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Tragedy in Minneapolis
3 years ago
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Help for Muscle Spasms?
During yesterday's onversation with my sister, Marilyn, we talked about my problems with muscle spasm management. Marilyn is a psychiatrist with an encyclopedic knowledge of drugs and drug interactions. When I wondered about Mirapex (pramipexole), a drug commonly prescribed for patients with Parkinson's Disease and other movement disorders like RLS (restless leg syndrome ). In the past, Mirapex has helped me with muscle spasms associated with my MS (multiple sclerosis), Marilyn thought that I should pursue the idea with my doctor, a project for Monday morning.
Major Meltdown
Friday's exhilaration faded quickly as I prepared for bed that evening. My right leg felt as though a quantity of rubber bands -- brand new ones -- were tightly wound around my foot, calf, thigh and the entire knee area. I couldn't force the leg into relaxation, and the tension soon affected my entire body. When I got into bed, or, rather, onto bed, where I'd been sleeping for the previous 2-3 nights because the unbearable weight of sheets and electric blanket, I realized I was in for a long night.
Ensuing tears were initially the result of frustration, but soon they had no reason. The meltdown receded when I took a couple of hydroxyzine (in my opinion, this is a very poor muscle relaxant but I sure wish I'd had it for the itch from my mosquito bites in the Dominican Republic!) and I finally found a semi-comfortable position with a pillow under my knee. By 1 AM, after several hours of half-dozing, I was at my wits' end and I gook a couple of Tylenol, along with another 2 hydroxyzine. I was freezing cold so I put on my sweats and moved downstairs to the couch. I was sensible enough to be afraid of falling, but I did make it down the stairs safely and onto the couch. I started to cry again, partly because I was exhausted but also out of relief to be back in a safe place. By this time, I had wakened the cat, who had decided that it must be breakfast time. She crunched merrily for 15 minutes or so.
I managed to make it through till morning but I felt as though I had spent the night drinking cheap booze. More tears. I wondered why I had ever decided to go through with the knee surgery. I didn't know what hurt more, my knee or the throbbing head. Bob, bless him, brought me a cold washcloth for my head and the feeling passed. I felt a return to the land of the living.
We did my favorite Saturday thing (deer at Fort Snelling State Park). Despite his opposition to the mess made by my bird visitors, Bob filled the bird feeder. I spent a couple of hours with my leg in the CPM machine. For the first time, I changed my seating in the living room, moving between the couch, my favorite armchair and Bob's new recliner (VERY comfortable, but a little risky for me because of the swivel). Once again, I didn't go to Mass, deciding to give into Bob's apprehension about crowds, slippery floors, ice outside the church, and leaving church in the dark.
We spent the evening watching Julie & Julia, enjoyed more by me than by Bob, although I think we both identified with Julie's meltdown scenes! By 9 PM, the crisis seemed to have passed and I tentatively began to hope for a night's sleep. And it was pretty good! I feel great (good?) today!
Ensuing tears were initially the result of frustration, but soon they had no reason. The meltdown receded when I took a couple of hydroxyzine (in my opinion, this is a very poor muscle relaxant but I sure wish I'd had it for the itch from my mosquito bites in the Dominican Republic!) and I finally found a semi-comfortable position with a pillow under my knee. By 1 AM, after several hours of half-dozing, I was at my wits' end and I gook a couple of Tylenol, along with another 2 hydroxyzine. I was freezing cold so I put on my sweats and moved downstairs to the couch. I was sensible enough to be afraid of falling, but I did make it down the stairs safely and onto the couch. I started to cry again, partly because I was exhausted but also out of relief to be back in a safe place. By this time, I had wakened the cat, who had decided that it must be breakfast time. She crunched merrily for 15 minutes or so.
I managed to make it through till morning but I felt as though I had spent the night drinking cheap booze. More tears. I wondered why I had ever decided to go through with the knee surgery. I didn't know what hurt more, my knee or the throbbing head. Bob, bless him, brought me a cold washcloth for my head and the feeling passed. I felt a return to the land of the living.
We did my favorite Saturday thing (deer at Fort Snelling State Park). Despite his opposition to the mess made by my bird visitors, Bob filled the bird feeder. I spent a couple of hours with my leg in the CPM machine. For the first time, I changed my seating in the living room, moving between the couch, my favorite armchair and Bob's new recliner (VERY comfortable, but a little risky for me because of the swivel). Once again, I didn't go to Mass, deciding to give into Bob's apprehension about crowds, slippery floors, ice outside the church, and leaving church in the dark.
We spent the evening watching Julie & Julia, enjoyed more by me than by Bob, although I think we both identified with Julie's meltdown scenes! By 9 PM, the crisis seemed to have passed and I tentatively began to hope for a night's sleep. And it was pretty good! I feel great (good?) today!
Friday, January 29, 2010
A Shower is a Wonderful Luxury!
I took my first post-op shower today. I had no trouble getting into or out of the tub. I realized right away that I couldn't afford to get shampoo or conditioner in my eyes. Even a little bit made me feel slightly off kilter and that's not a good sensation in my situation.
12 hours later, I still feel clean! I have never before truly appreciated the great gift of clean, plentiful, hot water. I will never again take my morning shower for granted.
12 hours later, I still feel clean! I have never before truly appreciated the great gift of clean, plentiful, hot water. I will never again take my morning shower for granted.
Caribou Coffee Date
Today, even I was tempted to stay in the house. I feel somewhat chilled much of the time and the weather looked so very cold! However, I successfully fought the inclination to spend the afternoon watching TV and headed out on the daily outing, a project that could never even be initiated without Bob's help and vigilance. He's the driver too, and I'm getting more than my share of destination choices.
Today, we headed to beautiful White Bear Lake, where an ice fishing contest tomorrow will be a main event of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. There were a log of ice houses out on the lake, and we saw a couple of trucks heading out to the ice house colony with portable houses and fresh provisions. A couple of smokers were sitting on the deck at the VFW -- that building used to be blue with smoke before Minnesota cracked down on smoking indoors a couple of years ago.
Another major milestone: I can get into the Yukon pretty well now, and today we dared to get out for a cup of coffee (tea, in my case) at Caribou Coffee in White Bear. I was a little afraid that I wouldn't be able to get back in the truck, because my strength diminishes later in the day. I was delighted that there was no problem at all either boarding or, just as important, disembarking safely. I still have this fear of strangers having to stuff me into the truck like an unwieldy heap of deer of other wild game.
I'm often asked if I'm in a lot of pain. That's a difficult question, because the pain in my knee feels more like the threat of pain than anything else. It is very stiff and the knee doesn't seem to tolerate cold. The muscles in my entire leg seem tired and "old". The muscle relaxant medication (vistaril) is somewhat helpful but I think it would take a very large dose to actually relax the leg. Except very occasionally, I take nothing but Tylenol; I am hoping the vistaril will help me sleep tonight, as I'm feeling a little tired already and would lover to have a good night's sleep -- later, though, not quite yet.
