Happy Day - got the boot
Today was my second post-op appointment and the doc gave me the boot with 4 thin heal lifts. I almost got my foot to neutral, but it got to the point where I just couldn’t push it anymore. He said that as soon as I am comfortable, ditch the crutches and he will allow me two shoes after my next visit on August 18. I have been walking - slowly, trying to get used to this before I go to work tomorrow. The last thing I want to do is take a header in front of all of my coworkers. I need to keep telling myself to slow down because I get a little too excited. Sometimes I forget my coordination.
As soon as the cast came off, I almost cried because my calf has nothing left to it (plus the leg hair didn’t make me happy). I have big, solid calves as they run in my family. To see one calf withered away to nothing is quite upsetting, but since I am somewhat walking again, it will start to rebuild itself…hopefully to the way it was before the injury.
My doctor said that I can take the boot off to sleep, which made my husband happy as he is sick of getting kicked at night :) He also said the write the alphabet using my foot 3 times a day.
Nothing is worse then having to deal with this during the summer. Right now in PA we are having a heat wave..The heat hits you hard when you walk out from air conditioning. I hope the heat breaks soon..I sweat bullets even before I get to the car.
Well - another month. Hopefully I will be walking normally soon. I can’t wait until I am able to FWB. I am not sure how long I should wait until I try to FWB. Any suggestions?
on July 21st, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Hi Jenn! I can appreciate your comments about the PA heatwave. I am on my 2nd week of recovery and live in Lower Merion (right outside of Philly). My husband played football for Lehigh many moons ago, so I just want to be back on my feet again for tailgate season — or at the very least for Lehigh/Lafayette!
Anyhow, your posts are very encouraging. I forgot all about scooters at Target and Wal-Mart. Right now my husband is at the Acme with a list from me, but I’d truthfully rather be doing it myself. I’m still at the rest and elevate stage (surgery was 1 week, 3 days ago), so I will look forward to my first scooter outing.
Good luck as you progress to FWB and best wishes from Philly!
on July 21st, 2008 at 1:21 pm
Welcome to the ranks of the booted! Take your time on weight bearing - you will know when it’s right. That first step is a tough one - for me, I had to build up to it. The heat does make it pretty miserable - if your work situation allows it, I would recommend taking off the boot at work and leaving the foot elevated on a desk or table. Especially given the heat, it really helps.
Ed
on July 21st, 2008 at 4:33 pm
My doc said I should be walking in boot at 8 weeks with no crutches…..I am at 7 weeks and am only wearing the boot for a few hours a day as it is painful and uncomfortable. I am not giving up, but dread the moment I have to wear the thing.
Good luck to you!
Marianne
on July 21st, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Looks like we PA gals are in good company with our ATR! Yup, I am dying of the heat, as I live about 20 miles north of center city Phila. I am able to swim though - I spent an hour floating in the neighborhood pool yesterday.
Re: FWB– your foot will tell you when you are ready. Keep trying a little bit at a time, and soon you will surprise yourself.
Enjoy the new freedom!
on July 21st, 2008 at 6:53 pm
Hello from the Lehigh Valley…I’m right down the road in Easton…anyway, the boot is tough to like - better when it is off to shower, or to sleep. I dont’ think I am walking right in the boot - I’m having tingles all over. I am so scared that I’m going to rupture. You are right - this past wknd with the heat and humidity didnt’ help. Hang in there - my six week post op is this Thursday.