain in the lumbar and SI region) whom I mentioned when I saw you in November. She is very impressed that I am still feeling great nearly two months later. I believe she too will be contacting you if she already hasn't.
My daughter is doing well. She occasionally has some knee pain but not with the same frequency as she had before she saw you in November.
Thank you so very much Jerry. I will keep you posted and I will continue to share with people who have treated me and people who could use your help, the great work that you are doing and giving people their lives back.
Sincerely,
Chantelle Hildreth
I attended the Hesch Method course hoping to gain a better understanding of the SI joint and pelvic area as I feel this is a weakness for me as a PT. After completing the course, not only did I learn how to assess and treat this area but I received some treatment and feel better than I have in YEARS! I have S-curve scoliosis that causes a R sided rib hump. Over the past 2 yrs, my posture and pain has been progressively worsening so I assumed my curve was worsening. I was not able to turn my trunk to the left and I always felt like I had to fight to keep good posture. I was also having more pain with static standing and prolonged walking. During the lab, it was discovered that I had sacral torsion. Jerry performed a treatment to correct the torsion and I immediately felt a difference. My ribs were unlocked, I was able to turn to the left and the constant persistent ache that I have had for years in my mid back was gone. I felt a relaxation of the whole area over the next 30 minutes. I took the course over 2 months ago and am pleased to report that I still feel as good as I did that day. Even family and friends have noticed my improved posture and I can stand and walk much further now. Thank you Jerry for not only teaching this course so I can help my patients more effectively, but also for how you have helped me! I have been telling anyone who will listen to take this course!
Mary Dougherty, MS PT
I have had manual therapy with Jerry Hesch twice and can highly recommend him for his attentiveness and gentle therapy. My coccyx was injured using a rowing machine. The surgeon I saw recommended surgery (duh!) but I wanted to find physical therapy not surgery. I found your website and Mr. Hesch's name listed. I was skeptical of a person listed on a website and it took me a few months to actually make the appointment. I'm so glad I did. While the pain is not completely gone, it is much improved in just two sessions. Please pass the word to others in Southern Nevada that Mr. Hesch can help.
Carol Hotchkiss
Hi Jerry. Its been a while. I am doing great, still have some sensations, my question to you
is can I use the noodles again, If yes how often. My waistline is so much more even now and I feel things changing all the time, haven't worked out yet, just hadn't the chance but am going to start this week.
Its just incredible the changes you made in me, I feel I am almost normal and the best thing is I have been sleeping well with no sleeping pills.
Regards, Lynn
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
When I came to Focus Physical Therapy I was under the impression that my right leg was longer and that's just how it was. After meeting with Peggy she concluded that my torso was twisted forward on the right side; creating the leg length difference. After doing the Hesch exercises for 2 weeks the leg length difference had disappeared. Something else that went away with it was the low back pain on my left side. All that is left now is my right foot pain, which will be investigated by my physician per Focus' recommendation. She discovered a bump on the upper instep of my right foot. I was told in the past cerebral palsy caused my leg length difference and was ecstatic to find out the real problem had a very simple solution. Thanks again!!
-Z.E.
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
When I started at Focus I could barely walk. I had life long problems with back pain and wearing out my left shoe insole. Within 10 minutes of meeting Peggy she not only had a solution, but she knew why I kept wearing out my insole. After 6 weeks of the Hesch Method I had no more back pain, I walked without a limp, and my insoles are still in 1 piece! I will miss our visits.
-Z.A.
by Focus Physical Therapy, LLC
After several years of dealing with a chronically, very sore hamstring, I was referred to Focus by Dr. Dan Francis. Dr. Dan treats me for scoliosis in my low back, but he thought some PT may help with the discomfort in the hamstring. Peggy completed my evaluation and recommended that I try the "Hesch Method" which is designed to "even" out the pelvis. The Hesch Method is a group of 6 different positions -not exercises per se- which are very easy to perform. From one appointment to the next, there was virtually NO PAIN in the hamstring area! Almost instantly it became easier to run (and more enjoyable!) and just function with day to day things. It has been six weeks since I began with Focus, and things are still feeling great. I still do the "Hesch Method" 2-3 times per week, but it's a small price
to pay!
-F.E.
I heard about some great results from Mr. Hesch’s work. I went to see Mr. Hesch and after the first visit I thought he did more for me than all the chiropractors, osteopaths, and any other healer that I had seen in the past 20 years. My knee hurt for years, off and on. My stomach has also been a problem and it’s better. My rib cage has been out of whack for 5 years, after a fall, and it’s much better. My neck has also been a real problem for 30 years and it’s hard for me to believe how great it feels now. So all I can say is, we’re very lucky to have Mr. Hesch available to take a look at us. I’ve seen him twice now and I just keep getting healthier.
Don Phillips Las Vegas, NV
Dear Jerry, I want to express my deep appreciation for your thorough consideration and treatment of my chronic foot and ankle problem, which in spite of a 5 year history was resolved in two treatments.
