My hip has been getting progressively worse, where sometimes I can't sleep for hours because of the pain. So I finally took my doctor's referral and scheduled my appointment. I have to admit. I didn't know how effective I thought it would be... Not that I didn't think it would help, but I kinda thought it was hokie.
So I went last Thursday, and let me tell you... it was freaking painful. They had to check the different muscles in my hip to figure out which ones were causing problems, so they could figure out a treatment plan. Apparently, my gluteus medius and piriformis muscles have been way overworked, and my hip flexors are tighter than the therapist has seen in decades (that's bad).
So this is what I have to do when I go:
- I get this heater thing that goes over my butt to relax the muscles, and this is by far my favorite part. Actually, this is the only good part.
- I get a deep tissue muscle massage on the glutes, piriformis, and hip flexors. I wish I could say it is enjoyable... but it is by far the worst pain I have ever endured in my entire life. Who would have thought that massages could be such a bad thing? Each visit it goes deeper, and it is horrible. The therapist asks me the most random questions so I don't scream, such as: "What did you buy the last time you went grocery shopping?", "What is your favorite movie quote?", and "What would your dream shoes look like?" I have to be reminded to breathe and not break my thumbs from squeezing my hands so much.
- Then I do this horrible stretch for ten minutes, which I have to do when I'm at home too. Not too fun.
- I use this lifting machine that is actually not too bad. It strengthens my legs, hips, and butt. My roommates joke that I will probably get a super toned butt out of this if I make it out alive.
- This is the most strenuous part: lunges. Laps and laps of lunges that I have to do perfectly. I always hated lunges, but they are so much more painful when your therapist has just bruised all of the muscles involved with the exercise. I just have to remind myself that it will make my hips stronger. And that I will get great legs!
- Lastly, I get to ice my butt. I somewhat enjoy this, because there is no pain involved. Getting up afterward is hard though, because my left hip is frozen.
That's it. I had an appointment this morning, and I was so exhausted I came home and took a three hour nap... It was much deserved. Anyway, there is my life update, since nothing else in my life is exciting.
