7 weeks and 4 days post op, disappointed!

Yes, that is disappointing for you Michael but sometimes I think even consultants forget what a huge operation this is, plus it sounds as though you have had no guidance at all since you were discharged from hospital.  I have my 6 week check up next week and I imagine I will be walking in with one crutch.  Even so, my physio was pleased with me last week.  

The physios are wonderful (and far more sympathetic) and once they get you started you'll soon start building up those muscles.  Try not to be too disappointed.  A couple of weeks will make all the difference.

Cels xxx

I am disappointed in the reaction of your consultant! He could have done a much better job giving you positive feedback and recommendations. No one should feel worse after a doctor's appointment than before they went in!

My reading around the web indicates that most people without complications are done using walking aids by 10 - 12 weeks. Some, of course, are done much earlier. So you shouldn't feel badly at all! 

The swelling is a sign that there is still a lot of healing going on, and that you need to be off of your feet. Does your doctor want you to be on your feet more and do more exercise even though it causes swelling? Does he want you to do the exercise while you are swollen? If so, I question this. I think we all have poor muscle tone to some degree, both pre- and post-op. It comes back and I don't see the big rush to exercise while you are have a symptom like swelling

Hope you can get through this. Be kind to your healing bones and muscles!

Hang in there. Everyone is different and every Surgeon is different. I had to therapy sessions while still in the hospital. That was painful. Then when I got home a therapist came to my house 8 days in the next 2 weeks and made me work and sweat. After that I went to a therapy center 3 days a week for 1 hour for about 3 more weeks and also did exercises they gave me at home. In my opinion walking and exercises will get you there. Best of luck

When I was having physio I remember them saying that everyone was at a different stage of recovery at a particular time but 6 months down the track they'll all be the same - wise words!

Try the pocket physio app. Helped me a lot especially the heel toe walking

Hi Michael,

i had my 6 week check yesterday and I walked into his office on 2 crutches. So you are progressing faster than me! The first thing my consultant said was that I was walking very straight and had a good gait. He encouraged me to start trying with only one crutch at home but only as pain would allow and combine it with plenty of strengthening physio exercises . He said that everyone heals at different rates and younger patients (I am 47) often take longer because they have more muscle mass to build up than older patients and more demanding lifestyles. Luckily he seems far more empathetic and encouraging than yours but don't be disheartened, keep listening to your own body and don't feel pressured by what anyone else is doing. I am also due to return to work earlier than I think I will be able to but if I have to delay by a couple of weeks I think it will be worth it for a better long term recovery, especially with a 7 and 9 year old to look after at home. I have found a good physio and hope you have too as I am sure that will help a lot and will start swimming (freestyle only of course!) too. Good luck and think positive! 

I've taken to going for longer walks, about 1km. Almost feels as if the right leg is able to take a smidgeon more weight today. I was never sent for physio, so that response from my surgeon will get him boxed on the nose!