I’m celebrating that I’ve finally learned an effective stretch for my hamstrings. Thigh and calf Charley horses and foot cramps have disrupted my days. My low back’s been hurting for several months caused by this tightening and cramping of my quads, hamstrings, calves, and feet. It’s become hard to sit for more than 15 minutes. I bought a standing desk, next to my sitting desk. I’m paying attention to ergonomics, learning to type (I’ve always been a hunt and peck kind of guy). My chiropractor and massage therapist attribute these muscle cramps to changes in my walking caused by the MS and wearing an ankle/foot orthotic. The Charley horses are the worst. I’m learning that there’s nothing straightforward about stretching. I’ve been stretching for months with very short-term relief. All of a sudden on a road trip this week, stopping at every rest stop to stretch, it kicked in! It’s not about stretching, it’s about relaxing. Standing tall, pelvic tilt, bending at the waist, relaxing. A meditation. I can feel the hamstrings and calves responding. Exciting!
My personal health goal: progress as slowly as possible and operate at my peak capacity. My personal care plan included chiropractic, massage, walk 3,500 steps a day, stretch. The sore back definitely sets me back (puts a cramp in my plans). My care plan wasn’t working to give me the outcome (goal) I sought. I’ve added hydration, ergonomics, learning to type, and real stretching. I love that I can still learn. Let’s see how it works.
Listen to my Setting Personal Goals videocast on YouTube.