Today, we headed to beautiful White Bear Lake, where an ice fishing contest tomorrow will be a main event of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. There were a log of ice houses out on the lake, and we saw a couple of trucks heading out to the ice house colony with portable houses and fresh provisions. A couple of smokers were sitting on the deck at the VFW -- that building used to be blue with smoke before Minnesota cracked down on smoking indoors a couple of years ago.
Another major milestone: I can get into the Yukon pretty well now, and today we dared to get out for a cup of coffee (tea, in my case) at Caribou Coffee in White Bear. I was a little afraid that I wouldn't be able to get back in the truck, because my strength diminishes later in the day. I was delighted that there was no problem at all either boarding or, just as important, disembarking safely. I still have this fear of strangers having to stuff me into the truck like an unwieldy heap of deer of other wild game.
I'm often asked if I'm in a lot of pain. That's a difficult question, because the pain in my knee feels more like the threat of pain than anything else. It is very stiff and the knee doesn't seem to tolerate cold. The muscles in my entire leg seem tired and "old". The muscle relaxant medication (vistaril) is somewhat helpful but I think it would take a very large dose to actually relax the leg. Except very occasionally, I take nothing but Tylenol; I am hoping the vistaril will help me sleep tonight, as I'm feeling a little tired already and would lover to have a good night's sleep -- later, though, not quite yet.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
2 Weeks Post Surgery
The new knee is now two weeks old.
I never imagined that I could be even remotely interested in the products marketed on daytime television. Today, I found myself enthusiastically listening to Jamie Lee Curtis' wise words on "regularity" and the help provided by Activia. Looks damn delicious, especially with those fresh strawberries that must have been picked before the freeze in Florida. I've become pretty good with the products on "The Price is Right" too. I'm still a little week on the value of cars but a little Consumer Reports studying should help remedy that deficiency.
The high point of my day is "the outing". Today, I had a physical therapy session. I wanted to show off my unaided walking to Allison Trombley, the physical therapist at the Institute for Athletic Medicine. She watched me walk a few feet, admittedly a little tentatively, and then gently told me I wasn't "ready" yet. By the way, Allison is the best physical therapist I've ever worked with -- I usually reach an impasse after the first or second session, mostly because I don't respond well to being bullied. Allison has a very intelligent approach to rehabilitation and is quick to find a new method if her first approach isn't successful.
I can now bend the right knee to 98 degrees, only a couple of degrees shy of a rotation on the stationary bike. Leg lifts are very easy. I've adapted one of the exercises performed with a belt (the kind used as a restraint in nursing homes)to a little routine with a knitted scarf. I hold the ends in each hand and put my foot into the "sling". It makes leg lifts and the flexion exercises much easier initially perform and, ultimately, perfect. Unfortunately, something "clunked" in the new knee right at the end of the session and it is feeling a little sore this evening.
Next stop was the a blood test. The "INR" number was higher than it should be so my Coumadin (warfarin) dosage has been reduced a little. I hadn't thought, until today, that the avoidance of bleeding to death is every bit as important as blood clot prevention! Not that bleeding to death is on the radar or anything ... but of course I like to know the absolute worst thing that could happen to me. It's hard to beat the Mayo Clinic!
I never imagined that I could be even remotely interested in the products marketed on daytime television. Today, I found myself enthusiastically listening to Jamie Lee Curtis' wise words on "regularity" and the help provided by Activia. Looks damn delicious, especially with those fresh strawberries that must have been picked before the freeze in Florida. I've become pretty good with the products on "The Price is Right" too. I'm still a little week on the value of cars but a little Consumer Reports studying should help remedy that deficiency.
The high point of my day is "the outing". Today, I had a physical therapy session. I wanted to show off my unaided walking to Allison Trombley, the physical therapist at the Institute for Athletic Medicine. She watched me walk a few feet, admittedly a little tentatively, and then gently told me I wasn't "ready" yet. By the way, Allison is the best physical therapist I've ever worked with -- I usually reach an impasse after the first or second session, mostly because I don't respond well to being bullied. Allison has a very intelligent approach to rehabilitation and is quick to find a new method if her first approach isn't successful.
I can now bend the right knee to 98 degrees, only a couple of degrees shy of a rotation on the stationary bike. Leg lifts are very easy. I've adapted one of the exercises performed with a belt (the kind used as a restraint in nursing homes)to a little routine with a knitted scarf. I hold the ends in each hand and put my foot into the "sling". It makes leg lifts and the flexion exercises much easier initially perform and, ultimately, perfect. Unfortunately, something "clunked" in the new knee right at the end of the session and it is feeling a little sore this evening.
Next stop was the a blood test. The "INR" number was higher than it should be so my Coumadin (warfarin) dosage has been reduced a little. I hadn't thought, until today, that the avoidance of bleeding to death is every bit as important as blood clot prevention! Not that bleeding to death is on the radar or anything ... but of course I like to know the absolute worst thing that could happen to me. It's hard to beat the Mayo Clinic!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Not as Good as I Thought I Was ...
I was so happy with myself yesterday after bouncing up into the Yukon like an enthusiastic dog. Today I was like a horse afraid of going over the jump. I simply couldn't make the leap of faith necessary to quickly get my left leg from the running board to the floor of the car, holding on to the loop above my head to pull myself into the truck. Bob ended up shoving my rear end unceremoniously onto the passenger seat and stuffing me in before slamming the door shut. Later on, I practiced the maneuver and couldn't figure out why it had seemed so daunting only a few hours before.
One day seems much any other, except that I slept last night. I tried sleeping on top of the covers with only a light blanket over me. The absence of a heavy electric blanket over my legs made sleep somewhat more peaceful -- at least it was possible. I still thrashed around, as much as anyone can thrash with a bum leg, but the night was still more comfortable that it had been previously, either in the hospital or at home. If I can manage to rest reasonably quietly, Bob will be able to come back to bed.
We drove out to Hudson and through the snowy countryside to Stillwater this afternoon. I was surprised that the snow is still quite white. We stopped at Menard's on the way home and I enviously waited in the truck while Bob shopped, since I didn't want to risk a fall in the parking lot: I imagined myself prostrate in the snow, Disabled Parking sticker at my side, the contents of my purse strewn all over for all to examine. I visualied the good samaritans gingerly picking me up and plopping me in the back seat, just to get me out of soght. Fortunately, we were all spared that scene and I enjoyed watching customers file in and out of that busy Midway store.
It's late afternoon now, and I'm starting to get a little tired. I'm going to resist the temptation to nap, not just because it seems plain wrong but also because a nap now will rob me of sleep later. From a more positive perspective, I have to think I'm doing pretty well. Knee isn't too painful anymore. My balance is pretty good and I can walk without faltering until about 7:30 p.m. I can feel my strength returning, and I'm looking forward to seeing how I do on the stationary bicycle tomorrow. It's been nearly two weeks since the surgery: so far, so good.
