Free Bird a.k.a. A New Level of Hurt

Tuesday, January 6;

I am what some would consider free! Saw the doctor this morning and he gave me the thumbs up to get rid of my sling. I can wear it when I'm going to be in crowds of people who may bump into me. I'm free!



Most people would think that I'd be celebrating this moment. Now, don't get me wrong. I am thrilled to be without the brace, but it begins an entirely new level of recovery. It's actually the part of recovery that I've been most concerned about. Since my movement will no longer be restricted from movement from a device, I am concerned that I could potentially try to do too much too quickly. I'm not talking about workouts. I know I'm not even close to working out with my left arm. I can't lift anything heavier than a coffee mug. I am concerned that I'll try to use my arm to do too many "every day" movements. Putting on stockings. Opening doors. Closing doors. Typing. How much is too much?

I've also noticed a surprising change. Over the past five weeks, the brace has become some what of an identity for me. I'm "the girl with the arm brace." Sometimes it's annoying, but other times it's really helpful. The brace acts as a signifier to strangers and other Washingtonians, who are generally in a rush, to be mindful of me and my space. They give up their seats and give me space to get off of the elevator. I no longer have that buffer. I'm left to my own devices and (fearfully) left to the kindness of strangers. Ahh!

This brace-free movment will also open me and my muscles up to some killer pain. My doctor asked me if I needed some more pain medication. I said, "I believe in pain." I think that was me stupidly saying.. "no doctor, I'd much rather suffer than take your offer of good drugs." What is wrong with me??!!

This Week's WOD's

Sunday, January 4;
Shoulder exercises
400 meter walking lunges w/ 15lb weight vest (this felt awesome in a really horrible way!)
Hollow rocks

Monday, January 5;
30 minutes on incumbent bike
shoulder exercises