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The Incident
One year ago today, someone rear ended me. I'd prefer to call him a boob but I also know that we all make mistakes. It was just unfortunate I suffered from one of his. I could see he was not paying attention, however, I was behind a stopped vehicle and was unable to move from the situation. Aside from what many think, I didn't tense up the neck. I hadn't been in a situation like this before and didn't realize how fast he was actually going or know the intensity of what was about to happen. I did brace my core with the confidence that I would use those muscles as my 'breaks' when the s$#!t hit the fan (aka contact). With my seatbelt on, the contact jerked my head back at first then flung it forward and hit the vehicle in front and jerked back for forward 2 more times until I could collect myself. I was shooken up but thankful that I could walk out of the car. The car was drivable just to get home and for the next 24 hours I just let my body absorb what had just happened. It was my husband's birthday so it put a little damper on any celebration.
The Experience
After 48 hours, the real pain kicked in. This is where the learning and experiencing took place. Prior to this, I rarely ever got a headache, let alone a migraine. And hadn't had any cervical spine issues before. I pride myself on taking good care of myself and feeling strong inside and out but this was an extremely challenging experience (especially as a Pilates instructor and personal trainer for a living!). The theme for the year (and will be in life moving forward) - gratitude!
I kept thinking I would be good to go in 4 weeks (little did I know!) The first few, I felt like a bobblehead. Over the next few months, taking a walk down the street was hit or miss because even lite jarring and pressure on the head from every step I took, would cause pain in the neck and head. My appetite was minimal, I believe for a few reasons. Misalignment and/or trama to the cervical spine (for example a migrane) may make you nauseous. My body was needing alot of rest to heal (physically and mentally) and food wasn't high on the priority list. The foods I did eat were soft foods. The less I chewed, the less pressure on my head. And as always, I use food as medicine. It took about 6-8 weeks before I could begin to strengthen my core because earlier then that, I would feel it in my cervical spine and it would create pain in the head and neck (definitely something that I would avoid at all costs). I developed deeper knowledge to special populations in these cases or similar issues. I taught my classes and clients verbally during that time too and very slowly began the strengthening process. First, my body had to begin the healing process before the strengthening. It took some time to understand how you can strain muscles in your head like spraining an ankle but instead its you head! And it takes ALOT longer!
Back to Some Business
I was thankful for business at that time, but also wasn't looking to add onto my clientele for the first 4 months. I gave myself those months to relax, meditate, get treatment (2-3 times a week) and knew I would kick it into a higher gear in February knowing I had alot going on in March. I was very mindful of my body, mind, spirit (and still am)!
Treatments
My 'primary' practitioner through this process has been Patrick Purdue, DOM. I got regular massages from Robin Bruce and on any given day, although it made me feel good, the massage may have been too stimulating on my head and would sometimes trigger a light headache for the rest of the day or following. I had no idea how sensitive that area can be! Occassionally, I would take Head and Neck Suppport from Planetary Herbals and liquid Traumeel drops in my water daily for joint and muscle pain. I received acupuncture from Linda Nash Stevenson of Lifeforce Acupuncture. My physical therapist, Joe Millen, of Impact Health and Performance is incredible and knows how I like to understand what's going on. Other (spiritual treatments) I received occasionally were from Lisa Seward, Body Talk, Cathleen Miller of Nature Spirit Holistics and, currently, Nicole Longwell of Longwell Massage for lymphatic drainage, cranial and any other massage techniques my body needs and wants. The first few months, the left side of my body suffered more of the trauma. Then, eventually the right side. (I am still working on it although much better).