One day seems much any other, except that I slept last night. I tried sleeping on top of the covers with only a light blanket over me. The absence of a heavy electric blanket over my legs made sleep somewhat more peaceful -- at least it was possible. I still thrashed around, as much as anyone can thrash with a bum leg, but the night was still more comfortable that it had been previously, either in the hospital or at home. If I can manage to rest reasonably quietly, Bob will be able to come back to bed.
We drove out to Hudson and through the snowy countryside to Stillwater this afternoon. I was surprised that the snow is still quite white. We stopped at Menard's on the way home and I enviously waited in the truck while Bob shopped, since I didn't want to risk a fall in the parking lot: I imagined myself prostrate in the snow, Disabled Parking sticker at my side, the contents of my purse strewn all over for all to examine. I visualied the good samaritans gingerly picking me up and plopping me in the back seat, just to get me out of soght. Fortunately, we were all spared that scene and I enjoyed watching customers file in and out of that busy Midway store.
It's late afternoon now, and I'm starting to get a little tired. I'm going to resist the temptation to nap, not just because it seems plain wrong but also because a nap now will rob me of sleep later. From a more positive perspective, I have to think I'm doing pretty well. Knee isn't too painful anymore. My balance is pretty good and I can walk without faltering until about 7:30 p.m. I can feel my strength returning, and I'm looking forward to seeing how I do on the stationary bicycle tomorrow. It's been nearly two weeks since the surgery: so far, so good.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Achievement of the Day
I woke up this morning feeling somewhat unmotivated. My first phone call of the day was to the clinic at the U, because I had almost run out of the blood-thinner, Coumadin, a drug I'll be taking for another couple fo weeks to prevent blood clot formation. The nurse was surprised that I have been going to physical therapy at the Institute for Athletic Medicine about 1.5 miles away, rather than have a therapist come to the house. I did know that home therapy is available, but I also know that I getting out every day is important to my mental health.
Later, I enjoyed talking to Jim Darling, whose wife has had both knees replaced in the last year or so. It's encouraging to hear that Maryellen is now painfree. I find the painfree state hard to imagine at this point, but it's good to know that there may be some pain relief in my future after all.
I have been whining to get into Bob's cushy, comfortable GMC Yukon rather than my Ford Focus, which has never been too great for the knees, even under good circumstances. Bob, on the other hand, was afraid that I might slip and that he, of course, would be blamed for even letting me out of the house into the winter ice. As it turned out, hoisting myself up into the front seat wasn't difficult, once we figured out the best way to get the job done.
I'm happy to be walking around the house unaided for much of the day and am beginning to think that I am doing pretty well, overall. I hope I've reached the summit of my preoccupation with the knee, and will soon be able to think about other things. For now, though, I'm looking forward to the good night's sleep that eluded me last night.
Later, I enjoyed talking to Jim Darling, whose wife has had both knees replaced in the last year or so. It's encouraging to hear that Maryellen is now painfree. I find the painfree state hard to imagine at this point, but it's good to know that there may be some pain relief in my future after all.
I have been whining to get into Bob's cushy, comfortable GMC Yukon rather than my Ford Focus, which has never been too great for the knees, even under good circumstances. Bob, on the other hand, was afraid that I might slip and that he, of course, would be blamed for even letting me out of the house into the winter ice. As it turned out, hoisting myself up into the front seat wasn't difficult, once we figured out the best way to get the job done.
I'm happy to be walking around the house unaided for much of the day and am beginning to think that I am doing pretty well, overall. I hope I've reached the summit of my preoccupation with the knee, and will soon be able to think about other things. For now, though, I'm looking forward to the good night's sleep that eluded me last night.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Graduation to a Cane
After the Vikings' stunning, heart-breaking 31-28 overtime loss to to hte Saints in the NFC championship, I felt that I needed some good news today. Headed out to physical therapy at about 9:30 AM, a little fearful of slipping on the fresh snow that had coated the deck during the night.
A very old woman shuffled into the PT waiting room shortly after I arrived. I watched her workout as I went through mine, afraid that she would trip on the carpeting in the gym, especially since was wearing a pair of outdoor boots, with an inflexible rubber sole. She almost did fall once, and I reflected that if she had fallen, I would have been off the hook in the help department with all those physical therapists in the building.
I started on the stationary bike today and am very close to getting my leg to do a full rotation -- maybe later this week. When I got back to the waiting room, Bob had already worked over the other patients' companions, and I learned that the elderly woman was also recovering from knee replacement surgery. Bob joked that here she was, a week after surgery, walking unaided! My sense of humor is somewhat diminished these days, and I was furious that such an unlikely candidate was recovering better than I.
Of course, we have no idea how along that woman is in her recovery! I did decide, though, that it was time to ditch the crutches, at least in the house. I've been making short hops without the crutches, but didn't go any "distance" before today. Thinking that I still needed some support, Bob resurrected his old cane and I welcome the luxury of a free hand..
I'll be afraid to head outdoors crutch-less, but I have a feeling that the crutches may have a limited future. I have a crazy vision of dropping them off at St. Joseph's Oratory in Montreal.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Are we there yet?
I do a hell of a job sliding the crutches ahead of me up or down the stairs. This morning I even got the newspaper on the front steps with a perfect manoeuvering of my right crutch. Still, I'm ready to go on to the next thing now. There's no one around to see my well rehearsed "brave invalid" look and there's not enough drama in the story to interest even me. Enough of this gig!
I had secretly hoped that I'd be making plans to go back to work in a record breaking time. However, I don't think that's going to happen, so I might as well stop moping. I'm enjoying the US Figure Skating Championship events this weekend and I've had just about enough skating, just in time for the Vikings-Saints game.
I wrapped my leg last night in a giant Ace bandage and was able to sleep quite a bit better with the knee nicely protected. I strapped the right leg into the CPM (continuous passive motion or movement, I forget which) machine early this morning, and fired it up for a couple of hours. I think the machine is helping -- the knee has lost some of its stiffness and seemed to be "good to go" when I got out of bed. While I can't take a shower yet, I've gotten fairly adept at the "sponge bath". The first couple of days, Bob helpd me wash my hair but I'm fine doing it myself, and glad that I don't get dizzy.
Today was the big "first post-op outing". We went to Burger King, where my brand new Disabled Parking tag gave us a premium spot near the door. Then we headed down to visit my deer at Fort Snelling State Park. The deer were plentiful, but the real thrill was hearing, and then seeing, a yellow-bellied sapsucker http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow-bellied_Sapsucker . I'm quite sure that I saw one in the same spot last
year, perhaps a little later in the season.
