A month out and I am encouraged by my progress. I am getting weaned of the prescription meds and look forward to drug free days (if they every arrive). Getting back into the schedule of regular life is a little intimidating. I have devised ways of getting dressed and getting around that opened my conscience about how many simple tasks I take for granted. I am using these challenges as thresholds. Goals for benchmarks include : putting on my left sock, tying my left shoe (loafers and sandals are standards usually). My range of motion has increased but is impeded by the glacial pace of the receding swelling. The excess fluid is visually alarming by comparison to the “normal” leg. I am told by home health nurses and physical therapist that my body will eventually absorb all the extra fluid through movement, massage, and icepacks.
Mentally I feel very capable and anxious to feel healed. My muscles strength has greatly diminished so I am working with small 4lbs ankle weights to begin regaining the fitness and power levels in my legs. The best part of my days are when I get to stroll (with a cane) around the lake a few blocks behind my house. The sun, fresh air, and nature are great gifts I am grateful to experience from a perspective unknown to me before.
During the last stages before surgery I was in pain, actual physical pain and psychological strain. I lost two exciting job opportunities, and seriously stymied my social life and felt withdrawn. All of my interaction with the team of healthcare professionals was wonderful. They helped tremendously by giving me hope and believing in my abilities. Family and supportive friends are truly invaluable. Thank you!