I don’t know why, perhaps it’s my lack of being tech savvy, but for some reason I’m just seeing these wonderful responses! The pelvic floor therapy and floating pool both sound amazing. I live in such a small community I know I will have to do my research. Im so hopeful I can find some help.
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experience.. also for making me laugh “ Susie Sunshine” 😂
I hope you are doing well!

I’m so sorry to hear that PT was so very in-helpful. Every single time I meet with the PT (now down to twice a month), their first question is “what have you noticed since the last session?” I have to keep notes or I’d forget otherwise. When things hurt after a session, they use that information to tailor what we work on next. Some of the “new” or intensified pain has to do with shifts in how I’m now using my body revealing weaknesses or shifts that have been brought about by what we’ve just done. But the PT always (so far) been able to give me something else to try that addresses that new discomfort. Or, they’ve been able to say, “this is a natural consequence of the change you just made, and it will subside soon.” Just having my pain explained and/or being given something that works week now, is super helpful and has built my trust in them (I have two PT’s and their interns human who share me as a case). What I keep learning that I CAN do is start as slowly as needed, but keep moving with specific guidance of my PTs to strengthen the muscles that surround my spine, pelvis/hips, trunk and legs/ankles, while simultaneously stretching and relaxing muscles in my pelvic region (where SO much was removed and therefore has to re-organize itself). All of this has reduced my joint pain tremendously in the 7 months since my surgery. What aches and pains I fo have I now understand that I can move through, as doing so is not causing damage, and I notice it much less (no longer a danger signal).

And with respect to “floating,” I’m finding it is becoming more widely available, but certainly isn’t everywhere. I live in a rural area so do this when I head toward “town/the big city” for other appointments and much more rarely than I would like.

The Pt should be more accessible, and if a PT is not able to give you more helpful feedback, you might consider calling a university or medical school in your larger area and asking if they offer a doctoral program in physiotherapy. If they do, you could ask your local PT to consult with them, or ask if you can meet with one with more specific expertise around arthritis and spinal compression to speak with you and/or your local PT by video or phone.

I certainly wish each of you access to what you need for your body and a better experience.

Sending warm wishes and my hopes for all of us to live as comfortably and meaningfully as we can,

Gynosaur