Change of Plans

Well, I have decided to forgo the epidural blocks, and just do traction therapy (where they stretch the spine on a machine and hope that it opens up to let the disc go back in). I did that on Wednesday and it felt good. I will do that 2 to 3 times a week.

I thought more about the blocks and started to think about the future. I really wanted to get pregnant in the summer or fall (sort of put on hold now!). My thought process is this: If I get the epidural blocks and they work, I will be numb to any pain I have with this herniated disc for up to 6 months. Sounds good! Except, I would be too worried that I would think I'm doing great, get pregnant, and the disc won't have healed, and I'll be in the middle of the pregnancy when the medicine wears off.

So knowing that, I wouldn't want to get pregnant for like another 9 months if I do the blocks just to make sure I'm really OK... my pain has been pretty manageable this week. I am going to give myself a little more time to figure out if I really NEED to do the epidural blocks. I have rescheduled the appt. for Tuesday, in case I take a turn for the worst this weekend and decide that it's worth it. Who knows? Maybe I'll still be in pain in 6 to 9 months, but if I try a different route, at least I'll be able to feel the pain and know if I'm really healing.

I have really high hopes that I can heal in a few months on my own, which was unthinkable last week! I've been doing a lot of research online about chiropractic work with physical therapy so I'm starting to lean towards that method instead.

I still have people coming over to help with Brendan, but I'm not stuck in bed anymore! I just take a break each hour to go and ice it and just rest so I don't overexert myself. I'm also not carrying Brendan, putting him in highchair, crib, or car seat. I was able to change his diaper yesterday and get him dressed for the first time in what seems like an eternity! That was the big highlight of my day!! The things we take for granted!

I know people are praying for me and I can feel it! I want to especially thank my mom's cousin Kathy for her special prayers. I received a beautiful angel charm from her to add to my Chamilia charm bracelet. She has been lighting a prayer candle for me, and it must be working! My mom and I always say she has the most powerful prayers! Thank you, Kathy!

I will write a "normal" blog soon! No more of this aching back crap!!