We drove by the snow sculptures at the State Fairgrounds, but by then I was getting tired and it was time to end the outing. Trudy's tater tot casserole is smelling mighty good as it heats up in the oven and I'm looking forward to the kickoff. http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/tag/_/name/vikings-saints-012410
I had secretly hoped that I'd be making plans to go back to work in a record breaking time. However, I don't think that's going to happen, so I might as well stop moping. I'm enjoying the US Figure Skating Championship events this weekend and I've had just about enough skating, just in time for the Vikings-Saints game.
I wrapped my leg last night in a giant Ace bandage and was able to sleep quite a bit better with the knee nicely protected. I strapped the right leg into the CPM (continuous passive motion or movement, I forget which) machine early this morning, and fired it up for a couple of hours. I think the machine is helping -- the knee has lost some of its stiffness and seemed to be "good to go" when I got out of bed. While I can't take a shower yet, I've gotten fairly adept at the "sponge bath". The first couple of days, Bob helpd me wash my hair but I'm fine doing it myself, and glad that I don't get dizzy.
Today was the big "first post-op outing". We went to Burger King, where my brand new Disabled Parking tag gave us a premium spot near the door. Then we headed down to visit my deer at Fort Snelling State Park. The deer were plentiful, but the real thrill was hearing, and then seeing, a yellow-bellied sapsucker http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow-bellied_Sapsucker . I'm quite sure that I saw one in the same spot last
year, perhaps a little later in the season.
We drove by the snow sculptures at the State Fairgrounds, but by then I was getting tired and it was time to end the outing. Trudy's tater tot casserole is smelling mighty good as it heats up in the oven and I'm looking forward to the kickoff. http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/tag/_/name/vikings-saints-012410
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Buckets of Rain in January
January is Minnesota is often bitterly cold, as it was for the first two weeks of 2010. A few years ago, I knitted myself a soft, very warm scart that I wind around my head and face if I make the mistake of going out for a walk that turns out to be longer than originally intended. I wouldn't have needed that scarf in the last 10 days, even if I had been able to go out for a walk. Most days, the temperature has been above freezing.
I was hoping to venture out a little farther afield today, perhaps down to Fort Snelling State Park, to see the deer. I abandoned that idea as the morning wore on and puddles of water began to collect on the snow. The sidewalk is both mushy and slick. No amount of grit can make it safe. There will be no deer watching today, nor my usual Saturday evening Mass, either. Nothing good could come out of a walk on the ice.
In the last week, I have avoided using the Continuous Passive Movement Machine. It is a very heavy piece of equipment with a crude device that holds the lower leg and bends it, at the knee, to a predetermined angle and back to 180%, a set number of times perhour. The angle must be increased over time, with the objective of attaining the maximum possible range of motion in the affected leg. While its effectiveness is subject to debate among orthopedists, my doctor and the U of M are major believers so I was sent home with one "on loan".
My first attempt to use it last Sunday was unsuccessful. The pain was excruciating as Bob strapped me into it, a device that would not seem out of place in a museum of medieval torture pieces. I swore off it until today, when my leg felt so stiff that I was willing to try it one more time. Let's just say that it keeps every moving well, if not merrily.
I'm off the machine now, sitting with a blanket around myself, watching the US Figure Skating Championships. I have to say that it's wonderful to watch an afternoon of skating, feeling no guilt! I've begun the obligatory hand wringing that necessarily precedes the Vikings Saints game late tomorrow afternoon in New Orleans. If the Vikings make it to the Super Bowl, I don't know if I can take the excitement!
I was hoping to venture out a little farther afield today, perhaps down to Fort Snelling State Park, to see the deer. I abandoned that idea as the morning wore on and puddles of water began to collect on the snow. The sidewalk is both mushy and slick. No amount of grit can make it safe. There will be no deer watching today, nor my usual Saturday evening Mass, either. Nothing good could come out of a walk on the ice.
In the last week, I have avoided using the Continuous Passive Movement Machine. It is a very heavy piece of equipment with a crude device that holds the lower leg and bends it, at the knee, to a predetermined angle and back to 180%, a set number of times perhour. The angle must be increased over time, with the objective of attaining the maximum possible range of motion in the affected leg. While its effectiveness is subject to debate among orthopedists, my doctor and the U of M are major believers so I was sent home with one "on loan".
My first attempt to use it last Sunday was unsuccessful. The pain was excruciating as Bob strapped me into it, a device that would not seem out of place in a museum of medieval torture pieces. I swore off it until today, when my leg felt so stiff that I was willing to try it one more time. Let's just say that it keeps every moving well, if not merrily.
I'm off the machine now, sitting with a blanket around myself, watching the US Figure Skating Championships. I have to say that it's wonderful to watch an afternoon of skating, feeling no guilt! I've begun the obligatory hand wringing that necessarily precedes the Vikings Saints game late tomorrow afternoon in New Orleans. If the Vikings make it to the Super Bowl, I don't know if I can take the excitement!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Cautiously ... on the Mend
I think it's possible that I may be rounding the corner. I dozed a lot yesterday and wondered if things were getting worse, not better! This morning, I had that "hungover" feeling again, a little disconcerting because I had to get to the clinic for my blood test at 8:45. Fortunately, the bad stomach went away quickly and I have had a good morning.
Because of the freezing rain, the deck and sidewalks were very icey and Bob and I were both afraid that I'd lose my balance, but fortunately I had no problems at all. After the blood test, we took a little ride to downtown St. Paul, and I enjoyed seeing the ice sculptors at work. It is a little too warm for ice sculpting, and I hope the work can be completed and judged before the sleet and freezing rain predicted for the weekend.
I've been sitting (again!) and, of course I'm getting tired of being "laid up". I think I'm getting better because I hardly need the crutches anymore. I'm fairly stable and can put all my weight on the knew knee. The swelling in my leg seems to be reduced today, even though it's still quite tender. If this were summer, I'd be out for a walk.
The drugs really do knock me out so I hope I can reduce my need in the next day or so. When that happens, I'll have a real sense of recovery.
Because of the freezing rain, the deck and sidewalks were very icey and Bob and I were both afraid that I'd lose my balance, but fortunately I had no problems at all. After the blood test, we took a little ride to downtown St. Paul, and I enjoyed seeing the ice sculptors at work. It is a little too warm for ice sculpting, and I hope the work can be completed and judged before the sleet and freezing rain predicted for the weekend.
I've been sitting (again!) and, of course I'm getting tired of being "laid up". I think I'm getting better because I hardly need the crutches anymore. I'm fairly stable and can put all my weight on the knew knee. The swelling in my leg seems to be reduced today, even though it's still quite tender. If this were summer, I'd be out for a walk.
The drugs really do knock me out so I hope I can reduce my need in the next day or so. When that happens, I'll have a real sense of recovery.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Best Ever Recovery from Total Knee Arthroplasty
I've never had too much interest in being "average"; I tend to prefer the extremes. Early on in the total knee replacement "process", I decided that I was going to be better than everyone else in every possible way. I worked on the post-op exercises for about a month and figured that I was about as prepared as anyone could be for this surgery.
