not bin driving

by WOOWOO55 26th September 2014, 5:21 pm

for the last 3weeks tried a bit today got bit pain in my lefty now think its goin be a while before i build my strengh up agian maybe should off done bit more before but just wanted complete rest really any tips as driving is part off my job and i go back tuesday ahhhhhhh xx

by **mirren001** 26th September 2014, 5:31 pm

I don't drive so can't offer any tips, would imagine it will take a bit getting used to again after op, getting car in gear etc... Also to be able to drive safely you need to be able to do an emergency stop.
Hopefully some driver will be along shortly to give you their tips. XXX

by Mammamia 26th September 2014, 6:14 pm

I found driving a little uncomfortable until 4 weeks. Just took corners more slowly and drove like a learner (feeding the steering wheel). I have a long commute and after my first 2 days back I almost crippled myself with muscular ache from trying to remain stiff, upright and not move! Over time things stretch and feel more comfortable, and then so does driving. I spoke to my surgeon as I was worried about over stretching and I used to limit my movements and reach, but he said I won't do damage (within reason!) and said it would be good to try and slowly increase my range of movement again.

by kezjb 26th September 2014, 6:41 pm

Oh crikey I have a 40min drive to work and back - hope I'm gunna be ok!

by Mammamia 26th September 2014, 7:14 pm

My commute is 40 miles each way and I won't lie it wasn't easy, but by 4 weeks it felt absolutely fine! Just go easy on the roundabouts!!!

by **Charlii** 26th September 2014, 7:36 pm

It didn't drive til 3wk, and it was so stiff still. 2nd and 5th were tricky for another 2wk. Back to 10 and 2 driving, feeding the wheel, definitely. Just take it easy, go slow, listen to your body.

by kezjb 26th September 2014, 7:37 pm

I've at least 6 on my journey :( uh oh :(

by Princess_x 26th September 2014, 8:44 pm

I didn't drive until around 3 weeks post op either.. wasn't comfortable doing so x

by WOOWOO55 27th September 2014, 8:20 am

you dont realise that after you have to build up arm strengh as your so weak from resting and recovering from the op xx

by kezjb 27th September 2014, 8:55 am

Yeah I guess :(

by rhy_fach 28th September 2014, 7:09 pm

WOOWOO55 wrote:you dont realise that after you have to build up arm strengh as your so weak from resting and recovering from the op xx

What you could do is build up your strength before the op, and then afterwards don't just not do any arm movement or you will lose all your strength and it'll take ages to get it back.

I actually drove the day after the op, I just drove the car back onto the drive as I'd left it on the road, and hubby was there in case I couldn't do it, but it was fine. My first drive on my own was 8 days after my op, to get my stitches trimmed, a 50 mile round trip. No problems at all! Smike