I thought I better pop in with a quick note to explain my absence and maybe to learn a few things from you lovely readers. As you may or may not know I struggle with a few chronic health conditions, fibromyalgia and undifferentiated connective tissue disorder being the main ones. Both cause inflammation in my muscles and ligaments etc, however the causes of the inflammation are often unknown and conflicting. For instance I need to exercise and stretch regularly to help stop the UCTD from flaring up but if I push it too much I trigger off a fibromyalgia attack and need to rest. It's uhm...fun being me! (Smiles sarcastically)
It's because of these issues I chose to ignore a new pain that developed last November, interrupting my limited sleep and gradually restricting my movements. You see the issue was (and still is) a strong ache and stiffness in my left shoulder. With me being a Leftie for the majority of activities, both craft and day to day, my ability to stay sane was gradually reduced. Each night I struggle to get comfortable, mostly because for as long as I can remember I have slept on my left side, but also because adding pressure to my shoulder by lying on it turned the ache into a knife stabbing pain. I finally gave in a month ago after crying in agony because I was stuck in my jumper (sweater to my American friends) and unable to extract myself or even get help as I was home alone. Simple tasks like dressing and washing my hair had become a huge mountain to climb and I decided I needed help.
I went to my GP who at first tried to say it was just one or both of the conditions flaring up but after an open and tmi filled discussion on my third visit, it was mentioned it may actually be a frozen shoulder developing. A condition common in middle aged diabetics (I'm 34 and type 1). The answer...physio but there is a 10 week waiting list!! In the meantime I have been advised to search online for physio exercises and rest from my usual sanity crafts....which means no crochet, knitting or sewing!!
It's been 2 weeks so far and most days the physio is helping, although unclipping my bra is still interesting. The lack of yarn and needles or hook in my hands has been incredibly hard, making me realise how much I relied on their meditative motions to help me block the day to day pain and stresses whilst also feeling productive. I have been flitting between books and watching podcasts or TV with the occasional walk thrown in. However I am finding I am, not bored persay, but the lack of 'productivity' is beginning to grate...causing me to consider giving in and picking up those wonderful implements.
Do you have any ideas on how to deal with this imposed crafting break? Any ideas on things I may be able to do to stay sane and feel productive, without using up limited energy sources? Has anyone been through this? Any tips?
Whilst I'm on crafting hiatus are there any posts or activities you would like me to explore?
On that note and before I begin to beg too much I'm off to do my stretches and movements.
Speak soon
M
X
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