Steps in the right direction

My goals going into this week were to become less reliant on others, to get walking confidently without my crutches, and to work towards altering my brace again to allow more flexion. Tough goals right? Well, this is how my week went.

All week has been focused on doing more jobs for myself, rather than asking my family to do things for me. I am now able to get up and down stairs without help (although it does take me some time). Not only this, but I no longer need assistance in getting in and out of bed, showering or getting changed. This obviously has taken a lot of workload away from my mum and the rest of my family in helping me.

This has all been a massive confidence booster for me. I like to think of myself as an independent person, so not being able to do simple tasks really knocked my self-confidence in the first month. I can already feel myself getting back to the old me! (And I can only continue to get stronger from here.)

I have managed to go out for a short walk without my crutches this week for ten minutes. My walking is something that is coming with time. I need to get used to the muscle movements again and try to avoid limping, but again, this is all improving day by day. We have decided that I am strong enough to go back to work next week, which is a huge step forward.

Finally, on Friday I met with my physio, Ruth. I didn't know what to expect going into our appointment, but Ruth has reassured me that I am improving well! We have managed to add some new exercises to my daily routines, such as hamstring curls, baby squats and a hip strengthening routine. Ruth has also advised that I should be able to get back into the gym soon, which is obviously a huge plus. We also decided to alter my brace again; in the space of a week, I have gone from 70 to 100 degrees of flexion. Again, visible progression keeping me encouraged!

I can't wait to restore a routine back into my life in the upcoming weeks. Work, gym, and rehab. All this on the cards just five short weeks after the surgery.

Next week will be one to put me to the test. Working life, implementing my new exercises and having a wedding on Saturday where I will be on my feet a lot of the day. It's due to be a busy week, however, I am confident that if I keep on top of rehab and recovery, I shouldn't face any problems.