I got out of bed as soon as I could. Started walking right away and re-mastered the art of crutches. Thanks to Scott's work on railings, I felt secure hauling myself up and down the stairs. By yesterday, I was ready for the first "real" post-op test. I waltzed through the strength, mobility and range of motion exercises with the physiotherapist. After making quite an impression on the clinic staff, I walked out jauntily with my exercise program in hand.
And then I hit the wall -- not literally, fortunately. I spent the rest of Wednesday feeling tired out, stressed out and in pain all over. My right tibia still feels as though someone took a hammer to it. My feet have been so stretched than I wonder if I'll ever experience "normal" again. I am very happy that I don't have PT again until Monday!
Meanwhile, I had hoped to go out for lunch today but freezing rain has made the landscape overly dangerous, at least for now. I may yet revisit my goal of having the "best ever recovery", but for now I'll be happy to get through the day in relative comfort.
I got out of bed as soon as I could. Started walking right away and re-mastered the art of crutches. Thanks to Scott's work on railings, I felt secure hauling myself up and down the stairs. By yesterday, I was ready for the first "real" post-op test. I waltzed through the strength, mobility and range of motion exercises with the physiotherapist. After making quite an impression on the clinic staff, I walked out jauntily with my exercise program in hand.
And then I hit the wall -- not literally, fortunately. I spent the rest of Wednesday feeling tired out, stressed out and in pain all over. My right tibia still feels as though someone took a hammer to it. My feet have been so stretched than I wonder if I'll ever experience "normal" again. I am very happy that I don't have PT again until Monday!
Meanwhile, I had hoped to go out for lunch today but freezing rain has made the landscape overly dangerous, at least for now. I may yet revisit my goal of having the "best ever recovery", but for now I'll be happy to get through the day in relative comfort.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Red, Yellow, Black & Blue
The last time I displayed so many colors was after the 1985 motorcycle accident that left me bruised from head to toe. For awhile this afternoon, when the intensity of the colors alarmed Bob, I worked myself into a mental frenzy, imagining myself bleeding silently under the skin, like some member of the Russian royal family. I'm quite sure that most of my reaction is due to a dramatic temperament and rather too much imagination. The physical therapist did not seem unduly concerned this morning.
The PT thought I had good mobility, 90 degrees already. The angle must get to at least 120, I think. I was quite a sight outside today. The temperature had fallen a little since yesterday, and my summer jacket and shorts looked a trifle odd, even for me. I had been counting on going to lunch, and when Bob insisted that we go home after the morning's workout, I started to cry again, imagining that he was ashamed of his decrepit -- and crazy -- wife, outside in shorts in the middle of January. Fortunately, the mood passed and I enjoyed the afternoon.
Despite all the ratings woes and public NBC infighting, I enjoy watching Jay Leno at 9 PM. My diminished mental state seems to enhance the quality of all TV, so I'm looking forward to a a little guilt-free self indulgence.
The PT thought I had good mobility, 90 degrees already. The angle must get to at least 120, I think. I was quite a sight outside today. The temperature had fallen a little since yesterday, and my summer jacket and shorts looked a trifle odd, even for me. I had been counting on going to lunch, and when Bob insisted that we go home after the morning's workout, I started to cry again, imagining that he was ashamed of his decrepit -- and crazy -- wife, outside in shorts in the middle of January. Fortunately, the mood passed and I enjoyed the afternoon.
Despite all the ratings woes and public NBC infighting, I enjoy watching Jay Leno at 9 PM. My diminished mental state seems to enhance the quality of all TV, so I'm looking forward to a a little guilt-free self indulgence.
Day after the Night Before
Woke up at 6 AM feeling as though I should be wearing a lampshade on my head. Must be much more of a party animal than I had previously imagined. Wait! No party. The "lendemain de la veille" feeling involved no fancy drinks. Just a drug hangover. Well, that's reassuring!
Seriously, feeling better now. I'll have Bob help me wash my hair in a little while, and then dress for PT at 11 AM http://www.athleticmedicine.org/Clinics/c_144265.asp. The weather here is warm, so I think I'll put on my shorts here and head out ready for a workout. I am feeling a trifle apprehensive about physical therapy!
The last time I did any significant physical therapy, I was recovering from 2007 knee surgery on my left leg (the other one). For some reason, when I was doing one of the exercises that involved "climbing down" a wall, my leg slipped like a free falling elevator. The pain was agonizing; I have quite a voice, and my vocabulary can be colorful ... anyway, they packed me up and pushed me out of the clinic door faster than I could say "let's try that again!".
The synapses seem a little slow this morning ... my mind gets lost in these simple little stories. I'll have another report from the field later on, when my IQ begins to inch up.
Seriously, feeling better now. I'll have Bob help me wash my hair in a little while, and then dress for PT at 11 AM http://www.athleticmedicine.org/Clinics/c_144265.asp. The weather here is warm, so I think I'll put on my shorts here and head out ready for a workout. I am feeling a trifle apprehensive about physical therapy!
The last time I did any significant physical therapy, I was recovering from 2007 knee surgery on my left leg (the other one). For some reason, when I was doing one of the exercises that involved "climbing down" a wall, my leg slipped like a free falling elevator. The pain was agonizing; I have quite a voice, and my vocabulary can be colorful ... anyway, they packed me up and pushed me out of the clinic door faster than I could say "let's try that again!".
The synapses seem a little slow this morning ... my mind gets lost in these simple little stories. I'll have another report from the field later on, when my IQ begins to inch up.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Bouquet from a friend ...
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The lovely teacup bouquet is from my college friend Sheryl Smolkin, who also has significant health issues to resolve this year. We reconnected through Facebook, and have enjoyed revisiting our friendship.
Thank you, Sheryl! Looking forward to a healthy 2010, and to a reunion sometime this year!
Superiority Complex Vanishing
I felt so terrific yesterday from all points of view: general wellbeing, mobility, skill with crutches, pain management, medication calendar, appearance of the knee, progress only 4 days after surgery, general ability to "get the job done". Fatigue did set in at about 8 PM but no matter. Thought a good night's sleep would take care of everything.
Tried to make it through the entire night without any medication. Bad idea! Woke up at 4:30 AM feeling as though I had been dumped out of a truck and run over by a semi. I had my nice medication calendar ready ... but it was for 6 AM on. While my mind was still functioning, I decided to have a couple of Tylenol until it was time to get up.
More or less did the trick. Had an early out for a post-op check-up and blood test. The obstacles are now expected: a couple of stairs here and there, very icey conditions on the sidewalks, narrow traffic routes in buildings, including my clinic. There is a general inability to address the very basic needs of people on crutches or otherwise mobility challenged. There is, in fact, very little awareness of the difficulty of standing for a long time on crutches, of having no place to ease a leg up and rest it.
