Good news

Sometimes, it pays to have two knee surgeries within a four month period. I have very clear memories of my recovery from the first one - and my goal remains to heal(within reason) just as well - if not perhaps a little faster - this time.

First, I had a lot of swelling during the first two weeks last time. I'm fairly certain that I a) did not use my ice machine enough and b) did not elevate my leg enough.

Solution: I spent the first 48 hours icing and elevating (and sleeping).
Result: Left knee is swollen, but it looks so much better than the right knee did 5 days post-surgery.

Second, I was really wary of putting any weight on my knee last time. It looked so...gross. I just couldn't believe it could hold me. And so, I didn't move around enough in the first 5 days - which also led to increased swelling since my blood had nowhere to go but to my feet.

Solution: Hobble around more (in between icing and elevating) - and see how much weight I can bear.

Result: My knee is still attached to my body - and thus, it really can carry my weight still. And - moving around is keeping my left quad from wasting away in front of my eyes.

Believe it or not, but I can even drive already. How awesome it that? I'm sure it looks a little strange to see me get out of my car with my brace & crutches.
Don't worry, folks - my right leg does all the work when I drive.

Anyway, my first PT session was today. Jim gave me double-thumbs up. He was quite pleased with the minimal swelling and solid range of motion in the knee.

I'm already dreaming of biking and swimming again. I'm sending positive thoughts from my mind to my knee. I think it's working.