Recovery
Over time, I started walking longer distances with ample rest time (a day or two) for my 'head' to recover (more muscular, still seems wierd to me!). I even realized, after my walks, using Dr. Bronner's Peppermint and Tea Tree Soap when showering was actually too stimulating for my head and caused more pain although other times it was healing. As I started to walk more brisk or add in a bike ride, I would ice my head and neck after exercise. Then, I began walking with a little pep in my step - I call it Dance Walking! I began light strength training and adding in light movement on a trampoline, beginning with 30 seconds on a light bounce. When it was time to try jogging, I would begin with 15-30 second, very light, jogging with a walk. I would do that one or two times and allow my body to recover the next day or two and do it again. After a week or so, I would do 3-4 intervals. Then, eventually the intervals were 30 secs, then 1 minute. A very slow process because I didn't want to feel a headache! As I increased my exercise and started introducing more movements (4 months later such as kicking the soccer ball around), I strained certain muscles that had never been an issue before. This, to me, was a weakness all around and a reminder how long it takes to heal. I have learned to be very smart about pushing my body just enough, then allowing it to rest in order to recover. Speaking of rest, it was challenging to rest on the part of my body that was in pain - my head! Not sure how people with regular headaches do it, but my whole head would hurt and lying down didn't necessarily feel better. At night, I had to sleep on my back with my head straight. I did invest in a Neck Roll Pillow - the best $10 I'd spent! After about 8 months, I was able to sleep in other positions (on my belly with neck/head turned to one side!) however that pillow still used either for neck support or underneath my knees for back support.
The end of the story is, there is no end. I continue to be aware of my posture and alignment or misalignment and try to get some type of treatment before it happens or just as it surfaces. Please be aware of YOUR posture. You don't need to be in an accident to be out of whack! It could be your patterns and you may be unaware of them. Please be mindful of your body and mind from the inside out and grateful for every day!
Body and Mind Enrichment. A unique way of exercising your body and mind!
Showing posts with label cervical spine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cervical spine. Show all posts
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Truckin' Along
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Progress Report
It's been 3 months since I was rear ended and over one month since my last update. I've had good days and not so comfortable days. It is to be expected. Thankfully, more recently, I have had more good days with less pain. I took a little time off from work around the holidays and it was the best medicine! The resting of the mind is invaluable. I continue to eat well including lots of greens, vegetables, fruits and truly believe these foods filled with vitamins and nutrients are supporting my body through the healing process.
Testing Waters
The first 6 weeks, I was too fragile even a walk may have been too intense depending on the day. I am trying a few more things over these weeks but also honoring my body and reminding myself I am still healing. I have been in the pool (heated!) on a noodle kicking my legs around for some exercise.
I got a little excitable after having a week of feeling well and picked up the intensity trying the elliptical and light weights. I did too much without proper rest in between introducing new activities so my neck let me know. The first time I tried the elliptical was for 5 minutes. A few days later, I went for 20 minutes- too much too soon. I also started using the mini trampoline for 2-4 minutes (super light movements barely jumps). I have taken short bike rides to the beach. My walks have increased in intensity and entertainment value for those driving, walking or cycling by! I skip, shuffle, and dance along with arm movements...... because it always looks like you're having more fun if you dance with your arms above your head! I am very diligent about icing my head and neck after exercising. This helps tremendously. Although the hot water feels good in the shower, if I keep my head under the hot water for too long it's too 'stimulating' on my head for a period of time and prefer not to feel it. I ice, then limit the heat on my head afterwards in the shower. Recently, I added a light jog for the first time. I actually shed a few tears of joy! I jogged very lightly for about 30 seconds - 45 seconds. I repeated it 3 more times and felt that was enough for the first time in 3 months. Of course, I iced afterwards. I didn't do any walking or upper body exercises for a few days to allow my body to recover. As a Pilates Instructor and Personal trainer, I pride myself in having body awareness and understanding when and how to take the next step. I use the pilates equipment and exercises to strengthen my core (the first 6 weeks, I had too much head and neck pain to 'exercise') and other tools and equipment to begin some light strength training once a week.
Gentle Reminders
Although there's been progress, I have 'reminders' about where my body is today. It is a fine line between pushing just enough to strengthen and test yourself but not too far and experience pain. If pain does occur, try to stay positive on how you know your body can and will be instead of a mental, emotional and physical downward spiral (easier said then done!). This past week, I felt some pressure in my head for almost 2 days. Was it something I did, change in the weather? Who knows but it was interesting that I could literally feel it was more joint pain than muscular sitting on the top of my head and also could sense where the whiplash was in the back of my head from ear to ear like drawing a line.
