Re: Life changes on a dime

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

ANYTHING---that helps with your security standing upright, is a must!!!!! and the best thing ever is access to the handicap parking--in my opinion---I've had that privilege 3 or 4 times in recent years due to injuries. I broke my ankle in Oct of 2022--had a wheel chair, a walker and crutches to use to get around. they were life savers. I am now up and mobile --but have those things just in case. Use them girl----we don't bounce as good anymore!!!

Still Raining · ‎03-30-2014

Good for you for getting some consideration. You go girl!

Zitawins · ‎02-13-2024

@smoochy First, the handicap sticker. Got mine several years ago and happily use it whenever I'm out with my girls. It's a boon, so use it proudly!

Second, the cane. I need for balance issues and have used one for several years when I'm out and about. I remember that DH refused to use one (made him look old, which he was, though still handsome). My crafty daughter has made me a dozen cane covers (a piece of material held in place with sturdy tacky closures, easy to remove). I have one to match every outfit, plus a St. Patrick's day one). She uses remnants (so cheap) and finishes the edges. I get comments wherever I go).

They are simply helpers, like glasses and hearing aids. I'm obviously not young, but I'm still stylish!

Terrywu · ‎05-09-2010

I have resolved to using a Walker. I hate it but at 84 I do not want more surgery. I fractured my kneecap almost one year ago. The surgery to repair it would need to be followed by TKR. Have had knee and hip replacement on the other leg already. Told my surgeon using the walker I can get to lunch, dinner and the casino as well as drive since it is my left leg.

Funny now when we (my GIRLFREINDS all 84 from high school) we will all stop at a curb and think how we will get up. Several of them hold on to my walker. Can't just talk and walk like we used to.

AFWIFE · ‎07-14-2010

I am 48 and healthy with the exception of still recovering from a broken femur...and I still frequently use a cane!!!! What matters is feeling safe and balanced. I am sure you absolutely rock that cane!

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

@smoochy. Except for the Thailand thing, I have all the same problems and have been using a cane everywhere but home for quite a number of years. I really don't think anyone notices or cares.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

cindyNC · ‎08-01-2019

@smoochy Please don't be embaressed! It's better you are safe. I'm approaching that stage also.

chrystaltree · ‎05-10-2010

My first question is, should you be driving with if you have episodes of lightheadedness? I stopped driving when I was on a pain med that made me a little dizzy. It was just for a few months and then I was taken off it. As for the cane. I use one when I go out and have for a few years. It was a tad embarrassing at first because I was only in my late 50s. It's not embarrassing now. I need it and prevents falls. Falling is embarrassing! I have some balance issues. PT didn't help. I did have a tkr in one knee 6 years ago but knee is strong, stable, pain free. My balance issues is an unknown and I'm not worrying about it anymore. I use anything available that lets me get out and live my life. I have a tomato that has a seat that I have used at amusement parks and fairs. I have a wardrobe of canes. I have floral, red, blue and a black all terrain cane. Two have a headlight and a safety horn. I'm just living my life. Yesterday I went to the shop for my manicure. I was a little concerned. I was at the first station and the sink for hand washing was wayyyyy down the back. I would have to weave my way past the girls doing pedicures. Me and my cane. I worried about falling. But the guy who owns the place, had the perfect solution. He rolled me in the chair down to an empty pedicure station and used the hose to rinse off my hands and then he rolled me back. I was so relieved.

tansy · ‎01-02-2011

@CJC wrote:
@smoochy May I ask why you still have such terrible knee pain following 3 replacements? I am at the crossroads of having my first TKR due to osteoarthritis. I know the recovery is brutal and, although I'm in very little pain right now, I've developed a knock knee and balance issues that make walking difficult. Don't know if the replacement will help solve those problems.

I don't know what shape you are in, @CJC, but TKRs have drastically improved. I wouldn't call recovery brutal.