A little update, since it (once again) has been a little while since I last wrote in.
* Prolotherapy is the real deal, my friends. I have now had two treatments, and am due for my third a week from tomorrow (December 8). The second treatment was not nearly as uncomfortable as the first (maybe because I was mentally prepared for it? Who knows.), and my recovery time (the time I spent moving gingerly from point A to point B, and taking Tylenol as needed for pain) was MUCH MUCH shorter. My OMT had not seen me for five weeks between treatments, and reckoned that I was moving about 50% better than I had been before my first treatment. Since I'm living in this body 24/7, I hadn't noticed the difference too dramatically after the first treatment. However, after almost five weeks since my second treatment, I am feeling a huuuuge difference. My pain levels are way down. I am able to sit down on the floor from a standing position without help. I am able to bike on my trusty Airdyne with nearly full-abandon. My OMT has told me that she thinks I will need 4-5 prolo treatments total, before we move on to the manipulation-based treatments. We shall see. I remain, as ever, cautiously optimistic about all of this! Where is the fingers-crossed emoji? I need one.
* PT is also continuing to go well. I have "graduated" to the gym-area of the rehab clinic, wahoo! Meaning, I am now working on strengthening my poor, weak muscles. I am still working to fix one last, stubborn area of diastis recti, too. I am still using the cane when I'm out and about, or when I'm trying to move fast (at work, for example). Slow and steady.
* My whole little familia had the stomach bug over Thanksgiving break, which is one of my very favorite holidays. I was SO sad to miss celebrating with R for the first time. Now that we have all regained our appetites, I am looking forward to Christmas - gahhh! I'm already jamming to old-school Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, and have hauled out our Christmas decorations. I've loved reading R some of the staples of Christmas books from my childhood: The Polar Express, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, etc. 'tis the season, after all.
* What with the demon virus, my husband getting emergency gallbladder surgery, the current American political environment, etc., I have been feeling admittedly blue lately. Missing Thanksgiving had me miss my annual opportunity to truly and openly reflect on the many reasons I have to be thankful. Usually I can count my health on that list, and I had initially thought, "Well, not this year! Stupid pelvis!", but - but but BUT - here I am. Breathing. Carrying my son some. Living in a sweet little house. Loving my adoring, supportive husband. Walking with only a cane to assist me. Eating every day. Advocating for what I believe in. The list really does go on and on. I can't continue to ask WHY my injury happened, but I can focus on the present and future. So, that's what I'll do.
Stay thankful, everybody.
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Back To Work, New PT, Starting Prolotherapy, Etc.
So, it's been almost ::gulp:: two months since I last wrote. Needless to say, a LOT has happened since then. Here we goooooo -
* I went back to work on August 30 (I'm a middle school Spanish teacher). I hadn't been working since maternity leave started in the first week of February. So far, being back in the classroom has been really great for my mental health - it turns out that I had missed teaching tremendously. Even with my physical limitations, I can basically be my "old self" when I'm in teacher-mode. My coworkers and my students have all been very understanding and supportive, too - so good. I'm taking on a new role as part of my building's Leadership Committee, and have new classroom to boot - GOOD changes.
* My work with my OMT is going well so far. She and her wife have a son who's about a month and change younger than R, so she *gets* what my situation is, and how much of a struggle my injuries entail. I've seen her twice thus far, once for an initial consult, and just over a week ago for my first round of prolotherapy (also known as regenerative injection therapy). Prolotherapy (from here on out, I will refer to it as prolo) has been around since the 1930s, but isn't necessarily considered "common" - I had never heard of it before. You can read more about prolo here (http://www.prolotherapy.com/), but in nutshell, this is what prolo does: injections of saline and dextrose into the ligaments around my damaged joints (primarily my PS and my left SI) are promoting healing. The injections purposefully cause inflammation in these areas, and are prompting my body to restart the healing process. After a few rounds of prolo, I should feel a significant decrease in pain. After that starts happening, I'll be able to start more manipulation work with my OMT, which should jump-start my mobility gains. For about 6-7 days post-prolo,I was REALLY sore (as prescribed). I took Tylenol (but no anti-inflammatories!) for about a week to help myself along. For the first time, pain IS gain, as far as my recovery is concerned. Time will tell how successful OMT/prolo will be for me. I'm feeling cautiously optimistic.
* Work with my new PT is also off to a great start. We are about three weeks into working together. She's also a new mom (her daughter is 18 months old), and, as with my OMT, we can relate on many levels. She is a pelvic PT, and does have experience working with patients recovering from PSD/PGP. We meet twice to once a week, and I'm doing exercises independently at home every day. The big focus has been core work. At our first meeting/after her first examination of me, she informed me that I have two areas of diastis recti (who knew?!). Nothing crazy, but - enough of a separation that it's been affecting the ability of my core to strengthen. So, we shall continue to work on that! Slow progress, but - progress.
* I have started to use the stationary bike again! I am terrified of biking on the road, but I have always loved a good sweat session on my Airdyne stationary bike (a birthday gift to myself when I turned 25). For the past three weeks, I have been slowly getting reacquainted with it: I started with 4 minutes total, and have cautiously added minutes. I'm now up to 15 minutes, and am trying to get in at least 4 rides a week. I feel zero SI pain when I bike, and my PS is only a wee bit sore afterward. I have the blessing of both PT and OMT to continue biking as my body tolerates it - wahoo! Since I was an avid athlete pre-baby/pre-injury, it is amaaaazing to be able to sweat even a little bit again. :)
OK, off to work - happy Hump Day.
* I went back to work on August 30 (I'm a middle school Spanish teacher). I hadn't been working since maternity leave started in the first week of February. So far, being back in the classroom has been really great for my mental health - it turns out that I had missed teaching tremendously. Even with my physical limitations, I can basically be my "old self" when I'm in teacher-mode. My coworkers and my students have all been very understanding and supportive, too - so good. I'm taking on a new role as part of my building's Leadership Committee, and have new classroom to boot - GOOD changes.