My Team
My physical therapist, Joe Millen from Impact Health and Performance and I are beginning to do more strengthening exercising for my head and neck, very little bit at a time and again ice afterwards to reduce any potential irritation. My massage therapist, Robin Bruce is doing a fantastic job and I know my body is responding to her work. I see my naturopathic doctor, Patrick Purdue at Purdue and Nielsen Wellness Center for extra fine tuning and acupuncture with Linda Nash Stevenson of Lifeforce Acupuncture.
Determined
Although I'm certainly no where near the activity level I was at prior to this event, I am, however, thankful that I see progress in my recovery. I plan to continue my treatment and add other modalities to compliment the healing now that I feel more stable and not as sensitive.
Body and Mind Enrichment. A unique way of exercising your body and mind!
Be Me Facebook Page
Be Me Blog
Be Me Herbal Products
Progress Report
It's been 3 months since I was rear ended and over one month since my last update. I've had good days and not so comfortable days. It is to be expected. Thankfully, more recently, I have had more good days with less pain. I took a little time off from work around the holidays and it was the best medicine! The resting of the mind is invaluable. I continue to eat well including lots of greens, vegetables, fruits and truly believe these foods filled with vitamins and nutrients are supporting my body through the healing process.
Testing Waters
The first 6 weeks, I was too fragile even a walk may have been too intense depending on the day. I am trying a few more things over these weeks but also honoring my body and reminding myself I am still healing. I have been in the pool (heated!) on a noodle kicking my legs around for some exercise.
I got a little excitable after having a week of feeling well and picked up the intensity trying the elliptical and light weights. I did too much without proper rest in between introducing new activities so my neck let me know. The first time I tried the elliptical was for 5 minutes. A few days later, I went for 20 minutes- too much too soon. I also started using the mini trampoline for 2-4 minutes (super light movements barely jumps). I have taken short bike rides to the beach. My walks have increased in intensity and entertainment value for those driving, walking or cycling by! I skip, shuffle, and dance along with arm movements...... because it always looks like you're having more fun if you dance with your arms above your head! I am very diligent about icing my head and neck after exercising. This helps tremendously. Although the hot water feels good in the shower, if I keep my head under the hot water for too long it's too 'stimulating' on my head for a period of time and prefer not to feel it. I ice, then limit the heat on my head afterwards in the shower. Recently, I added a light jog for the first time. I actually shed a few tears of joy! I jogged very lightly for about 30 seconds - 45 seconds. I repeated it 3 more times and felt that was enough for the first time in 3 months. Of course, I iced afterwards. I didn't do any walking or upper body exercises for a few days to allow my body to recover. As a Pilates Instructor and Personal trainer, I pride myself in having body awareness and understanding when and how to take the next step. I use the pilates equipment and exercises to strengthen my core (the first 6 weeks, I had too much head and neck pain to 'exercise') and other tools and equipment to begin some light strength training once a week.
Gentle Reminders
Although there's been progress, I have 'reminders' about where my body is today. It is a fine line between pushing just enough to strengthen and test yourself but not too far and experience pain. If pain does occur, try to stay positive on how you know your body can and will be instead of a mental, emotional and physical downward spiral (easier said then done!). This past week, I felt some pressure in my head for almost 2 days. Was it something I did, change in the weather? Who knows but it was interesting that I could literally feel it was more joint pain than muscular sitting on the top of my head and also could sense where the whiplash was in the back of my head from ear to ear like drawing a line.
My Team
My physical therapist, Joe Millen from Impact Health and Performance and I are beginning to do more strengthening exercising for my head and neck, very little bit at a time and again ice afterwards to reduce any potential irritation. My massage therapist, Robin Bruce is doing a fantastic job and I know my body is responding to her work. I see my naturopathic doctor, Patrick Purdue at Purdue and Nielsen Wellness Center for extra fine tuning and acupuncture with Linda Nash Stevenson of Lifeforce Acupuncture.
