Day 12: Rest, Recovery, Exercise

Straight chillin’, but not by choice of course. I saw a doctor and a physical therapist a couple days ago.  They were pretty encouraging about my outlook.  My PT got me on a strict exercise and stretching regimen that is helping keep my legs nimble, and strengthening my glutes/quads so that I don’t have any recurring injuries.  Im also rolling out my ITB 2-3 times a day. It hurts like hell but its a good pain.

yeah...rolling hurts. 

yeah...rolling hurts. 

In about a week Ill go back and see him to check on progress. I have already gotten back good mobility.  I feel like I’m walking back at about 85% strength now, which is a sharp improvement from a couple of days ago (I couldn’t bend my knee). When I do get back on the trail I’ll be limiting my distance to 10 miles or less each day for the first 5 or 6 days - just to be extra cautious. Until then, I want to slowly ease into some short day hikes with no weight. 

my thoughts exactly 

my thoughts exactly 

I’ve learned more about tendons, joints, and leg muscles in the past week than I every knew prior - which is kind of crazy! But now that I understand what the specific issue is, and what will resolve it I’m staying focused, low-key, positive, and using this opportunity to really get in tune with my body.  The constant stretching also just feels good once it’s over with (i hate stretching). 

There is a silver lining in being forced to rest and recover. I’m exercising several times throughout the day and running around with much more ease.  I haven’t drank alcohol since before I started the trail which is creating a regular sleep schedule and more clarity for me. 

Dad smoking weed 

Dad smoking weed 

My dad really needed an extra set of hands to finish up some projects at the house, and I provide excellent free labor so its a win-win. I get to see my dog more. And I got to see my little cousin’s new son (I thought I wouldn’t see the baby until October of this year).   Everything is in flux right now, but I think the time off has done me a lot of good.  I’ll take each day as it comes and hope that I am able to get back on the trial in the next couple of weeks.  The homies have been INCREDIBLE with support and encouragement, which makes getting back out there a little easier. 

sup planet

sup planet