My monumentally talented physical therapist, Melissa Mercogliano at the Center for Orthopedic and Lymphatic Physical Therapy (COLPT), put her hands on my foot and manipulated the joint in ways I honestly did not know were possible. And gently, too. No tears. A little swearing. A bit of pain. I learned how to gently slide my joint back and forth and from side to side. I learned about those little sesamoid bones that cradle the first metatarsal bone, helping to absorb weight placed on the ball of the foot during all weight-bearing activities. Rehabilitating my foot will involve freeing up those little bones; they had seized up over time because of the bone spurs above that were restricting full extension of my big toe. It helps to have a good foot for comparative purposes. Fortunately, my left foot has excellent range of motion and perfect little sesamoid bones. Who knew? I can always count on physical therapy with Melissa to be educational! You'll find her office on the web at: colpt.com.
The rest of the day involved helping my parents sort and move. I was mostly useless, but I find I am able to stand and walk a bit longer each day before I'm driven to ice and elevate. A one point I may have been on my feet for 20 minutes before diving for a chair and an ice pack.
Can you explain how to do the sesamoid loosening exercises please!?
ReplyDeleteMy physical therapist manipulated my foot. I found it very difficult to do on my own. I hope your recovery progressed well.
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