Thera-Band Magic

I do this exercise everyday at physical therapy where a Thera-Band (basically a big rubber band like tube) is attached to the wall and then around my left ankle. My right foot stays put on the ground and I have to do various exercises to help my balance. I face the wall and pull my left foot away from the wall; then with the wall to my left, I have to pull my left foot to the right; then I face away from the wall and finally with the wall to my right. I do two sets of ten repetitions in each direction, so that’s 80 reps total. When I first started doing these I had a heck of a time staying up without losing my balance with the green band, the third from the highest (next is blue and black is the toughest.) Anyway, we’ve been at this for about a month now and I moved up to the blue recently. Today was the first time I was able to do all 80 reps without having to touch the ground with my left foot or reach for the bar to stay upright. Yes, I lost my balance, but I was able to regain it and keep on going. This was a big improvement for me! It was so great to see some progress and to be able to know that I am still getting better! It is an awesome feeling, but I know that we’re going to move up to black soon, so new challenges await!

We’re still working on getting my right ankle to lift my foot to a higher angle. When I walk, it almost falls flat on the ground. I’m seeing a little bit of improvement there, and today walking seemed to be a little easier. Early in the day walking is easier than later in the day when I get tired. I think that I put too much thought and work into walking and that wears me out too. We’re still doing the electrical stimulation to try to get my foot to lift higher. Holly might go with me to PT on Monday; maybe we’ll take some video so that you can see what I’m talking about. My legs are getting stronger as is my arm. I am able to write clearer now and rounded letters don’t look jagged anymore. I also have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Milani at NRH. She was my doctor when I was an inpatient there. She’ll have some say regarding how much more PT I’ll need. Since we’re still seeing improvement and there are still things that can be better, I think I’ll be in PT through June. I’ll fill you in on that when I find out. The weekend is shaping up to be a wet one at times. We’re taking our good friend, Johnny, to lunch and shopping tomorrow as a housewarming gift. I have no idea what the evening holds in store. Have a great weekend!