If I could name a theme that ran through my posts last March, it would have to be my knee. I "injured" it, and I use that term loosely because all I was doing was walking down the hall at school. Although my knee completely went out, and I couldn't walk, the MRI showed deterioration and arthritis but no damage bad enough for surgery...yet. Although I do believe that day will come.
For the past year, I have walked with a limp, and that has affected my other knee, my hips, and shoulder. I had moments, hours, and days where it worked and moments, hours, and days where it didn't. Steps are difficult, and I walk up and down one step at a time. My knees ache when I sleep, and rising from a sitting position makes me feel like the Tin Man in search of an oil can. All these things also affected my mental health, and I am sure depression was a possibility.
Last Friday, I decided to get an injection. Although my knee is still not perfect, I feel like a new person. Coming upstairs to write this slice, I walked up with alternating feet and carried items in both hands, without holding the railing. It has been a long time since I was able to do that.
The only question is, "Why did I wait so long?"
a space for me and other teacher-writers to share our stories.
Leigh Ann, we have a friend whose daughter in her early 30s had a full hip replacement last week. She's so glad she did, even at her young age, despite plenty of other opinions. She is up on her feet and recovering and can't wait to do all the things she hasn't been able to do for a long time. I'm glad you had the injection and so glad you are feeling better.
ReplyDeleteWithout re-reading the title before reading the post, I was also thinking, "why did she wait so long?". I am sorry you had to deal with all of this but am glad it is getting better for the moment! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteIsn’t it often that we only recognize these things in hindsight? But at least now you know how much that injection will help. I hope it brings relief for a long time!
ReplyDeleteOh, I can relate. You paint the stages of decision-making so clearly. (Please don't push too hard. That climbing-stairs-with-hands-full makes me nervous!) It is, as you so vividly relate, the effects on mental health when an injury changes your lifestyle that are so debilitating. Glad you've gotten relief.
ReplyDeleteYears ago Kathy had a gel injection in her knee and it made all the difference in the world. arjeha
ReplyDeleteLeigh Ann, you have described my past year to a T. When I went to ortho last fall for 'the pain' and he said I had "aging knees and arthritis". Well, I have an appointment in April and I'm requesting a knee replacement or partial, because I don't want to wait any longer. Doc's trained in CORI surgery, which is less evasive and speedier recovery...I think. Glad you received the shots-I've not had those yet-and that they last for a while!
ReplyDeleteThis spoke to me. Right away I thought that's how I felt about my knee. I decided to get a total knee replacement in October. It has been 5 months and I don't walk with a limp anymore and I have very good mobility with the bend of my knee. The recovery went much better than I expected it would and yes I share your sentiment. I can even ride my bike again:)
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