* My work with my OMT is going well so far. She and her wife have a son who's about a month and change younger than R, so she *gets* what my situation is, and how much of a struggle my injuries entail. I've seen her twice thus far, once for an initial consult, and just over a week ago for my first round of prolotherapy (also known as regenerative injection therapy). Prolotherapy (from here on out, I will refer to it as prolo) has been around since the 1930s, but isn't necessarily considered "common" - I had never heard of it before. You can read more about prolo here (http://www.prolotherapy.com/), but in nutshell, this is what prolo does: injections of saline and dextrose into the ligaments around my damaged joints (primarily my PS and my left SI) are promoting healing. The injections purposefully cause inflammation in these areas, and are prompting my body to restart the healing process. After a few rounds of prolo, I should feel a significant decrease in pain. After that starts happening, I'll be able to start more manipulation work with my OMT, which should jump-start my mobility gains. For about 6-7 days post-prolo,I was REALLY sore (as prescribed). I took Tylenol (but no anti-inflammatories!) for about a week to help myself along. For the first time, pain IS gain, as far as my recovery is concerned. Time will tell how successful OMT/prolo will be for me. I'm feeling cautiously optimistic.
* Work with my new PT is also off to a great start. We are about three weeks into working together. She's also a new mom (her daughter is 18 months old), and, as with my OMT, we can relate on many levels. She is a pelvic PT, and does have experience working with patients recovering from PSD/PGP. We meet twice to once a week, and I'm doing exercises independently at home every day. The big focus has been core work. At our first meeting/after her first examination of me, she informed me that I have two areas of diastis recti (who knew?!). Nothing crazy, but - enough of a separation that it's been affecting the ability of my core to strengthen. So, we shall continue to work on that! Slow progress, but - progress.
* I have started to use the stationary bike again! I am terrified of biking on the road, but I have always loved a good sweat session on my Airdyne stationary bike (a birthday gift to myself when I turned 25). For the past three weeks, I have been slowly getting reacquainted with it: I started with 4 minutes total, and have cautiously added minutes. I'm now up to 15 minutes, and am trying to get in at least 4 rides a week. I feel zero SI pain when I bike, and my PS is only a wee bit sore afterward. I have the blessing of both PT and OMT to continue biking as my body tolerates it - wahoo! Since I was an avid athlete pre-baby/pre-injury, it is amaaaazing to be able to sweat even a little bit again. :)
OK, off to work - happy Hump Day.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Half A Year of R
I figure it's high time that I share a photo (or six) of my little man. What with all that my injury entails, it's hard to keep positive, a lot of the time. But, here is the "worth it". Happy half, to my R.
Update-a-roo-ski: A Cane, OMT, Pelvic PT, Etc.
Alright, here are some updates. I'm a huge fan of the bullet-style blogging (if you haven't already noticed), so - read on...
* I have a start date for OMT: September 15. Unfortunately, that's a long way off. This OMT (who has apparently treated SPD/PSD/PGP before, wahoo!) only sees three new patients a week, so... that's me. Since she's one of few in my area, she's obviously booked out. Also, I'll travel about a hour and 15 minutes to get to her. I'm on the cancellation list, so we shall see if that happens. In any case, I'm excited to see what OMT has to offer me!
* I met with my ortho doc again yesterday, for x-rays and an examination. The bad news: my PS gap has hardly closed. I was at 2.5cm at 10 weeks PP, and am now at about 2.3cm at just over 6 months PP. I say "bad news", because my heart sunk when I saw that. However, my doc says that, even if the width of my gap stays stubbornly where it is, my recovery can still progress, with continued focus on core strength, pelvic floor work, and gait training. I see that I should believe this, because (a) if I don't, what do I have left?! and (b) he (my doc) has treated SPD before, and seen nearly full recoveries happen.
* The good news from my ortho doc: I am officially ditching my walker, and moving on to using a cane! I have secretly been using a cane for the past few weeks, at first just around the house, but in the past week while out and about, too. I decided to go for it after hearing from some of the ladies in the SPD Facebook group: many were moved from the walker to the cane at around 3 weeks postpartum, on the recommendation of their pelvic PTs. I confessed all of this to my ortho doc, and he nodded sagely and said, "Good for you - that's the right choice". I told him about my PTs being gun shy about progressing me, and he wrote them a note for me to deliver, explaining that now is the time to let me "weight bear to tolerance". #letsgoooo
* In addition to continuing with my current PTs and pool work, I'm going to see a pelvic PT, too. I found a woman who practices about 10 minutes from the school where I work (!!!), and asked my ortho doc if it would be a good idea for me to see her, too. He said that, while he has a lot of knowledge after having practiced for 35 years, he is open to trying new things (such as writing a referral for a PT he has no personal knowledge of), and gives me his medical blessing. So. Stay tuned for more on that!
* Little R slept for the entire night, with no wake-ups, in his crib last night, for the first time ever. He also started daycare this week (he'll be going 3 days/week), and he (nor I) has suffered too much with the transition so far.
Speaking of the devil, he's done in his jumparoo for the time being. Time for a diaper change, a bottle, and a nap. More later -
* I have a start date for OMT: September 15. Unfortunately, that's a long way off. This OMT (who has apparently treated SPD/PSD/PGP before, wahoo!) only sees three new patients a week, so... that's me. Since she's one of few in my area, she's obviously booked out. Also, I'll travel about a hour and 15 minutes to get to her. I'm on the cancellation list, so we shall see if that happens. In any case, I'm excited to see what OMT has to offer me!
* I met with my ortho doc again yesterday, for x-rays and an examination. The bad news: my PS gap has hardly closed. I was at 2.5cm at 10 weeks PP, and am now at about 2.3cm at just over 6 months PP. I say "bad news", because my heart sunk when I saw that. However, my doc says that, even if the width of my gap stays stubbornly where it is, my recovery can still progress, with continued focus on core strength, pelvic floor work, and gait training. I see that I should believe this, because (a) if I don't, what do I have left?! and (b) he (my doc) has treated SPD before, and seen nearly full recoveries happen.
