As a Pilates instructor, my world revolves around movement. My clients movement and my own. On December 21st I had just gotten done watering my plants and had a million things on my mind ( as we all do that time of the year) when I tripped over my own feet and tumbled down our back porch stairs.
Landing on my head and wrist. Let's just say a trip to the ER was needed and my holiday plans quickly evaporated.
Facing The Challenge: The Surgery
The news of wrist surgery was met with mixed emotions. I was anxious to finish it and knew the recovery time would not be quick. This major deal entailed PT twice a week and so much patience. The interesting thing is that your body learns quickly how to work around things. Ambidextrous I soon became! Even painting with my left hand.
The Road to Recovery: A New Chapter
The post-surgery period was not just about physical healing but a journey of my mental health. Rehabilitation exercises were my new workout routine, a contrast to my dynamic Pilates practice. Long walks and PT were my jam until we realized I was doing too much and causing more inflammation. SIGH, who overdoes PT? I do. Amazingly as soon as I did what I was supposed to my body started making that turn for the better.
Rediscovering Pilates: A Homecoming Journey
Once I hit the 3 month mark I was cleared to do much more. Slowly reintroducing myself to my Pilates practice. Working on getting my grip strength back along with those fine motor skills. There were many limitations when I first started back and I still have some over 6 months later. ( No high planks or push-ups yet!) My comeback routine was very basic to start with beginner reformer, Cadillac, and some mat work. Long walks and low-impact spinning for cardio. I was so happy to get some movement back to my daily routine!
Returning post-surgery wasn't about picking up from where I left off; it was about embracing the present moment. My body had lost so much strength in those 3 months. I learned to modify and listen to my body. My clients were so supportive during this time helping with the apparatus setup during sessions and working around my PT schedule. It certainly takes a village. My husband deserves a medal for sure. lol
7 months later I am doing so much better, things may not be 💯 but well are they ever?
Inspiring Others: Spreading Positivity and Resilience
My hope in sharing my experience is this, Pilates can meet you wherever you are physically. It does not need you to come completely fit, skinny, young, etc.
It has brought me back from several intense health issues and this one is no different.
Pilates was designed to help all humans become stronger and feel better in their bodies.
Coming back is hard, you want to be back to where you were pre-injury. It takes patience and kindness to yourself to come back slow and steady.
Trust me when I say you WILL come back maybe not the same but maybe better in some ways. Setbacks are opportunities for growth after all.
Back to that mind-body mindset!
My hope is my journey inspires you to embrace your challenges and find your strength.
Since my wrist break, I have had a few other joint issues and I am happy to say that Pilates is always the constant. Injuries are annoying, depressing all the bad feelings but luckily Pilates has taught me how to work around these things and make the best out of what I CAN do.
Don't let your limitations stop you from a Pilates practice. My journey is proof that there is always a way to work around these things and the reward is feeling so much better.
Movement is the very best medicine and such a gift.
Are you ready to rediscover yourself through the power of Pilates?
Contact us to start your transformative journey today! 🌟
Be Strong. Be Balanced. Be Pilates.
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