Ryan went to physical therapy this morning and did some more walking. He still needs help from one or two physical therapists to hold him up and help him move his left leg a bit. But, he is getting better. He is controlling his posture a lot better and is taking more even and well-placed steps.
They also worked with Ryan's left leg a bit. Since Ryan's left hip tends to bow out when he walks, they had him doing some leg lifts while lying on his side.
Ryan's occupational therapy session was very fun today. The occupational therapy student that helps work with Ryan decided to do a beach-themed activity today since we live in Virginia Beach. She had a bin full of sand with seashells mixed in it. Ryan had to fish through the sand and pull out the seashells.
KT worked with Ryan's arms and legs some. The therapist made the comment that Ryan's legs are getting much stronger. His legs are almost to the point now that the therapist can't resist his strength. When this happens, Ryan is going to need to do more on exercise machines.
She also bought a bucket and shovel. She had him shovel the sand, lift it up and put it in the bucket. These exercises help Ryan with his grip, arm control, and finger dexterity. Throughout the session, a CD with ocean sounds was playing in the background. I love how creative the therapists get with his activities. They really try to keep things interesting for him.
Speech therapy worked with Ryan more on chewing ice chips and swallowing. The therapist feels like he is progressing well. She said she feels ready for me to distribute ice chips to him throughout the day as he wants them.
PT worked with Ryan for a second time today. They focused on getting more movement out of his left arm. They did some exercises where Ryan's arm was lying on a table and he had to move it away from and towards his body. He did very well curling the arm towards his body. He had some movement pushing the arm away from his body.
The therapist also did an arm wrestling motion with his arm and he was able to pull his arm inward a bit with resistance.
KT also worked with Ryan for a second time today. They had Ryan peddle a bike for 20 minutes. He did great! I think his left leg is getting more responsive every day.
After his therapy sessions were complete, we went outside and sat under the covered patio. Even though it was a little cold and rainy, Ryan still wanted to get some fresh air. We sat there for about 40 minutes and listened to the rain. It was relaxing after the long, busy day.
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