* The good news from my ortho doc: I am officially ditching my walker, and moving on to using a cane! I have secretly been using a cane for the past few weeks, at first just around the house, but in the past week while out and about, too. I decided to go for it after hearing from some of the ladies in the SPD Facebook group: many were moved from the walker to the cane at around 3 weeks postpartum, on the recommendation of their pelvic PTs. I confessed all of this to my ortho doc, and he nodded sagely and said, "Good for you - that's the right choice". I told him about my PTs being gun shy about progressing me, and he wrote them a note for me to deliver, explaining that now is the time to let me "weight bear to tolerance". #letsgoooo
* In addition to continuing with my current PTs and pool work, I'm going to see a pelvic PT, too. I found a woman who practices about 10 minutes from the school where I work (!!!), and asked my ortho doc if it would be a good idea for me to see her, too. He said that, while he has a lot of knowledge after having practiced for 35 years, he is open to trying new things (such as writing a referral for a PT he has no personal knowledge of), and gives me his medical blessing. So. Stay tuned for more on that!
* Little R slept for the entire night, with no wake-ups, in his crib last night, for the first time ever. He also started daycare this week (he'll be going 3 days/week), and he (nor I) has suffered too much with the transition so far.
Speaking of the devil, he's done in his jumparoo for the time being. Time for a diaper change, a bottle, and a nap. More later -
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Newly Discovered Resources
In the past week or so, I've made some amazing connections, re: exploring treatment options and finding a group of women/people who "get" PSD/SPD/PGP (Pelvic Girdle Pain - apparently, this is the most recent name for this condition, with or without a rupture of the pubic symphysis).
* Pelvic Partnership (http://www.pelvicpartnership.org.uk/): This is a non-profit group out of the UK. They provide TONS and TONS of great information on their site, re: symptoms, treatment, sex, pelvic floor muscles, going back to work, tips for sleeping, sitting, driving - the list is endless. I found their page via Facebook. So far, the biggest take-away I've gotten is this statement: "The good news is that because PGP is a mechanical joint problem, it does respond well to manual therapy." Hmmm. As I've been exploring my options for starting osteopathic treatment (in addition to PT), this really resonated with me. Stay tuned for more there.
* The closed Facebook group, "Diastasis Symphysis Pubis/Pelvic Instability: Separated Pelvis Group" : What an outstanding group of women. I've learned more about PGP from this forum than any medical provider to date. This is what I've been looking for, if subconsciously - someone, anyone, who really understands how I'm feeling, both physically and emotionally. I was alerted to this group's existence by Lexi, who commented on one of my recent posts here on Blogger (thanks, Lexi!). This group has a range of members: ladies who experienced PGP during pregnancy, ladies who had a rupture of the PS during pregnancy, ladies who had a rupture of the PS during delivery, ladies who are pregnant and starting to experience PGP, etc. It was within this forum that I really found the final push I needed to start pursuing OMT treatment in earnest. I suppose I've been hesitant to explore other treatment options due to a fear of "striking out", of these treatments not improving my condition. However, with my return to work coming up in mid-August, I think it's time to get back on the horse and keep moving!
OK - off to see if little R will nap in his crib. We're slowly transitioning him there from his cradle, and so far, he's a bit freaked by all the space the crib has to offer! Wish us luck -
* Pelvic Partnership (http://www.pelvicpartnership.org.uk/): This is a non-profit group out of the UK. They provide TONS and TONS of great information on their site, re: symptoms, treatment, sex, pelvic floor muscles, going back to work, tips for sleeping, sitting, driving - the list is endless. I found their page via Facebook. So far, the biggest take-away I've gotten is this statement: "The good news is that because PGP is a mechanical joint problem, it does respond well to manual therapy." Hmmm. As I've been exploring my options for starting osteopathic treatment (in addition to PT), this really resonated with me. Stay tuned for more there.
* The closed Facebook group, "Diastasis Symphysis Pubis/Pelvic Instability: Separated Pelvis Group" : What an outstanding group of women. I've learned more about PGP from this forum than any medical provider to date. This is what I've been looking for, if subconsciously - someone, anyone, who really understands how I'm feeling, both physically and emotionally. I was alerted to this group's existence by Lexi, who commented on one of my recent posts here on Blogger (thanks, Lexi!). This group has a range of members: ladies who experienced PGP during pregnancy, ladies who had a rupture of the PS during pregnancy, ladies who had a rupture of the PS during delivery, ladies who are pregnant and starting to experience PGP, etc. It was within this forum that I really found the final push I needed to start pursuing OMT treatment in earnest. I suppose I've been hesitant to explore other treatment options due to a fear of "striking out", of these treatments not improving my condition. However, with my return to work coming up in mid-August, I think it's time to get back on the horse and keep moving!
OK - off to see if little R will nap in his crib. We're slowly transitioning him there from his cradle, and so far, he's a bit freaked by all the space the crib has to offer! Wish us luck -
Sunday, July 24, 2016
An Open Letter To Myself
Dear me,
Right now, life is not anything like you imagined it would be. Summer of 2016, with a 5 month old, was supposed to include leisurely stroller walks, family hikes, trips to camp and the islands, exploring the backyard, dancing the night away at a best friend's wedding, gardening in earnest, general adventuring. Your biggest concerns were supposed to be losing the baby weight, transitioning R from the bassinet to the crib, being anxious when you and E go out for dinner without R for the first time, fretting over R starting daycare in late August. Instead, you're locked in a battle with your body. Trying to get your hips, your joints, back into alignment. Trying to find medical providers who aren't stumped by your diagnosis. Using a walker to move from point A to B, all the while attracting stares that range from curious to pitying wherever you go. You're also at odds with your mind. Seeing a therapist for the first time, to talk about all this, and try to understand how you'll move forward. Feeling awful, deep-green envy whenever you hear about your friends, family, anyone having fun doing all the summertime activities you can't. Feeling rage against the OB-GYN who sent you home from the hospital without a diagnosis, in a wheelchair, and with instructions to "take a couple walks a day, take a couple naps a day, heal!". Feeling more anger that, at that time, you didn't know any better to scream for help. Let's be honest - life sucks right now.
