Author: gemini-clarinet
Date: 2013-11-11 02:25
Patty -- I don't mind answering your questions here.
1) My illness came from consuming contaminated food or water on the cruise ship I was working on at the time. I did not have to go through my own healthcare provider because I was sent directly to a hospital in Miami, Florida on the last day of my contract. While I was there, as far as I can remember, the specialists were an infectious disease doctor to diagnose the problem, a neurologist, neuropsychologist and neuroopthomologist. I had physical, occupational and one other type of therapy which I can't remember at the moment.
2) I did not concentrate on clarinet playing for a few years after the surgery. My biggest problem when I picked up the clarinet again was not being able to coordinate the fingering and the tonguing when I played - VERY frustrating!!!! Although I still get migraines a couple times a week - ALSO frustrating!!!!!- I don't recall any pain in my back or head from the pressure. I certainly can't give you any sound medical advice, but I will say try it when you think you are ready and if it causes you any discomfort, STOP! In my case, I have learned to recognize my physical limitations. If I overdo it, I still get into some trouble, so I try not to do that . At the first sign of any unusual feelings, I know to stop what I am doing and rest. It will take time and you may get discouraged. Just take things very slowly little by little. That is what I did.
When I wanted to play again, I began with a lot of sight reading. I had always been a HORRIBLE sight reader, but I am pretty good now. It took a lot of practice. I actually play a lot better now than I did before.
As far as headaches, I have also learned to take some medication AS SOON AS I FEEL ONE COMING ON!. This took a long time to learn. When I ignored it and just hoped it would pass, I would have it for a day and a half! The doctors prescribed all kinds of strong medications and antidepressants which did nothing for the pain, but made me feel horrible all the time. I use Migraine Strength Excedrine and that's the only thing I take now. I can't tolerate heavy medication. I don't know what will work for you, but that is what I use now. I always have some with me. I keep a bottle in the glove compartment of the car in case I get one when I am out so that I can get to it immediately when I need it.
I hope some of this information will help and if you have any other questions, you can post them here (I check the board regularly) or feel free to send me a private message.
Barry -- Tucson, AZ
|
|
The Clarinet BBoard
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
