Why Do Our Worst Experiences Turn Out To Be Our Best Teachers?

As soon my shoulder made an impact with the ground I knew something was seriously wrong. This wasn’t the run-of-the-mill OTH (over the handlebars) wipe out. No, this was much worse!

Every day is “shoulder day” when you’re rehabbing a grade three AC separation shoulder injury. I’m six weeks in and my last PT session is next Monday before returning to the Orthopedic Surgeon the following Wednesday.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s definitely physical. My AC joint is separated. My shoulder is no longer connected via tendons and ligaments to my collarbone. My collarbone now protrudes out the top of my shoulder and the area surrounding it is extremely painful. But it’s much worse than that!

On some days, I feel impotent like my shoulder will never be able to hold up to downhill mountain biking ever again. I feel powerless. And there’s nothing I can do about it! On other days I feel like Superman. Like I’m going to come back stronger and better than ever! Managing the emotions between these bipolar perspectives is key to a quick and full recovery. Don’t get me wrong, it’s definitely physical, but it’s more than that. Much more. Physical injuries heal within a reasonable amount of…