We were home by about 9:45 AM but I was totally exhausted. Had coffee and a Diet Coke. I was happy to answer my email. I would really like to go out for a ride in the car but Bob likes me plunked safely here, away from the general hazards of life in the winter.
A couple of decades ago, our neighbor, Gus, said that he always declined pain medication because he preferred to self-medicate with a good belt. While I'm not prepared to go that route, I can see where a stiff drink could take the edge off the pain and stress!
So: this time yesterday, I was feeling that my progress was superior in every way. Today, I'm a little more grounded. Let's just say that I'm maintaining!
Tried to make it through the entire night without any medication. Bad idea! Woke up at 4:30 AM feeling as though I had been dumped out of a truck and run over by a semi. I had my nice medication calendar ready ... but it was for 6 AM on. While my mind was still functioning, I decided to have a couple of Tylenol until it was time to get up.
More or less did the trick. Had an early out for a post-op check-up and blood test. The obstacles are now expected: a couple of stairs here and there, very icey conditions on the sidewalks, narrow traffic routes in buildings, including my clinic. There is a general inability to address the very basic needs of people on crutches or otherwise mobility challenged. There is, in fact, very little awareness of the difficulty of standing for a long time on crutches, of having no place to ease a leg up and rest it.
We were home by about 9:45 AM but I was totally exhausted. Had coffee and a Diet Coke. I was happy to answer my email. I would really like to go out for a ride in the car but Bob likes me plunked safely here, away from the general hazards of life in the winter.
A couple of decades ago, our neighbor, Gus, said that he always declined pain medication because he preferred to self-medicate with a good belt. While I'm not prepared to go that route, I can see where a stiff drink could take the edge off the pain and stress!
So: this time yesterday, I was feeling that my progress was superior in every way. Today, I'm a little more grounded. Let's just say that I'm maintaining!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Journey vs. Trip
I think I will bop the next person who refers to this surgery as a journey. "Journey" always seems to carry promises of learning, appreciation for other people, life lessons, wisdom, enlightenment ... "Trip" is a little lighter. Maybe some beverages along the way. Laughter. "Trippy" stuff. So far, none of either. No journey; no trip ... yet.
The morning of preparing to spring the coop left me tired and cranky. The nurse went through a ream of paperwork, the most significant of which involved how to take each of the 7 medications I went home with. Last week, I fully expected to be weaned of major painkillers and I certainly didn't intend to have any narcotics going home with me. I adjusted that expectation fairly early on, so I did have an interest in the medication management session.
The nurse had the great idea that it would be best if the Oxycontin (2X daily) could be administered in the late evening and early morning (say 8 PM and 8 AM), rather than in the middle of the afternoon and late at night (2 PM and 2 AM), so she thought I should try to delay the Oxycontin dose (due at 2 PM) until 8 PM. At about 4 PM I went into a major meltdown, sobbing with such force that I couldn't manage the crutches, let alone the pain control strategy.
Let's just say that I now understand how people might inadvertently overdose on narcotics. Bob helped me get upstairs to our own bed ("my" bed, for a couple of days, and we worked on the medications list, trying to figure out how to take each of them. I realized this morning that it would be very easy to put each one on a calendar at its proper time, simply using the calendar features of Outlook or some other electronic calendar. I haven't done that yet, but I will do so soon. Thank you, everyone who called during the evening. I'm sorry I couldn't talk to you. You would have wondered if some brain shredder had gotten hold of me.
I watched a little of the Golden Globes and pretty much got the pain addressed. I didn't take any more medication until 6 AM. Bob brought me coffee, fruit and yogurt for breakfast. I am sitting at my desktop computer, with my right foot on the floor -- leg not quite 90 degrees but it's not too far from a right angle. I can lift my leg now and the quad feels fairly strong.
I'm walking quite well on the crutches. And the crutch is a hell of a hooker tool - I can grab anything with it and expertly guide a selected item to its destination. I am hoping to get outside a little today, but may not have the stamina yet. Tomorrow morning I have to go to my clinic for a blood test. I have to begin physical therapy ASAP, so I may try to get something going after the clinic visit -- same building. Bob just finished vacuuming and I'd better get back to bed before I get caught at the computer!
It's remarkable how self centered one can become, so quickly. Some kind of instinct for self preservation, I suppose.
The morning of preparing to spring the coop left me tired and cranky. The nurse went through a ream of paperwork, the most significant of which involved how to take each of the 7 medications I went home with. Last week, I fully expected to be weaned of major painkillers and I certainly didn't intend to have any narcotics going home with me. I adjusted that expectation fairly early on, so I did have an interest in the medication management session.
The nurse had the great idea that it would be best if the Oxycontin (2X daily) could be administered in the late evening and early morning (say 8 PM and 8 AM), rather than in the middle of the afternoon and late at night (2 PM and 2 AM), so she thought I should try to delay the Oxycontin dose (due at 2 PM) until 8 PM. At about 4 PM I went into a major meltdown, sobbing with such force that I couldn't manage the crutches, let alone the pain control strategy.
Let's just say that I now understand how people might inadvertently overdose on narcotics. Bob helped me get upstairs to our own bed ("my" bed, for a couple of days, and we worked on the medications list, trying to figure out how to take each of them. I realized this morning that it would be very easy to put each one on a calendar at its proper time, simply using the calendar features of Outlook or some other electronic calendar. I haven't done that yet, but I will do so soon. Thank you, everyone who called during the evening. I'm sorry I couldn't talk to you. You would have wondered if some brain shredder had gotten hold of me.
I watched a little of the Golden Globes and pretty much got the pain addressed. I didn't take any more medication until 6 AM. Bob brought me coffee, fruit and yogurt for breakfast. I am sitting at my desktop computer, with my right foot on the floor -- leg not quite 90 degrees but it's not too far from a right angle. I can lift my leg now and the quad feels fairly strong.
I'm walking quite well on the crutches. And the crutch is a hell of a hooker tool - I can grab anything with it and expertly guide a selected item to its destination. I am hoping to get outside a little today, but may not have the stamina yet. Tomorrow morning I have to go to my clinic for a blood test. I have to begin physical therapy ASAP, so I may try to get something going after the clinic visit -- same building. Bob just finished vacuuming and I'd better get back to bed before I get caught at the computer!
It's remarkable how self centered one can become, so quickly. Some kind of instinct for self preservation, I suppose.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Home!
Bob picked me up about 90 minutes ago and, despite the exhaustion, I am doing fine. Glad to be home!
Hospital Routine
Until fairly late in the day yesterday, I was still too sick to get too serious about the idea of going home. I had a meltdown in the mid-afternoon I simply couldnt handle the stress of all of my visitors, the conversation with the physical and occupational therapists, the rug rash I had picked up from the hospital sheets, the absence of any real "comforts" (except the hot blankets, which I ask for). Feeling uncomfortable and out of sorts, I burst into tears. Fortunately, this is not Bob's first rodeo and he took the outburst in stride.