That said... it's going to be OK. You're on the right (if painstakingly slow) path. You're doing all the things you can do, the things you need to do, for yourself, for your baby, for your husband. You're going to continue to get better. Even if your "fully-recovered" body isn't exactly capable of the things your pre-injury body was, you will be active again,you will be happy again, in that body. Keep fighting - each second that passes is another second closer to feeling, at the very least, a lot like your old self. Your new self is already a billion times stronger than your old self. I love you!
Hayly
Right now, life is not anything like you imagined it would be. Summer of 2016, with a 5 month old, was supposed to include leisurely stroller walks, family hikes, trips to camp and the islands, exploring the backyard, dancing the night away at a best friend's wedding, gardening in earnest, general adventuring. Your biggest concerns were supposed to be losing the baby weight, transitioning R from the bassinet to the crib, being anxious when you and E go out for dinner without R for the first time, fretting over R starting daycare in late August. Instead, you're locked in a battle with your body. Trying to get your hips, your joints, back into alignment. Trying to find medical providers who aren't stumped by your diagnosis. Using a walker to move from point A to B, all the while attracting stares that range from curious to pitying wherever you go. You're also at odds with your mind. Seeing a therapist for the first time, to talk about all this, and try to understand how you'll move forward. Feeling awful, deep-green envy whenever you hear about your friends, family, anyone having fun doing all the summertime activities you can't. Feeling rage against the OB-GYN who sent you home from the hospital without a diagnosis, in a wheelchair, and with instructions to "take a couple walks a day, take a couple naps a day, heal!". Feeling more anger that, at that time, you didn't know any better to scream for help. Let's be honest - life sucks right now.
That said... it's going to be OK. You're on the right (if painstakingly slow) path. You're doing all the things you can do, the things you need to do, for yourself, for your baby, for your husband. You're going to continue to get better. Even if your "fully-recovered" body isn't exactly capable of the things your pre-injury body was, you will be active again,you will be happy again, in that body. Keep fighting - each second that passes is another second closer to feeling, at the very least, a lot like your old self. Your new self is already a billion times stronger than your old self. I love you!
Hayly
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
A Numb Foot and Early Reevaluation
Rewind to the weekend of July 2 and 3. I started to feel a numbness/tingling sensation in the arch of my right foot - yep, not good. Since I was originally tested for nerve damage, I wasn't too happy with this new symptom. I did a fair job of ignoring it, but decided to call my orthopedic doc on the evening of July 4. I ended up going in to see him the next day, and I also had my x-rays taken and reviewed then, too - so, my much-awaited reevaluation appointment happened a full week ahead of schedule! Here is what I've learned:
* I will continue to monitor the wonky area on my foot. If it continues to spread and/or becomes painful, I've been told to call the doc again. They think it's most likely a nerve that's being tweaked, thanks to the shifting happening in my pelvic region.
* My new x-rays looked good. Whereas my separation was at about 2.5cm when I was first diagnosed, it's now looking like it's at 2.2cm.
* Still need to work on leveling-out my hips: the entire left side is still positioned quite a bit lower than the right, thanks to the rupture.
* I've been told to keep up the good work in the pool at PT. As a matter of fact, I just added a new exercise to the regime that has me propelling myself the length of the pool, wearing mini-flippers on my feet and floating my top-half with a pool noodle... SO good, it's like REAL exercise! More on that soon in an upcoming post.
* I'm down to 157lbs (from 187 when I delivered R), and I've lost 3 of those lbs in the last 2 months. Being lighter will ultimately help my healing process, as my pelvis will have less weight to support. I'm pretty pleased with myself, seeing as I've stopped breastfeeding and am not doing actual cardio.
* I have orders to request my initial x-rays from the orthopedic center that diagnosed me (somehow they haven't been sent to my current orthopedic pelvic doc yet?!), so that at my next appointment he can more carefully compare the two images.
* I'll go back in for more x-rays and another reevaluation in just over a month, on August 16.
SO. As anticipated, and as experienced thus far, my recovery is HAPPENING, but it's happening S-L-O-W-L-Y. According to these newest bits of news, it will hopefully continue on as such. More soon - #staythankful
* I will continue to monitor the wonky area on my foot. If it continues to spread and/or becomes painful, I've been told to call the doc again. They think it's most likely a nerve that's being tweaked, thanks to the shifting happening in my pelvic region.
* My new x-rays looked good. Whereas my separation was at about 2.5cm when I was first diagnosed, it's now looking like it's at 2.2cm.
* Still need to work on leveling-out my hips: the entire left side is still positioned quite a bit lower than the right, thanks to the rupture.
* I've been told to keep up the good work in the pool at PT. As a matter of fact, I just added a new exercise to the regime that has me propelling myself the length of the pool, wearing mini-flippers on my feet and floating my top-half with a pool noodle... SO good, it's like REAL exercise! More on that soon in an upcoming post.
* I'm down to 157lbs (from 187 when I delivered R), and I've lost 3 of those lbs in the last 2 months. Being lighter will ultimately help my healing process, as my pelvis will have less weight to support. I'm pretty pleased with myself, seeing as I've stopped breastfeeding and am not doing actual cardio.
* I have orders to request my initial x-rays from the orthopedic center that diagnosed me (somehow they haven't been sent to my current orthopedic pelvic doc yet?!), so that at my next appointment he can more carefully compare the two images.
* I'll go back in for more x-rays and another reevaluation in just over a month, on August 16.
