Neck Strain and Still pretty Sore

Neck strain is another painful result of using too much weight. Too much for the neck, at least. I did a few sets of 12 with my good arm, and it was tired, but not close to collapsing. At least it was only one side of my neck since my other arm is plagued by tennis elbow.

I still dislike being “this” sore every single day. I mean, really? This is what normal life is supposed to be like – semi-constant daily pain? Seems like there’s got to be a better way. I get up from my desk at work and I don’t walk anymore – I semi hobble, semi-limp down the hall. Maybe it’s because I’m sitting too much, but we’re not supposed to stand and stretch or get up and walk around because that’s clearly not working. There are standing work-stations available, but my knees aren’t up for that. Oh yes, did we mention the physical therapist who saw me for knee pain and said I was deformed? Knee-extensions are my least favorite, as they always crunch. If I keep my knee in the same position (either straight or bent) there are still exercises I can do. But at my current weight and fitness level, standing in one place is not a good idea.

I am getting a little tired of things seeming to be in my way, but I realize that’s my fault if I let them be in my way. I’m just really not a fan of being sore all the time. In my youth, I was incredibly careful to avoid soreness if I could help it. I’ve always had weight issues. When I decided to walk extensively for weight loss, I made a commitment to do everything I could to not let soreness get in the way of my progress. I would not allow it to be a negative experience and excuse to stop or slack off. Sure, there were occasional hikes where I was a bit sore and tired afterwards, but those were days of 8-12+ miles and steep terrain. Those were on trips and special occasions. Even then, I was younger and in better shape and recovered pretty quickly. But this constant low-grade pain every day is getting annoying. Because yes, it does discourage me to keep at it every day. If it was only on new exercises, that would be ok. If it got better with more experience and practice, that would be fine. But it doesn't. Ever.