Determined
Although I'm certainly no where near the activity level I was at prior to this event, I am, however, thankful that I see progress in my recovery. I plan to continue my treatment and add other modalities to compliment the healing now that I feel more stable and not as sensitive.
Body and Mind Enrichment. A unique way of exercising your body and mind!
Monday, December 12, 2011
A Pain in the Neck is a Pain in the Ass
I have procrastinated this blog and realized, I better start now because this is just the beginning of a new road/journey. Actually, if it was a 'road' it would be more like a dirt road, bumpy with pro's and con's. Remember how we learned everything we know in kindergarten such as If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all. Well, I've been honoring that golden rule. It wasn't just that I didn't have anything nice to say, it was more like I didn't have as many happy things to say, like a typically do.
Holiday Cheer
This isn't your typical holiday update revamping this past year because honestly this has been one of the most challenging years of my life. But, I will share what you can expect from me this upcoming year and maybe you or someone you know can relate. On Oct. 18th, my husband's birthday, I was rear ended in the car.
Gettin' it in the Ass
It was a day that one decision led me to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I could see it coming. The man behind me was not paying attention and hit me as I was rolling to a stop and I hit the stopped car in front of me. I braced my core (not the neck and shoulders) and my head jerked forward and back 3 times. I had no idea this little incident would be so big. I was confident I was going to shake this off quickly.
First Few Weeks after Gettin' It
I didn't feel much discomfort until 2 days after being rear ended. I went to a chiropractor who took XRays and began treating me. Over the next week or two, more symptoms surfaced such as headaches and nausea. I went through alot of emotions mentally and, of course, physically. I have never experience whiplash before so it's a totally different concept of discomfort and pain. I have had my share of injuries such as hip, knee, ankle and sciatic. I have not had cervical spine issues. One reading of the MRI states I have multiple herniations in my cervical spine and a slap tear in my left shoulder. I am praying that a second opinion will read it different. As an athlete, Pilates instructor and Personal Trainer, you can imagine how impaired I feel.
The first few weeks, my head felt like a bobblehead. Literally, all the muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels were traumatized, stretched, and injured. At the end of the day my head would feel heavy from all these body parts working so hard to hold up the head. I would try to rest however.... you're lying ON the part of the body that needs rest. Now that sucks. If you've ever experinece an injury, you know typically it is uncomfortable to be in one position for an extended period of time. With whiplash, herniated discs and head pain, it was very difficult to get comfortable. I have since seen progress! The past two months, I've avoided putting my hair 'up' and now wear it down more or in a long braid and wear less earrings and necklaces, apparantly the less pulling on my ears and neck, the better. When I choose an accessory, I wear healing stones and minerals. I didn't talk or smile as much (now, that was hard!!). Think of all the head muscles we use in a smile. I can now smile for a longer period! Sleeping is an obstacle. I used to love sleeping without a pillow, on my belly with my head turned to either side. Clearly, that ain't happenin'.
Therapies
After the MRI, I continued getting adjustments at the chiropractor few for another week or two taking it day by day going through a roller-coaster of emotions and physical pain. I discontinued the chiropractic care (my gut tells me certain ways of his treatment was not appropriate for my body at that time.) I have been to Lifeforce Acupuncture, Massage Therapy and Reiki from http://www.robinshealingmassage.com/ and physical therapy with Impact Health and Performance. My Naturopathic Doctor, Patrick Purdue, has safe and effective ways to balance the body. I use my B Me Therapeutic Salve and lotion and apply daily behind my ears and around my scalp and have also been fortunate to have a husband who will gently massage too! I am scheduled at the Florida Spine Institute next week for a second opinion. I want to have another perspective on some of the pain and discomfort I've been experiencing. This is my way of building my 'team' as I continue to heal.
