As a result of wearing a cast for 6 weeks, I had reduced mobility in my hand and wrist. Occupational Therapy assisted this phase to regain function.
Test: None
Requirement: 1 hour every week with an Occupational Therapist. They performed manual exercises that pushed, pulled, and bent my hand, fingers, and wrist. I had to spend a few hours a day doing these on my own. I also had to practice functional activities (turning a door knob, holding a utensil, wiping my booty, lifting a coffee cup)
What happened: I cried a lot at home and during therapy. Being consistent with my exercises was necessary and painful. I stopped using the narcotic after two weeks because I started to have dependency on it for sleep. Once I stopped the pain medication, I was able to take my sweaty oral medication. Unfortunately, it didn't always help reduce my sweat when I wanted it to (during occupational therapy)
Fixer: I reminded myself this was temporary. Finding additional outlets like painting was helpful to focus my energy in a positive way. I disclosed my sweaty situation to my Occupational Therapists because my sweat would not allow for the grip/resistance they needed for an exercise. From that point forward many TOWELS were used to assist!
Lifestyle change: It was difficult for me to understand that it would take time for my body to regain muscle and strength to lift myself off of the floor. It opened my eyes to the various avenues of stress relief (before I depended on physical workouts but now I was unable to do that).
Most importantly, I learned how to ask for help and how to be honest about what I need. Towels made such a huge impact on my ability to feel comfortable and perform as needed. It is also imperative to surround yourself with people who are willing to listen and be supportive.
To regain function on my hand, I had to expose my sweat to so many people. It made me feel extremely vulnerable and weak but ultimately gave me the opportunity to embrace a part of me I always hid.
