i emailed my consultants secretary last week as he was less than clear when i saw him and i wanted things clarified. this is what i wrote: Following my appointment with you on Monday afternoon i wonder if you could clarify a couple of details for me. You stated that restrictions are to be left in place for a further 6 weeks. By restrictions do you mean just the 90 degree limit or everything, including no baths, intercourse or driving. Also, I was sure you had said to remain on crutches for a further 6 weeks but the physiotherapist was anticipating moving me on to sticks this week so I wanted to be sure that was what you said. Thank you.
and this is what ive just got back: Mr Patel has indicated yes for a further 6 weeks, but move on to driving if independently mobile. He also indicated yes to moving on to sticks suggested by the physio.
i may be being thick but i dont understand that message. what would you take from that?
Hi Helen, I would take it as restrictions stay for another 6 weeks, except the driving, (and I take independantly mobile as not having to use crutches or sticks?) He also said you can move on to sticks, so restrictions stay in place except driving and moving on to sticks ...hope this helps.
I would assume restrictions to remain except driving - if you can do the emergency stop and moving on to walking sticks
so if i have to remain on sticks or crutches (as he has said) then no driving! see, his reasoning is totally flawed.
i can drive and do emergency stop no problem. ive been driving whilst using walking aids for years so im not stopping now. if i have to go another 6 weeks without driving ill go mad.
I would say drive if you feel confident, and use sticks if able to do so, just do what you feel confident doing, you should be fine, but if in doubt then dont drive at first alone, go out with another driver who can take over if you have fears.
Kind regards Ian.
Took me a while to disect that email as well, it's a little like the English presented to me at work, by my Indian colleagues. Assumptions are a danger at any time...
I have to agree with the others though, sounds like driving is a go, sounds like sticks vs crutches is a go. The rest, not just yet.
But as Ian said, do the things you're comfortable with, and take someone with you the first time driving, just in case. Better safe than sorry after all.
Doctors know a lot, but you know your body best. Just keep that in mind.