Weird question

[LynetteG]

When I do my walks around my neighborhood I always take my walker with me as it gives me confidence in case of falling etc. Is that what all of you do in the first few weeks when you walk - take your walker?

[titaniumed]

I used ski poles.
Ed

[Nitram]

Hi Lynette...I haven't used my walker since the day after I came home from the hospital...I didn't feel like I needed it and felt balanced enough. I just took it really slow the first few days walking around the neighborhood to the point at which my wife was harassing me as I wouldn't look up, I just stared at the ground while walking as I was afraid I'd fall. At this point (5 weeks post op) I hardly think about it any more, just walk close to normal...but still a little stiff! :-)

Rich

[ShariMSU]

Hey Lynette - They took my walker away from me the day after surgery too. But I am fortunate that my husband watches over me closely. I will not walk outside without some right next to me. I am going to venture into this, this weekend. Around the house I move slow and stay near things I can grab if needed. I am pretty steady though.
Be careful and don't be tearing up the pavement. slow it goes!

[LynetteG]

Thanks everyone.

Ed - you crack me up - ski poles eh? Perhaps I should try that out

Seriously, maybe I'll try walking round the block without my walker - I feel scared about doing that though, the walker makes me feel safe now as I'm so used to using it!

[foofer]

Yes, Lynette....Ski poles in Florida. Definitely.

You could attach little palm trees!

Sounds like you might feel secure with some kind of transitional hand-held item like a ski pole or walking stick, or cane. Has to be a fun one though. I remember having a conversation about a year ago with a woman who had the surgery and used a cane for awhile, even just to let the world know she was a bit delicate.

Nice to think of you and the other musketeers venturing out into the world again, one small step at a time.

[RitaR]

I used my walker at home for a few weeks, probably a couple I'd say. Then, I'd gradually go without it in the house and before I knew it I was forgetting to take it with me outside of the house. But, it takes a little bit of time and confidence to get to that point. You'll know when you're ready.

[Radiogirl]

Hi Lynette! One of the musketeers here!!! Can you walk with hunching over??? I can't! I look like a 90yr old because I can't straighten up! My muscles are soooooo tight and it really hurts and is nearly impossible to stand straight. I walk every day on my treadmill - not too far/long...only about 15 minutes. Should I be increasing that do you think??? Glad to hear you are up and about. I am going to PM you on some other stuff.

[LynetteG]

Laura will write tonight I'm on my way out with kids.

[Back-out]

Another moment of mourning that I don't have a spouse or partner...Not the one I used to have, mind you, but a sane one!

But OTOH I have a good treadmill, and that might be almost as good when it comes to practicing walking after the surgery.

[Shari]

Hi Lynnette,

I'm a firm believer in doing what is best for you, what makes you feel safe and comfortable. You don't need additional worries, you need to heal.

Only you know how you feel. We all heal differently, don't compare your situation to any of ours, we're here to share.

Lots of Love and blessings to you,
Shari

[Back-out]

Radiogirl

Can you walk with hunching over??? I can't! I look like a 90yr old because I can't straighten up!

Have you been operated on? I'm confused. I thought after surgery the patient couldn't NOT stand straight (if s/he were standing that is, and had a long, longish fusion anyhow. I'm due for a T4-pelvis as things are looking...),

I thought the problems with dressing and what not came from being unable to bend.

[JenniferG]

I didn't understand this post either. I hope Radiogirl will expand on it.