It's been a long Winter, and Spring can't come soon enough.
Physically things are coming along just great. I saw my PT today, and we did a bunch of testing comparing the involved leg against the good leg.
Involved. Funny term, involved. I've been involved with Karate for 3 years, my body's been involved with training, my time involved with playing music, being a decent husband, and raising a child, but I never considered just my knee involved with anything. Huh.
Testing consisted of a number of squat-and-reach exercises, such as standing on one foot while touching the floor as far out as possible at a 45° angle each way from the foot without falling. Another test was one-legged squats as low as possible.
Numbers look good, my operative knee is 85-90% as compared to the good knee. That means I can start a re-entry to running following protocol; basically it's walking with short periods of running, working up to progressively longer running periods without walking breaks.
Not that I've ever been much of a runner, but it's at least a change in routine, and one that will get me doing something moderately resembling recreational activity outside. Honestly, I miss the solitude that running early in the morning brings, and I look forward to it.
So, yeah, just over 7 weeks post-op and I'm running. Cool.
Emotionally things are a struggle this time. First time was a novelty, second time was routine at worst, but the third time is really weighing heavy on my mind. There are times when the depression and worry is tangible, like a yoke around my neck that I just can't remove.
There's an annoying, nagging voice in my head that won't stop wondering if I'm some kind of natural klutz. Another one argues that no, it's strictly a case of freak accidents--hardly predictable, not likely preventable except to quit Karate.
And then the people who hear about 'the third time,' and keep saying I need to find a safer hobby.
A hobby.
A hobby??? This is not a hobby, it's part of my way of life!
It's as much a hobby to me as someone going back to school to get a Masters or Doctorate is just a hobby.
Thanks for reading, and pardon my ranting and raving.
It's been a long Winter, and Spring can't come soon enough.
Showing posts with label knee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label knee. Show all posts
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Been There, Done That, Got The T-Shirt.
Hello, dear reader. It's been a while.
As I mentioned briefly on New Year's Eve, I re-tore the ACL in my right knee December 28th during sparring class. This is the knee that started all this business almost exactly 2 years ago.
I ducked under an opponents punch way too deep, with my right leg forward, and tried to explode upwards with a back fist while most of my body mass was still moving from right-to-left. I made it about 3/4ths of the way up, then my right knee bent sideways and I went down.
Last Monday, January 11th, I had an ACL revision done on the knee. The procedure is much the same as ACL reconstruction, except with a lot more prep work and bigger hardware. The prior ACL is removed and loose tissue cleaned up, and the old fixative screws are taken out. (I have my old screws as a token now.)
As with the prior 2 reconstructions, I opted for a femoral nerve block with a spinal block so I could observe the procedure. Good news is that the meniscus continues to be well anchored, with no signs of damage save for a tiny floater they caught doing laps in the saline on camera.
Again, like in December 2008, the spinal wore off a bit prematurely and I had major cramps in my lower back due to the position I was in on the table. Also, I began to feel the pins and needles in my right leg as the spinal wore off, and the tourniquet was removed. Yes, I could have opted for some sedation or pain killer, but I weighed the cost of $100 a pop against my short term discomfort--we have new insurance that would have me paying more out-of-pocket now--and I decided to save a buck or two.
Because the bone tunnel necessarily has to be enlarged, the replacement tendon and hardware are also larger. The original upper fixative screw was installed into the end of the femur 'from below,' essentially within the knee joint. This time, the screw was installed into the end of the femur from above, which meant my quads took a beating from being retracted while this somewhat gruesome business was conducted. I saw that bit from the arthroscope and realized that it's gonna sting like the dickens when the blocks wear off...
On a funny side note, Dr. K had some difficulty tightening this upper screw, losing his grip at one point and nearly knocking over some monitors and IV poles in the operating room! I suggested perhaps an impact wrench might not be a bad idea, but he replied that using motorized assistance tightening screws could result in over-torquing.
Once Dr. K was done and the other surgeons could take over closing things up, I reminded him of my request for a t-shirt from the clinic; I figure a guy is due something for his trouble after 3 operations! He not only made good on the promise, netting me a nice long sleeved Under Armor shirt with embroidered logo, he even put it in a gift bag with a birthday card and delivered it personally while I was in stage 1 recovery.
The card reads "Each year the wishes just get bigger and better!" with a note: That's 3 years in a row! Enough already! (Just kidding.)
So the first 36 hours post-op sucked as usual, peaking on Tuesday night when I had a major charlie horse in my thigh that felt like a dagger was stuck there! Fortunately a bit of Tylenol with Codeine took care of that and I could sleep peacefully. Since Wednesday I've taken nothing but Ibuprofen, a good thing and par for the course.
First PT session was Thursday. My prior PT clinic has closed its doors due to the recession, so I opted to do PT at the clinic where the surgery took place. There I met Ben, who will be my main PT this time around. I was encouraged by being able to toddle around the house with just a cane already, a very positive early milestone that the knee can bear weight well already.
Surprisingly my quads were firing quite well, and I could do straight leg lifts without too much difficulty. I even have a bit of hyper extension, already nearly equal to my good knee. Flexion is only at about 60 degrees while on my back, maybe 70-75 hanging over the edge with assistance from the good leg. The biggest stopper right now is the local knot of swelling to the outside of the quad, the result of insult to the tissue from installing the fixative screw.
Last night I was wide awake at 3am with a mild fever coming on. So on top of the typical post-operative pain, I had body aches as well, and lay awake for probably a good 2 hours trying to find a comfortable position. I should also mention, it's the first night back in my regular bed upstairs, and not on the totally comfy couch downstairs, so re-adjusting to sleeping on the mattress probably contributed to lower back cramps. Meh.
Well, tonight I'll be hanging out with Mrs. Shaft while G-Shaft goes to a schoolmate's birthday party for a few hours. We plan on tossing back a few Amaretto-Sour's while watching a movie and enjoying a new recipe for cold Thai peanut noodles.
More tomorrow, possibly pictures, and what the future holds for Paul "Hack Shaft" Pederson.
As I mentioned briefly on New Year's Eve, I re-tore the ACL in my right knee December 28th during sparring class. This is the knee that started all this business almost exactly 2 years ago.
I ducked under an opponents punch way too deep, with my right leg forward, and tried to explode upwards with a back fist while most of my body mass was still moving from right-to-left. I made it about 3/4ths of the way up, then my right knee bent sideways and I went down.
Last Monday, January 11th, I had an ACL revision done on the knee. The procedure is much the same as ACL reconstruction, except with a lot more prep work and bigger hardware. The prior ACL is removed and loose tissue cleaned up, and the old fixative screws are taken out. (I have my old screws as a token now.)
As with the prior 2 reconstructions, I opted for a femoral nerve block with a spinal block so I could observe the procedure. Good news is that the meniscus continues to be well anchored, with no signs of damage save for a tiny floater they caught doing laps in the saline on camera.
Again, like in December 2008, the spinal wore off a bit prematurely and I had major cramps in my lower back due to the position I was in on the table. Also, I began to feel the pins and needles in my right leg as the spinal wore off, and the tourniquet was removed. Yes, I could have opted for some sedation or pain killer, but I weighed the cost of $100 a pop against my short term discomfort--we have new insurance that would have me paying more out-of-pocket now--and I decided to save a buck or two.
Because the bone tunnel necessarily has to be enlarged, the replacement tendon and hardware are also larger. The original upper fixative screw was installed into the end of the femur 'from below,' essentially within the knee joint. This time, the screw was installed into the end of the femur from above, which meant my quads took a beating from being retracted while this somewhat gruesome business was conducted. I saw that bit from the arthroscope and realized that it's gonna sting like the dickens when the blocks wear off...
On a funny side note, Dr. K had some difficulty tightening this upper screw, losing his grip at one point and nearly knocking over some monitors and IV poles in the operating room! I suggested perhaps an impact wrench might not be a bad idea, but he replied that using motorized assistance tightening screws could result in over-torquing.
Once Dr. K was done and the other surgeons could take over closing things up, I reminded him of my request for a t-shirt from the clinic; I figure a guy is due something for his trouble after 3 operations! He not only made good on the promise, netting me a nice long sleeved Under Armor shirt with embroidered logo, he even put it in a gift bag with a birthday card and delivered it personally while I was in stage 1 recovery.
