Going back to work

Hey Gang,

I am starting week three after the surgery.  When did you guys go back to work.

I am a sales manager, plenty to do from home, otherwise I am driving around working with my guys.  I am in pretty good shape getting a little tired if I stand or sit in the same position.  I figured 1/2 time this week and 3/4 time week four.  What has been your experience?

JJK

JJK:

Return to work is different for each of us...depends on the type of job, how your recovery is progressing.  I have an office job.  Was able to do some work at home.  Decided to return to the office after just 12 days for two to three hours per day that first week.  I walked very slowly the first week back, and really didn't feel that great.   I had someone drive me to/from work and I reclined the seat and sat on a pillow during the transports.  The next week I handled half days; the following week 3/4 days; then the next week full time.  By the time I reached full time days, my stamina was back to pre-surgery form.  I refrained from lifting anything over 10 pounds until six weeks post surgery.

My advice to you is try and return to work.  If you can have others drive for you, do so with the seat reclined and you sitting on a pillow.  When you start feeling fatigued, call it a day.  Each successive week the stamina will improve and your length of time on the job will increase.

Good luck.

I had my surgery a year ago Nov. 15th. I took the first 2 weeks of November off as vacation and then went back to work the first week in January. Six weeks of recovery seems to be pretty common for this surgery. I had to argue my case with the insurance company and I did sometimes lift about 75 pounds in my job so I did win that battle. If you can take the time off I would do it! I really enjoyed being at home for those 2 months, so much so othst I retired 5 months later after a couple of good PSA tests.

Good luck and take it easy no mater what your decision!

Kirk

I'm at almost 8 weeks post op now.  I could go back to a light mfg type job now.  Would probably have to change pads every two or three hours if I were on my feet all the time.  But, I have the paid leave so I am taking off until Jan 2nd.  Will also only do 4 hrs / day for two weeks.  Dr. just wrote what I wanted.  What a guy!

I went back to work 10 days after surgury. (Stupid) I still had my Foley in for 2 more weeks at work. I worked for a Jerk at the time. Theres no crying in construction! Anyway I was estimating comercial electrical jobs and purchasing material at the time. The boss said "You can lift blue prints and write purchase orders, can't you?" I worked 8 hour days the 1st week and after that it was back to 10 - 11 hour days. I only split my wound open once and had to get restapled but still had to work. If I had to do it again, I'd tell him to go to h***, like I did when he layed me off right before Christmas 3 months later for no reason. It was a good thing because I got a much better job with better pay and working with great people. I guess everything happens for a reason. Sorry to ramble on.
Your friend, Pete