Update:
Well it
seems like we’ve finally made some progress in adjusting my new socket. At my appointment with my prosthetist Monday
morning, she radically expanded the area around the front edge at the bottom of
my stump. That means it is much more
difficult for that part of my leg to hit the inside of the prosthesis. She also added another pad along the
tibia. The end result is that I went all
day wearing my prosthesis and didn’t have any pain!!!
I really put
my leg through the paces to see how well it would work. Right after the appointment with my
prosthetist, I went and worked out at the gym.
I even did some of the exercises that I have been avoiding since I’ve
been in so much pain. I went by the
grocery store to pick up a few things and then drove home. By that time, we had 2-3 inches of snow so I
decided to see if I could use the snow blower.
I was able to clean the driveway without a problem. Later Karen and I went out on some errands.
Throughout
the day I had some discomfort (some of it intense) but no pain. Pressure and discomfort I can live with—that is
sort of normal life for someone with a prosthesis. I am very thankful that I am out of
pain. Thank you, Lord! Now that we have finally taken care of that
major issue, we can start addressing some of the more minor issues concerning
the fit of my socket.
I am having
one problem with my left knee that I have to go see the doctor for. Over a month ago my knee started
popping. Most times is noticeable but
not really uncomfortable; occasionally it is a loud pop and is painful. My medical team assumed it was because I was
having issues with my old socket and getting a new one would solve the
problem. I’ve been out of the old socket
for over a month and I still have the issue.
In fact, now my knee will pop even if I don’t have my prosthetic leg
on. So I’ve scheduled an appointment
with my physiatrist (physical rehab doctor).
Unfortunately it isn’t until December 15th. There is a concern that I have some
underlying knee damage causing this; however, it may just mean that I need some
physical therapy to get my patella (knee cap) to move properly. The stress and strain of using a prosthesis
(especially an ill-fitting one) can cause some alignment issues.
I find it
interesting that prior to last year’s hospitalization, I would have ignored
something seemingly so minor, “I’m 57 years old. Of course I am going to have a few aches, pains,
pops and cracks.” Now I feel almost
paranoid and pay attention to every little thing that might affect my ability
to walk. That is probably a wise course
of action but after being a guy for over 55 years, it is strange to suddenly
pay attention to these kinds of things.
Who knows, if this keeps up I might start developing feelings and the
ability to verbally express them too!
Naw! Let’s be real; that probably
won’t ever happen!
I’ve picked
the graphic for my next permanent socket.
I really like how my last leg turned out and I think this graphic will
make a cool looking leg too. I’ve spent
a lot of hours looking at t-shirts on-line trying to find one that I would be
proud to wear for the next 1-3 years.
This is kind of like choosing a tattoo, only not quite so
permanent. I hope it turns out as well
as I imagine it will!
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