The card reads "Each year the wishes just get bigger and better!" with a note: That's 3 years in a row! Enough already! (Just kidding.)
So the first 36 hours post-op sucked as usual, peaking on Tuesday night when I had a major charlie horse in my thigh that felt like a dagger was stuck there! Fortunately a bit of Tylenol with Codeine took care of that and I could sleep peacefully. Since Wednesday I've taken nothing but Ibuprofen, a good thing and par for the course.
First PT session was Thursday. My prior PT clinic has closed its doors due to the recession, so I opted to do PT at the clinic where the surgery took place. There I met Ben, who will be my main PT this time around. I was encouraged by being able to toddle around the house with just a cane already, a very positive early milestone that the knee can bear weight well already.
Surprisingly my quads were firing quite well, and I could do straight leg lifts without too much difficulty. I even have a bit of hyper extension, already nearly equal to my good knee. Flexion is only at about 60 degrees while on my back, maybe 70-75 hanging over the edge with assistance from the good leg. The biggest stopper right now is the local knot of swelling to the outside of the quad, the result of insult to the tissue from installing the fixative screw.
Last night I was wide awake at 3am with a mild fever coming on. So on top of the typical post-operative pain, I had body aches as well, and lay awake for probably a good 2 hours trying to find a comfortable position. I should also mention, it's the first night back in my regular bed upstairs, and not on the totally comfy couch downstairs, so re-adjusting to sleeping on the mattress probably contributed to lower back cramps. Meh.
Well, tonight I'll be hanging out with Mrs. Shaft while G-Shaft goes to a schoolmate's birthday party for a few hours. We plan on tossing back a few Amaretto-Sour's while watching a movie and enjoying a new recipe for cold Thai peanut noodles.
More tomorrow, possibly pictures, and what the future holds for Paul "Hack Shaft" Pederson.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Feeling Torn
For the past 2 months or so, I've been running on Saturday mornings with 2 other people from my Karate school. At 7 am we head out for a perfect 4-mile loop, ending up at the coffee shop a block from the school. It's a great way to kick off Saturdays, and good incentive to get some out-of-the-classroom exercise.
The course is perfect, being flat crushed gravel for the first 2 miles, then rolling hills the last 2 miles. You get a nice warm-up while its flat, and just about the time you've caught your second wind you hit the hills.
2 weeks ago we ran the course backwards, hitting the hills first. Not withstanding the fact that I was still recovering from a nasty cold, it was a much tougher run, and all 3 of us needed to catch our breath at the halfway point. For the second half, we pretty much went from fast walking to occasional 50-yard sprints.
I hit one particular sprint pretty hard, and felt some funny muscle thing in my quads, like a group of muscle fiber I don't usually engage that way. Nothing painful, just new muscles being put to use. I was still sore after a week.
Friday while my daughter was sparring I decided to use the time to work on the Summer Goals program, which includes running our form 150 times outside of regular class between now and the end of August. I went through my Bo (staff) form and everything was fine until the last move, which involves a strike while going down on 1 knee.
I made it about 1/3 of the way to the floor when my right thigh lit up like it was on fire. Ouch!
G-Shaft commented from under her sparring helmet, "Knee problems?" I replied that it was my thighs, not my knees. For the remainder of the time, I simply avoided motions that aggravated my thighs.
Since that day, I researched the problem and concluded that I've got a level 1 quadricep strain. Since I have a week full of meetings keeping me away from Karate anyway, I'm resting and stretching, and will pick up a pair of compression wraps. Walking and gentle running don't hurt, I can bend my knees fully, but quad stretches are awfully tight at the moment.
Sudden explosive movement is what caused the problem, and what would aggravate it further; therefore I'll just run (gently) and attend core classes next week. No kickboxing aerobics, no sparring (except as a spectator.)
So to those of you who jog or run and are considering mixing in some sprints, take it easy! I went all-out, and my thighs are paying for that decision.
The course is perfect, being flat crushed gravel for the first 2 miles, then rolling hills the last 2 miles. You get a nice warm-up while its flat, and just about the time you've caught your second wind you hit the hills.
2 weeks ago we ran the course backwards, hitting the hills first. Not withstanding the fact that I was still recovering from a nasty cold, it was a much tougher run, and all 3 of us needed to catch our breath at the halfway point. For the second half, we pretty much went from fast walking to occasional 50-yard sprints.
I hit one particular sprint pretty hard, and felt some funny muscle thing in my quads, like a group of muscle fiber I don't usually engage that way. Nothing painful, just new muscles being put to use. I was still sore after a week.
Friday while my daughter was sparring I decided to use the time to work on the Summer Goals program, which includes running our form 150 times outside of regular class between now and the end of August. I went through my Bo (staff) form and everything was fine until the last move, which involves a strike while going down on 1 knee.
I made it about 1/3 of the way to the floor when my right thigh lit up like it was on fire. Ouch!
G-Shaft commented from under her sparring helmet, "Knee problems?" I replied that it was my thighs, not my knees. For the remainder of the time, I simply avoided motions that aggravated my thighs.
Since that day, I researched the problem and concluded that I've got a level 1 quadricep strain. Since I have a week full of meetings keeping me away from Karate anyway, I'm resting and stretching, and will pick up a pair of compression wraps. Walking and gentle running don't hurt, I can bend my knees fully, but quad stretches are awfully tight at the moment.
Sudden explosive movement is what caused the problem, and what would aggravate it further; therefore I'll just run (gently) and attend core classes next week. No kickboxing aerobics, no sparring (except as a spectator.)
So to those of you who jog or run and are considering mixing in some sprints, take it easy! I went all-out, and my thighs are paying for that decision.
Monday, April 6, 2009
2 out of 3 ain't bad.
Today is week 16 since surgery, 8 more to go until no restrictions.
2/3'rds of the way, and feeling great!
That first week back was absolute murder on my quads, hams, and shoulders, but absolutely no complaining from my knee. I made it to classes Thursday evening, and though I could hardly walk Saturday morning, I went to a 30-minute class, primarily to loosen up all the stiffness. Last week my muscles complained far less, so I think my body is beginning to acclimate to my return.
At the end of Thursday's class we worked on some kicking drills, including an offensive side kick. No, it's not meant to offend, it's just an attacking style versus a defensive style.
From a fighting stance, the front foot crosses over the center line of attack as the rear foot steps behind the front. This leads to a natural chamber of the front leg for a side kick, and covers a lot of distance while delivering a powerful blow to your opponent.
My partner holding a large body shield was a 13-year old boy who plays football besides studying karate. Since the first side involved kicking with my left leg, I simply walked through the motions. My foot just touched the body shield, no hard kick at all. That was fine, just going through the motions.
Then we switched sides, and the instructor, Miss O, suggested she should probably hold the shield for me, knowing my past kicking ability.
The Kid, being reasonably good-sized, said not to worry--he's used to hard hits playing football...
...and promptly folded like a flying soft shell taco.
Miss O held the shield for me the remainder of the drill.
It's good to be back.
2/3'rds of the way, and feeling great!
That first week back was absolute murder on my quads, hams, and shoulders, but absolutely no complaining from my knee. I made it to classes Thursday evening, and though I could hardly walk Saturday morning, I went to a 30-minute class, primarily to loosen up all the stiffness. Last week my muscles complained far less, so I think my body is beginning to acclimate to my return.
At the end of Thursday's class we worked on some kicking drills, including an offensive side kick. No, it's not meant to offend, it's just an attacking style versus a defensive style.
From a fighting stance, the front foot crosses over the center line of attack as the rear foot steps behind the front. This leads to a natural chamber of the front leg for a side kick, and covers a lot of distance while delivering a powerful blow to your opponent.
My partner holding a large body shield was a 13-year old boy who plays football besides studying karate. Since the first side involved kicking with my left leg, I simply walked through the motions. My foot just touched the body shield, no hard kick at all. That was fine, just going through the motions.
Then we switched sides, and the instructor, Miss O, suggested she should probably hold the shield for me, knowing my past kicking ability.
The Kid, being reasonably good-sized, said not to worry--he's used to hard hits playing football...
...and promptly folded like a flying soft shell taco.
Miss O held the shield for me the remainder of the drill.
It's good to be back.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Going Home...Again...and Lemonade
For the regular reader of this irregular poster, you'll notice the updated countdown clock.
