Firstly, thanks so much to everyone who supported me pre-op. Cannot believe how good I feel. The worst problem is my L heel which is very inflamed and painful at night. Very mobile now and occasionally forget my crutches which is not the same as trying to do without them.
Tips I have come up with:
1. Get some 'elephant feet' to put under your favourite chair or sofa.
2. Put some thick cardboard under your chair/sofa cushion.
3. DEFINITELY invest in a memory foam mattress topper. You can sleep as normal!! Doesn't need to be expensive, mine is only 1" thick but it is bliss.
4. Helping-hands (grabbers) are brilliant.
I was lucky and do not have the dreaded TED stockings, nor the heparin injections, just a new form of oral anticoagulants that do not require repeated blood tests. The care in hospital was exemplary. Shame I didn't have the appetite to enjoy the terrific menu! My leg swelling only looks like elephantiasis in the lower calf and foot and the (SPECTACULAR) bruising is disappearing. I know it is different for all of us and I think I have been lucky. The gorgeous weather has been a great help as I have been able to sit out in the sun.
Stick with it folks, it all gets better.
Cheers, Pam.