S-M-R-T

So an update on my knee.

I originally injured myself March 9.  Then re-hurt myself over spring break, on April 2.  So we are a couple days shy of 9 weeks.

There has definitely been progress with my healing.  I finally had my ultrasound on April 28.  It apparently showed a significant sprain along with plenty of fluid yet (ie. swelling).  The doctor seems happy with my progress.  If something goes sideways at all, we will follow up with an MRI.  But at this time, he doesn't feel that step is necessary.  I'm working with my chiropractor on rehab and exercises and feel confident in her hands.

Now, having said all that, I do see that it is still going to be some time before I am "back to normal".  I'm still on orders to avoid pivoting or twisting on that knee.  Which means it can't be trusted as my base leg when kicking with my left.  I've also experienced some "slipping" or "locking" (depending on how you want to describe it) when I attempt to kick with my injured leg.  So I'm being pretty careful (and hesitant) with that leg as well.  So really, all kicking is a no go at this time.

I have started doing some jumping exercises, with the guidance of my chiropractor.  Mostly double leg.  And those are feeling pretty good.  I've also started jumping from my right, to a 2 foot landing.  I haven't been able to bring myself to the next level....starting with a 2 foot jump and landing on my right.  I'm finding myself just too gun shy.

In preparation for the Tiger Challenge, I only just realized about 1 1/2 weeks ago that I won't be able to spar.  It never really dawned on me, but I need to avoid anything "reactive".  It's one thing to be on the bag, where I'm in control.  But if I have to react quickly to an opponent, that puts me at risk.  Do I love sparring?...no.  But I do like to push myself outside my comfort zone....and I don't like not having the option.

I also will have to avoid the board breaking.  Upper body is good, but again, risking re-injury with pivoting or kicking too soon isn't the smart decision.  It's also not the fun decision, but here we are.

So that's the update on all the technical info part of things.  On to how I'm actually feeling.

For the most part I'm good.  Walking, forms, etc. are good for the most part.  I do have pain when lifting for too long and my muscles are engaged (think crane).  It also hurts significantly when turned out (think stretching with one leg out and the other bent in...not sure what that ones called).  And pain again if I'm forcing a bend (like when bowing in/out).  I also definitely feel it when I've worked myself fairly hard.  So after doing several form reps and trying to deepen my stances....there is definitely pain and soreness.

I do realize that I have to pay close attention.  And I know this may be a slower recovery than I'd like, but I also want to keep moving forward.  I don't want to use injury as a reason to do nothing.  So I'm trying to find that balance of pushing...but being smart about it.