The persistence of this condition has resulted in considerable lifestyle implications, having rendered me unable to walk more than a few blocks. In addition, regular treatments for this condition were costing me an average of 4 or 5 thousand dollars per year. To finally have a resolution to this problem, in only 2 visits, was not only liberating, but astounding to me.
I think the success that I experienced was due in no small part to your advanced level of understanding of how the foot and ankle works and your innovative thinking about movement patterns, associated pathologies and treatment. You are “connecting the dots” about the body in very interesting and clinically meaningful ways. Many thanks.
Betty Muise
Its just incredible the changes you made in me, I feel I am almost normal and the best thing is I have been sleeping well with no sleeping pills. Regards.
Lynn
The Hesch Method treatment really helped me a lot, both immediately when I got off the table and over the next couple of weeks. Now when I have a very long day at the hospital, I get the home program done, and I get immediate relief. There is definitely an immediate change.
Burt Parker, MD
Radiologist and avid runner treated in two brief sessions with the Hesch Method
Good evening Jerry, When you corrected my upslip, since then I have been feeling so much better I cannot tell you. Since this afternoon I have told my wife 5 - 6 times that I have no back pain even after a full day of work, as I am so excited. I have not felt this good in a long while. Again thanks.
Nitin Jain, PT
Following a single treatment during a Hesch Method Workshop
I want to express my deep appreciation for your thorough consideration and treatment of my chronic foot and ankle problem, which in spite of a 5 year history was resolved in two treatments. The persistence of this condition has resulted in considerable lifestyle implications, having rendered me unable to walk more than a few blocks. In addition, regular treatments for this condition were costing me an average of 4 or 5 thousand dollars per year. To finally have a resolution to this problem, in only 2 visits, was not only liberating, but astounding to me. I think the success that I experienced was due in no small part to your advanced level of understanding of how the foot and ankle works and your innovative thinking about movement patterns, associated pathologies and treatment. You are “connecting the dots” about the body in very interesting and clinically meaningful ways.
For the benefit of others who might have chronic problems of a similar nature, I hope that you will be able to educate and communicate your ideas successfully to other practitioners.
Again, Many thanks.
Betty, Canada
Seven years of nagging, shooting pain with anterior pelvic tilt resolved in two sessions, in spite of numerous prior Manual Therapy sessions
Jana, Nevada
I saw Jerry Hesch for shoulder and back pain, seven years after an auto accident. An Orthopedist had told me just to live with it, and a Chiropractor had told me to sign up for 40 weekly visits. Jerry's treatment took 5 minutes and the issue was resolved
Scott, Nevada
I can not say enough about this gentle, patient man with a God given ability to heal people. He has dedicated 30 years of his life to perfect a method to fix the unfixable. His hands can feel what no Doctor or test can tell you. No longer does a person have to suffer in silence for the rest of their life when they are told no cure is in their future. My life as I knew it was taken from me when I was diagnosed with pudendal and ilioinguinal neuralgia. Jerry helped me get it back in just 5 sessions. I prayed for a cure, God sent me to Jerry. I am so blessed that he did. So grateful to you,
Cheryl, Maryland
During my second pregnancy, I had severe interstitial cystitis and pelvic pain, to the point where it was difficult to sleep or roll over in bed. Adjustment of my pelvis decreased my interstitial cystitis symptoms considerably, and relieved my pelvic pain.
Kelly, Nevada
Before I came to see Jerry I had suffered for three years with local pain in the L5-S1 area that was a result of an awkward landing from a jump during a rock climb. The pain was originally acute and tapered off to 2-3 level while standing (sitting is the only way to relieve it). The MRIs didn't indicate anything specific other than dried out disks and I don't have any sciatica. I have visited multiple orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors and physical therapists over the years while undergoing manipulative therapy, traction (P90X) facet injections and PT without any improvement to the constant 2-3 level pain.
I went to visit Jerry since it was obvious that I had an anterior pelvic tilt and I thought perhaps this could be improved by the Hesch Method. After the two visits I saw moderate improvement in the body (postural) position, however, the symptoms were not relieved. On the second visit Jerry tested my spine in the Yoga Child Pose Position using Hesch Springing with Awareness. Both Jerry and I were surprised to note that the 3rd Lumbar motion segment was much more symptomatic that the L4-L5 and L5-S1. Previous care had focused on the L5-S1 lower part of my spine. Jerry also indicated that it was surprisingly hypermobile and he suggested an additional diagnostic test, which I am am considering. I was pleased to accomplish the above in two visits and I do see value in the Hesch Springing with Awareness method of evaluation, which had not been utilized prior to this visit. As an engineer, this method of evaluation makes sense given that it evaluates a fundamental property of connective tissue in a manner that no other test does, which is viscoelastic creep.
I plan to keep up the specific self treatment exercises, perhaps pursue the additional diagnostic test that was suggested at some time in the future, and hope to see a reduction in pain that would correspond to the improvement in posture.
