And Here is DAVE!

David Newman is our "official" physical therapist. We see him for evaluation on progress and modifications to the physical therapy exercises I do at Tripler Army Medical Center three times a week. Dave takes periodic measurements of the degree of bend that the leg with the new knee can do. (I am proud to say the angle of bend today measured at 138 degrees) He also sets goals for strengthening specific muscle groups and weight bearing. We have now added exercises to prepare for a total hip replacement - the right hip. Dave works with a group of dedicated and knowledgeable physical therapy technicians. I am never alone when working on exercises toward a full recovery. Each visit has you assigned to someone who is with you to assist, answer questions and encourage.



Here Dave is working with a patient who received a total knee replacement very recently. See that smile? He smiles just about all of the time he is working with you and encouraging you. Can't really ask for more than that. The people in PT have begun to be a bright spot in our week.

You can't see it in this photo but the right leg on this patient is the one with the new knee and the staples are still in. You can tell the knee is new because the bruising has yet to develop. A couple of photos below show my leg after the bruises began to bloom.



Pretty, huh? Interesting colors.