SO. As anticipated, and as experienced thus far, my recovery is HAPPENING, but it's happening S-L-O-W-L-Y. According to these newest bits of news, it will hopefully continue on as such. More soon - #staythankful
Friday, July 1, 2016
Onward, Onward
Well, here we are, almost a month from my last post. Here is what's cooking...
* I am officially back in the pool for PT, without any resurgence of infection! THANK GOODNESS. Today will mark my fourth session, and I am loving it. My body is also loving it... the weightlessness of the salt water pool is amazing - I literally feel no pain when I'm in there. I am currently working on walking "regularly" (heel-to-toe, natural stride length, etc.) and strengthening both my hips and my belly. MAN, will I ever be excited when I can begin working away at my mommy-pooch... !
* My first session with my therapist went well. I definitely haven't ruled out meeting with her again - as a matter of fact, I plan to next week. I was worried that I would leave that first meeting thinking that I had wasted my time, but that's not the case. Hopefully it will help me feel better about everything that has happened.
* This month I meet with the orthopedic trauma doctor again. I'll have another round of x-rays to see how my healing is going, and to make a plan of attack for the next few months of recovery. I'm still using the Rollator now, but I wonder if the doc will support me using a cane and/or crutches instead - my PT has been wondering if that would be a good next step (no pun intended), to help me re-learn how to walk correctly (gait training). We shall see.
I am finding it hard to believe that it's been almost 5 months since R was born, since I first learned what a pubic symphysis is, and how much it sucks to have it rupture. Maybe these blog posts have helped someone else going through the same thing, or dealing with PSD, etc. etc. No matter what, I know that that blogging has been a definite, therapeutic activity on this end. Here's to RECOVERY - no matter how slow it's been, it's HAPPENING. #staythankful
* I am officially back in the pool for PT, without any resurgence of infection! THANK GOODNESS. Today will mark my fourth session, and I am loving it. My body is also loving it... the weightlessness of the salt water pool is amazing - I literally feel no pain when I'm in there. I am currently working on walking "regularly" (heel-to-toe, natural stride length, etc.) and strengthening both my hips and my belly. MAN, will I ever be excited when I can begin working away at my mommy-pooch... !
* My first session with my therapist went well. I definitely haven't ruled out meeting with her again - as a matter of fact, I plan to next week. I was worried that I would leave that first meeting thinking that I had wasted my time, but that's not the case. Hopefully it will help me feel better about everything that has happened.
* This month I meet with the orthopedic trauma doctor again. I'll have another round of x-rays to see how my healing is going, and to make a plan of attack for the next few months of recovery. I'm still using the Rollator now, but I wonder if the doc will support me using a cane and/or crutches instead - my PT has been wondering if that would be a good next step (no pun intended), to help me re-learn how to walk correctly (gait training). We shall see.
I am finding it hard to believe that it's been almost 5 months since R was born, since I first learned what a pubic symphysis is, and how much it sucks to have it rupture. Maybe these blog posts have helped someone else going through the same thing, or dealing with PSD, etc. etc. No matter what, I know that that blogging has been a definite, therapeutic activity on this end. Here's to RECOVERY - no matter how slow it's been, it's HAPPENING. #staythankful
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
BumpMoves Blog Post
This is an interesting, to-the-point, understandable blog post about PSD. I found it very helpful (although lacking in great English grammar/spelling) when I was trying to understand what had happened to me, and what my doctor might suggest by way of treatment.
http://bumpmoves.com/pregnancy/diastasis-symphysis-pubis/
http://bumpmoves.com/pregnancy/diastasis-symphysis-pubis/
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Rolling Over, Starting Therapy, Etc.
Time for an update (again, as R snoozes).
This marks the 6th week of outpatient PT for me, and nearly 4 months since my injury. I'm still out of the pool (although my nipples are finally better - hooray for steriod/anti-fungal cream!), but am making some progress. During my sessions, I now practice rolling over (from my back to my sides), with a pillow between my knees. This was the move that I absolutely COULD NOT do without excruciating pain a mere month ago. With the blessing of my PT, I tried laying on my side for 10 minutes in my own bed here at home three days ago. It was easy-peasy, but I've suffered bad SI joint pain since then... whoops. I have PT again today, so I plan on mentioning that... seems like I should practice for less time, the next time I attempt that particular move. As it turns out, little R can roll over, too! Only from back to belly consistently, but... he's definitely better at it than I am at this point!
I've decided to see a therapist. Now that R is under control (as much control as a 4 month old can be, hah!) and my physical recovery seems stable, I feel like I have the energy to put into my mental health. I'm not doom-and-gloom 24/7, but - hands-down, this has been the most difficult time in my life to date. Life with baby has been nothing like I expected, thanks to my pubic symphysis rupture. The simple act of walking around the house with R in my arms is one I long for. I'd love to load R in the car and go for a stroll in the park, browse around TJ Maxx, etc, but that's not something I can do alone yet. I know I'm making progress to that elusive full-recovery, but I definitely need to take some time and learn some more coping mechanisms for myself.
I've also stopped breastfeeding - log this under "another unplanned event in life with an infant". It was a hard decision to make, but so far it's been a good one. R has been weaning for over a month, unintentionally: my supply has always been low (thanks to my injury), and R's demand has recently sky rocketed. I would breastfeed him, he would empty them, cry, and then either myself or my hubby would offer him a bottle of formula, from which he would happily drain at least 4oz. R hasn't skipped a beat since I stopped offering him the breast, and (no surprise here!) by body seems to be easily slowing its milk production. I would guess that it'll take me 2 weeks max to dry up completely (it's been nearly a week now). A definite bonus to stopping breastfeeding is that my body will stop producing the hormones that relax my pelvic region, which should make it easier for my symphysis to stitch itself back together. It's pretty crazy how the female body makes all of these insane changes while becoming/once becoming a mother. Speaking of mothering - baby boy is awake! Later -
This marks the 6th week of outpatient PT for me, and nearly 4 months since my injury. I'm still out of the pool (although my nipples are finally better - hooray for steriod/anti-fungal cream!), but am making some progress. During my sessions, I now practice rolling over (from my back to my sides), with a pillow between my knees. This was the move that I absolutely COULD NOT do without excruciating pain a mere month ago. With the blessing of my PT, I tried laying on my side for 10 minutes in my own bed here at home three days ago. It was easy-peasy, but I've suffered bad SI joint pain since then... whoops. I have PT again today, so I plan on mentioning that... seems like I should practice for less time, the next time I attempt that particular move. As it turns out, little R can roll over, too! Only from back to belly consistently, but... he's definitely better at it than I am at this point!
