Had the sports doctor appointment. It’s a real different experience than the physio appointments. My physio is so relaxed, easy going and friendly, we chat about our weekends and our jobs and have a pretty good rapport going on. The sports doctor was very clinical and very professional, not much small talk. I didn’t feel totally comfortable, but I did feel “safe” in his hand. He exudes confidence in his work, which gives me confidence.

There was a student doctor present, so I got a bit of a treat because the doctor would explain what he was doing and why to the student, which meant I got a bit of a lesson too.

What I learnt…

• When the patient is on her back, draw a line from the top of the iliac crest towards the spine and you have L4. The bumpy bit is the L4 spinous process.
• When the patient flexes the hip (with bent knees) towards the chest, then add some adduction, that’s testing for inflammation of the hip.
• I have more than average internal rotation of the hip… like way more than average (yes, I’m a freak).

I think there was more, but I can’t really remember. It’s hard to concentrate when you’re feeling lightheaded and dizzy.

I’m going to need more tests, to be specific, an x-ray of the back and left hip and an ultrasound of the left hip. The ultrasound is for looking at soft tissue, like tendons and ligaments. I guess the x-ray is looking for bone deformaties and damage. I’ve read the clinic referral sheet (yes, I can read doctor’s handwriting) and it looks like the doctor thinks it could be acetabular dysplasia or a labral tear. There’s also something about sciatica.

My reflex point on my left ankle is non-existent. The doctor says there may have been some disk damage, but he said it’s a little strange because I’ve had no prior back pain. I’ve been straining my brain and I can’t remember ever having back pain of any sort before.

So anyway, checked with the doctor to see if it’s better to practice or rest, he said there’s no problems continuing to practice as long as I’m not doing anything that hurts or is uncomfortable.

Also got a prescription for some anti inflammatories. Don’t know if I want to take them. The doctor said a five day course may be beneficial.

So, I’m off to practice now. Maybe it’ll take away my grumpiness at the world.