After passing the mid-point of my 24 week rehab period, I made the decision to update the clock to reflect my return to Karate on Monday.
Am I crazy? No.
Just feeling fat, uninspired, and bored to tears.
The PT I currently do at home in many ways is more aggressive on my knee than perhaps 80% of my Karate activity. I may as well work out in the company of friends rather than in isolation!
Therefore I've decided to return--with certain restrictions until June 1st, the end of my 24-week "restricted" period.
Forms / Kata shouldn't be an issue, since they don't involve jumping or spinning kicks, and the few kicks that are present are with my non-operative leg.
I will make appropriate substitutions for the next 10 weeks:
- Instead of kicks with hard snaps, I do slow-count kicks, substituting a strength exercise for a power drill
- Kicks with my non-operative leg will be performed with the chamber action slowed down (which usually involves some degree of pivoting on the supporting leg)
- Spinning kicks? More slow-count kicks.
- Jumping kicks? More slow-count kicks.
So basically between now and June, I'll be doing a ton of strength work, deep stances, careful pivots, and drill on learning my new weapon form with the bo staff.
Come June 1st, I'll be more than ready to get back to sparring!
I want to thank Black Belt Mama for the "When Life Hands You Lemons" award:
Like any good blog award, there are some rules:
Paying it forward, my nominee is a fellow Martial Artist, Bobspar.
Bob is a self-declared Middle-Aged Martial Artist, and the first blog I came across when seeking other Martial Artists with ACL tear stories. My own blog title is inspired from his attitude of not only embracing where he is in life, but also having begun his journey in the Martial Arts as a middle-aged person!
Bob found a particularly sour lemon to make lemonade--he was literally minutes away from completing his black belt exam when his knee decided to play a game of "Pop Goes The Weasel," tearing his ACL and delaying his black belt for over a year as a result. He is training hard for his test coming up this May, and I wish him the best of luck!
After passing the mid-point of my 24 week rehab period, I made the decision to update the clock to reflect my return to Karate on Monday.
Am I crazy? No.
Just feeling fat, uninspired, and bored to tears.
The PT I currently do at home in many ways is more aggressive on my knee than perhaps 80% of my Karate activity. I may as well work out in the company of friends rather than in isolation!
Therefore I've decided to return--with certain restrictions until June 1st, the end of my 24-week "restricted" period.
Forms / Kata shouldn't be an issue, since they don't involve jumping or spinning kicks, and the few kicks that are present are with my non-operative leg.
I will make appropriate substitutions for the next 10 weeks:
- Instead of kicks with hard snaps, I do slow-count kicks, substituting a strength exercise for a power drill
- Kicks with my non-operative leg will be performed with the chamber action slowed down (which usually involves some degree of pivoting on the supporting leg)
- Spinning kicks? More slow-count kicks.
- Jumping kicks? More slow-count kicks.
So basically between now and June, I'll be doing a ton of strength work, deep stances, careful pivots, and drill on learning my new weapon form with the bo staff.
Come June 1st, I'll be more than ready to get back to sparring!
I want to thank Black Belt Mama for the "When Life Hands You Lemons" award:
Like any good blog award, there are some rules:
- Post the logo on your blog.
- Nominate blogs that show great attitude or gratitude
- Link to the nominees within your blog post.
- Notify the recipients of the award by commenting on their blog.
- Share the love and link back to the person from whom you received your award.
Paying it forward, my nominee is a fellow Martial Artist, Bobspar.
Bob is a self-declared Middle-Aged Martial Artist, and the first blog I came across when seeking other Martial Artists with ACL tear stories. My own blog title is inspired from his attitude of not only embracing where he is in life, but also having begun his journey in the Martial Arts as a middle-aged person!
Bob found a particularly sour lemon to make lemonade--he was literally minutes away from completing his black belt exam when his knee decided to play a game of "Pop Goes The Weasel," tearing his ACL and delaying his black belt for over a year as a result. He is training hard for his test coming up this May, and I wish him the best of luck!
Friday, March 6, 2009
I've given up.
What??? Say it ain't so, Hack ol' buddy!
Big guy like you, strong like an ox, you say you've given up?
Yes, it's true. I'm done for a while, and giving up.
Giving up something for Lent, silly!
What, you read the title after hearing nothing from me for weeks and just assumed the worst? C'mon, gimme a bit of credit here!
As has often, but not always, been my practice in the past, I'm resisting nearly 7 weeks of temptation. This year I've given up alcohol (except Communion at church) and fried food--specifically hamburgers and anything deep-fried. Believe me, as casual as it sounds it truly is NOT an easy thing to do.
So why bother?
I don't consider myself a fundamentalist or terribly evangelical sort of person, but I do enjoy a good challenge. For those unfamiliar with the basic premise, before he faced his final series of challenges culminating in execution, Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert and facing temptation by Satan to give up his mission.
These 40 days are represented by the season of Lent, during which the Christian church asks its membership to sacrifice some practice from Ash Wednesday through Easter. Somehow giving up red meat and opting for Fillet-O-Fish for 6 or 7 Fridays in the Spring just doesn't resonate with me as true sacrifice.
Instead, I chose something I take for granted in my daily life, like the evening beer I drink while whipping up dinner, or the Wendy's I have after band practice on Wednesdays. Besides, I was putting on too much weight. Quoting Joni Mitchell, "You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone!"
Temptation? You bet. Worst temptation so far was Tuesday night. I cooked Beer Cheese Soup, where the recipe calls for one beer in the pot and one in the chef. Somehow it tasted different.
In conclusion of this topic I'd like to suggest to those of you who observe Lent to really think hard about what practice feels impossible to give up. Then DO IT. Believe me, after nearly 7 weeks, you will be a changed person.
This coming Monday the 9th marks my half-way point. 12 weeks since surgery, 12 more weeks until June 1st when (barring any complications) I will have no restrictions on activity.
I'm meeting with my Karate instructor Monday evening to review leg movements. I'm going to review the various stances and core movements with my PT next Friday.
I intend to return to Karate within a few weeks. There's no reason to do exercises in solitude at home when I can do them in the company of my peers! I'm running nearly 4 miles these days, and will add plyometric exercises shortly. Heck, some of those go beyond the boundaries of what we do at Karate!
My restrictions are fairly self-explanatory. Obviously I won't risk re-injury:
- No sparring (DUH!)
- No jumping kicks
- No turning kicks
- No snapping kicks (slow-count or slow-motion only)
But even with these restrictions, there's TONS that I can still accomplish.
I'm giving up on waiting.
Big guy like you, strong like an ox, you say you've given up?
Yes, it's true. I'm done for a while, and giving up.
Giving up something for Lent, silly!
What, you read the title after hearing nothing from me for weeks and just assumed the worst? C'mon, gimme a bit of credit here!
As has often, but not always, been my practice in the past, I'm resisting nearly 7 weeks of temptation. This year I've given up alcohol (except Communion at church) and fried food--specifically hamburgers and anything deep-fried. Believe me, as casual as it sounds it truly is NOT an easy thing to do.
So why bother?
I don't consider myself a fundamentalist or terribly evangelical sort of person, but I do enjoy a good challenge. For those unfamiliar with the basic premise, before he faced his final series of challenges culminating in execution, Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert and facing temptation by Satan to give up his mission.
These 40 days are represented by the season of Lent, during which the Christian church asks its membership to sacrifice some practice from Ash Wednesday through Easter. Somehow giving up red meat and opting for Fillet-O-Fish for 6 or 7 Fridays in the Spring just doesn't resonate with me as true sacrifice.
Instead, I chose something I take for granted in my daily life, like the evening beer I drink while whipping up dinner, or the Wendy's I have after band practice on Wednesdays. Besides, I was putting on too much weight. Quoting Joni Mitchell, "You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone!"
Temptation? You bet. Worst temptation so far was Tuesday night. I cooked Beer Cheese Soup, where the recipe calls for one beer in the pot and one in the chef. Somehow it tasted different.
In conclusion of this topic I'd like to suggest to those of you who observe Lent to really think hard about what practice feels impossible to give up. Then DO IT. Believe me, after nearly 7 weeks, you will be a changed person.
This coming Monday the 9th marks my half-way point. 12 weeks since surgery, 12 more weeks until June 1st when (barring any complications) I will have no restrictions on activity.