I've decided to see a therapist. Now that R is under control (as much control as a 4 month old can be, hah!) and my physical recovery seems stable, I feel like I have the energy to put into my mental health. I'm not doom-and-gloom 24/7, but - hands-down, this has been the most difficult time in my life to date. Life with baby has been nothing like I expected, thanks to my pubic symphysis rupture. The simple act of walking around the house with R in my arms is one I long for. I'd love to load R in the car and go for a stroll in the park, browse around TJ Maxx, etc, but that's not something I can do alone yet. I know I'm making progress to that elusive full-recovery, but I definitely need to take some time and learn some more coping mechanisms for myself.
I've also stopped breastfeeding - log this under "another unplanned event in life with an infant". It was a hard decision to make, but so far it's been a good one. R has been weaning for over a month, unintentionally: my supply has always been low (thanks to my injury), and R's demand has recently sky rocketed. I would breastfeed him, he would empty them, cry, and then either myself or my hubby would offer him a bottle of formula, from which he would happily drain at least 4oz. R hasn't skipped a beat since I stopped offering him the breast, and (no surprise here!) by body seems to be easily slowing its milk production. I would guess that it'll take me 2 weeks max to dry up completely (it's been nearly a week now). A definite bonus to stopping breastfeeding is that my body will stop producing the hormones that relax my pelvic region, which should make it easier for my symphysis to stitch itself back together. It's pretty crazy how the female body makes all of these insane changes while becoming/once becoming a mother. Speaking of mothering - baby boy is awake! Later -
Monday, May 16, 2016
BS!
As I sit here with a napping R in my lap (we just passed the 2 hour mark!!), it's a good time for an update. I'm sad to report that I'm not doing PT in the pool right now, and possibly ever again. I developed a nasty case of contact dermatitis on my nipples, and my PCP is certain that it's from the chemicals in the pool. I saw her almost a week ago, and have orders to apply lanolin, air-dry as possible, and stay out of the water. So. To put things bluntly, I find this turn of events to be complete BS and am feeling bummed. As I wrote in my last post, I was really enjoying my time in the pool, in addition to it being the best possible PT for healing my PS... gahhhhh! So frustrating! I'm not sure that getting back to pool PT (and risking more nipple issues) would be worth it to me. We shall see.
In the meantime, I'm still going to PT, but am doing "dry" activities. A new one is "tummy time". No, but really: just like R, I now have this on my daily to-do list! My PT has me laying on my stomach for 10 minutes. While I'm down there, she helps me do other stretching-related exercises, but the tummy time is apparently helping my hips stretch back and realign themselves. Not too shabby.
OK, the boy seems to be stirring. More later.
In the meantime, I'm still going to PT, but am doing "dry" activities. A new one is "tummy time". No, but really: just like R, I now have this on my daily to-do list! My PT has me laying on my stomach for 10 minutes. While I'm down there, she helps me do other stretching-related exercises, but the tummy time is apparently helping my hips stretch back and realign themselves. Not too shabby.
OK, the boy seems to be stirring. More later.
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Pool PT Review
So far, so good!
PT in the pool has been REALLY great. I've had a total of 3 sessions so far, and am scheduled for 8. Not only am I doing exercises to strengthen my core and hips (which will help my PS slowly stitch itself back together), I am also getting the benefits of good old exercise. After each session, I'm feeling muscle soreness that's just from doing ANYTHING exercise-related, and I love it. Here's what my last session looked like:
* Total time: 35 minutes
* With a pool noodle, walk forward 4 lengths of the pool (focusing on heel-to-toe stepping).
* With a pool noodle, walk backwards 2 lengths of the pool (focusing on toe-to-heel stepping).
* Holding on to the pool deck for balance, march in place for 20 steps total.
* Stand without holding on to the pool deck (so, with arms at my side) for 10 seconds. Do this with feet together, left foot forward, and right foot forward.
* Laying/floating in a recliner position (with the pool noodle supporting me behind my arms), do flutter kicks, pedal pushers, and legs in/out. Do 20 reps of each.
* Traction float (i.e. floating with the pool noodle supporting me behind my arms) for 5-ish minutes.
The above workout definitely made me sore later that afternoon. Today (the day after), I'm feeling the usual pains and aches, but nothing too crazy. It's pretty easy to differentiate between PS pain and regular, healthy soreness. I hope that I continue to make progress... I suppose that plateauing is a fear of mine. Time will tell!
More later, gators.
PT in the pool has been REALLY great. I've had a total of 3 sessions so far, and am scheduled for 8. Not only am I doing exercises to strengthen my core and hips (which will help my PS slowly stitch itself back together), I am also getting the benefits of good old exercise. After each session, I'm feeling muscle soreness that's just from doing ANYTHING exercise-related, and I love it. Here's what my last session looked like:
* Total time: 35 minutes
* With a pool noodle, walk forward 4 lengths of the pool (focusing on heel-to-toe stepping).
* With a pool noodle, walk backwards 2 lengths of the pool (focusing on toe-to-heel stepping).
* Holding on to the pool deck for balance, march in place for 20 steps total.
* Stand without holding on to the pool deck (so, with arms at my side) for 10 seconds. Do this with feet together, left foot forward, and right foot forward.
* Laying/floating in a recliner position (with the pool noodle supporting me behind my arms), do flutter kicks, pedal pushers, and legs in/out. Do 20 reps of each.
