Crutchin' around

Before surgery, I was completely focused on the procedure itself - and the potential successful results. I didn't consider post-surgery.. and things like adapting to crutches and a knee brace.

Ignorance is bliss?

First, I am doing well and do feel better every day. But, just as TG Maggie (who happens to be a physical therapist) predicted, my knee is so swollen that my quad has essentially shut down. I actually have to lift my right leg to move it. It's weird. I also felt like I should be "tough" and not rely on prescription painkillers. Silly, silly me. My doctor reminded me that there is a reason he prescribes percocet post-surgery - and that I'm not being a wimp. I have taken the minimum dosage - and hope to be totally off it today. Fingers crossed!

I have grown to love my super-cool ice machine that provides constant coolness to my knee. What a fantastic invention. I am the proud owner of another device -I forgot its real name - but it provides electrical impulses to my quad. It cuts down on pain AND helps to prevent too much atrophying of my quad muscle.

While my training partners are out running repeats in the arctic cold, I will be contemplating which bathroom will be the least problematic for showering. Do I attempt to climb the stairs to get to the big shower? Or do I use the downstairs, more accessible shower that requires I somehow hoist my leg over the tub (without wiping out)?

Decisions, decisions...