Folies au medicin, VMO, and Goals.

My original plan for surgery on Tuesday was foiled by a total miscommunication on the part of the doctor to whom I had been referred by a partner in the same huge office who was unable to see me within two months.  I have put that fiasco behind me and made an appointment with another doctor in a much smaller office that has a reputation for great care instead of high volume.  I had my right knee surgery done by a surgeon there in 1988 that had been with me since I broke my neck in 1974 until he retired in 1989,  Lynn Thompson (no relation).  I am confident I will be treated much better than I was by the previous office. 
Meantime, I have a 45 minute workout that has become my daily routine before I allow myself to play bass.  It's a fair trade.  The workout is pretty intense using elastic bands, steps, and chairs, with focus on the muscles around the knee, particularly the ever important Vastus Medialis Obliquus, or VMO.

It's a big sucker.   This muscle, which runs the entire length of the thigh, is used to extend the leg at the knee and to stabilize the patella, which is kind of important.  The VMO is a common center of weakness because it will not become fully strengthened unless the leg is regularly extended fully.  I have not been too active lately, and a weak VMO is no surprise.  The pain I am experiencing may be a misaligned patella that is affecting the cartilage and perhaps allowing the cap to hit bone.  So, I work on the VMO.   I am also riding a bike again to be sure the leg muscles are extended regularly.  This is an excellent thing.  In addition to weight loss, I expect my sleep and my energy levels will both improve, as well as a lower BP and a healthier heart.

I am making bread to give away today.  I am not eating any, but making it is mental therapy.

Stats of the Week.
8/31/17
Weight:  282
Waist:  44
Mood:  Irritated

30 Day Goals (9/30/2017):
Weight: 275
Waist: 43
Mood:  Improving

Out to a ZZ Top concert this evening.  I am allowing myself two beers.

Later!