Finally got back on my bike today for the first time in 2021, after seven months recovering from spinal surgery. The shitty weather and blowing cold Ballarat wind couldn’t take away from my sheer joy in being back on the road, with the wind in my face, fighting back tears of relief.
rehabilitation
My first fishing outing for 2021
Today was a nice sunny day, only 14°C but it feels like 20-something. I could take it no longer: I had to get out. I haven’t fished since early December 2020 due to my back issues, so it was refreshing to get the spinning rod out and hit Lake Wendouree.
Back on the bike and about to wet a line again!
The past fortnight has been a big change from a recovery perspective, some things have regressed a little and other areas are rapidly improving.
The pain has regressed somewhat. It was to be expected as I lowered my narcotic levels that the underlying pain would surface, but it has been hard to go backwards in areas like sleep. On the other hand, my trip to the physiotherapist certainly paid dividends and I have been able to help out more around the house, which with a troublesome teenager reluctant to contribute, has been a good thing for our family dynamic.
Some good news, some disappointing news, and a general update on my progress
I had my first outpatient follow-up appointment with my neurosurgeon yesterday. Today marks five weeks since my surgery. I was hoping for a little more relaxing of restrictions than the surgeon ultimately allowed, but got more than I expected in other areas, so I’m altogether OK with that.