You might recall that regular guest poster Don Blount has been out of action for awhile, after a bad fall. Well, Don’s back. How he handled his recovery could be instructive if any of us find ourselves in a similar predicament.
It has been three weeks since I was cleared by my doctor to begin riding without restrictions.
It’s good to be back.
I was cleared for activity on July 22. On July 23 I was back on the bike. The first full week back I rode a total of 101 miles, the second week it was 103 miles. I expect to be back in that range again this week. I even started doing intervals and plan on heading up to the hills soon.
I think the reason I transitioned back to the outdoor bike world so well was because of what I did during my recovery.
In quick review: On May 15 I took a nasty tumble from my bike, fracturing my left wrist and breaking my left arm. About a week later I had surgery and then spent another nine weeks on restricted duty.
Restriction meant to not do anything that put any pressure on my arm. Of course riding my bike was out. I was allowed to ride a stationary bike but only provided that I didn’t violate that restriction.
I became good friends with a bike at my gym. I think I had about six hours on it during the first week.
Later, a member of my bike club loaned me his Cateye CS-1000 cycle simulator. This trainer had adjustable settings that allowed the resistance to be increased to get a harder bike workout.
I found this time incredibly boring, even if I was watching videos or the Tour de France or listening to music. Particularly when the weather is good, bike riding is most enjoyed when done outdoors. I gained additional appreciation for living in California where I can pretty much ride outdoors year round.
But the time on the trainer helped. I focused on making sure I got saddle time and trying to keep my cardio level up so I wouldn’t suffer from saddle soreness or too much fatigue when I returned to riding outdoors.
And it worked for the most part. My wrist was a little tender initially but the discomfort was tolerable. I have stretches and exercises to help strengthen my wrist and arm. More importantly I gained a greater appreciation for an act as simple as riding a bike and its value to my quality of life.
Welcome back Don!
Nice to see you back in the saddle Don.
Way to stay focused, Don. Injury rehab can be a very lonely process.
#3 son finally got his bike to Austin from Cape Cod. I gave him this blog and he may join your group for rides. Depends on work you understand.
I look forward to riding with him.