Dianne's Posts

Post op checkup with my surgeon, Dr. Accola. Everything looks fine and I've been released to cardiology. Sternum precautions have been relaxed, meaning I don't have to keep my elbows glued to my torso, can reach over my head, and reach down. I can lift up to 10 lbs. All of this of course as it feels OK. I'm allowed to drive around the neighborhood when I feel like it, and can start driving week 5 - 6. I'm still woozy headed enough I don't want to drive, but knowing that I can in case of emergency, and knowing that I'm more able to fend for myself means my husband can go back to working in his office. And our puppy can come home! I'm finally starting to sleep a bit better at night, I can sleep for 3 to 4 hours before waking up. I can sleep on my side a bit if I prop on a pillow. I still need my afternoon nap. Most of my torso aches and pains are gone. Lingering is my right shoulder, radiating down my arm to a crazy shooting nerve pain on the anterior of my wrist. Still treating with muscle relaxers and heat, but now that I can reach, I can start some stretching exercises; otherwise I'll have to followup with my PCP. My sternum area is still tender, but it doesn't really hurt, hurt. I have home health care, PT and OT twice a week. I'm not sure how I got so lucky, but I'm really glad they come. They help push me to new goals, and PT has twice told me stop with the heroics and take the pain pill. Last week I reached a daily cumulative 1.5 miles walking. The goal for the end of this week is a daily cumulative 2.5 miles walking. Every little bit helps my endurance, so I tell myself as I head down the driveway to walk again. Oh, and not allowed to use my walking sticks until week 7. ~dianne