Driving

Hi there!


My doctor says I could give it a try this week – but then, cars in Brazil have manual gear-boxes – much to the horror of many Americans I know! – can any of you sisters tell me of a similar experience?
I love driving – but I am really afraid at this point -

(25 days post-op)

I drove for the first time this week........ Did very well, but seemed more tired that evening....

My dr said to go sit in the car and try to slam on the brakes... If I could do that, then try driving.... I just tried going around the neighborhood the first time, then ventured out the next day....

Good Luck....

Hi Vitral,

I was realeased to drive an automatic transmission at 4 weeks.

I like Pam's idea. Try just driving down the driveway or a short ways down the street and see how it feels. If it causes any pain or you find yourself hesitating to use the brake, then you know you need to wait a while longer.

I hope your recovery continues to go well.

S,
Kay

I was okayed at 1 week to drive after TVH. That is, as long as I wasn't taking pain meds, and I wasn't. I drove an automatic that week. Have been driving a manual on occaision since. No problems with it!

oh boy. Driving an automatic made me tired the fourth week. Manual transmission is far more physical then that. I have to agree with just driving a short while, maybe to get a coffee or something? and see how you are. Whatever you do, don't expect to do several errands! You'll probably be sore and esxhausted if you do (I was)

Debbie

Hi Vitral,

I was cleared to drive at 2 weeks, and did so in an automatic without any problems (except potholes are uncomfortable). At three weeks, I was forced to drive a stick shift (my dog needed to go to the vet and the only car she can get into/out of by herself has manual transmission). I was nervous about it, but it really was fine (a bit more tiring) and I had no ill-effects. Good luck!

Mary

TKS SO FAR!
Well, I woke up to the thundering and lightenings, there is a summer storm outside which will prevent me from trying it today for sure - the surfaces will be wet and oily, making it harder to break...
Last night I felt really lousy in pain (no pain killers any longer) but it feels better today...

I was released to drive at 2 weeks, but I only felt comfortable driving the automatic. This week at 5 weeks I had to drive the stick shift truck and was surprised how comfortable it was. I had a TVH, so not sure how it would be for others who have had abdominal incisions. Try a short distance at first and gradually build up. Best of luck.

It took me a good 3-4 weeks before I was able to drive. I tried it after 2 weeks, when my doctor said I could, but it was too painful. I couldn't turn to look side to side, etc. It was such a great feeling when I finally was able to drive again! Good luck to you and my advice: don't rush anythin!

I wasn't released to drive until after my stent was removed at 5 weeks; and then only an automatic. So, my hubby has been driving my stick shift car and I've been driving the honking big crew cab automatic truck! Doc said no stick shift until 12 weeks. Looks like another month of the parking that monster!