Mom is starting her third week of outpatient PT and I have to say that so far, so good! She’s back with her original therapist and mom really likes her. After some stretching and strength and balance exercises, the therapist got mom walking again in the hallway using the handrail while supporting her a little to make sure her foot placement was good. The bit that we’re looking forward to? Well, much to our surprise the therapist suggested that mom *might* be able to try using a cane soon! Now, soon is all relative. I’m definitely not thinking within the next couple of weeks. However, mom seems to be a pretty quick learner. She’s learning how to shift her weight better from side to side and to lengthen her stride while keeping her body straight when she walks. These are all important pieces to actual walking. Right now she’s still compensating for that weak left side. She’s been able to bear weight on it for quite awhile now. She needs to use that side as much as possible and try to keep those nerves, ligaments, muscles, and everything else on that side fired up. I think hearing that she has the potential of walking with a cane one day was what she needed to hear. When we got home, she actually did a bit more walking with her walker. Everything she does to keep moving helps!
Another bit of possible good news – I ran across an incredible opportunity today. We might be able to get an amazing piece of equipment that she can use at home. I’m not going to say anything more in case it doesn’t come through, but cross your fingers, say your prayers, and light a candle that this happens. It’ll be life-changing. More on that later. 🙂