Knowing what To Do Next
I am smarter then the average bear when it comes to taking better care and listening to my body (sometimes it is screaming!). I am aware of my head position although not stretching or strengthening yet. I understand when taking a walk is exactly what my body needs. Not too far or intense but enough to get some fresh air, move the body energetically and get those endorphins going. However, at this point in the healing process, if I take a long walk one day, I need to rest the following day because even a simple walk may be constant pressure on the head. About 4-5 weeks after the incident, it was time to re-introduce new things back into my daily life such as carrying things like grocery bags. I could begin to strengthen my core and legs a little at a time such as adding in 10 walking lunges 2 times through my walk. I noticed my 'arm circle routine' created headaches. I will wait and try again in another few weeks and do only a few circles instead of ' multiple repetitions'. After a few successful weeks of massage and physical therapy, I will add additional treatments to compliment such as Cranial Sacral, sound and Acutonics or other modalities. Too many things at one time may cause you to be unable identify what is working or working best together. It is emotionally challenging to have time for all these appointments. I allow myself to get sad and frustrated just not daily or too regularly. The first month I was in a little shell not wanting to discuss it much. Prior to Oct. 18th, I would feel good everyday so it's unlike me to have more not so good days than good days.
Determination
I have accepted the fact that this will be a longer recovery than expected. I need to honor my body and recognize that the next few months are crucial in healing and recovery. I know we learn from our experiences in life. However, it doesn't mean I am happy experiencing it!! I am determined to feel better and get past this acute phase. Patience, rest, proper food and nutrition for the body and mind are key. Easier said then done! I will feel better and plan to do the all the activities I once did, it is just a bumpy road right now. Eventually, it'll be a smooth, picturesque ride with only an occasional bump. What doesn't knock you down will make you stronger, right?
Happy and Safe Holidays 2011. Cheers to ringing in a new year! Your life may change in a second. Live every day!
Be Me Website
Be Me Facebook Page
Be Me Blog
Be Me Herbal Products
Body and Mind Enrichment. A unique way of exercising your body and mind!
Holiday Cheer
This isn't your typical holiday update revamping this past year because honestly this has been one of the most challenging years of my life. But, I will share what you can expect from me this upcoming year and maybe you or someone you know can relate. On Oct. 18th, my husband's birthday, I was rear ended in the car.
Gettin' it in the Ass
It was a day that one decision led me to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I could see it coming. The man behind me was not paying attention and hit me as I was rolling to a stop and I hit the stopped car in front of me. I braced my core (not the neck and shoulders) and my head jerked forward and back 3 times. I had no idea this little incident would be so big. I was confident I was going to shake this off quickly.
First Few Weeks after Gettin' It
I didn't feel much discomfort until 2 days after being rear ended. I went to a chiropractor who took XRays and began treating me. Over the next week or two, more symptoms surfaced such as headaches and nausea. I went through alot of emotions mentally and, of course, physically. I have never experience whiplash before so it's a totally different concept of discomfort and pain. I have had my share of injuries such as hip, knee, ankle and sciatic. I have not had cervical spine issues. One reading of the MRI states I have multiple herniations in my cervical spine and a slap tear in my left shoulder. I am praying that a second opinion will read it different. As an athlete, Pilates instructor and Personal Trainer, you can imagine how impaired I feel.
The first few weeks, my head felt like a bobblehead. Literally, all the muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels were traumatized, stretched, and injured. At the end of the day my head would feel heavy from all these body parts working so hard to hold up the head. I would try to rest however.... you're lying ON the part of the body that needs rest. Now that sucks. If you've ever experinece an injury, you know typically it is uncomfortable to be in one position for an extended period of time. With whiplash, herniated discs and head pain, it was very difficult to get comfortable. I have since seen progress! The past two months, I've avoided putting my hair 'up' and now wear it down more or in a long braid and wear less earrings and necklaces, apparantly the less pulling on my ears and neck, the better. When I choose an accessory, I wear healing stones and minerals. I didn't talk or smile as much (now, that was hard!!). Think of all the head muscles we use in a smile. I can now smile for a longer period! Sleeping is an obstacle. I used to love sleeping without a pillow, on my belly with my head turned to either side. Clearly, that ain't happenin'.