* Traction float (i.e. floating with the pool noodle supporting me behind my arms) for 5-ish minutes.
The above workout definitely made me sore later that afternoon. Today (the day after), I'm feeling the usual pains and aches, but nothing too crazy. It's pretty easy to differentiate between PS pain and regular, healthy soreness. I hope that I continue to make progress... I suppose that plateauing is a fear of mine. Time will tell!
More later, gators.
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Assistive Devices
I've had to rely on an assortment of assistive devices since coming home from the hospital. Here they are, with reviews and all:
* A Rollator walker: This has been my most used assistive device. Before getting a Rollator, I was using a less heavy-duty, 2-wheeled walker. The Rollator has 4 wheels, ergonomic handles, brakes, and a seat that also functions as a place to store/transport things. These days, I don't use the Rollator when I'm moving around small areas in my house (like the bathroom, the walk-in closet, etc.). So long as I have something to balance myself on nearby (counter tops, door frames, and the like), I do OK. The Rollator also easily folds up and fits in the trunk of my small SUV for transport. I have it in a bright blue color, too, which adds to its appeal in my mind.
* A grabber: This is used to (what else!) grab things that are out of reach. There are TONS of affordable grabbers out there - I have an EZ Reacher that I found at Rite Aid. I don't need to use it anymore, but it was most helpful to pull up my pants (TMI? Maybe. Oh well!) and pull down shades in my living room.
* A raised toilet seat: A completely necessary item! When I first came home from the hospital, sitting down was NOT easy to do. Both the pain and the unsteadiness of my core contributed to that. I have a Drive Medical Elevated Toilet Seat, with the padded arms. It's still installed in our guest bathroom, although I could probably sit and stand without it now.
* A rubber ring seat: I didn't start using this until a few weeks ago, when I started sitting at the kitchen table again. It's literally a rubber, blowup ring that you sit on - VERY comfortable. I also picked this up at Rite Aid.
These were all things that my PT suggested I use. They all definitely helped my functionality around the house. Even though I paid out of pocket for a few of them, I figure I'll use them again when I reach the geriatric stage of life! :)
Also, for the record: it took me 3 days to write and publish this post, thanks to the presence of my little R. He'll be 3 months old next week... time is FLYING, in that regard!
* A Rollator walker: This has been my most used assistive device. Before getting a Rollator, I was using a less heavy-duty, 2-wheeled walker. The Rollator has 4 wheels, ergonomic handles, brakes, and a seat that also functions as a place to store/transport things. These days, I don't use the Rollator when I'm moving around small areas in my house (like the bathroom, the walk-in closet, etc.). So long as I have something to balance myself on nearby (counter tops, door frames, and the like), I do OK. The Rollator also easily folds up and fits in the trunk of my small SUV for transport. I have it in a bright blue color, too, which adds to its appeal in my mind.
* A grabber: This is used to (what else!) grab things that are out of reach. There are TONS of affordable grabbers out there - I have an EZ Reacher that I found at Rite Aid. I don't need to use it anymore, but it was most helpful to pull up my pants (TMI? Maybe. Oh well!) and pull down shades in my living room.
* A raised toilet seat: A completely necessary item! When I first came home from the hospital, sitting down was NOT easy to do. Both the pain and the unsteadiness of my core contributed to that. I have a Drive Medical Elevated Toilet Seat, with the padded arms. It's still installed in our guest bathroom, although I could probably sit and stand without it now.
* A rubber ring seat: I didn't start using this until a few weeks ago, when I started sitting at the kitchen table again. It's literally a rubber, blowup ring that you sit on - VERY comfortable. I also picked this up at Rite Aid.
These were all things that my PT suggested I use. They all definitely helped my functionality around the house. Even though I paid out of pocket for a few of them, I figure I'll use them again when I reach the geriatric stage of life! :)
Also, for the record: it took me 3 days to write and publish this post, thanks to the presence of my little R. He'll be 3 months old next week... time is FLYING, in that regard!
Friday, April 22, 2016
Starting Outpatient PT Today
... and I'm admittedly a bit nervous. I had such an amazing experience with my in-home PT, I'm worried that my new outpatient PT will somehow mess with the progress I've made. Ever since my diagnosis/in the time before starting PT anew, I've continued to do my exercises at home. All of them center around my pelvic floor muscles. When I'm home alone with R, I find that I can get away with doing standing exercises most easily - no extra time needed to situate myself on a bed or on the floor. Other than standing exercises, I also do bed exercises (which, yes, all start with me lying on my back on the bed) and floor exercises (all of which start with me on hands and knees on the floor). I do the standing exercises at the kitchen sink, or really anywhere where I can balance my hands on something that's at about waist height. If anyone is interested in more information about the specifics, just comment below.
While none of the exercises are vigorous, I always feel a sense of accomplishment when I do them. Before my injury, I was a very active person: Frisbee, field hockey, running, biking - all of it. My postpartum months have definitely been the most inactive of my life to date. It's such a downer... but thankfully PT is something that helps lift my spirits, while at the same time enabling me to make physical gains, too. #staythankful!
While none of the exercises are vigorous, I always feel a sense of accomplishment when I do them. Before my injury, I was a very active person: Frisbee, field hockey, running, biking - all of it. My postpartum months have definitely been the most inactive of my life to date. It's such a downer... but thankfully PT is something that helps lift my spirits, while at the same time enabling me to make physical gains, too. #staythankful!
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Doctor, Doctor, Give Me The News
After meeting with the ortho doc a few days ago, I've got some more information on my situation. Here is what I found out:
* I won't be needing surgery. Apparently, surgery to fix a pubic symphysis rupture is relatively rare, and this doctor told me that, while he has done the surgery before, he "regretted it". It can make for a faster recovery time, but it can be extremely painful and complications are possible (as with any surgery, I suppose). Also, by inserting a plate between the pubic bones, you can cause more SI joint pain... no, thanks.
