"But You Don't Look Like You're In Pain!"

Dear Readers,
Lots of well-meaning people in my life have asked me perfectly innocuous questions like "How did you break your back?" "Isn't Zumba super-low-impact?" "You look just fine!  Did they give you any limitations?"

Yes, yes, my doctors have given me a ton of limitations.  Yes, you can hurt yourself doing Zumba Fitness (or anything else, if you have my particular back issues and if you overdo it).  The general rule of thumb with back limitations is to "Let discomfort be your guide." However, my limitations have become markedly more concrete, at least in the short term.

1. I can walk...but apparently not "for miles."

This one hurts.  I'm not going to lie about it.   I was scolded by my physical therapist yesterday for participating in Relay for Life.  I thought it was okay because I was previously told that I could walk around.  She clarified..."Walking is great, as long as you're not walking miles!"  (**Expletive deleted!!**)

2. I can't dance.  (*Cry*)

3. I can't run, jump, or otherwise jar the area (for at least a month, probably longer).

4. I can swim...sort of.  (Limited/no arm movements or anything that would provide torque for the area that needs to heal.)

5. I can lift heavy objects, within reason.  (No hyper-extension of the area.  Nothing heavier than a full basket of laundry.  Nothing above my head.)

And no, I don't look like I'm in pain.  But even with the fantastic topical pain-cream they gave me, I'm in constant pain.  Isn't it fabulous that I can look this good while feeling this horrible?  Go me!

Yours in sarcasm and "dealing with the ups and downs of an interesting life,"
-The Sociable Introvert