What's wrong with Janna now

Just as I was thinking about writing about how important it is for caregivers to take care of themselves I got a lesson firsthand. I injured my lateral collateral ligament ~ one of those things that sounds like it's soooo totally made up. Except, it's not. And it really hurts. Hurts like childbirth. Or breaking a bone. It's a Grade II injury which basically means it hurts. I may have mentioned that though. It also means that my knee feels like it's going to give out if I put any weight on it...so, obviously I don't. Well, didn't at first. We're working on that now as I'm healing.

The first night it felt a little off and like my knee wanted to give but it was late so I went to sleep. The next day no missing what was going on because I couldn't even stand on the sucker. And, ta-dah! An lcl injury is born. If you're the kind of person who strenuously objects to any doctor purposely causing you pain, then this injury isn't for you. You might think about choosing another type. Because to help diagnose an lcl tear, the doctor has to torture manipulate your leg to see if you have an injury and aren't just faking the screaming and inability to walk. You never saw a gorgeous example of humanity suffering through this injury in a Movie of the Week back in the 80's because this is not a pretty thing to observe.

Treatment for this level is relatively easy: bed rest, a supporting brace, painkillers, cute snuggle kitties and an amazing, wonderful, supportive family to help survive the pain. And trips to the bathroom. Believe me now: You do not want to use the bathroom with a knee injury. Especially if you are short. Probably if you're tall or medium-sized as well. Let's just make it simple and say, "stay away from knee injuries because they really suck in ways you never would have thought of". Yeah, that covers it.

I'm up on crutches now and doing pretty good, at least I can get around by myself. Sitting and standing aren't so hard. Physical therapy will start later next week as I continue to make the fabulous progress I'm making.

Here are a few sites if you want to know a little more about lcl injuries. I played a lot of volleyball and tennis in school and still never gave my ligaments the love they deserved, you don't have to make that same mistake. Love your ligaments and let them know you mean it!

Here's the basic version
A little more info here
They have a lot of information here

The moral to the story is: Caregivers take care of yourselves! Watch out for viruses and bacteria but be aware of other types of injuries as well and guard against them. Take care around the house, it's very easy to fall off a step-stool or ladder, even if you aren't that high up. Be careful of cuts and burns in the kitchen. The warnings and dangers are endless. It's so easy to become wrapped up in taking care of our loved ones that we seem to let ourselves take second place. It's not selfish to get enough sleep, eat and drink regularly, rest and watch your own health. The stronger you are, the more you have to give your loved one so please, take care of yourself too!

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