Bruising, Home PT, Getting Out and 2nd PT [4-6 days Post-Op]

I must be doing something right! When I tried Friday (3 days post-op) to bend my knee, after a little "warming up" I was able to go beyond 90 degrees. This had me pretty excited considering last time around that was my goal at 6 days post-op.

07.22.2012 5 Days post-op and bending well beyond 90 degrees!

Also, I feel I am able to stand for longer periods of time, take less pain medication and just feel more mobile in general.  I can even go up and down stairs (veeeery carefully) by taking one step per stair, instead of the prior oh-so-cautious 2 feet on each stair as I make my way. (Of course, when carrying my daughter I revert to the most careful stepping!)  Perhaps part of my successful recovery is having the cutest little buddy to distract me...

07.20.2012 - Playing in mama's full-leg length ace bandage..!

Ironically the bruising this time around is much worse, but at least it doesn't feel as bad as it looks!

07.22.2012 - 5 Days Post-Op

07.22.2012 - 5 Days Post-Op

07.22.2012 - 5 Days Post-Op

Yesterday (5 days Post-Op) we got out to watch my hubby and friends play softball and get some fresh air. It went well, many asked how the rehab was going and it was another nice reminder that I can't wait to get back to my normal mobility so even things like spectating are enjoyable again!

Tommorrow will be 1 week post-op. Crazy to think, but grateful this time around seems to be going smoothly. The only hiccup I feel so far is today at PT I was asked to scoot forward in a rolling stool by using both feet to "pull" myself along, and at times my kneecap would catch and pop a little. Drew had me change the exercise so I was "pushing" (going backwards) and perhaps we'll try again on Wednesday when (hopefully) swelling reduces even more.

Getting Out and Many Thanks!! [4-5 days Post Surgery]

Saturday Afternoon (4th day post-op):

Previously I'd only left the house for PT, and those trips were a challenge in their own right, getting into and out of my helpful driver's back seats and bracing myself for each little bump in the road. However, Saturday we were able to leave the house to get some ice cream from Clark's in Berkley....

We then went to dinner (yes, AFTER ice cream!) at one of our FAVE local establishments, The Living Room/Amici's Pizza. I wasn't able to enjoy my usual Samoa Martini, thanks to the pain meds, but I was just happy getting out! Also, the owners, Jen and Maureen both made a point to talk to me and wish me a speedy recovery, which meant a lot to me!

[THANK YOU to Eric and his mom, Sandy, who've helped immensely in my post-surgical days!]

While I'm thanking, a shout out to my Mom, Dad, and Janice for also making a trip (or two!) to town to stay with me and help me through the days surrounding the surgery. Now that I find myself home alone more often than not, I realize just how very helpful everyone was, as well how much I've enjoyed everyone's company!! :)

[Daddio and Mom as they switched care taking shifts on Wednesday morning... Muchas Gracias!!]

Sunday (5th Day Post-Op):

True to the usual Sunday tradition, it was a lazy day, with the exception of a little PT at home to work towards Monday's goal of a 90 degree bend in my knee. Sandy was headed back home after spending 3+ days with us, and before she went we made sure to do a 'trial run' of me getting in and out of my own car, so I'd be able to drive myself to 10am PT on Monday. It was entertaining since I'm 5'10" and drive one of the smallest cars (a little Saturn sedan), but after nearly sitting in my passenger seat to get my straight/immobilized left leg into the footwell of the drivers side, I did prove that I was capable, however awkward!!

Even though this little 'trial run' seemed silly at first, it felt good to know I had the freedom of my car back!

And, finally, Sunday marked another great event- the start of the Outdoor Soccer Season of LOS HOOLIGANS F.C.- I can't wait to get back out and join you guys!!