Date: 2015-07-20
From: Lyme, NH

To: Lyme NH
Miles today: 0.0

7/20, 0, Lyme, NHWe planned a zero today and that is what we did, and it is a darn good thing we did. When I woke this morning the two slips on yesterdays slack hike reared their ugly results in the form of a low back muscular spasm so large I could barely walk. Since IB was headed for the VA to recheck his sore knee, my plan was to visit a chiropractor for a small adjustment. Turns out I woke up in need of a large adjustment. We woke to the smell of coffee and frying bacon with Dave cooking up a feast in the kitchen. We had blueberry pancakes and real Vermont maple syrup, of course, with coffee and juice. Dave just cooked until our eating slowed then joined us to finish. After breakfast the four of us loaded into the car Dave loaned us and headed for the VA. We dropped IB off there, and proceeded to the nearest chiropractor in my network 3 miles away. I stepped to the reception counter at the clinic and upon inquiry found there were no appointments available until tomorrow. I made an appointment but called the next chiropractor, based on distance, to try and get an appointment. Three calls later I was able to make an appointment for today, 11am, 17 miles away. Otter and JP decided to tag along with me so we headed to Sharon, Vermont to the Sports Medicine clinic there. After the necessary paperwork I paused for x-rays, and headed for the exam room. By this time all could tell I was having a difficult time even walking, so I was concerned about how many days this might take. The Dr. Was a vey nice guy and went over x rays and what needed to be done, then gave me a play by play as he went. It became clear that my muscles would not tolerate a traditional manipulation so he used an older message technique to start moving things back and the the applied kinesiology table to get me straight. He was very concerned about not increasing my discomfort which was a challenge but an approach I highly supported. After the adjustment he utilized electro stimulation and moist heat to relax the muscles again, along with several different message tools. When he finished he felt the spine was straight again but there was still some misalignment in my hips that would need addressed tomorrow after icing my back and relaxing the muscles overnight. I left the clinic satisfied that we had made all of the progress possible, but not sure how soon I would be ready to hike. The Dr. was encouraging though suggesting it was possible that if the irritation would abate I could be good to go after one more visit. I hoped that was the case since by this time we had learned that IB was done and cleared to hike tomorrow. Now the guys were going to be waiting on me which is very difficult for me to accept.Back at David and Lisa's I headed straight for the ice on ice off every twenty minutes routine while reclined on my back. I felt much better and was able to walk but still had some issues with minor spasms. I hope the therapy and rest will bring about the healing I need tonight, but to morrow will tell when I get up, and when the Dr. Examines me again at 10 am. Dinner tonight was chips and Guacamole with burritos set out by the entire family of David, Lisa, Camille and Lane. Our hosts have been most gracious and made it clear we can stay as long as we need and even suggest they enjoy our company. The trail once again has provided what we need, even as it challenges us every step of the way. For now it is reclined rest and an ice cold back...Silverback