Here I am at week 8! A last blast of summer weather this week--hot and humid predicted but it's lovely right now out on my back porch. I'm groggy and sleep deprived--not from recovery insomnia but from cat shenanigans. I got up for a 4 a.m. bathroom visit and woke the cat who thought it was time for fun and noisy games. I finally escorted him out onto the screened in back porch and closed the door so he could frolic by himself but I wasn't able to go back to sleep.
--Walked on my easy trail again yesterday and this time extended the distance further into the woods on slightly rougher terrain. Moved slowly, used my cane, and it was fine. No hip pain but left knee was a bit stiff. I'm contemplating getting some hiking poles, which might work better than the cane.
--I haven't been going for walks as much as I'd like--need to tend to some foot things--get new covers on my orthotics because my current ones have worn spots that rub, get toenails clipped, etc. Hope to get that all taken care of this week. I will be so glad when I can bend down and tend to my own feet again but it's too soon for that degree of flexibility.
--I'm walking more and more without a cane and hip feels stronger, lasts longer before fatiguing. I leave the cane in the car when I go to a store or restaurant and just use it for longer walks or walks on uneven terrain like that woodsy path.
--I have the first visit with Jen, the PT, tomorrow. I've worked with her before--she's gentle, let's me set the agenda, focuses on function. I'll report back after I meet with her.
Slowly, slowly recovery inches forward.