The Absent Uncle: Going to get it done

Columns are so interesting to write. Your editor – my niece – really allows me to write about what I want. This one is pretty personal – and one that more than one of you is or have gone through.

I have been struggling with knee pain for the past couple of years. I was a walker. I walked 4 to 5 miles every morning and loved it. I scanned the neighborhood, listened to the sounds of nature, enjoyed the books I listened to, and really gained the benefits of my walking to my health, weight, and overall good feeling.

Then my knees. Specifically, the right one. I had dealt with some pain much earlier on the left one but when the right knee started to hurt it really caught my attention.

I saw my doctor, got a steroid shot that helped for a couple of weeks, did some physical therapy to try to strengthen the knee – but was told at the end that I should cut back on the walking. My steps were taking me closer to more pain. Find alternatives. 

I gave it a try. Bicycling. Bicycling did not hurt, but it did not fulfill the loss of the daily walk. I still bike, and also do Aqua Fit exercises four times a week. I enjoy the time and exercise – but so miss the walk. 

But pain has a way of getting your attention. 

So next week, on Monday (two days prior to publication), I get my first of three injections to replace the missing cartridge on my bone of bone knees. Will it work? Unknown. But it is the first step prior to knee replacement. Plenty of friends have had that procedure and feel good about it. But it is a bit different when it is “your” leg we are talking about.

I am so fortunate to have these options available to me. I am not complaining about the pain. I have dealt with it – but so thankful for the solutions available. I will keep you up to date on the outcome.