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How long before you was able to drive

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oneleg

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I am going on 8 weeks since my surgery. Was wondering how long did it take you before you could drive?? I know it might take me longer than normal. I have to use my left leg to drive since I can't drive with my right leg....that's the one I wear the brace on (had polio). I still can't lift my left leg up all the way...only maybe half way up....but I don't have enough strength to push down on the gas or brake pedal. Just wondering??
Jane
 
Jane,
Everyone is so different on their recovery. There is no set rule on when anyone can drive, walk up and down step and so on. I had BTKR and was very fortunate to be able to drive at 4 weeks. But again everyone is so different, the right time for you is when you drive.
 
I first drove at 7 1/2 weeks, maybe could have earlier, but I had my daughter to drive me around.
 
I am so glad you are able to even think about driving.......i did right after about 8 weeks good luck im so happy you have come this far......be proud.......)
 
I asked OS at 6 weeks and was given an okay, and started driving then.

_________

BTKR 08/09
 
Yep, the trick is when YOU are ready - physically and mentally. Usually that's between 6-8 weeks. Talk to your doc. It's best if you find a parking lot and do some practicing first before getting out in a lot of traffic.
 
I usually find someone else to drive if I can, due to taking pain meds, Atlanta traffic, and some serious bad weather lately. I keep it to a minimum. Getting in and out of the car is the hardest, but have had no trouble, thank God, in actually using my leg to actually drive.

I put the seat as far back as I can before getting in. I am tall so that helps. Earlier on, when it was tougher getting in, I found it easy (for some odd reason I have good flexibility) to lift my legs way up and over, and bring them way back down around where the car door is, when it's open, and pull them into the car...as far as getting in and out. Sorry, got off topic a bit here. Perhaps I should video it LOL.
 
Don't rush! Only drive when you feel comfortable. With my RTKR it was about 8 weeks. Had major problems with ROM. With the LTKR less than 2 weeks and only when pain meds were about to wear off. NEVER drive while taking narcotic pain medicine. It is dangerous and illegal (DUI).

Be careful and wait until you are fully comfortable. Until then let others be your driver. Thankful for my daughter and husband! Have sons that are grown, but they scare me with their driving! :shk: :hehe:
 
Hi Jane!

Keep up the good work. The Docs usually pic about 6 weeks as average number...they need to be conservative. But it's up to you, your confidence, and how well you've healed up. I first drove at 3-weeks (not to far; depends on the medication and flexion factor) and then drove from San Francisco to Central Coast California at 5 weeks (about 230 miles; had to move).

Keep on Healing and God Bless!
 
You need to be able to
1. move your feet easily from one pedal to another
2. do an emergency stop without hurting yourself
3. not be on narcotics
 
Jane..I started driving around 6 weeks only because DH left me waiting in front of PT for 45 minutes and it drove me insane. When we got home I made him leave the car in the street and I practiced driving around the block. Then I went in and took a 2 hour nap. From then on I drove myself to PT only 10 minutes away.
 
Well, good for you! Worst thing you need to do after PT is sit in a car for ¾ of an hour! :doh:
 
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