Nearly 12.5 months post surgery and the journey to recover still continues. I've come to term with a lot of things. Sometimes I worry that those words are synonymous with "I've given up". But, I know better. I am not a quitter. But I am also not invincible. A small fact that occurred to me in my late twenties and became greatly obvious now in my late 30's. (I'm going to be THIRTY-SEVEN! Can you believe that?!?!?!)
So where am I on this journey? Today I spoke to my physical therapist on the phone and he thinks it is time to discharge me after the next two visits. Or, at least he wants me to consider it. Both he and my Dr. have advised that it is time to commit to a home based program. I totally agree, but it scares me a bit to be on my own.
On December 5th I received the last of a series of 3 shots of Orthovisc (joint lubrication to replace synovial fluid in my knee). After the first shot I felt pretty good walking out of the office, went home and started preparing for Thanksgiving dinner the following day. The second shot was the worst. I had some soreness and discomfort for a couple of days. The third shot, I immediately thought I felt a difference. A little more cushion to my step.
Today, a week after the shot, it was unseasonably warm so I decided to go for a walk. I couldn't resist testing my knees so it soon turned into a jog. At first I was disappointed to feel myself limping as I tried to jog and give my right leg preference. But soon, I found a rhythm (which I admit I couldn't keep the whole time) and found myself feeling like I was running with my old swagger ;)
OK, so I guess I exaggerate. But I do feel like I AM finally getting over this last hurdle. I walk pain free, climb stairs pain free but am not strong enough to run pain free. It is possible I may never. These injections are giving me confidence and hope. Today, I ran, I enjoyed it and I felt hope. I'm happy with that!
