And Surgeon Says... (Week 32)

Let me start by saying that last week was a challenge. There are some things in life that still through me for a loop emotionally, and it takes me a while to get on my feet again. The good news is, that each time, I bounce back faster and more grounded.

Thus, after a few days where I was feeling a bit "off" mentally and emotionally, scattered and whirling with thoughts and ideas, I came to Friday. Friday morning I had my appointment with the surgeon. He's a good one in several locations, which means at least a two hour wait to see him, and you have to wait four weeks to get an appointment with him. I was supposed to see him in December... but because they forgot to schedule me, I ended up waiting until the end of January.

After three hours, we finally got to see him. By that time I was hungry, tired, really not wanting to be there... and I can only imagine how the kiddos felt. It was a quick visit as I wanted out, and really had nothing to say other than to get him to sign the PT form. I was hoping he'd tell me I was doing great... that I didn't have to see him anymore. Alas... he wants me back in 3 months.

Over the weekend I leaned into the feeling of being scattered. It was snowing, and I knew I was off when instead of leisurely watching it with a nice cuppa... I was pacing and agitated. I did settle in for some games with hubby in the afternoon.

I haven't been able to get out and walk with the snow and the chill in the air (15 degrees is too cold). Getting out and walking, I'm usually on my own, and it not only gives me a chance to move, but it's like a mediation. It makes me feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. Hmmm... perhaps I should consult a good friend of mine who walks indoors in her home... :)

Then today, I went to physical therapy. I got a workout today with various exercises and yoga poses, and felt super proud when he commented how hard one exercise was, and for me it was easy. The best part has been realizing that I can do some of the exercises that I thought I could never do. Proof that I'm getting better.

The PT told me that he thinks I might need another month and then I'm done. He said by April, I might be back to doing what I was. I need to do the moves slowly... but I can do a lot that I couldn't before. My movement and strength have really improved. My core strength is increasing.

April will be almost a year since my fall. It's been a long road.

Has it been so long? (Week 31)

Oh my... with the holidays I've let things slide. Life has been full, and overall that is good, as the Physical Therapy has really made such a difference. My movement has improved, and the dry needling, though very painful, was helpful. I was even able to travel (a 3.5 hour car ride) back for the holidays to spend and see family.

It's a new year, and I'm past the 6 month mark. I'm not completely pain free. There are still issues that we are working out, but my pain level is between a 1-2, save for when I am encouraged to try new things to see what will happen. Even then *knock on wood*, the highest it's been has been a 4-5.

I'm still driving. I can get on the floor to play games with the kiddos. I can get on the floor and teach my morning class to the kiddos and spend all day at co-op without pain meds. Though there have been days I've needed them.

As for exercise... back in November, I started walking a half hour a day. Now that it's a bit colder, I've been able to do the Wii Fit - including some yoga poses and strength exercises. I am getting stronger... I still have to be careful. Oh, and I can sit for longer periods in front of the computer. I feel best when I'm getting up, around, and moving.

On Friday, I'm supposed to see the surgeon again. Will it be the last time? Will he give me the all clear? Oh... I hope so. Stay tuned.


PS. This is the brand of curcumin I use: http://www.amazon.com/Turmeric-Curcumin-GOLD-500mg-Capsules/dp/B0055713UO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1358992864&sr=8-2&keywords=curcumin