I'm meeting with my Karate instructor Monday evening to review leg movements. I'm going to review the various stances and core movements with my PT next Friday.
I intend to return to Karate within a few weeks. There's no reason to do exercises in solitude at home when I can do them in the company of my peers! I'm running nearly 4 miles these days, and will add plyometric exercises shortly. Heck, some of those go beyond the boundaries of what we do at Karate!
My restrictions are fairly self-explanatory. Obviously I won't risk re-injury:
- No sparring (DUH!)
- No jumping kicks
- No turning kicks
- No snapping kicks (slow-count or slow-motion only)
But even with these restrictions, there's TONS that I can still accomplish.
I'm giving up on waiting.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Equality.
This morning's PT report:
- Flexion at 138°, full extension.
- Approved for slow-count kicks with the operative leg only, supporting on the non-operative leg. Cool!
- Step-down exercises are assigned to work further on strength and smoothness of transition when walking down stairs.
My last measured flexion in the other knee was 138°, so they both seem to be about the same. Further flexion is limited simply by my physiology, at least until I can kneel and sit on my feet!
Using 2lb. ankle weights for straight leg exercises (raises, abduction, adduction, standing hamstring curls). I can do about 20 reps without a pause, working up to 30 solid reps before increasing weight. By the end of the program, the goal is 10 pounds, 30 reps.
My non-operative leg is no stronger than my operative one, so I'm making an effort during PT to emphasize both legs equally.
For those who don't know what they are, slow-count kicks are an excellent exercise for strengthening your hip flexors. Their purpose is to enable greater height and control of kicks.
You begin in a fighting stance, then kick in 4 steps.
This example is for round kicks:
1. Pick up your kicking leg in its chambered position.
2. Slowly extend it out.
3. Slowly swing it just across that centerline.
4. Slowly swing it back.
5. Repeat 3 and 4 until your leg drops like a lead weight.
6. Re-chamber the kicking leg.
7. Put your kicking leg down (if it hasn't dropped of its own accord!)
8. Switch your stance and repeat with the other leg.
They are murder to do at first, but I've grown to enjoy slow-count kicks. When you begin, start on a wall or with a barre to grab, gradually progress to doing them without holding anything for support. Your hip flexors will be crying for mercy, so watch those first steps when you're done! If you do them for a while and they start to feel too easy, try adding ankle weights. Even 1/2lb. at the end of your leg is a huge challenge.
Kicking high takes two things: flexibility and strength. Leaning the torso way back does very little for improving kick height if you don't have strength, and slow-count kicks are probably the best exercise I know of to develop that strength. Enjoy trying them out--I know I will!
- Flexion at 138°, full extension.
- Approved for slow-count kicks with the operative leg only, supporting on the non-operative leg. Cool!
- Step-down exercises are assigned to work further on strength and smoothness of transition when walking down stairs.
My last measured flexion in the other knee was 138°, so they both seem to be about the same. Further flexion is limited simply by my physiology, at least until I can kneel and sit on my feet!
Using 2lb. ankle weights for straight leg exercises (raises, abduction, adduction, standing hamstring curls). I can do about 20 reps without a pause, working up to 30 solid reps before increasing weight. By the end of the program, the goal is 10 pounds, 30 reps.
My non-operative leg is no stronger than my operative one, so I'm making an effort during PT to emphasize both legs equally.
For those who don't know what they are, slow-count kicks are an excellent exercise for strengthening your hip flexors. Their purpose is to enable greater height and control of kicks.
You begin in a fighting stance, then kick in 4 steps.
This example is for round kicks:
1. Pick up your kicking leg in its chambered position.
2. Slowly extend it out.
3. Slowly swing it just across that centerline.
4. Slowly swing it back.
5. Repeat 3 and 4 until your leg drops like a lead weight.
6. Re-chamber the kicking leg.
7. Put your kicking leg down (if it hasn't dropped of its own accord!)
8. Switch your stance and repeat with the other leg.
They are murder to do at first, but I've grown to enjoy slow-count kicks. When you begin, start on a wall or with a barre to grab, gradually progress to doing them without holding anything for support. Your hip flexors will be crying for mercy, so watch those first steps when you're done! If you do them for a while and they start to feel too easy, try adding ankle weights. Even 1/2lb. at the end of your leg is a huge challenge.
Kicking high takes two things: flexibility and strength. Leaning the torso way back does very little for improving kick height if you don't have strength, and slow-count kicks are probably the best exercise I know of to develop that strength. Enjoy trying them out--I know I will!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The 30's: Arriving and Leaving
Tomorrow I enter my 40's.
Today my PT confirmed that I've entered my 30's, so to speak...I have 133° of flexion in my knee!
That gives me a great feeling of accomplishment, especially in light of being just over 3 weeks out of surgery. By comparison, I was at 126° at this point with my right knee.
My final ROM in the right knee settled in at about 138° of flexion, -10° extension, so hearing my left knee is "in the hood" is quite exciting.
My extension still needs work, as I'm not quite into negative (hyper extension) numbers, but that mostly comes with time. I plan on prone leg extensions to push that issue. You lay on a bed face down, dangle the leg out with your knee at the edge of the bed and allow gravity to gently stretch things out into a slight hyper extension.
Taking stairs going up has become quite easy, but I'm still a bit unstable bending the operative knee going down. I'm fine until the last inch or two before my other foot lands, so I need some more strength work in that part of my range. I expect massive improvement when I begin squats in the next week or two.
I'm hoping my nighttime leg cramps go away soon. Other than ibuprofen--which is eventually gonna wear a hole in my stomach if I'm not careful--the practical solution has been a combination of a hot water bottle applied to the thigh and a large pillow between the knees.
The pillow keeps stress off of my sprained MCL, which I'm still nursing while in rehab for the ACL. Padding between the knees gives Mrs. Shaft a better night's sleep; I can sleep on my side comfortably and avoid waking her with snoring!
The weather around here is hovering near zero degrees, with forecasts into the negative double-digits next week. Boy I sure hope it warms up a bit before I start running!!! I'm looking forward to Robert Frost moments.
Happy Thursday, everyone!
Today my PT confirmed that I've entered my 30's, so to speak...I have 133° of flexion in my knee!
That gives me a great feeling of accomplishment, especially in light of being just over 3 weeks out of surgery. By comparison, I was at 126° at this point with my right knee.
My final ROM in the right knee settled in at about 138° of flexion, -10° extension, so hearing my left knee is "in the hood" is quite exciting.
My extension still needs work, as I'm not quite into negative (hyper extension) numbers, but that mostly comes with time. I plan on prone leg extensions to push that issue. You lay on a bed face down, dangle the leg out with your knee at the edge of the bed and allow gravity to gently stretch things out into a slight hyper extension.
Taking stairs going up has become quite easy, but I'm still a bit unstable bending the operative knee going down. I'm fine until the last inch or two before my other foot lands, so I need some more strength work in that part of my range. I expect massive improvement when I begin squats in the next week or two.
I'm hoping my nighttime leg cramps go away soon. Other than ibuprofen--which is eventually gonna wear a hole in my stomach if I'm not careful--the practical solution has been a combination of a hot water bottle applied to the thigh and a large pillow between the knees.
The pillow keeps stress off of my sprained MCL, which I'm still nursing while in rehab for the ACL. Padding between the knees gives Mrs. Shaft a better night's sleep; I can sleep on my side comfortably and avoid waking her with snoring!
The weather around here is hovering near zero degrees, with forecasts into the negative double-digits next week. Boy I sure hope it warms up a bit before I start running!!! I'm looking forward to Robert Frost moments.
Happy Thursday, everyone!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Love
My wife loves my knee.
She said as much this week.
Well, she loves the rest of me, too, but my operative knee in particular comes in handy for Christmas shopping since it nets me a handicapped parking pass.
Notable milestones:
- 110° of flexion, -3° extension, and straight leg lifts with no noticeable lag.
- Beyond weight-bearing and walking without a limp, I was actually able to balance on the operative leg on a mini trampoline at PT!
- Stitches are out.
- Immobilizer brace and cane are gone. Amen.
Only noticeable ongoing issues are my leg coloring up (normal, but rather gruesome looking) and mild cramping in my quads. I'm strictly on Ibuprofen, and should be weaning off that soon.
This year we added a Wii to the household. With the addition of the Wii Fit, I hope to work a lot on balance as I work on strength and flexibility throughout my rehab.
