So I went a little nut-so today. I have been getting a little depressed, particularly in the mornings. And this morning I was getting really tired of being an inactive boob on facebook and getting the runaround by doctors’ offices. So I went out to the barnyard and did stuff I am not supposed to do back-wise. I will not incriminate myself more than I already have, but it sure feels good to be physically tired and to feel like I accomplished things. Now I hope I do not have serious consequences for my behaviors. But I am telling myself that mental health is just as important as physically health…right?
Mental health ABSOLUTELY is as important as physical health! Here’s hoping your day’s work will help lift the depression and speed your body’s healing…
Thanks Nancy! So far I am not noticing any worse symptoms from my chores today.
I feel your pain. I had both knees replaced in August, and was feeling like wonder woman a couple of weeks ago, until the universe slapped me upside the haid. My right leg is taking much longer to get strong, and I’m now in a full leg brace for a couple of weeks. I still do stuff, and that may be contributing to the problem (you think?). However, I’m champing at the bit to get into an exercise program to get in shape so I can train my horse this spring.
I guess the key is moderation, which I don’t do well…
Thanks Laura. You clearly have had a more challenging time than I have. I have just had one month where I am not supposed to sit, bend or lift. But yesterday I kind-of snapped. I am not a patient patent, I am learning. But it is hard to know how much to do sometimes. I hope you heal well and are in shape for horse training in the spring.
I so do know where you are coming from. Chronic physical pain, creeping mental pain, and trying to figure out how to keep doing the things that you love to do -and that make your life what you want it to be. It’s a dance for sure, and not always a pretty one. I started walking to get in shape, stay strong, and to get me outdoors for at least that 45 minutes, but our weather here sure doesn’t make it easy. My supportive thoughts are with you in commiseration. Take Care.
Thanks Tamra. You clearly know what I am talking about although I am new at this disability stuff. I really appreciate the commiseration!
I feel for you.
I believe in the saying, “Use it or loose it”.
I think you have done the right thing.
What do Doctors know anyway?
Hmm, let me think.
How can I profit from this patient so I can go on my quarterly holiday? Hmm, let’s see, keep them in bed so they feel totally miserable and then offer them mind-numbing drugs. Yep, that might work.
Happy Holidays!
Zak, being skeptical about doctors motives…
Thanks! In the interests of full disclosure, I am a doctor- a pediatrician to be exact. But I agree that doctors do not know everything ( and particularly about the back), and this has been very educationally trying to be a patient. My back condition could jeopardize my ” day” job so I do need to be careful.
I hate when I have injuries, and I agree that the mental health aspect is just as important. I have the feeling I’d like having you as a doctor because of your common sense and closeness to animals/nature. That said, I can’t believe you have time to do everything on the farm and be a doctor!
Thanks Teresa. I try to have common sense and a wider perspective. But having been busy for decades it is really hard to lie around. I did find a great job two years ago that gives me more time for the farm, so I am very happy with it.
Go easy on the chores, you don’t want to tweek something and go backwards (pardon the pun). Your mental health will really suffer than! I know it is hard to lie around, and very depressing. I was laid up for 3 years with a back thing. I think you would feel better if you could do back exercises, walking, physical therapy etc. At least you would feel like progress is being made. I was blessed to have a good doctor (an osteopath to be exact, and sports medicine guy) who was proactive with the exercises and PT. At least I felt like I was doing something. Back things just take time to heal and you can’t really hurry it along vey well. For me, I would have good days and over do it, then have a bad day. Try to hang in there, and be careful when you attempt chores.
Take care,
Jackie
Thanks Jackie! I will be good. This is after a little over one month. I cannot imagine what three years was like!