Wearing a frame as bulky as this presents a number of problems not least of which is transport.
To get home from hospital I was lucky enough to have the assistance of my wife’s parents who own a large 4 door car. As my leg is locked straight I managed to sit across the rear seats with my back against the door. I did the same when I had to return for a check-up this time relying on my parents.
We own a 2-door Mercedes convertible and I thought it was time I investigate how or indeed ‘if’ I could get into our car. I’ll be honest and say that I din’t hold up much chance of getting in. I’d had a bad day but took some painkillers and off we went.
Being a convertible, albeit a large full 4 seater, the rear is much narrower because of the hood folding mechanisms. So although I tried I could not fit across the rear seats and the only way I could get in was with the hood down. Fine now but not so practical with winter approaching!
Next up was the front passenger seat. With the seat moved as far back as possible and the squab tilted down (thankfully these are electric and almost everything moved, lifts and tilts!) I got in. With assistance I can get my leg into the footwell and jam it high up on the bulkhead. This is necessary because the frame is bulky and my leg will not bend so it has to be horizontal from the seat cushion. Using a foam pillow to raise my bum a little was enough to sort that out. It’s not easy but once in it is relatively comfortable so long as we avoid potholes and sleeping policemen!
Yesterday I had my appointment with the Consultant to start the leg ‘distraction’ phase or leg ‘lengthening’ as we might better know it.