Shifting Mindset

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On May 29, 2023 and June 4, 2023 I did two posts regarding my injured left knee and how it was being treated by my orthopaedic surgeon here in Grecia -  Dr. Baltodano.

One of his recommendations was physical therapy which I still continue with to this day, only once a month now.

By March of this year I decided to see Dr. Baltodano again because the knee had improved to some degree but now I was experiencing pain in the right knee and right shoulder.

Physical exam followed, along with lab work, x-rays and ultrasounds. The results: “I just received your lab work results and effectively we are dealing with an important inflammatory response with a metabolic syndrome. It is imperative to consider the habit change recommendations since this condition is the cause of chronic medical conditions including arthritis”.

Dr. Baltodano spent an hour with me explaining how he arrived at his diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. This is the chart he drew for me as he was explaining:

Notice the sad face for triglycerides (bad fats) and the happy face for colesterol (good fats)! The habit change recommendations he mentioned were included in a five page document that he created. An anti-inflammatory diet: foods to avoid and foods to increase consumption of - low carb, no sugar. Very much like a Keto diet. Physical activity - weights/bicycle/swimming, etc. Avoid stressful situations. I also take various medications and supplements. Also regular IV infusions of vitamin C, xlipic (lipoid) acid and glutathione.

DO NOT change your diet or exercise program without approval from your health care provider. This is what is working for me and my cluster of medical conditions. It may not be right for you and in no way am I recommending any of this for anybody else. I’m writing this to give encouragement to people and let them know that they have the ability to make positive changes to their health.

My last blood work two weeks ago showed significant improvements. I am no longer pre-diabetic. Total colesterol is within normal limits, same with triglycerides. I’m hoping to put the rheumatoid arthritis into remission.

I have also joined a gym for strength training, which I really enjoy. It is close to our house, has modern equipment and trainers that know what they are doing.

I am more than impressed with the quality of health care in this country, both private and within the socialized medical system.

Dr. Baltodano sent me this WhatsApp message: “There’s still some things to improve. You’re on the right track. Sky is the limit. My total congratulations! And I applaud you. You are amazing. Step by step you’ve taken control of your health and you’ll keep on doing it. I exhort you to keep up the good work”.

And I will! With this kind of help and encouragement from my doctor and also from my husband, I can reach my health goals.

And so can you!