Woo hoo! I may be a bit naughty by nature, but I certainly do my best to be a stellar patient. And it has certainly paid off! Today was my two week post-op appointment, and Dr. Berrey was very pleased with the healing process. So pleased, in fact, that I am now out of the leg immobilizer; earlier than anticipated! But now comes the really hard part - regaining flexibility/mobility. Periodically, thoughout the day, I have to flex my leg. Bend it to 90 degrees, then push it a little bit more. Hold it, then straighten it - and do that a little bit more. Hold it, then bend it. And repeat. And I also get to start the (drumrole please) sliding squats! Granted, my squat will not be anywhere close to perfect, but it is the mobility that is important.
And that is what was impressed upon me at the appointment. Mobility is critical at this point. Strength will come in time. In Dr. Berrey's words, "radiation is not your friend." When I asked why I learned that radiation will build additional scar tissue over the already existing scar tissue attained from the surgery. And any new scar tissue reduces mobility. So, I need to have as much mobility as possible before radiation so the impact from radiation is minimal.
I tell you, though. Bending a knee that a) has been straight for 15 days, b) is missing a significant chunk, and c) has a lovely vertical seven inch scar is not easy. Dr. Berry gently assisted my leg in coming to a 100 degree bend three times. O.M.G. Sweat beads were popping all overy my head. My stomach, which was thankfully empty, roiled. The scar tissue resisted and popped when resistence was futile. And I couldn't help but groan - part from pain and part from fear. I am told it will get easier. And I have no choice but to believe it. But when I bend it, as I have done in the last 30 minutes, it is still very rough. I am thankful to have a fair bit of painkillers left.
An upgrade in the healing process also means I am that much closer to going back to work. And I am not opposed to that. Being home sounds nice and relaxing. But it is so not the case when you can't get around and have to rely on others to even carry a glass of water from the kitchen to the couch. I am hoping that in a week or so I may be able to use the leg enough so I can drive myself. My next doctor appointment is in two weeks, but if I am up to it I'll be asking for at least a partial release before then.
On a not so great note, DD is going in for some tests for fatigue and malaise. So, the doctor bills continue. I anticipate a good three to five years to pay off the medical bills. And I hope that is an overestimate. I still don't know the cost of radiation and I am a bit nervous. My change in insurance at the new year has been working in my favor so far. I only hope it continues to hold up.
(Several hours later...) Healing from surgery is child's play compared to regaining mobility!!!! Swelling and pain are to be expected, and are in fact present and accounted for!
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