* I'm going to restart physical therapy. As of my first week postpartum, I had in-home PT 2-3 times per week. We stopped after I got my diagnosis, but before I spoke with the ortho doc. While the progress was s-l-o-w, there was definite gains over the past 2 months: I went from not being able to lift my legs onto the bed, to using a leg lifter, to now being able to do it independently with minimal discomfort. During PT, I did light stretching, standing exercises, floor exercises, and bed exercises, all of which focused primarily on core strength/the SI area. I'm looking forward to getting back into it.
* I won't be wearing a binding belt. According to the doc, wearing one is hit-or-miss, as far as helping with the pain goes. I wore one for about 40 minutes during the MRI of my pelvis, and I was back to a pain level 8-9 (out of 10) for the next 48 hours. Given that info, the doc said I should skip it. He didn't need to tell me twice!
* I'll continue taking ibuprofen and a NSAID as needed for pain. I've been trying to taper (before this, I hardly EVER took OTC pain meds), but I find I need to take a full dose overnight (sleeping for even 3 hours in a row in the supine position bothers me).
* Other than PT, "patience, my dear, patience!" is the primary ingredient of my treatment plan (quote the doc). It'll take me 4-6 more months to recovery fully.
* "Recover fully" for me means back to my old-self, at 100% functionality! I was REALLY worried about asking the doc if that was even a possibility: I know from my internet research that, even years after an injury that caused PSD, people live with chronic pain. Even though I'm hesitant to set myself up for failure - to believe that I WILL get better, all the way - I need to focus on it, in order to keep my spirits afloat.
SO, there you have it. Writing here with a newborn on my hands is turning out to be trickier than planned, but I'll update as much as the little man allows (for example, right now R is sleeping in his Rock 'N Play - I'm rocking him with my foot as I type)..... and he's awake! More later.
* I won't be needing surgery. Apparently, surgery to fix a pubic symphysis rupture is relatively rare, and this doctor told me that, while he has done the surgery before, he "regretted it". It can make for a faster recovery time, but it can be extremely painful and complications are possible (as with any surgery, I suppose). Also, by inserting a plate between the pubic bones, you can cause more SI joint pain... no, thanks.
* I'm going to restart physical therapy. As of my first week postpartum, I had in-home PT 2-3 times per week. We stopped after I got my diagnosis, but before I spoke with the ortho doc. While the progress was s-l-o-w, there was definite gains over the past 2 months: I went from not being able to lift my legs onto the bed, to using a leg lifter, to now being able to do it independently with minimal discomfort. During PT, I did light stretching, standing exercises, floor exercises, and bed exercises, all of which focused primarily on core strength/the SI area. I'm looking forward to getting back into it.
* I won't be wearing a binding belt. According to the doc, wearing one is hit-or-miss, as far as helping with the pain goes. I wore one for about 40 minutes during the MRI of my pelvis, and I was back to a pain level 8-9 (out of 10) for the next 48 hours. Given that info, the doc said I should skip it. He didn't need to tell me twice!
* I'll continue taking ibuprofen and a NSAID as needed for pain. I've been trying to taper (before this, I hardly EVER took OTC pain meds), but I find I need to take a full dose overnight (sleeping for even 3 hours in a row in the supine position bothers me).
* Other than PT, "patience, my dear, patience!" is the primary ingredient of my treatment plan (quote the doc). It'll take me 4-6 more months to recovery fully.
* "Recover fully" for me means back to my old-self, at 100% functionality! I was REALLY worried about asking the doc if that was even a possibility: I know from my internet research that, even years after an injury that caused PSD, people live with chronic pain. Even though I'm hesitant to set myself up for failure - to believe that I WILL get better, all the way - I need to focus on it, in order to keep my spirits afloat.
SO, there you have it. Writing here with a newborn on my hands is turning out to be trickier than planned, but I'll update as much as the little man allows (for example, right now R is sleeping in his Rock 'N Play - I'm rocking him with my foot as I type)..... and he's awake! More later.
Monday, April 11, 2016
Hello, and Welcome
This is my first ever blog, let alone blog post. My goal is to chronicle my postpartum experience, primarily with a ruptured pubic symphysis. I've found that there isn't a lot of information out there for inquiring (aka, freaking out!!) minds, so hopefully I can compile some here. I was inspired to start this blog in part by Rowena, a fellow blogger whose blog has been a source of both information and comfort for me (check her out: http://pubicsymphysis.blogspot.com/).
I'm 8 weeks postpartum as of today, and have an appointment with an orthopedic trauma surgeon this afternoon. Hopefully we'll make a plan of attack... stay tuned.
Here are some fast facts about me, outside of my PS issues:
* I live in the state of Maine, USA - our motto is "The Way Life Should Be" for a reason!
* R is my son, and my first child - although his arrival prompted my PS rupture, he's honestly perfect. I'm a total goner for this kid.
* E is my husband - the love of my life, and a tremendous support throughout the last 2 months.
* The title of my blog is a line from the lullaby that we sing to R before bed each night. My dad used to sing it to my sisters and I, and his dad sang it to him. Somehow it seems like the right fit for this space.
* Stay Thankful is my life's motto. I have it inked on my right wrist.
All for now -
I'm 8 weeks postpartum as of today, and have an appointment with an orthopedic trauma surgeon this afternoon. Hopefully we'll make a plan of attack... stay tuned.
Here are some fast facts about me, outside of my PS issues:
* I live in the state of Maine, USA - our motto is "The Way Life Should Be" for a reason!
* R is my son, and my first child - although his arrival prompted my PS rupture, he's honestly perfect. I'm a total goner for this kid.
* E is my husband - the love of my life, and a tremendous support throughout the last 2 months.
* The title of my blog is a line from the lullaby that we sing to R before bed each night. My dad used to sing it to my sisters and I, and his dad sang it to him. Somehow it seems like the right fit for this space.
* Stay Thankful is my life's motto. I have it inked on my right wrist.
All for now -
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