As the largest orthopedic practice in Virginia, OrthoVirginia brings exceptional expertise in both surgical and non-surgical care with more than 150 specialists across 35 locations. Their partnership and support with SwimRVA is essential, as they help keep our swimmers healthy by treating and guiding recovery from sports-related injuries.

SwimRVA Rapids swimmer Patrick Puzon is one of many swimmers that have benefited from OrthoVirginia’s high-quality care.

Patrick Puzon is a well known name for the SwimRVA Rapids, as he holds 15 team records spanning across the 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18 age groups. In 2021, he made history as the first ever individual champion for the Rapids at Long Course Age Group Championships in the 50 meter freestyle, and in 2023 he became just the third Rapid in team history to qualify for the USA Swimming Winter Junior Championships. Patrick has also collected an impressive list of honors, as he was selected as a two-time Virginia Swimming All-Star Team honoree and a 2023 Richmond Times Dispatch All-Metro Team member.

With such a high-level, consistent path of success, injury was not in the plans for Patrick. After experiencing pain in his right shoulder, he was diagnosed with a labral tear. Referred to OrthoVirginia by multiple family members and friends, Patrick decided to have his shoulder repaired by Dr. Marion M. Herring, MD over the summer.

Although the procedure went well, Patrick still had a long road ahead of him. “The experience was good and the surgery was fast, but recovery was hard”, Patrick reflected. “My life was very active prior to it, and I was suddenly unable to do much.” He began to do physical therapy through OrthoVirginia, working with Suzanna S. Lee, MS, PT. OrthoVirginia provided Patrick with a unique experience where both his surgeon and physical therapist had backgrounds in swimming, helping him to form strong connections and trust with both individuals.

“Physical therapy went well, and I was able to get back into the water sooner”, recalled Patrick. Thanks to this progress under the care of OrthoVirginia, Patrick was able to participate in his senior season of high school swimming with Trinity Episcopal School, including competing in the in-season meets and the VISAA State Championship. At the state championship, he was one of the top performers for the Titans, collecting three bronze medals and 19 points to help his school place fourth out of the field of 52 schools.

Patrick’s steady progress since his surgery with OrthoVirginia also allowed him to ease back into club swimming. As a member of the Senior Speed group with the SwimRVA Rapids, he was able to focus on regaining power and speed alongside his recovery.

Thanks to the combination of a successful surgical procedure, consistent physical therapy, and his own hard work and determination, Patrick has been able to continue playing the sport he loves. Now a freshman in college, he is continuing his athletic career as a member of the men’s swimming team at the University of Lynchburg.

“Overall, this has been a big life change,” explained Patrick, “but thanks to OrthoVirginia, they helped make that change easier.”