Ridecamp: [RC] OD100- Missed it

FROM   Roger Rittenhouse     roger@xxxxxxxxxxx
 Well I did not make the OD this year. This was the first time in
about 15 years I have not been there. Either riding or working.

It sure was a disappointment I was not there.

I started physical therapy last week. They 'really' thought a long
drive of 11 to 12 hrs would be more then I should undertake.
They are also not so sure I 'really' should be doing any riding just
yet.
Six months and still a major problem. I am getting treated about 3
times per week. Seems I waited a bit too long too get help. NOW they
have to undo all the improper healing and I have to endure more pain.
This has been a bad week.

But I think I can tell a difference. While the chiropractic work
helped some, nothing does the job as well as properly applied PT.

I want to thank those rides on RC for pushing me in to this program.
There was no way I was going to heal - in good order without this
therapy.

SO it does look like I will be out of riding in competition for most
of the year. Sure is real bummer. Not being able to ride as well as
the cost. I may be saving a bunch on entry fees and travel, but the
insurance shortfalls are going to really get rougher. This 'little'
ride/wreck has cost me a few K already.

I have also started taking about 500mg of Mag each day, was suggested
here AND the PTs said it may help.  It does. Great suggestion.

WHAT DOES NOT WORK.. Static magnets. The PT said they have NEVER read a
VALID report which proved static magnets do anything. IF it worked
they would prescribe them or use them in the therapy.
The electro-magnets DO work - and I am using mine more.

I get EMS low pulse therapy - up to 1/2hr  per session now. Not a lot
of contractions, only low 'TENS' type of pulse. To relax the muscles
- We also get a heat soak during the EMS session.
Then I go on a cervical (gosh I hope I spelled that correctly) stretch machine.
REALLY pulls apart those neck muscles . owie -- Then the PT does more
deep muscle massage and flexing.  The sessions are lasting longer each
day and he gets deeper into the damaged site.
I feel better after the session but later it really starts to ache.
Healing pain.
This has been no fun.

At least there are no rides in July/Aug. I may be able to get riding
then - hopefully do a few LDs this fall.

Anyway - thanks again for all the private emails with advice. We will
get there.

A plug for the Range Rider helmet - I had one of those on when I went
down. No I dont sell them -just ride with it..


Roger Rittenhouse



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