I quickly got into my "routine". Early wake-up. Trip to the bathroom -- a big event (I wouldn't want to be desperate because it takes a lot just to get the knee immobilized so that I can get on my way). Pills -- the collection consists of Tylenol, vistaril (muscle relaxant), oxycontin. The vistaril is very helpful because of the muscle contracts in my upper and lower leg after the surgery. The first night, the medications kept me pretty well sedated. The second night, I slept well but was happy to wake up at about 4 AM. Last night, the napping during the day pretty much killed my night's sleep. I really couldn't get comfortable, no matter how I tossed and turned. At one point, I rolled up my blankets one at a time and pitched them over to the chair.
I find myself looking forward to food, even though it is not too appetizing. Meals appear with a cover over the main course (not necessarily a main course, but sufficiently large to be given "main course" trappings). For some reason, I was reminded of the dinner tray scene (s?) in "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane" http://www.joancrawfordbest.com/filmswhatever.htm.
One of my favorite nurses is Enrico ("Rico") Johnson. He and all his siblings have very unlikely name combinations ... Rico is a great one for hospital "insider knowledge". Last night, I heard a "Code 21" over the broadcast system. At the University of Minnesota, a Code 21 is a call for the team that deals with "mental halth disturbances", or "violent outbursts". I think I'm going to incorporate "Code 21" into my personal shorthand.
At 4 AM, I figured I could get up witout calling too much attention to myself. Of course, getting up means going to the bathroom, taking the latest set of meds, begging for a cup of coffee, hauling out my laptop. I've been writing for awhile with the machine positioned on my good leg but I really need something of a repositioning.
I think I may be released ... this morning, I hope. Yesterday, I wondered if I would be ready but today I feel more able to cope. The only obstacle is the 12 noon start time for the Vikings vs. Cowboys game ...
I quickly got into my "routine". Early wake-up. Trip to the bathroom -- a big event (I wouldn't want to be desperate because it takes a lot just to get the knee immobilized so that I can get on my way). Pills -- the collection consists of Tylenol, vistaril (muscle relaxant), oxycontin. The vistaril is very helpful because of the muscle contracts in my upper and lower leg after the surgery. The first night, the medications kept me pretty well sedated. The second night, I slept well but was happy to wake up at about 4 AM. Last night, the napping during the day pretty much killed my night's sleep. I really couldn't get comfortable, no matter how I tossed and turned. At one point, I rolled up my blankets one at a time and pitched them over to the chair.
I find myself looking forward to food, even though it is not too appetizing. Meals appear with a cover over the main course (not necessarily a main course, but sufficiently large to be given "main course" trappings). For some reason, I was reminded of the dinner tray scene (s?) in "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane" http://www.joancrawfordbest.com/filmswhatever.htm.
One of my favorite nurses is Enrico ("Rico") Johnson. He and all his siblings have very unlikely name combinations ... Rico is a great one for hospital "insider knowledge". Last night, I heard a "Code 21" over the broadcast system. At the University of Minnesota, a Code 21 is a call for the team that deals with "mental halth disturbances", or "violent outbursts". I think I'm going to incorporate "Code 21" into my personal shorthand.
At 4 AM, I figured I could get up witout calling too much attention to myself. Of course, getting up means going to the bathroom, taking the latest set of meds, begging for a cup of coffee, hauling out my laptop. I've been writing for awhile with the machine positioned on my good leg but I really need something of a repositioning.
I think I may be released ... this morning, I hope. Yesterday, I wondered if I would be ready but today I feel more able to cope. The only obstacle is the 12 noon start time for the Vikings vs. Cowboys game ...
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Until I attended the knee and hip replacement workshop about a month ago, I thought that occupational therapy was "crafts" and I was looking forward learning a new skill while in the hospital. The occupational therapist I saw yesterday burst out laughing when I told her this, and then turned serious. "You would still get to do crafts", she said, "if you were in the hospital for mental health issues". Next go-round, maybe.
I really liked yesterday's PT. Faye didn't go for any patient babying and seemed to know exactly how to deal with me, not necessarily an easy task. We dumped the walker right away and I used crutches instead. She looked at the tasks I would have to accomplish as sequential and inter-related. By the end of my second round of PT in the afternoon, I could pull my very heavy leg to the side of the bed and stand on it, immobilized, quite easily. Walking with the crutches is very easy. May only tendency is to want to take steps that are too large for my abilities.
I was surprised that I already knew how to deal with steps; I must have practiced it before or after another of my knee surgeries. I felt that I could navigate stairs fairly safely even now.
The occupational therapy with Katy was less helpful, since I already know the "coping" techniques that have been acquired during a lifetime with knee problems. I was really interested in hearing Katy talk about some of the challenges addressed by patients with cognitive issues. It seems that it's much easier dealing with someone like me, not disabled by age or illness, and still pretty much playing with a full deck.
I really liked yesterday's PT. Faye didn't go for any patient babying and seemed to know exactly how to deal with me, not necessarily an easy task. We dumped the walker right away and I used crutches instead. She looked at the tasks I would have to accomplish as sequential and inter-related. By the end of my second round of PT in the afternoon, I could pull my very heavy leg to the side of the bed and stand on it, immobilized, quite easily. Walking with the crutches is very easy. May only tendency is to want to take steps that are too large for my abilities.
I was surprised that I already knew how to deal with steps; I must have practiced it before or after another of my knee surgeries. I felt that I could navigate stairs fairly safely even now.
The occupational therapy with Katy was less helpful, since I already know the "coping" techniques that have been acquired during a lifetime with knee problems. I was really interested in hearing Katy talk about some of the challenges addressed by patients with cognitive issues. It seems that it's much easier dealing with someone like me, not disabled by age or illness, and still pretty much playing with a full deck.
Budget Woes
Minnesotans are justifiably pround of the quality of medical services in our state -- there aren't too many health issues that can't be addressed right here in the Twin Ciites.The Mayo Clinic is a favorite stop for patients who need answers. Even north central and northern Minnesota have state of the art medical facilities.
I'm alarmed that we may not keep pace. Budget cuts have hit the health care sector hard; there are visible signs everywhere. For the most part, I find the staff very competent and dedicated. The really good young ones are proud to be employees of this prestigious teaching hospital. Some others just have that dumb, dull look one finds everywhere, one of indifference and boredom. Some of the nursing assistants don't know how to use the equipment (e.g., continuous passive motion -- CPM -- machine) and just throw it on however it wil go. I sense a certain tension among the staff, between those who are good (and most do 90% of the work) and those who are simply here to get a paycheck.
The quality of the hospital facility varies from location to location. My room is poorly organized and cramped. The patient care paraphernalia is in various places around the roo. The hospital bed is many generations behind what is now "standard" in hospitals. There is no comfortable place to sit with my laptop. On the other hand, I had X-Rays yesterday in a brand new imaging wing where pictures were taken without the need for me to leave my wheelchair.
