Cosmos Akoto Osei

Every year, October is recognized as National Physical Therapy Month in order to raise awareness about the benefits of physical therapy. It also serves as an opportunity to appreciate what PTs do to transform patients’ lives. Physical therapists are experts in human movement and the musculoskeletal system. They diagnose and treat individuals of all ages and disabilities with the goal of improving their quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed exercise.

Meet Cosmos Akoto Osei, a 31-year-old Army soldier and soon-to-be dad who was recently diagnosed with a rare condition known as exertional compartment syndrome. This condition is an exercise-induced muscle and nerve condition that causes pain, swelling, and sometimes disability in the affected muscles of the arms or legs.

In Cosmos’ case, his legs were severely affected. Early this year, he began to experience pain in his legs, thinking it was shin splits. About two weeks ago, Cosmos was on his way to the gym when suddenly he couldn’t walk anymore. The condition had gradually worsened to the point where his legs could no longer bear his weight. He was rushed to the emergency room where diagnostic imaging was completed and surgery was required.

Following his surgery, Cosmos was transferred to rehab at Methodist Hospital | Texsan where he has been receiving both physical and occupational therapy. Upon arrival, Cosmos was unsure about therapy, but after spending a week in rehabilitation, he now has a different perspective and is thankful for his therapists. “Everyone here has been very accommodating and friendly,” said Cosmos. Cosmos and his therapists have been working on strengthening his upper body since he is temporarily wheelchair-bound. Some of the exercises focus on biceps and triceps, which will help Cosmos with daily activities such as moving from his wheelchair to the bed or to the shower.