Or close enough.
Just got back from the doctor. I rode my motorcycle and walked in, no limping (but I have to really think about it when I walk).
He watched me walk, we discussed things I need to be careful about (dental work), and told me to see him in 6 months. He'll take x-rays then, and if all is good, don't need to see him for a couple more years.
He says I can do any activity I feel up to doing. I told him I've already been diving and he says no problem.
At this point, the final mental weight has been lifted. I want to try bicyling, running, etc. again. He just warned me not to break anything, so that's pretty much what I've been doing all my life, so I'm back!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Picking a physical therapist
I did a smart thing. First of all, I picked a PT where they had aquatic therapy. And this facility is a good one- the pool they use is big enough to do walking exercises for several people at once. I've seen ads for other facilities where all they have is a big tub.
But the other important feature of my PT, which wasn't intentional- was to have a female therapist. Who also has two female student assistants.
It's had several benefits. When they do work on my scar, I don't mind. One of the male students offered, and I skipped the scar therapy that day.
But, the 'workout' aspect of therapy works as well. I'm sure that I try harder when a woman is asking 'can you do this', or 'let me know if you get tired'. The answer to the first is 'yes', and to the second is 'of course I'm not tired.' Sure it is sexist at some level, but it actually works- were it a guy, I would flat-out say something like "I don't like doing that."
The therapists (unlike the office staff) make it a workout I look forward to- even the men. But I hope the workout won't be too much longer- I'm ready to start on my own I think.
But the other important feature of my PT, which wasn't intentional- was to have a female therapist. Who also has two female student assistants.
It's had several benefits. When they do work on my scar, I don't mind. One of the male students offered, and I skipped the scar therapy that day.
But, the 'workout' aspect of therapy works as well. I'm sure that I try harder when a woman is asking 'can you do this', or 'let me know if you get tired'. The answer to the first is 'yes', and to the second is 'of course I'm not tired.' Sure it is sexist at some level, but it actually works- were it a guy, I would flat-out say something like "I don't like doing that."
The therapists (unlike the office staff) make it a workout I look forward to- even the men. But I hope the workout won't be too much longer- I'm ready to start on my own I think.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Drying out
My Physical Therapy has been migrated from the pool to the gym.
That is a good thing it turns out. Water is very helpful- it gives resistance to movement and buoyancy to allow motions that would be difficult on land. But that same buoyancy limits the actual forces I deal with. I've improved to the point of really needing to strengthen the big muscles of my legs.
In the gym, I ride a type of bicycle (push pedal), do squats, stretches, step-ups, pull against rubber bands, etc. It is very effective. I feel like I've been working out afterwards. Muscle soreness- the good kind.
That is a good thing it turns out. Water is very helpful- it gives resistance to movement and buoyancy to allow motions that would be difficult on land. But that same buoyancy limits the actual forces I deal with. I've improved to the point of really needing to strengthen the big muscles of my legs.
In the gym, I ride a type of bicycle (push pedal), do squats, stretches, step-ups, pull against rubber bands, etc. It is very effective. I feel like I've been working out afterwards. Muscle soreness- the good kind.
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