Injuries SUCK. It's the brutal truth. So, why is it that instead of believing one's been injured, some choose to be arrogant?
As we walked up the hill towards the training room my captain asked how my wrist felt. I responded with "numb and stiff". Her face wrinkled up as she took my wrist into her hand and said "I really hope this doesn't turn into a big wrist issue, trust me those are annoying." She swung open the door and the head PT for softball welcomed me in. I began to introduce myself and explain my reasoning for coming to see him. After minimal inspection he says, "Well, it looks like you just sprained it. We can wrap it up for you, and give you ice, but you need to take one day off from lifting. Come see me tomorrow". Okay, just a sprain, whew thank god.
The next morning I woke up and felt my hand throbbing. Time to show the PT how much more swollen, discolored, and weaker my wrist had gotten. His response? Partial clearance and a brace. By the end of the day, my rest from practice was over and my morning routine would start again. The only thing I focused on what that I could return to working out with the team again. I was ecstatic... But it didn't last long.
Setting up for each of our workout stations is something that every person on the team must help with, no matter their position or class year. So, having a "minor" injury was not a reason to take it easy. As soon as I went to grab a kettlebell, plate, even a med ball, it was obvious, I was injured. My hand was struggling. Some teammates saw my struggle and voiced that I should take care of myself and go see the PT. So, I did. I made the walk up the hill once again, but this time by myself.
Unfortunately, I've had my fair share of injuries in the past, MCL (knee) issues, rotator cuff tendinitis, back tightness, etc... But little did I know that this gave me an advantage. I knew what a good PT should act like. Cautious when treating new injuries, crossing all the t's and dotting all the i's, but most importantly listening to the patient's symptoms.. cause after all YOU know YOUR body best.
It was apparent from the start that he was not one of the good ones.... no matter what I voiced concerns over I was wrong and he was right. He went on about how "I had nothing serious to worry about. It was just a minor sprain." I left his office with more questions and concerns than ever. Should I listen to him? Am I overreacting about this discomfort? Do I keep pushing through?
I had my answer the night of October 26, 2017, at 8 pm, when the aches became something that I now know all too well... unbearable stabbing pain.
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