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Measuring Progress
I use time between acute flare-ups requiring antibiotics to resolve as a handy “gross” measure. However I’m aware that many people active on this forum are copping with greater pathology than my “mild” case and likely have more sophisticated ways to assess status
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Sue, your words, “ 2 hours a day of activity, in 20 minute intervals interspersed with rest. Now I can go for several hours, with up to 2 hours at a stretch of really active/strenuous things.” These words are inspiring testimony to the payoff of commitment , your commitment, to consistent self care.
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1 Reaction@migizii, although having multiple chronic issues occasionally sets me back to the beginning of Sue’s testimony....which I am gradually doing again after my mid foot fusion surgery this summer.
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1 ReactionGeez Migzii, I can only guess what a hobbling ordeal you’ve been through. Fill me (us) in. How have you coped? Don
Sue, I’m impressed with how positive and helpful you are in spite of dealing with pain issues and challenges of living with mac. To repeat thumperguy’s post, you are inspiring.
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2 ReactionsThanks for the encouragement everyone. I don't feel inspiring - just stubborn. The women in my family occupy their bodies for an average of about 90 years, so I have to keep after mine so I can be an active occupant.
Sue
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3 Reactions👍👍👍👍👍
Oh, it’s been a long and drawn out ordeal....fractured my foot 1/19....8 months later it healed. However, ongoing pain gave way to cortisone shots (wow! Those hurt!)......given diagnosis of severe arthritis with little chance of being able to handle surgery (Mayo orthopedic surgeon). I got another opinion in 6/2020 and this surgeon (with outstanding reputation from Twin City Orthopedics) said my foot could manage the fusion surgery and eventually my foot would not tolerate anymore shots.....which I hated anyway. Thus, I got the surgery two weeks later and ever since I have been working my way back! I can now walk a slow, but steady mile in my own tennis shoes, on an even surface without an orthodic and with less pain than before the surgery. Twice a week PT therapy for the next 8 weeks and hopefully, my foot will allow me to do things I haven’t been able to do for SO long! Thx for asking and caring❤️ Take care!
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1 ReactionOh, I guess I missed the part about coping....taking one day at a time; bad days will pass; nothing can break my spirit if I keep myself believing that; humor; and trying to stay detached from too much expectation....what will be will be.....Family, friends, and reflection.....
Migzii, if a “never say die” positive attitude is all it’s reputed to be I’d say you’re home free.
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1 Reaction@migizii That's a great story - I have had 3 wonderful docs at TCO, and recommend people consult with them all the time. Last night my best friend told me her hand surgeon advised her to have both wrists fused due to arthritis - less than two years after taking x-rays and telling her they were "fine." I immediately suggested consulting TCO for someone who specializes in carpectomy without fusion, because I had gotten the same advice, changed surgeons & had good results without fusing.
Your story reinforces what we tell people here - be your own best advocate, and don't be afraid to get a second opinion. I hope your healing continues to go well - several year out from surgery my sister in law is doing well on her fused foot and ankle.
Good luck with your therapy - that reminds me I need to go do mine!
Sue