Matt's 1st Day

First off I wanted to correct my previous blog statement. It is not Project Walk, it is called First Steps Wellness Center. Also Matt, dad and Charity are staying at the Obasa Suites and it it quite nice. The only thing is there is only one bed and Matt gets it! Dad sleeps on the couch (likes it because it is leather) and Charity gets the mattress on the floor.
The first hour of rehab today they worked on Matt's legs and left arm, stretching and light exercises. The 2nd hour they transferred Matt onto what is called a total gym. It is set at a 45 degree angle so Matt's head is elevated. The therapist then asks Matt to do modified squats. So Matt bends his knees up and down. When Matt is fully extended his left knee locks in place (Matt is unable to move it) so the therapist needs to help him a bit.
The therapists then transfer Matt to the floor. There are no lifts in this place so the therapists need to do everything manually. Once Matt is on the floor, the therapist asked Matt to roll over onto his tummy. Matt hasn't done this for years so he had to figure out how to do it. He soon came up with the idea to swing his right leg over the left and the momentum of his hips will help him roll over and he did it!! We are so proud of you Matt!! Not bad for your first day.
The therapist then asked Matt to roll from tummy to back and Matt used his right arm to do this. It was much easier then back to tummy. I guess one must learn to roll before crawling, and then on to walking!!
With help, the therapist got Matt to kneel, placed a box in front of him and Matt's arms are placed on top. The therapist asked Matt to straighten his back to tuck in his gut. Matt was able to straighten up himself leaning on the box. The first few times were easy but it became harder after that. Just like any exercises, anytime we start a new one it is difficult!
So Matt's first day of rehab was quite exciting, and I think Matt surprised himself on what he could do. Matt was tired when he first finished, but feels good now. It feels so good to write about active therapy again, and hope everyone will keep tuned in!!