The young transport person told Chris and me that he had graduated in imaging (I forget the name of the diploma) but couldn't find a job. He figured he'd rather be working in a hospital close to the action than working somewhere else. He seemed so driven to serve that I hope he's successful in his job search.
I'm alarmed that we may not keep pace. Budget cuts have hit the health care sector hard; there are visible signs everywhere. For the most part, I find the staff very competent and dedicated. The really good young ones are proud to be employees of this prestigious teaching hospital. Some others just have that dumb, dull look one finds everywhere, one of indifference and boredom. Some of the nursing assistants don't know how to use the equipment (e.g., continuous passive motion -- CPM -- machine) and just throw it on however it wil go. I sense a certain tension among the staff, between those who are good (and most do 90% of the work) and those who are simply here to get a paycheck.
The quality of the hospital facility varies from location to location. My room is poorly organized and cramped. The patient care paraphernalia is in various places around the roo. The hospital bed is many generations behind what is now "standard" in hospitals. There is no comfortable place to sit with my laptop. On the other hand, I had X-Rays yesterday in a brand new imaging wing where pictures were taken without the need for me to leave my wheelchair.
The young transport person told Chris and me that he had graduated in imaging (I forget the name of the diploma) but couldn't find a job. He figured he'd rather be working in a hospital close to the action than working somewhere else. He seemed so driven to serve that I hope he's successful in his job search.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Non compos mentis
Now I know what that expression means. I've been pretty much out of the picture since the surgery, drifing in and out of consciousness. I did watch CNN most of Thursday night and part of yesterday. That isn't my usual habit but TV is quite an entertainment package.
My check-in on Thursday went like clockwork, with the exception of the need for last minute cultures (I won't go into the details) because they had produced unsatisfactory results at my pre-op physical several weeks ago. I had no sedative at all until I was in the operating room. The OR really impressed me. Quite large, populated by a surgical team of 6 or so. Lots of supplies like gowns piled within reach. Do they change gowns midway thhrough the surgery? There was a very large patient tracking monitor and one end of the OR. It was very cold! The doctors, nurses and assistants were very matter of fact and I certainly didn' get the idea that I was their first knee replacement! When I woke up in the recovery room, I was told by several staff that the knee had been very bad and that no other option was possible -- maybe that's just standard cognitive consistency talk.
The first day I had no solid food at all and I don't expect to gain any weight here. How do you ruin a scrambled egg? Did it come out of a box? The coffee and tea, however, are not too bad. Nurses and others are of uneven quality and competence. The night nurses seem to be the best. I had a nurse yesterday who was much nicer to Bob than she was to me. I am being quite a bitch, though, so maybe that influences the level of care.
I got email through the link I sent out from several people and I was really happy! A volunteer delivered mail at least twice yesterday, may three times. Bob, Chris and Becky have come to vist. The ADD has pretty much kicked in so I'm not a very good patient; I don't make my visitors feel good about themselves, so there's no need to hop in your car.
I have a small, poorly designed room ... but it has a great view of St. Paul. I keep the curtains open at night and, of course, all day. I've made the mistake of summoning the nurse by accidentally hitting the call button.
My check-in on Thursday went like clockwork, with the exception of the need for last minute cultures (I won't go into the details) because they had produced unsatisfactory results at my pre-op physical several weeks ago. I had no sedative at all until I was in the operating room. The OR really impressed me. Quite large, populated by a surgical team of 6 or so. Lots of supplies like gowns piled within reach. Do they change gowns midway thhrough the surgery? There was a very large patient tracking monitor and one end of the OR. It was very cold! The doctors, nurses and assistants were very matter of fact and I certainly didn' get the idea that I was their first knee replacement! When I woke up in the recovery room, I was told by several staff that the knee had been very bad and that no other option was possible -- maybe that's just standard cognitive consistency talk.
The first day I had no solid food at all and I don't expect to gain any weight here. How do you ruin a scrambled egg? Did it come out of a box? The coffee and tea, however, are not too bad. Nurses and others are of uneven quality and competence. The night nurses seem to be the best. I had a nurse yesterday who was much nicer to Bob than she was to me. I am being quite a bitch, though, so maybe that influences the level of care.
I got email through the link I sent out from several people and I was really happy! A volunteer delivered mail at least twice yesterday, may three times. Bob, Chris and Becky have come to vist. The ADD has pretty much kicked in so I'm not a very good patient; I don't make my visitors feel good about themselves, so there's no need to hop in your car.
I have a small, poorly designed room ... but it has a great view of St. Paul. I keep the curtains open at night and, of course, all day. I've made the mistake of summoning the nurse by accidentally hitting the call button.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
T-2: Surgery on Thursday
After years of indecision, I'm going ahead with total knee replacement surgery on January 14, 2010. The surgery is scheduled for 8:00 AM on Thursday, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center - Fairview, Riverside Campus. My surgeon is the wonderful Dr. Elizabeth Arendt, who gave me 16 pretty good years out of this right knee after a successful operation in 1993.
The original plan was to replace the left knee, the one that has been nothing but trouble since the mid-nineties, and only marginally helped by two "bandaid" arthroscopic interventions in the last 6 years. However,the "good" right knee, objectively in worse shape, has been very painful since last summer so, in December, we made a decision to go forward with the right knee. To my dismay, the left has returned to its habitual painful state in recent weeks.
I really hope this surgery helps, since I've tried pretty much everything else (other than losing buckets of blubber), and everyone (including me) is tired of hearing about it. Here's some information on the procedure http://www.uofmmedicalcenter.org/healthlibrary/content/aha_totkne_sha.htm.
I expect to be out of work for about six weeks, a prospect that I find more frightening than the surgery itself. My sense of self, and of self-worth, is tied up with work -- and I'm not sure I will do so well with three nights in the hospital and the possibility of transitional care if I'm not ready to go home yet. I'll post updates as soon as I can type!
The original plan was to replace the left knee, the one that has been nothing but trouble since the mid-nineties, and only marginally helped by two "bandaid" arthroscopic interventions in the last 6 years. However,the "good" right knee, objectively in worse shape, has been very painful since last summer so, in December, we made a decision to go forward with the right knee. To my dismay, the left has returned to its habitual painful state in recent weeks.
I really hope this surgery helps, since I've tried pretty much everything else (other than losing buckets of blubber), and everyone (including me) is tired of hearing about it. Here's some information on the procedure http://www.uofmmedicalcenter.org/healthlibrary/content/aha_totkne_sha.htm.
I expect to be out of work for about six weeks, a prospect that I find more frightening than the surgery itself. My sense of self, and of self-worth, is tied up with work -- and I'm not sure I will do so well with three nights in the hospital and the possibility of transitional care if I'm not ready to go home yet. I'll post updates as soon as I can type!
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