Dodged a Bullet

At least for now. Had another "date" with my orthopedic surgeon this afternoon. The X-rays and MRI confirmed that my knee is not pretty, but I've known that for decades. Still, it has worked reliably for me, doing whatever I've dished out, until I was running a few days before I left for Europe. Hmmm... Two weeks after a steroid injection, it is much improved, and the lingering issues seem to be related to an IT band issue. Apparently this is quite common with runners. So for the next 8 weeks I'll be in PT boot camp trying to resurrect the knee. My doc, who is from Honduras, insists that I'll be able to return to Roatan to snorkel, so that is encouragement enough for me. And if I build up some impressive weight-lifter quads, I may start running again, too. (I sense some eye rolling going on out there...)

Progress!

Holly and I greatly enjoyed our walk yesterday afternoon, although there may not be another one for a couple days. (I am between the pain medication wearing off and the steroids kicking in.) I managed to straighten the leg last evening--finally!--and it's still straight this morning. For the first time in almost three months, I was able to get out of bed and immediately stand and walk. That alone is worth a celebration, in my book. Still waiting for an MRI appointment, although I've been warned they'll likely have to wrestle in the mud with my insurance company to make it happen. (Is it too late to move to the UK? Oh, wait, it snows there...) I'm eager to get moving on this as I'm supposed to return to work on January 4th. If surgery is necessary and delayed, I'll have to make a difficult call to the chair of my department. The guy does have a good sense of humor, so I imagine starting it with, "Hi, Dave. So how's your ulcer?..." (We've been working seriously short-handed for years now, thanks to the poor economy in Florida.)

All You Knee-d to Know

I had an appointment with the orthopedic surgeon today. The exam made me yelp, and I needed more x-rays. Cousin John, my e-orthopod, was right on with his distance diagnosis. I have a torn meniscus. (I still think there may be a ligament issue, too.) The local doc gave me a cortisone injection with a turkey-baster syringe. While I wait for an MRI, I have my marching orders. I must re-build my quads, restore my range of motion (more than half gone), and stop limping--or else! I expect to find out whether any cutting is in my immediate future at the next appointment. And speaking of surgery, please send positive thoughts in the direction of my summer neighbor. Bob is having double knee replacements tomorrow.

And now I am going to take Holly for a walk. Because I can. Then I'll hit the yoga mat. Knee is much more comfortable already. Thank you!

Thinking Back...

A week ago I was still in Europe. I know I was eager to get home at that time. Now I'm in Florida, where the weather is only slightly warmer, and waiting to see an orthopedic surgeon. In the meantime, I'm told to avoid weight-bearing activities. Say what?! I walked all over Europe. Seriously, I don't sit well, and I hate being bored. Today I am going in to Tallahassee for a much-needed haircut, and Tom is taking me out for a birthday celebration this evening. Tomorrow evening, we're heading to the coast to see a boat parade of lights. And that's about all the excitement there is for now. [sigh]

New Pix

I've added some photos from my single-use camera. Check Climate Princess post on November 29th and forward.

Up at Night

I am home and in the throes of jetlag. I enjoyed a warm welcome from my little family, and Holly pup is currently glued to my side, trying to lick away the skin on my left hand. (She missed me a lot, even though we Skyped. Before you think I'm crazy, I have someone who can vouch for that.)

The airlines did a good job of carting me around yesterday, saving me some wear and tear on the knee. For now, I am done with cobblestones, stairs, and lugging. I also have hot tub plans for today, so I'm hoping for some improvement. (I should add how very nice it is to go outside without having to bother with winter jacket and all the accessories, although it appears I've brought some cooler weather with me. Or at least I'll be blamed for it.)

I still have photos and reflections to add to the blog. Let me know if you have any questions.

Off to the Airport!

Yay! And good riddance to snow and bread. Here's hoping for smooth sailing--or flying, I should say. Thanks for joining me on my excellent break. More from the States.