[Beverlyjoy]

Well - it's scheduled for one week from today. I am having a foot/ankle surgery (posterior tibial tendon transfer). I've had problems with this a very long time and I need to have the surgery. The recovery is long - 9 -12 weeks of non-weightbaring, several casts, then a boot and physical therapy for 4-5 weeks. Also - I'll be taking so many meds with this.

The recovery will be hampered with my excess weight. I am not strong enough to use crutches. Back is weak even though I do strengthening exercises. My knees aren't so great for me to hop on one foot with a walker for months. My aunt gave me a motorized scooter to use & I will also try a knee walker. I'll use a regular walker when I go to partial weighbearing. Doctor does't like the scooter idea because I wouldn't be using many muscles. I do plan to do exercises as soon as I get the ok.

I've looked and looked online for ideas for overweight people who aren't physically strong recovering from foot and ankle surgeries. There's not alot out there. Any of you had this challange? What did you do with mobility.

I am planning ahead in many areas- getting my 'spot' ready with my nest containing phone, water, cd player, remote, healthy snacks, handwipes, etc. I've purchase various pillows for this that and the other. (toes above the nose) DH will be around the first ten days. I've got a list of healthy food for him to get at the grocery.

I have a feeling folks will be sending dinners over. I'll ask for healthy stuff if they offer. I have no idea, really, what will come through the door. I am planning on using my exchange food plan. It will work in this situation. I am nervous about not being able to weigh for months.

I am feeling nervous and scared about the whole thing. But - this is the means to getting my life back. Let's get this party started. (I am singing there)

[rockinrobin]

Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery.

Keep us updated. You are in my thoughts.

[Onederchic]

You're in my prayers

[Princess Tiefling]

I was on crutches before I had my knee surgery. After I was using crtuches, and a walker (one that has thoes chair thing on it) and would use it almost like a wheelchair, using my good leg to pull myself around. ALso a good computer chair that rolls works well too

I was wearing a boot and knee brace for almost 8 months before I was able to walk without a limp.. I still limp tho when I am tired, or its getting cold.

My total recovery from initial injury (Jan 9 2010) to surgery (march 11, 2010) has this far been 1 months.. I have had to change alot of my workouts due to the stress on my joints, ( I had a severe sprain in my left ankle dislocated left knee and tore the cartalege all the in same fall)

Hope I was some help

[time2lose]

I had foot surgery when I was about 270 pounds. I gained alot of weight during my recovery because people kept bring food, including desserts!

My hardest time was getting in the house after surgery. I had a few steps up into the house and had planned on sitting on the stairs and pulling myself up with my arms. I should have practiced because I was not strong enough to pull myself up. I didn't want DH to hurt himself helping me. I had a hard time getting inside. I ended up crawling up. When I got in the house, DH got the office chair to roll me to the bedroom.

You weigh much less than I did so I imagine it will be much easier for you. One thing you may want to add to your list is a pillow desk to help you hold your laptop , plate, etc.

I hope it all goes well. I will be praying for you.

[Beverlyjoy]

Robin, Cheryl, Princess, Onederchic -Thanks to you all for your kind wishes, thoughts and prayers.

Cheryl, DH rented a ramp for the front steps. So, I think we will manage. I am glad we live in a ranch style house. Pillow desk is a good idea. I have a feeling folks will bring dinners & goodies - I will ask them to bring healthy things. Time will tell on this.

Princess - rolling chair - that could help. Thanks.

[renstwin]

Good luck with your surgery.

You might consider strength training your arms while you are non weightbearing. Think how buff they would be in three months!

Sounds like you have a good support system in place. Best wishes to you.