Recovering From Surgery

[RabbitsRock]

I don’t think I’d realised how big a deal my fractured humerus surgery would be. Blithely planning to still go to a previously booked outdoor event not even a fortnight later - still trying to convince myself it will be fine now it’s 2 days away but deep down I know it will be far from ideal. Or should I go?! Sitting in a fold up camping chair won’t be the most comfortable & I could easily be banged into when everyone is leaving ( it will be busy). I have strong painkillers & could ensure I’m dosed up but the pain can get worse as the day goes on ( it’s an evening thing). Wondering if any of you have had major or fairly major surgery & how you got on afterwards. I do have an extremely low pain threshold!

Have you got some sort of visible plaster/bandage/sling/support on it - if not I would put even a calico sling on it - something that screams 'hurt arm' to others and makes them keep well away from it. Take a pillow as well for padding whilst sitting (and in a car too)

Can you time your painkillers so you've got the majority of them available in the evening when the pain is worst?

Ultimately it's down to you to decide if the event is worth it to you - it sounds more likely public than family so that's always more difficult.

It's normal to feel pain more in the evenings; even if you've been resting all day, you will be (at least a little) tired.

For me the question would be about how bored I'd be at home. If I could tag along on this holiday but avoid the strenuous parts and enjoy the social side, I'd be tempted to go. Could you invest in a more comfortable chair? At least you could use that on other trips/holidays. Wearing a visible sling/bandage is a v. good idea.

I would hate to be at home, knowing others were having a good time.

Humerus would be less restrictive or problematic than say, a femur or tib/fib, but only you know how uncomfortable you will be and what steps you can take to mitigate it?

Would you be able to leave if you changed your mind whilst there, or would you be stuck (eg waiting for a lift or a shuttle etc)?

I'd get a kid's inflatable rings or similar in a bright colour to put on your arm to alert people. Or tie balloons to it. Anything that's going to make people notice in their peripheral vision.

Whether you feel well enough on painkillers etc is another thing. Will there be lots of walking and carrying? Portaloos? Will you be able to get home if you want to leave earlier than everyone else?