This week I had a follow-up with the Good Doc to check in on my surgically repaired clavicle. Due to some business travel I had pushed back my appointment a few times and hadn't yet been able to start physical therapy. Despite the lack of formal therapy, over the last few weeks I gradually increased the usage of my right side and relied on my body to tell me when it was too much. It's been some time since I've felt pain in the shoulder; at this point I am only dealing with some residual tightness, soreness after hard workouts, and a bit of atrophy from non-use.
With the solid progression in my recovery I had a hunch about what the Doc would say. When I wanted to begin therapy shortly after my surgery, he suggested that it would be a waste at that time. I knew he'd say the same when he checked me out. My visit was a success and I now have the Dr. approved "all clear" to do anything!
As I've been through my entire recovery I will of course be smart about easing my way back into things - no 2,500 yard pool workouts just yet. I'll begin training with resistance bands to increase my strength and flexibility and I can't wait to take my first spin on a real bike this weekend! I don't doubt that the increased impact of the rubber meeting the road may be at first uncomfortable but oddly I'm looking forward to the soreness that will follow but I'll continue my post workout icing regimen and do everything I can to speed up the rest of the healing.
Though swimming was always my least favorite discipline I have literally dreamed of getting back in the pool. I suppose sometimes it takes losing something to know how important it is to you. Of the three sports swimming is likely where I will have suffered the biggest setback but the good news is that I wasn't very good to begin with. Not having much room to go down, I'm looking towards the bright side of focusing on my stroke as I make my way back into the water.
WIth spring entering full bloom, there's no better time to be released into the wild. Timberman is less than 4 months away and though I've adjusted my goals for the race it's full speed ahead into my training now.
Nice blog, hope the swimming goes well !
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying your blog! It's great to read stories from people who like me started out HATING running but have become successful triathletes. I'm also recovering from an injury so I appreciate the motivation to keep pushing. My blog (about my triathlon training experience) is www.ballerinasdontrun.blogspot.com, I'd be honored if you'd check it out!
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work!
Thanks Crystal; I sometimes forget that I am not this blog’s only reader (not counting my Mother of course)! I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog and comment.
ReplyDeleteI spent my entire “dog walk” reading through your site this morning. Great stuff! Be smart with your recovery and you’ll be back on track before you know it. Happy tri-ing.