A quick report...
It seems I am past the Terrible Middle. The incision has healed nicely, the bruising and soreness has gone from the leg, as has most of the swelling.
Some notable moments...
Walking all the way around the local block without aid of stick
Turned my compost heap over last week
Mowed the back lawn yesterday and also rode my bike around the block
Can walk down stairs using alternate steps (vs. stepping down always with left leg)
Resumed visits to the gym (upper body and arms only)
Work at Physical Therapy is going well, resulting in a good increase in knee flexion this week.
Sleeping better due to less discomfort from knee
My Physical Therapist is quite a card and here is a quip from him.
Question: What is the difference between a Physical Therapist and a terrorist?
Answer: You can negotiate with a terrorist
Pertinent, as the business of extending the range of movement has its (painful) moments.
I think the lesson from the Terrible Middle is that, while orthopaedic surgery has an almost magical aspect, especially as an outpatient procedure, the real work of recovery and rehabilitation is in my court if I want that fully functional knee.
A week or so past the use of pain killers, I notice that brain function has improved; I am able to get on with necessary tasks and I am taking more notice of what is going on in the world. Here in the US, the big news continues to be the oil disaster off the coast of Louisiana so maybe some thoughts relating to that next time around.
Many thanks for good wishes from quite a few of you. I have endeavored to respond as I received them but, if I missed replying to any, please accept this general appreciation.
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