The softballl season just started and I am on two teams. I love it. Fielding, batting, goofy around with my teammates . . . exercise, friends, gum, fun in the sun. . . what’s not to love?
But during a scrimmage on Memorial weekend I tore a hamstring muscle. Yeah, it was weird. It felt like a gunshot to my leg. Not only did I feel the pop while running to base, but I heard it. I didn’t know what had happened and wasn’t sure when that leg came down next if it would hold me up, but it did so I continued to run to the base.
In softball you go from a dead stop to a full blown sprint. I’m fit. I train for races, and when I’m not training, I still work out. Let’s just say that I felt totally prepared for softball season so was a little surprised to be sidelined like this.
I didn’t realize the severity of the injury at first even though people were telling me their experiences. But it’s been a few days now and I’ve seen my doctor. And now I’m walking slower, sitting more and finding other things to do that don’t require me to use my hamstring.
One thing about an injury, though, is that you don’t realize how often you use that body part till it lets you know every single time you do. Like with this hamstring tear. . . did you know you use your hamstrings while riding in a car, laughing, putting on socks, blow drying your hair, picking something up, not to mention just walking, sitting, standing, and bending your knees.
I got to see a hamstring specialist at physical therapy. He said I will make a full recovery due to my fitness level and determination. But, this hurts a lot. Everything I do hurts. My new mantra is “ice is my friend” but all I know at this point is ice is cold. Still working on the friendship part.
Yeah, I’m a happy camper and looking forward to whatever lesson this journey is going to teach me. Those lessons are always awesome, but so looking forward to a journey without pain.