As I reflect on the events of my 39th year, I realize that I am approaching 40 with 3 people and 4 screws inside me.
My resolution this year is simple; Start daily push-ups and sit-ups January 1st, adding more each week. Starting at 10 of each daily, in addition to my PT regimen, and add 1 each day. By my anticipated return date in 20 weeks, I should be at around 150 daily. Wish me luck!
What's your fitness resolution this year?
She said as much this week.
Well, she loves the rest of me, too, but my operative knee in particular comes in handy for Christmas shopping since it nets me a handicapped parking pass.
Notable milestones:
- 110° of flexion, -3° extension, and straight leg lifts with no noticeable lag.
- Beyond weight-bearing and walking without a limp, I was actually able to balance on the operative leg on a mini trampoline at PT!
- Stitches are out.
- Immobilizer brace and cane are gone. Amen.
Only noticeable ongoing issues are my leg coloring up (normal, but rather gruesome looking) and mild cramping in my quads. I'm strictly on Ibuprofen, and should be weaning off that soon.
This year we added a Wii to the household. With the addition of the Wii Fit, I hope to work a lot on balance as I work on strength and flexibility throughout my rehab.
As I reflect on the events of my 39th year, I realize that I am approaching 40 with 3 people and 4 screws inside me.
My resolution this year is simple; Start daily push-ups and sit-ups January 1st, adding more each week. Starting at 10 of each daily, in addition to my PT regimen, and add 1 each day. By my anticipated return date in 20 weeks, I should be at around 150 daily. Wish me luck!
What's your fitness resolution this year?
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Hack Shaft II: The Clone (Pictures!)
Welcome to the sequel.
Unlike many movie series, my second ACL reconstruction experience so far has exceeded expectations. Here's a few comparisons:
- Initial injury. No swelling vs. puffing up like a balloon. My ACL had somehow managed to fold over itself immediately after rupture, effectively choking off any hemorrhagic blood flow and preventing swelling. What a miracle and a blessing, it saved me from Pre-Op PT to restore Range Of Motion.
- Locating the femoral nerve. Got it the right away vs. needing a few minutes (and hitting some raw nerves in the knee joint.)
- Lower sedation levels. The spinal block injection didn't bother me any more than the prick from insertion of the I.V. catheter; last time they knocked me out for about 15 minutes. Since I was far less sedated, I was able to experience the whole surgical procedure without memory holes. Yes, I'm one of those sadists who watched his own surgery...Again!
- No nausea from pain meds. Since Vicodin made me constantly nauseous, I raised the issue this time. We ended up with good ol' Tylenol 3 (Tylenol + Codeine) and it worked like a charm. Vicodin and its analogs are powerful Codeine synthetics, and my pain threshold just didn't justify the side effects. I remembered tolerating Tylenol 3 in the past, so we combined that product with 800 mg doses of Ibuprofen and I was much more satisfied with the results. As of this morning I'm strictly on Ibuprofen since I had no significant pain when I woke up.
Some things weren't as positive. The spinal block began wearing off as they were closing up; last time it didn't begin wearing off until I was in Stage II recovery hanging out with Mrs. Shaft.
It didn't cause problems with any surgery-related pain since the femoral block was still active, but my posture on the table made things uncomfortable at that point.
My operative leg was strapped to an immobilizer board, and the end of it was digging into my left butt cheek. My right leg was dangling unsupported over the edge of the table at perhaps mid-thigh position.
The resulting dead (rapidly becoming live) weight pulled my lower back into an increasingly uncomfortable arch and began tweaking my lower back something fierce! I tolerated it to a point, and when it seemed like closure was still gonna take a bit I brought it to the attention of my nurse anesthetist. Since lumbar support wasn't available, and raising my torso to a higher angle just exaggerated the discomfort, I ended up with a shot of some narcotic (under protest.)
I felt it was overkill, and when the first dose didn't settle my lower back I got another. That settled things down, but made me a bit more woozy in recovery than I cared for. Leave it to an anesthetist to conclude the solution to any pain is more drugs.
My advice for anyone reading this and preparing for surgery: If you're awake, get lumbar support in place if possible!! My conclusion is they probably couldn't place anything there since it was the injection site for my spinal block, and perhaps they needed to watch it or something.
Once closing up was done, my cryo-cuff was installed as well as the immobilizer brace I'd brought in for re-use. This time, however, they installed a compression wrap along the length of my leg, rather than just gauze to hold dressings in place. Unfortunately this resulted in a lot of insulation between cryo-cuff and my knee, so it was pretty much ineffective until dressings were changed the following day and a few layers removed.
This morning was the 48-hour mark and so I removed the dressings to shower up. Things look pretty much as expected, but my leg as a whole seemed much more swollen than last time. I assume removing the compression wrap probably induced that, as well as a lack of proper cooling for the knee the day before.
The only thing out of the ordinary was a nickel-sized blister at the end of some of the steri-strips on my shin. I contacted a nurse at the clinic, and the conclusion is it was most likely the result of unusual rubbing at that spot. I trimmed back the steri-strips to better expose the blister, then padded the site with some larger gauze to protect it until it either drains or the fluid is re-absorbed. Fluid in it was clear, so I'm not too concerned unless it bursts and creates an opening for infection. Just something to watch over the next few days.
As for getting around, I'm on a cane at home already and crutches in public (for speed), so am able to bear weight well. Couldn't do a straight leg raise at PT yesterday, so I'm working on quad sets and assisted raises using my non-operative leg along with passive extension while icing and such. My numbers are +10° extension (should ultimately be around -10°) to about +75° flexion.
I got a looong way to go, baby!
For the gruesome of yousome, here's before and after pics of the ACL:
Unlike many movie series, my second ACL reconstruction experience so far has exceeded expectations. Here's a few comparisons:
- Initial injury. No swelling vs. puffing up like a balloon. My ACL had somehow managed to fold over itself immediately after rupture, effectively choking off any hemorrhagic blood flow and preventing swelling. What a miracle and a blessing, it saved me from Pre-Op PT to restore Range Of Motion.
- Locating the femoral nerve. Got it the right away vs. needing a few minutes (and hitting some raw nerves in the knee joint.)
- Lower sedation levels. The spinal block injection didn't bother me any more than the prick from insertion of the I.V. catheter; last time they knocked me out for about 15 minutes. Since I was far less sedated, I was able to experience the whole surgical procedure without memory holes. Yes, I'm one of those sadists who watched his own surgery...Again!
- No nausea from pain meds. Since Vicodin made me constantly nauseous, I raised the issue this time. We ended up with good ol' Tylenol 3 (Tylenol + Codeine) and it worked like a charm. Vicodin and its analogs are powerful Codeine synthetics, and my pain threshold just didn't justify the side effects. I remembered tolerating Tylenol 3 in the past, so we combined that product with 800 mg doses of Ibuprofen and I was much more satisfied with the results. As of this morning I'm strictly on Ibuprofen since I had no significant pain when I woke up.
Some things weren't as positive. The spinal block began wearing off as they were closing up; last time it didn't begin wearing off until I was in Stage II recovery hanging out with Mrs. Shaft.
It didn't cause problems with any surgery-related pain since the femoral block was still active, but my posture on the table made things uncomfortable at that point.
My operative leg was strapped to an immobilizer board, and the end of it was digging into my left butt cheek. My right leg was dangling unsupported over the edge of the table at perhaps mid-thigh position.
The resulting dead (rapidly becoming live) weight pulled my lower back into an increasingly uncomfortable arch and began tweaking my lower back something fierce! I tolerated it to a point, and when it seemed like closure was still gonna take a bit I brought it to the attention of my nurse anesthetist. Since lumbar support wasn't available, and raising my torso to a higher angle just exaggerated the discomfort, I ended up with a shot of some narcotic (under protest.)
I felt it was overkill, and when the first dose didn't settle my lower back I got another. That settled things down, but made me a bit more woozy in recovery than I cared for. Leave it to an anesthetist to conclude the solution to any pain is more drugs.
My advice for anyone reading this and preparing for surgery: If you're awake, get lumbar support in place if possible!! My conclusion is they probably couldn't place anything there since it was the injection site for my spinal block, and perhaps they needed to watch it or something.
