Hi all, I've been doing as I said, lots of elevating, icing, taking it slowly, a few short walks. Reading novels! Not a lot of exercise per se, just ADLs. Sleeping's getting a little easier. I'm using my LoungeDoctor and a couple of pillows. Down to one Tramadol 50, with one Acetaminophen 500, at bedtime, and that's all the pain med needed now -- a couple days shy of three weeks out. Soon I think I'll try cutting the Tram in half.
I called yesterday to set up my outpatient PT appointments starting a week from today, so that will be starting at almost four wks post-op. Twice a week times six weeks. I specifically asked if they push their clients hard, or whether they are gentle and respectful of what hurts. The latter, I was reassured. I'm looking forward to it at this point.
The continuous passive motion machine (CPM) has been sitting in a corner neglected for what seems like a long time now. Will be picked up on Friday. I only used it for about the first week I was home.
The most vivid memories of the whole experience:
1. Waking up in recovery feeling so elated it was over. Of course little did I know it was just beginning, the whole recovery process, but still... I had been so afraid of the surgery and it was DONE. Euphoria.
2. Feeling so blessed by all the help and support, visits, singing, prayers, meals, errands run, by friends and neighbors. I am so deeply grateful. I think it would be quite difficult to do this journey alone, without support. And of course some of my gratitude goes to those of you who are watching the postings in this forum and responding so helpfully. Thank you, thank you, thank you.