You just had ACL surgery, and now you're probably thinking, "How difficult is it to shower or use the bathroom?" Brace yourself because it's going to be quite a challenge. Hint: It's not as simple as you imagine.
The Bathroom Ballet
Starting with the bathroom, we typically don't pay much attention to using the toilet until faced with challenges like having a leg wrapped in a large bandage and using crutches that could fail at any moment. Imagine this scenario: You're entering the bathroom with a hobble, resembling a baby giraffe taking its first steps, attempting to keep your leg straight while needing to sit down.
The true challenge? Squatting. When you extend your leg as if you're in a yoga pose, you notice that your toilet is not at the right height (seriously, why are they so low?). You cautiously lower yourself, utilizing your crutches as improvised walking aids, and pray that you hit the mark. The large bandage doesn't make it any easier—it's akin to lugging around a small mattress attached to your leg. Elegant? Far from it. You managed to succeed, which I consider a victory.
Showering: The Wet and Wild Saga
Now, let's move on to the highlight of the day: taking a shower. Oh, the pure pleasure of feeling clean! However, following ACL surgery, it turns into a rather intricate military maneuver.
First step: Cover the leg. You will require a waterproof covering such as trash bags, cling wrap, and possibly duct tape (just for fun) - along with plenty of medical tape. The objective is to make your leg as resistant to water as a submarine. Hint: You will resemble a mummy. But not a very graceful, slightly perspiring mummy.
Second step: Enter the shower. Seems easy, doesn't it? INCORRECT. You have crutches, and the floor is slippery, a dangerous combination. If you succeed in entering without slipping, take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You're practically a ninja by now.
Step three: The shower ordeal. Balancing on one foot, you struggle to soap up with one hand while using the other to hold onto the wall for stability. Washing your hair becomes a secondary concern as your priority shifts to avoiding a fall. When it comes to rinsing, you have to trust that whatever was missed during soaping will somehow wash away on its own.
Final Thoughts
Following ACL surgery, basic activities can seem like monumental hurdles. However, successfully navigating the bathroom and shower without mishaps proves that you are capable of overcoming any obstacle. Additionally, you may even discover newfound extraordinary balance abilities during this journey.
Keep in mind that humor, patience, and ample waterproof gear are essential for overcoming challenges. Consider getting a shower chair as well, as it can make a significant difference. Explore my selection of rehabilitation aids in the "More" section.
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