I am coasting along at the end of week 8. I had my follow up appointment Week 7, and according to the doctor, my xrays look great! I currently remain in the boot for another 2 weeks, at which point I will be venturing out into a tennis shoe! Nervous and excited!
How do I FEEL at this point? Well, adjusting to the boot has been interesting and is still a process, even as I wrap up walking in the boot. While I'm not having any swelling, I do have discomfort in the space right to the right of my incision, in between the first and second toes. It's an aggravating burning/itching/stinging that comes and goes, but is usually the worst in the morning when I get started and towards the end of the day. Last night, I did have to take a pain pill right before bed to just "knock it out" and not interrupt my sleep. My doctor assures me this is normal and that while we are 8 weeks out, the healing process is still very much underway.
This week was also my first attempt behind the wheel!!
As my fusion was on my right foot, my driving capabilities have been non-existent. I've been cleared to drive ONLY in a Darco shoe that I must take off and replace with the walker boot when I am not driving. No walking whatsoever in the Darco. The battle that I'm having is that my mind is terrified to let that foot press the gas or step on the brake, even though it is secure in the Darco shoe. I'm having to retrain myself that it's ok to apply some pressure. Thank the Lord for the handicapped tag.
Other than this new discomfort, I'm pleased at my recovery. We've come a long way from 8 weeks ago. My doctor is more excited than me I think to see how my gait will be improved and how walking will be better for me after I am allowed out of the boot.
I'm currently in the process of shopping for new tennis shoes with recommendations from my doctor. So far, I've been looking at Brooks, Vionic, New Balance and Abeo. Any suggestions for a stable athletic shoe post fusion?
Until next time!
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