Once closing up was done, my cryo-cuff was installed as well as the immobilizer brace I'd brought in for re-use. This time, however, they installed a compression wrap along the length of my leg, rather than just gauze to hold dressings in place. Unfortunately this resulted in a lot of insulation between cryo-cuff and my knee, so it was pretty much ineffective until dressings were changed the following day and a few layers removed.
This morning was the 48-hour mark and so I removed the dressings to shower up. Things look pretty much as expected, but my leg as a whole seemed much more swollen than last time. I assume removing the compression wrap probably induced that, as well as a lack of proper cooling for the knee the day before.
The only thing out of the ordinary was a nickel-sized blister at the end of some of the steri-strips on my shin. I contacted a nurse at the clinic, and the conclusion is it was most likely the result of unusual rubbing at that spot. I trimmed back the steri-strips to better expose the blister, then padded the site with some larger gauze to protect it until it either drains or the fluid is re-absorbed. Fluid in it was clear, so I'm not too concerned unless it bursts and creates an opening for infection. Just something to watch over the next few days.
As for getting around, I'm on a cane at home already and crutches in public (for speed), so am able to bear weight well. Couldn't do a straight leg raise at PT yesterday, so I'm working on quad sets and assisted raises using my non-operative leg along with passive extension while icing and such. My numbers are +10° extension (should ultimately be around -10°) to about +75° flexion.
I got a looong way to go, baby!
For the gruesome of yousome, here's before and after pics of the ACL:
The tip of the probe is in front of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament, the ACL's partner. "Cruciate" refers to the crossing of the two ligaments working in concert to hold the shin in proper position relative to the thigh. The lower end of the ACL took some bone with it when it ruptured, and somehow folded over itself choking off blood flow that would have otherwise caused massive post-injury swelling.
Welcome the PCL (top-left to bottom-right) and it's new ACL partner (bottom-left to top-right.) May they perform their duet perfectly in concert until the day I die.
Welcome the PCL (top-left to bottom-right) and it's new ACL partner (bottom-left to top-right.) May they perform their duet perfectly in concert until the day I die.
In closing this post, I want to take a moment to thank two anonymous people for their decision to be organ donors. Since my replacement ACL's are both allografts, (harvested from cadavers) I give my most heartfelt thanks to them both for checking that box on their state ID or driver's license forms. I hope you both enjoy the ride as I cruise into my 40's next month and continue my journey to black belt and beyond.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Time, and time again.
The date and time are set, the countdown reset.
December 15th, 8:30 am.
Saw Dr. K on Friday, he confirmed it is a complete ACL tear, and is just as baffled as I am as to the lack of swelling. He mentioned that sometimes it's the result of chronic ACL wear, but he saw no indication of that. Guess I'll just count my blessings I didn't have to go through the whole swelling-reduction program prior to surgery!
No indication of Meniscus damage, and signs of an MCL sprain which will resolve itself without surgical intervention.
As I head for my repeat, it's a reminder of all the things I had to do last time. Pre-op physical. PT appointments. Follow-up appointments. Work scheduling. Short-term disability. Allograft decision.
On.
And On.
And yes, I will be watching surgery again. That was cool the first time, gotta catch the sequel!
I will pack and gift wrap my uniforms and equipment this weekend. It was a ritual I used before, and one worth repeating. It symbolizes the pain of putting away my Karate for a while, with the promise of rebirth, restoration, and renewal in 27 weeks.
Happy Thanksgiving, all!
December 15th, 8:30 am.
Saw Dr. K on Friday, he confirmed it is a complete ACL tear, and is just as baffled as I am as to the lack of swelling. He mentioned that sometimes it's the result of chronic ACL wear, but he saw no indication of that. Guess I'll just count my blessings I didn't have to go through the whole swelling-reduction program prior to surgery!
No indication of Meniscus damage, and signs of an MCL sprain which will resolve itself without surgical intervention.
As I head for my repeat, it's a reminder of all the things I had to do last time. Pre-op physical. PT appointments. Follow-up appointments. Work scheduling. Short-term disability. Allograft decision.
On.
And On.
And yes, I will be watching surgery again. That was cool the first time, gotta catch the sequel!
I will pack and gift wrap my uniforms and equipment this weekend. It was a ritual I used before, and one worth repeating. It symbolizes the pain of putting away my Karate for a while, with the promise of rebirth, restoration, and renewal in 27 weeks.
Happy Thanksgiving, all!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Really Weird.
I want to thank everyone who commented for your support. It may be a few words on a blog, but I'm glad to know I'm not taking the trip (again) alone!
Friday night's screening was really cool. I'm sure the 5 people from my school will fly on to the final exam with no problems! Lots of people were asking about me, whether what they'd heard was true.
I hadn't the assistant instructor from that night since the injury, and he took time to step off the mat and check in with me. Mr. Fab was, ironically, the only one present for both ACL ruptures.
Most impressive, however, was our 5th degree in charge of Black Belt screenings. Mr. War took a moment--right in the middle of screening--to give me his personal condolences. He himself has had both ACL's re-constructed, and stated "There is more after all this..."
So on to the "Really Weird" bit.
This time, my ACL tear emitted a 'pop' as one would expect. However, there was no swelling whatsoever! Now, I've no idea how that's even possible, unless some unusual situation--perhaps a bit of bone on the end--managed to immediately close off the blood vessels that typically run through the ACL. Normally these suckers swell like a balloon almost immediately from the hemmorhage, but not this time.
Weird, huh?
While Dr. W stated the MRI did confirm a torn ACL, I forgot to ask if it was partial or complete tear in his opinion. Hopefully Friday's visit with Dr. K will shed light on that particular mystery.
So tell me: Anyone reading this experience a partial tear only, or some level of injury where no swelling occured???
Friday night's screening was really cool. I'm sure the 5 people from my school will fly on to the final exam with no problems! Lots of people were asking about me, whether what they'd heard was true.
I hadn't the assistant instructor from that night since the injury, and he took time to step off the mat and check in with me. Mr. Fab was, ironically, the only one present for both ACL ruptures.
Most impressive, however, was our 5th degree in charge of Black Belt screenings. Mr. War took a moment--right in the middle of screening--to give me his personal condolences. He himself has had both ACL's re-constructed, and stated "There is more after all this..."
So on to the "Really Weird" bit.
This time, my ACL tear emitted a 'pop' as one would expect. However, there was no swelling whatsoever! Now, I've no idea how that's even possible, unless some unusual situation--perhaps a bit of bone on the end--managed to immediately close off the blood vessels that typically run through the ACL. Normally these suckers swell like a balloon almost immediately from the hemmorhage, but not this time.
Weird, huh?
While Dr. W stated the MRI did confirm a torn ACL, I forgot to ask if it was partial or complete tear in his opinion. Hopefully Friday's visit with Dr. K will shed light on that particular mystery.
So tell me: Anyone reading this experience a partial tear only, or some level of injury where no swelling occured???
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Two Words.
Tuesday night.
Tornado kick.
Planted foot.
Left Knee.
Lachmann test.
Suspected rupture.
(Not again?!?!?)
Hurts bad.
No swelling...
Noon MRI.
Results Saturday.
Feeling hopeful!
Positive thoughts...
Pretty please?
Tornado kick.
Planted foot.
Left Knee.
Lachmann test.
Suspected rupture.
(Not again?!?!?)
Hurts bad.
No swelling...
Noon MRI.
Results Saturday.
Feeling hopeful!
Positive thoughts...
Pretty please?
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Well healed
Today's core class was quite a bit of fun. We worked on slow kick drills for side kicks, worked with body shields on a variety of side kicks, and finally grabbed hand pads and tried out 360 round kicks.
One of the drills was on a step-through side kick. From a fighting stance, the rear leg is brought up and cocked with a 90-degree bend (hip rotation is a BIG part of this one) while the front leg rotates 180 degrees to support you, then the kick is delivered like a typical side kick. Besides hip rotation, that supporting leg and foot MUST get full rotation to be effective.
My instructor related that this particular kick tore the ACL of the school's owner long ago when he failed to rotate his supporting leg! As we worked on them, he declared that if I could deliver step-through side kicks, I must be well-healed.
Later we added a combo of step-through side kick with a turning back kick. The result is that you almost pivot the kicking leg as it strikes your opponent, turning and swapping legs to deliver the second kick. An interesting and very challenging combo, but not practical in sparring except as a final shot since it eats up a lot of energy.
