first injections and progress

I got my first Sacroilliac joint injections today. It was not fun, but I am still all numbed up and nearly pain free from the anesthetic. Once the anesthetic wears off (boo) they said it will take 3-5 days for it to reach full effect. The doctor basically said he has his fingers crossed that this will allow me to make more progress in physical therapy and or just generally "calm down" the joint pain.

I've made some progress on other fronts though, mainly exercise. Before this back injury I was very active, cycling and running. I haven't been able to run without terrible pain, and cycling causes me some pain and the doctor advised me to do it "as tolerated" but not to push myself to the point it makes the pain worse. This is common sense, but also difficult for me as in the past I've always been a "no pain, no gain" kind of person. He suggested walking for exercise, which I find utterly boring.

I mentioned this to my friend yesterday and she said she'd walk with me one day a week, which is great! I'm going to try and walk at least two other days each week. The walking makes me feel better as long as I don't overdo it.

I also found out, after hearing someone on this board talk about them, that Icy Hot patches work pretty well. They help enough to take my mind off the pain so I can focus at work.

Anyway, feeling upbeat today and hoping I can keep a good attitude when I inevitably hurt again tomorrow.