Originally Posted by
Sgt Mac
When I sustained my injuries I was in traction and had a halo screwed into my head, basically flat on my back for six months. My question is did you guys have to go on the table where they slowly raise your head until just before you pass out, & each day they raise you a little more until your almost in a standing position. I hated that almost as much as the surgeries, I never knew that your heart could atrophy so much in six months.
No, can't say I had it that bad, but it took about 2 weeks before I could stand up without passing out. I was able to push myself up on a walker, but as soon as I took a step, I would black out and the nurses had to catch me. They wouldn't let me leave the hospital until I could move under my own power. It was extremely frustrating. It can be very discouraging when in a few short weeks and months, you can lose years of hard work and fitness. I wouldn't have thought that I would be walking freely by now, but I can, with some effort.
I am constantly amazed by the human body's ability to heal.