Medical Update 6.15.09

Wow, what news today at my follow up visit with the Doctor. First things first I was herded off to x-ray for some new pictures and we added two with an arrow pointing to the spot where I still feel some sort of nerve related pains (see after 10 weeks I can play doctor). Once the leg goes into the relax mode this one spot sends a streak of pain across the thigh starting at my incision, sort of like peeling back a layer of skin. After looking at the x-ray it seems this 'hot spot' is located right at one of the wire braided ties holding the bone graft and femur together, we hope the muscle gets used to the braided tie location, they will be sharing space for the rest of my days.

Next up we headed back to the examination room and on the way the Doc said "loose the crutches", I stopped, looked at Mary and asked, what did he say. Doc once again said loose the crutches and let me see you walk full weight bearing, one step at a time and let me know what you're feeling. Ok, I admit I was immediately stuck in stupid but did follow his instructions and shed the sticks. I gave it a go and took maybe five steps and it felt pretty good with only some discomfort around my knee and the quad muscle straining a bit. I turned and walked back, still favoring the right leg, not quite ready to trust it completely.

I was given a script for four more weeks of physical therapy and we made an appointment to come back for new pictures in four weeks. Yep, four weeks! If I could have danced the jig I would have, but I was to afraid I might fall. I was also cleared to drive! Now the Doc did say don't throw the sticks away just yet. Going full weight bearing was not as easy as just walking about, he said it would really take a toll on me and when I felt that the leg was starting to feel weak I was to get back on the sticks ASAP.

My next visit is scheduled for Monday, July 13th. At that time I should, fingers crossed, be cleared to return to work and cleared to fly! Yeah, you read that correct, CLEARED TO FLY! My flight physical is due by the end of July so as things continue to move forward and I'm motoring about in good fashion I'll get the physical scheduled. Mary will be keeping a watchful eye on my quest to return to the cockpit, she's as eager as I am but, we both want to stay safe.

That's all for now.....I owe my wife a dance and I may take HER for ice cream tonight!