For fun we turned to 360 round kicks. Take a typical tornado kick, tilt your axis of rotation back maybe 30 degrees from vertical and add more hip rotation--presto, a 360 round kick. Being somewhat adept at tornado kicks, this came to me quickly after just a few tries. Man, did those pads make some nice, thunderous pops, quite fun to do!
My sister came to town for a Triathlon this Saturday that the family team is participating in. I invited her to watch sparring class back on Monday, and unknown to me she was shooting short videos with her digital still camera. We had fun later that night analyzing the clashes frame-by-frame. I was really happy to see Danny Longlegs get into using his hands much more, and I managed to best him 1-2-3 in our last clash by sneaking quick jabbing side kicks under his guard.
Tonight made me feel quite well healed, though not necessarily fully recovered. I'd put myself at, oh, 90% since I'm still a bit stiff in the mornings!
Here's a question for ACL recoverees: How did or how will you gauge your recovery?
One of the drills was on a step-through side kick. From a fighting stance, the rear leg is brought up and cocked with a 90-degree bend (hip rotation is a BIG part of this one) while the front leg rotates 180 degrees to support you, then the kick is delivered like a typical side kick. Besides hip rotation, that supporting leg and foot MUST get full rotation to be effective.
My instructor related that this particular kick tore the ACL of the school's owner long ago when he failed to rotate his supporting leg! As we worked on them, he declared that if I could deliver step-through side kicks, I must be well-healed.
Later we added a combo of step-through side kick with a turning back kick. The result is that you almost pivot the kicking leg as it strikes your opponent, turning and swapping legs to deliver the second kick. An interesting and very challenging combo, but not practical in sparring except as a final shot since it eats up a lot of energy.
For fun we turned to 360 round kicks. Take a typical tornado kick, tilt your axis of rotation back maybe 30 degrees from vertical and add more hip rotation--presto, a 360 round kick. Being somewhat adept at tornado kicks, this came to me quickly after just a few tries. Man, did those pads make some nice, thunderous pops, quite fun to do!
My sister came to town for a Triathlon this Saturday that the family team is participating in. I invited her to watch sparring class back on Monday, and unknown to me she was shooting short videos with her digital still camera. We had fun later that night analyzing the clashes frame-by-frame. I was really happy to see Danny Longlegs get into using his hands much more, and I managed to best him 1-2-3 in our last clash by sneaking quick jabbing side kicks under his guard.
Tonight made me feel quite well healed, though not necessarily fully recovered. I'd put myself at, oh, 90% since I'm still a bit stiff in the mornings!
Here's a question for ACL recoverees: How did or how will you gauge your recovery?
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Sparring #2: Hey, watch it!!!
Monday night sparring was quite sweet. Only 6 of us in class, so we all had ample opportunity to go a few minutes with each other.
The new knee isn't quite up to full strength when it comes to sideways forces, such as quick take-offs or retreating from an opponent (never in a straight line, right?) As a result, I've found it more comfortable to spar southpaw, with my right (operative) leg and hand forward. After almost 7 months of consideration, I've also adopted a fresh attitude about sparring.
Don't jump out of the gate like some hyperactive young buck; study your opponent, figure out their 'style' of attacks, then anticipate the attacks and go for the targets they leave. Above all, SMILE--it really seems to put an opponent off balance, especially if you compliment them when scoring a hit!
It seems so simple, but I have found it amazingly effective to enter the class with the right attitude. I'm not gonna best the energetic 13-18 year old black belts, but I can at least cover my butt. Sometimes I actually sneak in a good, clean shot, and can stretch out a matchup rather than simply be a punching bag for a 30-second, 5-0 bout.
There were a few dicey moments, however.
Fireball G, a non-blackbelt 13-year old with a killer blitz punch combo, didn't anticipate that I'd follow up a side kick with a second one. He lept for a blitz attempt, and caught my right foot squarely in the ribs as though he'd just run into a fence. I felt horrible, but found out later I'd simply got him squarely in the spot tenderized earlier that evening from sparring with another 13-year old.
Danny Longlegs, a fellow ACL tear recoveree and second degree blackbelt in TKD and Hapkido working through the curriculum at my school, had a tendency to go for spinning kicks without any punches or other combos to follow up. Telegraphing the spins, I was often able to parry his effort by stepping in for a jam, or a side kick to the waist to unbalance him when he was halfway around.
It was using my operative leg as a shield that gave me pause to think.
Danny executed a turning side kick that went off early. Rather than striking my torso, the early side-kick nailed my knee while I had it up for shielding, jolting it uncomfortably sideways. It's fine, no damage done, but his kick did smack me right where the lower screw is installed in the shin. Ouch!
A good bit of icing and things are just fine as far as I can tell, and now I know what NOT to shield against with that leg.
The new knee isn't quite up to full strength when it comes to sideways forces, such as quick take-offs or retreating from an opponent (never in a straight line, right?) As a result, I've found it more comfortable to spar southpaw, with my right (operative) leg and hand forward. After almost 7 months of consideration, I've also adopted a fresh attitude about sparring.
Don't jump out of the gate like some hyperactive young buck; study your opponent, figure out their 'style' of attacks, then anticipate the attacks and go for the targets they leave. Above all, SMILE--it really seems to put an opponent off balance, especially if you compliment them when scoring a hit!
It seems so simple, but I have found it amazingly effective to enter the class with the right attitude. I'm not gonna best the energetic 13-18 year old black belts, but I can at least cover my butt. Sometimes I actually sneak in a good, clean shot, and can stretch out a matchup rather than simply be a punching bag for a 30-second, 5-0 bout.
There were a few dicey moments, however.
Fireball G, a non-blackbelt 13-year old with a killer blitz punch combo, didn't anticipate that I'd follow up a side kick with a second one. He lept for a blitz attempt, and caught my right foot squarely in the ribs as though he'd just run into a fence. I felt horrible, but found out later I'd simply got him squarely in the spot tenderized earlier that evening from sparring with another 13-year old.
Danny Longlegs, a fellow ACL tear recoveree and second degree blackbelt in TKD and Hapkido working through the curriculum at my school, had a tendency to go for spinning kicks without any punches or other combos to follow up. Telegraphing the spins, I was often able to parry his effort by stepping in for a jam, or a side kick to the waist to unbalance him when he was halfway around.
It was using my operative leg as a shield that gave me pause to think.
Danny executed a turning side kick that went off early. Rather than striking my torso, the early side-kick nailed my knee while I had it up for shielding, jolting it uncomfortably sideways. It's fine, no damage done, but his kick did smack me right where the lower screw is installed in the shin. Ouch!
A good bit of icing and things are just fine as far as I can tell, and now I know what NOT to shield against with that leg.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Surgeon's Report: 3 Lovely Words
I had my final visit with Dr. K this morning.
His exact words:
WELCOME TO GRADUATION!
No more restrictions--even if I played football, he'd have OK'ed me for full contact.
The sky doesn't get any bluer, nor the light any greener than that. AMEN.
His exact words:
WELCOME TO GRADUATION!
No more restrictions--even if I played football, he'd have OK'ed me for full contact.
The sky doesn't get any bluer, nor the light any greener than that. AMEN.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Everybody hurts sometimes
So. My first report since returning to karate.
I gotta say, things are going fantastic!
I am resigned to non-contact exercise until I speak with Dr. K Friday morning, but that doesn't mean I can't have fun!
My first class last Friday with new students and lower belts went well. We worked on punches and elbow strikes a ton, with no leg movement save for shifting weight and proper hip rotation to put force into any given strike.
Saturday morning was an all-belt class, and in deference to my non-contact status, we worked with X-Ray paper. It makes effective targets, is durable, and offers a great snapping sound when you smack it! That class incorporated not just round kicks and hook kicks, but combinations and spin kicks as well. I proceeded cautiously, and by the end of class my knee gave no signs of trouble whatsoever delivering moderate effort kicks. It handled being the support leg on spin kicks just fine.
Monday I opted again for a lower belt class in lieu of sparring, which occurs immediately after class. Black Belt Lindsay brought birthday treats of killer cake and homemade ice cream, and we worked our stances.
Tonight's class was form work, and we ironed the wrinkles out of the middle section of the form where there's some odd front-back-front stance moves that challenge your thinking a bit! Class finished with body pad kicks, and I took that time to do my favorite slow-count kick drills. I'm impressed that most of my flexibility remained after slacking off of stretches the past 6 months.
