kukukat
It is becoming clearer
May 20, 2011
I have been worried about how I am going to do with the surgery and my arthritis in my knees, since I have to go off my anti-inflammitory med. I called my orthopedic doctor and asked him if I could have cortisone shots. Nope -- it makes your blood sugar go up and increases the risk of infection. Drat!Talked to one of Dr. VerSteeg's staff members today, "Kath". She seems very helpful and willing to go the extra mile for you. I couldn't help but think that if my life is difficult now (and it is... just getting up from a chair, or into the car, or up from bed, etc. etc.) how much more difficult will it be when I awaken from surgery and have to get up from the bed. She said that I would be given a liquid lortab so it will pretty much take care of the pain in my knees as well as the abdominal pain. (So I'm a weinie, I readily admit it!)
Kath also suggested a walker for getting around my house. She says I'll be able to manage by myself and not have to have someone stay with me when I get home. But I do have two sisters close by who I'm sure will help if I need them. She recommended Arthritis Strength Tylenol for my pain. She's talking about getting me a Rx for swimming or using a therapy pool afterwards. These people are good.
I also called my Physical Therapist to see if I could use my TENS unit on my knees. Yeah! He explained how to situate the electrodes to my knees and how long and at what strength. Bless his heart. And good for me, I'm coming up with a solution or two of my own! The TENS unit was an expensive gadget I bought for my back -- but I noticed that there are settings for the knee, shoulder, wrist, etc.
It's all becoming clearer that I can, must, and will play a significant role in my recovery and the success of my endeavor.
I had a call from my friend Linda's friend -- Peggy. Never met her before but we talked for a long time. She told me about her surgery and answered questions that I had. I see this is all a very positive thing. These people are good.