Therapies
After the MRI, I continued getting adjustments at the chiropractor few for another week or two taking it day by day going through a roller-coaster of emotions and physical pain. I discontinued the chiropractic care (my gut tells me certain ways of his treatment was not appropriate for my body at that time.) I have been to Lifeforce Acupuncture, Massage Therapy and Reiki from http://www.robinshealingmassage.com/ and physical therapy with Impact Health and Performance. My Naturopathic Doctor, Patrick Purdue, has safe and effective ways to balance the body. I use my B Me Therapeutic Salve and lotion and apply daily behind my ears and around my scalp and have also been fortunate to have a husband who will gently massage too! I am scheduled at the Florida Spine Institute next week for a second opinion. I want to have another perspective on some of the pain and discomfort I've been experiencing. This is my way of building my 'team' as I continue to heal.
Herbs As Medicine
I am smarter than the average bear when it comes to healing knowing my body needs rest although sometimes I am rest-less. I am doing things in small doses and really giving my body time to de-stress in many ways. Our body responds when we go above and beyond for ourselves to heal. Here are a few of my remedies. * Herbal tea - a rosemary, chamomile, catnip and st. john's wort blend. I always make multiple cups and drink one or two that evening. I add kava to the additional tea in the teapot and let it sit for another hour or two before straining it for the following day.
* A delicious bath of dead sea salts, epsom salts, bath bag of eucalyptus, arnica, horsetail, rosemary. One time I even added dead sea mud. I add a squirt of B Me Body Oil with shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil and infused oil.
With any major change in your body or mind, one of the first things you should address is your food and drink consumption. * Eat as healthy as possible and hydrate well. Food can have a major impact on your mind which is your control switch throughout your entire body. Aside from my appetite changing, I also naturally ate soft foods such as smoothies with hemp, chia, greens etc. as my source of food and was satiated (less to chew, less on the cranium). *I also take Planetary Herbals and traumeel.com (homeopathic).
Mental Challenges
Most days I have a strong mind although it's experiences like this that challenge me especially when it's my job to motive people (at The Pilates Loft or other classes). Not only do I want to be able to do everything I did prior to Oct. 18th, it challenges me as an instructor to verbalize an exercise, explicitly, without physically performing it myself. I see people all around me running and playing like I yearn to do!
Knowing what To Do Next
I am smarter then the average bear when it comes to taking better care and listening to my body (sometimes it is screaming!). I am aware of my head position although not stretching or strengthening yet. I understand when taking a walk is exactly what my body needs. Not too far or intense but enough to get some fresh air, move the body energetically and get those endorphins going. However, at this point in the healing process, if I take a long walk one day, I need to rest the following day because even a simple walk may be constant pressure on the head. About 4-5 weeks after the incident, it was time to re-introduce new things back into my daily life such as carrying things like grocery bags. I could begin to strengthen my core and legs a little at a time such as adding in 10 walking lunges 2 times through my walk. I noticed my 'arm circle routine' created headaches. I will wait and try again in another few weeks and do only a few circles instead of ' multiple repetitions'. After a few successful weeks of massage and physical therapy, I will add additional treatments to compliment such as Cranial Sacral, sound and Acutonics or other modalities. Too many things at one time may cause you to be unable identify what is working or working best together. It is emotionally challenging to have time for all these appointments. I allow myself to get sad and frustrated just not daily or too regularly. The first month I was in a little shell not wanting to discuss it much. Prior to Oct. 18th, I would feel good everyday so it's unlike me to have more not so good days than good days.
Determination
I have accepted the fact that this will be a longer recovery than expected. I need to honor my body and recognize that the next few months are crucial in healing and recovery. I know we learn from our experiences in life. However, it doesn't mean I am happy experiencing it!! I am determined to feel better and get past this acute phase. Patience, rest, proper food and nutrition for the body and mind are key. Easier said then done! I will feel better and plan to do the all the activities I once did, it is just a bumpy road right now. Eventually, it'll be a smooth, picturesque ride with only an occasional bump. What doesn't knock you down will make you stronger, right?
Happy and Safe Holidays 2011. Cheers to ringing in a new year! Your life may change in a second. Live every day!
Be Me Website
Be Me Facebook Page
Be Me Blog
Be Me Herbal Products
Body and Mind Enrichment. A unique way of exercising your body and mind!
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