'Little Things' Make a Comeback [19.5 Wks Post-Op]

Somewhere along the way in my recovery I think I stopped celebrating the 'little things'. I kept a fresh perspective of what I could and couldn't do when it came to exercising or getting back range-of-motion, but the more I think about it, that's not what I'm excited to be doing again... And as gradually as they've come, there are lots of little things I'm happy to say I do without wondering "what will this do to my knee?"...

For instance, today I woke up, got out of bed and walked across the room. Ta-da! There once was a time when that was my biggest challenge! But now I'm back to my groggy "I don't wanna get up" mindset, instead of thinking step-ouch-step-ouch as I used to hobble away from my resting place. Then it's showering. And getting back upstairs to get dressed. And putting on high heels! And yes, even taking out the trash-- because before I was helpless, and while it's not a desirable task, I can.

Next, it's pivoting on my left (surgical) leg as I get into my car (which is quite low to the ground). No more backing up near my seat, having weight on both feet and gingerly lowering myself into the seat. Plant, pivot, sit and DRIVE-- one (mostly) fluid motion! At work it's lots of sitting, but there is still getting in and out of my chair, crossing my legs, or scooting around in my cube on my wheelie chair and not feeling any pain. Ah, the little things!

Today at work I had to cut a strip away from a very large piece of paper from the plotter. Given the size, I figured the floor was my best work space. So this meant squatting down (and getting back up!) and also some kneeling (*gasp*)! I am still cautious when kneeling and putting weight where they took my graft from, but it turned out to be a surprisingly normal feeling!

Regarding my PT-at-home: jumping is getting easier but still challenging. I can run on pavement w/o additional soreness. I even completed a yoga DVD (complete with child's pose!) on an 'off' day, and there were lots of movements I am proud to be able to do again, no matter how simple.

Monday (8/31) is another follow-up with Dr. Shapiro, and Wednesday (9/2) has a high potential of being my first soccer practice! [Despite being given the OK to 'practice' last time I saw Dr. S-- I've still been sticking to PT routines. I may be eager to get back out there, but I want to feel confident first...]

Have a wonderful weekend!

Knees and Trees [7 Weeks Post-Op]

I am forced off work this week (it's all good!) and so that means daytime PT appointments and taking care of those little things that are often put off. Since I have been making improvements in PT and feeling stronger on my feet, it was decided that this week is when a big tree in our back yard would come down.

My dad, a seasoned tree-cutter-downer and general outdoors man, offered his services, but this is a big task for just one person. So, in addition to keeping him well fed and hydrated, I decided to monitor how my knee felt as I helped with the take down. I was aware that the backyard is a bit soft and, in some spots, uneven. Also, there is always the chance that a limb can come down more quickly or in a different direction than anticipated, so it meant being smart about where I was in relation to the action. Luckily Eric was able to be a big help when it came to needing extra elbow grease for the big cuts, and some of those times I was happy to stay on the sidelines instead of risk any injury.

2-day story short- and because you were surely holding your breath- there were no injuries, or even pain beyond normal use! There were even times I was able to plant both feet firmly and tug on guide wires, and I felt strong in my foundation. Or if I needed to step on a branch to hold it down as I broke it into smaller pieces, I could use either foot and wasn't nervous to do so.

This definitely isn't how I expected to be 'celebrating' my 7-week post-op anniversary. At the same time, if you would have asked me a few weeks ago if I would be helpful in an activity like this at 7 weeks, I might have thought you were crazy!

Meanwhile, PT is focusing on the same strength building exercises and transitioning me into running. Drew worked a lot on stretching my hamstring and really straightening out my leg at last PT, and I felt a lot better when I jumped on the treadmill immediately after. 10 minutes of speed walking followed by 3 minutes of running left me tired, sweaty, but most of all confident of my eventual return! Yay!

The backyard beast that had to come down:

Draped in chains that helped pull the tree down, limb by limb... it's not my limbs holding me back anymore! (OK, Cheesy, I know!)