The results are in!

The past week has felt like an eternity. For those of you reading this that aren't aware - I had an MRI last week on my knee to see what was going on. It has been exactly one week since my MRI and I got a phone call today. I almost didn't answer it. I honestly think I stared at my phone for the longest time - and answered on the last possible ring. My dr. apologized that it took so long for my results to come in. Apparently the hospital forgot to fax them over or something?? Anyways - you guys know me - I called my Dr every day for the past week and asked if my results were in. Yes...I'm one of "those" patients.

This is me!!

Just kidding but that is how I feel! Look at his sad face!!

The Diagnosis:

I will cut to the chase. I have Chondromalacia Patella. Do I know what that is? No idea. So I asked the dr about a million questions while I had her on the phone - and spent the next half hour googling it - searching for the answers that I wanted to see...(selfish). Here's what I do know: it was caused from overuse. The diagnosis and symptoms basically describe my life so it's a no wonder I got it. It is caused by putting your knee through more work than it can handle - OR - significantly changing your training regimen and adding intensity without easing into it. Hmmm....

Remember this summer when I thought I could be a "super" instructor and teach anywhere from 6-10 classes a week?? Terrible. Idea. Previously I think I was teaching 3 classes a week. 

Well friends - I outdid myself.

Here's what the Mayo Clinic website has to say about it:

"The cartilage under your kneecap is a natural shock absorber. Overuse, injury or other factors may lead to a condition known as chondromalacia patella (kon-droh-muh-LAY-shuh puh-TEL-uh) — a general term indicating damage to the cartilage under your kneecap. A more accurate term for chondromalacia patella is patellofemoral (puh-tel-o-FEM-uh-rul) pain syndrome.

The most common symptom is knee pain that increases when you walk up or down stairs. Simple treatments — such as rest and ice — often help, but sometimes physical therapy or even surgery is needed to ease patellofemoral pain."

Sounds like I don't need surgery - woo hoo!!! But I do need some rest (real rest), ice, knee strengthening exercises, and possibly physical therapy.

So what does this look like from here on out? I'm not exactly sure. My plan is to still continue teaching...ONE(ish) classes a week. Choosing one class would usually be a difficult decision for me, but thanks to some events that took place this week - it was a no brainer! Fridays at 8:45am will be my only class for a while - and I will be teaching R.I.P.P.E.D. :). For everyone in the 4:20 class that actually enjoyed my class - I am so sorry I won't be there to sweat and have fun with you and see your smiling faces!! 

As far as my Thursday BodyPump class goes - my plan is to team teach with Britney. I will not be doing ANY of the leg exercises - but everything else!! :) 

At first, when I got the news, I was super bummed about it. After all - they basically said that I can't do my job for the next few weeks until it gets better. But now? I am ok with it. Everything happens for a reason - and I know that right now, my body needs a break. It's been telling me for a while - but I haven't been listening.

 I am thankful that I don't need surgery.

I am thankful that it's (probably) only temporary.

And I am SO thankful for all of you that have come alongside me and encouraged me - telling me that it's going to be alright.  

Everyone that I have in my life is a blessing. You all bring so much joy and happiness into my life in one way or another. When I started really thinking about taking a break from teaching classes - I was more upset, frustrated, and sad that I wouldn't get to see all of you on a regular basis then I was about being injured and not being able to work out as much! 

Maybe you have pain in your life. Physical, mental, emotional. Maybe someone close to you does and it is affecting you. Remember to always focus on the positive. Focus on what you CAN do and not what you CAN'T do. Change is a GOOD thing - and rest is a GOOD thing. Maybe there are areas in your life right now that you need a break from. I encourage you to be brave, and find rest. Renew your soul. 

Psalm 62:1-2 “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”

1 Peter 5:7 “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

Psalm 62:5 “Yes, my soul, find rest in God: my hope comes from him.”