Dan, Florida
This letter will serve to introduce you to Jerry Hesch, MHS, PT, who I met when searching for a physical therapist in the Henderson, Nevada area concerning treatment for pelvic, low back, coccyx, and joint pain, as well as costochondritis.
Prior to my first appointment, I spoke with Dr. Hesch regarding my medical issues and found him to be professional, straightforward and honest when discussing what type of treatment he could and could not provide to me regarding my pelvic conditions. He thoroughly explained to me his methods of treatment and discussed in detail how important it was that I give him feedback regarding his treatment, as provoking pain was not part of his approach.
So that he would be prepared for our first meeting, Dr. Hesch also requested that I email to him a synopsis of my medical history so that he would have time to research the various aspects and prepare the pertinent questions.
He treated posture and movement dysfunction of my pelvis/SIJ with joint mobilization and instructed me in self-corrective exercises. A home exercise program was taught and modified for strengthening of this condition. He noted upper body weakness and also taught strengthening for this area.
He thoroughly reviewed the x-rays taken of my coccyx to date, and took his own time to search the world research literature. Dr. Hesch suggested that I have additional imaging studies of my coccyx and that I seek an integrative pain management doctor for treatment of this condition, and to address pudendal neuralgia, bladder pain, and Vulvodynia. Previously, these problems had been addressed by several pelvic floor therapists, without any lasting benefit. He coached me in ways of getting through the health care maze and obtaining local care, which heretofore had been elusive.
Dr. Hesch treated the costochondritis by way of costovertebral mobilization, manipulation and he taught self-treatment. He suggested that he reassess these segments within a few months.
He also took time out of his schedule to write two letters to my primary care physician in which he addressed my hypermobility syndrome along with Fibromyalgia, and stressed that he believed the hypermobility syndrome to be a big player undermining my pain syndrome. He posed a few relevant questions and made a few suggestions for future consideration, giving thought to avoid overwhelming me with too much at once.
When I was struck with severe sciatica on a weekend when out of town, I called him and he gave me suggestions as to what type of self treatment to do to ease the pain until I could see him the following week.
"Regarding further treatment, he let me know that anytime I needed to make an appointment, I could easily get in to see him. During the course of care, it became apparent to me that he would thoroughly review my file (more than once), and make a list of questions and concerns.
Dr. Hesch has a mind that is constantly working; researching care, and probing for solutions. His model of care delivery is both one-on-one and whole-body, addressing the inter-connected relationship of the body. I also wish to point out that his care is never passed on to another person, such as an assistant or technician. Because of the complexity of my medical condition, I felt that this model of delivery of physical therapy care was very appropriate.
Lisa, Nevada
Dear Dr. Hesch, It has been about a year since I last spoke with you. I am writing to let you know how I am doing and to thank you for your guidance and help. Without your interventions, I truly feel that I would be in a totally different physical (and mental) state.
I had a total hip replacement to treat advanced osteoarthritis in March, 2006. My surgeon assured me that the surgery had gone well and by measurement, my legs were the same length. However, I was experiencing a leg length discrepancy which created other issues: lower back pain and increased pain in the “other” hip joint. I went through ten weeks of physical therapy aimed at strengthening and rehabilitating my hips. The therapy indeed improved my reconstructed hip but I began experiencing increased pain in the “other” hip which was significantly affected with osteoarthritis as well. An assessment before leaving physical therapy determined a “slight twist’ in my pelvis-probably caused pre-surgery as I compensated for the hip immobility and pain from the osteoarthritis. My therapy plan was to continue strengthening exercises and use a heel lift to lengthen the “shorter” leg. Although my hip strength improved, the pain in the “other” hip increased, and the “shorter” leg was still shorter!
A friend had heard of your physical therapy methods and encouraged me to search for more information. Through this process I ended up contacting you directly. Your help made a huge and significant difference in the level of pain that I was experiencing. After my first “telephone assessment” and instructions for exercise, I began exercising daily. I was amazed that very simple maneuvers led to such relief. I continued strengthening exercises along with your pelvic exercises. My pain level was decreased to a tolerable level so that I could participate in daily activities without the intense pain.
I underwent the second total hip replacement. After this surgery I was able to locate a physical therapy department that utilized your techniques and was treated there post-surgery. My pelvic issues were identified, assessed, and treated. I am no longer under their care but feel that I have learned a great deal. Your initial instructions were continued and expanded in my therapy sessions. I was able to see a huge and significant difference in two treatment plans, physical therapy departments, and in my results and rehabilitation. My experience confirms the power and necessity of addressing pelvic issues!
I still use many of the exercises on a daily basis and some only when the need arises.
I am a true believer in your methods and share my experience with anyone who will listen!! Thank you for taking the time and your patience in teaching me about your techniques.
Sincerely,
Elaine Parker, Director
Adult Secondary Education