So there's the first report since returning, folks.
Everything is far better than expected, and I'm much more relaxed since getting back into the swing of things. As my PT pointed out, I have some good experiences to use as feedback Friday morning when I meet with Dr. K.
And the knee? Haven't given it a second thought except to remember the all-important post-workout ice down. Truth be told, my knee is the one part of my body that isn't sore, and that's a good thing.
To quote R.E.M., "Everybody hurts, sometimes..."
I gotta say, things are going fantastic!
I am resigned to non-contact exercise until I speak with Dr. K Friday morning, but that doesn't mean I can't have fun!
My first class last Friday with new students and lower belts went well. We worked on punches and elbow strikes a ton, with no leg movement save for shifting weight and proper hip rotation to put force into any given strike.
Saturday morning was an all-belt class, and in deference to my non-contact status, we worked with X-Ray paper. It makes effective targets, is durable, and offers a great snapping sound when you smack it! That class incorporated not just round kicks and hook kicks, but combinations and spin kicks as well. I proceeded cautiously, and by the end of class my knee gave no signs of trouble whatsoever delivering moderate effort kicks. It handled being the support leg on spin kicks just fine.
Monday I opted again for a lower belt class in lieu of sparring, which occurs immediately after class. Black Belt Lindsay brought birthday treats of killer cake and homemade ice cream, and we worked our stances.
Tonight's class was form work, and we ironed the wrinkles out of the middle section of the form where there's some odd front-back-front stance moves that challenge your thinking a bit! Class finished with body pad kicks, and I took that time to do my favorite slow-count kick drills. I'm impressed that most of my flexibility remained after slacking off of stretches the past 6 months.
So there's the first report since returning, folks.
Everything is far better than expected, and I'm much more relaxed since getting back into the swing of things. As my PT pointed out, I have some good experiences to use as feedback Friday morning when I meet with Dr. K.
And the knee? Haven't given it a second thought except to remember the all-important post-workout ice down. Truth be told, my knee is the one part of my body that isn't sore, and that's a good thing.
To quote R.E.M., "Everybody hurts, sometimes..."
Friday, May 30, 2008
To Be Continued...
Ever watch a great show, only to be smacked by a To Be Continued... credit at the end?
Well, here's another one.
I thought my appointment was at 9, turns out it was at 8:30! And of course, the surgeon was leaving early today, so no possibility to wait for an opening later on. Now I'm scheduled to see him next Friday at 10:30...
AAAUGH!
Well, here's my deal. I'm already OK to work on my own with moderate tempo Karate per my PT. I will return to the mat tonight, with a self-imposed limitation of moderate tempo, non-contact kicking until I see Dr. K next Friday.
At this point I've just got to be out there with my peers, and I find no risk in doing what I'm already approved to do.
I'll just be doing it in uniform.
***UPDATE***
I spoke with my PT this afternoon, and she agrees with my limitations until I see Dr. K. That is, moderate tempo, non-contact activity on the operative leg. It's the same training I've been doing, just in a different venue and with friends. Yay!!!
Well, here's another one.
I thought my appointment was at 9, turns out it was at 8:30! And of course, the surgeon was leaving early today, so no possibility to wait for an opening later on. Now I'm scheduled to see him next Friday at 10:30...
AAAUGH!
Well, here's my deal. I'm already OK to work on my own with moderate tempo Karate per my PT. I will return to the mat tonight, with a self-imposed limitation of moderate tempo, non-contact kicking until I see Dr. K next Friday.
At this point I've just got to be out there with my peers, and I find no risk in doing what I'm already approved to do.
I'll just be doing it in uniform.
***UPDATE***
I spoke with my PT this afternoon, and she agrees with my limitations until I see Dr. K. That is, moderate tempo, non-contact activity on the operative leg. It's the same training I've been doing, just in a different venue and with friends. Yay!!!
Friday, March 21, 2008
Oh the weather outside is frightful...
...But my morning run Tuesday was delightful!
I awoke to this sight:
32 degrees and heavy, sticky, new fallen Spring snow was on everything.
I really debated going for a run in that muck, but as it turned out the snow was only an inch deep. I geared up and headed out to my usual running path.
The path was perfectly undisturbed. Not even as much as a rabbit had left its mark, leaving me first to plod through the snow.
With trees arching overhead forming a sort of roof, it was a very Robert Frost moment.
Wednesday I had a brief visit with my PT to review exercises and status. You want numbers? My final ROM is 138 degrees flexion, probably -10 extension. This is identical to my good knee, and further flexion limited by the bulk of my thighs. All is well, except she wants me to concentrate more effort on hamstring development, which she states is quite important.
I see Molly again in 3 weeks when I pass into the final phase of rehab--weeks 13 through 26--and begin hopping, tons more balancing, figure-8, square hops, and finally running with cutting motions.
12 more days and I'm halfway home. New countdown clock to celebrate!
I awoke to this sight:
32 degrees and heavy, sticky, new fallen Spring snow was on everything.
I really debated going for a run in that muck, but as it turned out the snow was only an inch deep. I geared up and headed out to my usual running path.
The path was perfectly undisturbed. Not even as much as a rabbit had left its mark, leaving me first to plod through the snow.
With trees arching overhead forming a sort of roof, it was a very Robert Frost moment.
Wednesday I had a brief visit with my PT to review exercises and status. You want numbers? My final ROM is 138 degrees flexion, probably -10 extension. This is identical to my good knee, and further flexion limited by the bulk of my thighs. All is well, except she wants me to concentrate more effort on hamstring development, which she states is quite important.
I see Molly again in 3 weeks when I pass into the final phase of rehab--weeks 13 through 26--and begin hopping, tons more balancing, figure-8, square hops, and finally running with cutting motions.
12 more days and I'm halfway home. New countdown clock to celebrate!
Saturday, February 16, 2008
6 Weeks: What's going on???
To you reading this latest post, thanks SO much for waiting! It's just over 3 weeks since my last post, and I've been busy as hell. My usually relaxed afternoons and evenings have been just so jam packed I haven't taken time to keep you all updated.
So here's the poop: I am at full ROM. My visits to PT and Dr. K have shown my progress to be excellent; quoting Dr. K, I'm "Way ahead of the game!!!"
So what does that all add up to?
Here's what.
Well, off to watch another episode of Torchwood. Ice those knees, and good night!
So here's the poop: I am at full ROM. My visits to PT and Dr. K have shown my progress to be excellent; quoting Dr. K, I'm "Way ahead of the game!!!"
So what does that all add up to?
Here's what.
- Exercise bike - forward pedaling with resistance set as tolerated; right now it's the lowest, since I have to troubleshoot wiring of the brake motor!
- Range of motion - Molly wants me to do some extension work, but the difference between good knee and operative is negligible; We've stopped measuring. Just consider me back to full range.
- Stairs - I'm not even thinking when taking steps currently. I can lead equally well with my good leg or my operative leg going up or down, no handholds to balance or anything. Granted, my operative knee still likes to remind me that I have a remanfuactured body part, but I expect that'll last the rest of my life in some form or another!
- Running - With jam packed days full of work, bitter sub-zero temperatures, transporting G-shaft around, Videotape and DVD production, as well as recording with the band, I just haven't had time to start my speed walking program. The exception was today, when I took my parents dog for a walk. Good ol' Maggie was testing me!
- PT - I've been cleared to add ankle weights as tolerated on my straight leg lifts and hamstring curls. I've also been working both legs, since the strength is pretty much equal at the moment and I don't want the good one falling behind. Stair stepping, two leg mini-squats, and one leg mini-squats are the movements of the day. Add exercise ball work for stabilizing core muscles and interesting stuff like one-leg balancing on a mini trampoline, and I've got a big menu of stuff to choose from any given morning!
- Surgery - On my visit with Dr. K February 29th, I heard he'll be strapping me into a machine--I assume something like a KT1000 Arthrometer--to quantify just how good my operative knee is doing. Based on those results, I may be approved to start a favorite Karate exercise, the slow-count kick.
- Running - Yeah, right! Not quite yet, but hopefully this week's weather won't deter me from getting outside to do some power walking, working up to running within the next week or two.
Well, off to watch another episode of Torchwood. Ice those knees, and good night!
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