19/03/2018
Firstly, apologies for not keeping you updated lately. Managing a full time job, while also being self employed and having chronic pain is difficult (but not impossible).
Work has been hectic and I walk an average of 8500 steps a day. I lift heavy cameras and am constantly crouching down/reaching high. I think it’s actually helped strengthen my muscles a bit.
Baring in mind I had my RPAO in November, I’m amazed that I’m almost back to normal. Daily, I walk to the station and back, work a full time day and I survive. That said, I don’t go anywhere without Co-codamol, ibuprofen gel and my Paingone Plus pen. I don’t take many co-codamol though.
I have twinges of pain through my hip, but it already feels better than pre-op. My real pain however is in my operation side shin. I’m still waiting on my ‘emergency’ MRI scan results back, however my physio released a muscle that runs down my shin on Friday. It hurt like hell, but I’m thinking it’s shin splints as it hasn’t lessened in the slightest! (Its far worse than my hip).
Hydrotherapy was great, although I’m a little gutted that I only got 4 sessions on the NHS. They were really valuable and I think they’ve helped my range of movement by far. I’m planning on taking myself to the local pool once a week and doing the same exercises.
The recovery from a PAO is by far not the easiest. It tests your patience while making you question what you did to deserve so much pain. But soon, it will get better!