Saw the surgeon this morning, had x-rays, and had the pin pulled from my toe. 30 seconds of twisting and wrenching. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. But . . .
All of the joint fusions were a success! I should have a really stable, pain-free foot down the road.
Now I have to focus on learning how to walk again. Tried a bit. It’s hard and scary and painful. The surgeon advised it will be a “two steps forward one step back” process. He told me to expect increased swelling and pain and bruising. I’m looking at another 6-10 weeks before I can resume serious activity level. So the next two months will be boring but oh-so-important-and-necessary as far as rehab and recovery are concerned.
I’ve spent a lot of time on T-Nation these last six weeks since I was forbidden to do so much, including driving. But now it’s time to get busy! So I’m going to close out this log. Thanks for the support, everyone.
Part of the reason for our logs is to share our knowledge on a variety of subjects related to our physical wellbeing. I have never been through what you have been through, but would benefit from hearing about the experience all the ups and downs etc. And as usual we are hear to support you (you have a big fan base) during your recovery. Posting periodically might also help you vent your frustration with the above. I rest my case. Your fan The Dude
Saw a great physical therapist today. Well, he doesn’t actually have the letters behind his name. Interestingly, he’s the strength and conditioning coach for a large high school in town and a self-taught foot rehab expert and orthotics manufacturer. What an interesting and educational visit. He handled my foot like it was his own and designed a whole foot rehab program for me. He was surprised that I did competitive powerlifting based on my bone structure and what he diagnosed as “hypermobility” in all of my joints. His attention to detail is impeccable, and we spent a good bit of time discussing what I could safely do in the gym at this time.
Training highlights of the last week include 25 full pistol squats (5 x 5) and 15 chins (3 x 5) while hauling up a hiking boot on one foot and an air cast on the other. I started doing lower body machines this week(ugh), which will only last until I’m allowed to get my greedy hands on a barbell. I’m benching and doing upper body accessory work as well. Nothing super exciting. But it keeps me sane and looking hotter than hell.
My goal is to be back in good enough form to compete at a July meet at 105 lb. and break the geared squat state record with my opener. How’s that for a goal?
I’ve been thinking about you alot as I’ve spent the past two weeks down with a bronchitis thing. It really sucks being less than 100%, and eats at one’s mood. You’ve done a great job by and large keeping focused and working right up to your current capacity. That example helps me.
Hotter than hell plus strong as hell are indeed the goals.
