Healing Effects of Training-Bells Palsy
I posted this story on the SS Facebook page today and some members convinced me to share here.
I am four weeks in to a case of Bells Palsy, which is basically a form of nerve damage resulting in temporary facial paralysis on one side of the face. At the time of diagnosis, I had full paralysis - worst case scenario for this condition - couldn't even blink one eye. Recovery involves the nerve repairing itself which can take 2 weeks to one year depending on severity and other factors. I am now very far along in recovery, much faster than anticipated by two doctors I dealt with.
This morning, a nurse was examining me at a local clinic for strep throat and took notice of my rate of recovery from the Bells Palsy in four weeks. I explained that I continued to train with weights (interested in her reaction) with the assumption that the growth and recovery (both neuro and physical) from heavy training would also help with the recovery from my nerve damage -system as a whole, high tide floats all ships sort of thing.
I was amazed when she replied that she thought I was right but my hypothesis would only be true if I was lifting really heavy and squatting and deadlifting. She went on to explain some neurology stuff that was above my pay grade, and told me how she is a lifter and Oly lifter. She also told me to eat a lot of protein today and get back to training tomorrow, it will help my strep feel better.
I thought Rip would appreciate this story. I really think training helped with recovery, even if it didn't at least it helped mentally.