Yoga off the Mat: pushing through pain

Every single time I go to physical therapy for my recent right knee replacement surgery, I get a little “yoga wisdom”, and I promise you-- it is never intentional. Only one of the therapists I work with practices yoga, and even then, it is a “spotty” practice (her words, not mine). It just amazes me how much my practice follows me and comes in handy at PT. 

Last week, I got a real lesson on balance. I’m not talking about physical balance, although I am learning to get over my fears of falling as I keep myself steady for a few steps without my walker. My main PT was out, and I had been paired with a woman who I soon started to call (in my mind) The General. She was nice-- but extremely firm. She let me know right away that I wasn’t going to like her or be happy with her because she was going to have to make me work through a lot of pain that session. As she worked with me, my surgeon was passing through “the gym” and stopped to watch us work. He briefly talked with both of us, basically talking about how having “extra soft tissue” (a kind way for saying “fat”) that was also swollen at this time would hinder my bend-flex ability. He further went on to say that he would consider it a win if I was able to get to my previous capability with no pain. He doesn’t feel I will get past a 100 degree bend. (Max capability is 135 degrees. To function “normally” requires at least a 95 degree capability). My left knee, which had a previous surgery when I was a child and may have to have a replacement done next, is currently at a 100 degree capability. 

I was encouraged (although a bit disappointed) by his words. The second he walked away, The General looked at me and said, “I don’t care WHAT the doctor just said. Let’s get back to work. In order to heal properly, you are going to have to push through some pain. I’m pushing you. You can do this.”

 Truthfully-- I was mad at her at the time. Didn’t the doctor just say I was progressing well? Didn’t he just tell her that my swelling and soft tissue was the problem why I couldn’t do this bend she wanted? But as the session continued, I noticed the bend she was pushing me into was getting deeper. Her words stayed with me all weekend as I worked on my own. I kept hearing her voice in my head to push, and that I could do it. At the same time, I heard the doctor’s voice saying he was pleased with my progress. I used both voices to cheer myself on. 

This past week, I ended up getting The General again. The first thing she asked me was-- “Did you hear my voice in your head all week?” “YES!” I responded. 

“Are you ready to not like me again today?” 

“YUP!” 

We laughed. It was the BEST session. At the end she said, “I’m SO proud of you. Keep it up.” 

I encourage you to take the time to see the good and benefit in BOTH sides of a challenge. Sometimes that person with the personality you have a problem with is really working to your benefit. Find the balance!

~Ysraelia Garbutt-Sullivan