3 mo's post op/working & lifting

So I've been back to work 3 weeks now. Dr.'s put me on a no lifting restriction then lifted it a week ago to 10 lbs. Also cut me down to half days until she sees me again on the 25th. Here's my question. I know its going to take me a while to get back to 100%. Up to a year I'm told. In my job I do a lot of running back and forth, there is lifting involved and I have been very careful with that. I'm afraid to do anything heavier than a grocery bag of clothes. I don't want to do any damage. So, last night my boss and I had a heated discussion/argument. I'm in management, and we get things accomplished through our employees, I'm the kind of person who likes to get in there and work. Again, I know I can't yet. Anyway, he basically told me that I needed to forget about my surgery and just 'do it'. I don't think so. I only have one body, one chance to heal. Two questions. One, how do I deal with this boss and get him to understand where I'm at? And two, how long is it usually until you can do things like you used to? Like lifting more weight, and just being 'back?' Thanks in advance.

rkm2009: First of all...great for you that you are back to work. Yea!! Listen to your doctor's advice. At 5 weeks post op, I am still behaving myself although I'd love life to resume just as I left off but it isn't working that way so there is no choice but to press on and allow the body to heal emotionally and physically for however long that may take the individual even if it is one year. You mentioned that your boss was a "he." Well, quite frankly....there's the problem! "He" doesn't understand, and I am not sure he will even if you explained. Easier said than done, but don't worry about what your boss thinks. Do your job, but within the limits your doctor has placed on you and also based on what your body is physically telling you. Since I am only 5 weeks, I can tell you that I often cry because I feel like it is taking too long to have my physical endurance back so I do understand what you are saying, and the frustration you feel. As far as how long it will last depends on various aspects...health, hormones, and healing. In time..the body will make the adaptations. I have a very dear friend that had a hysterectomy 6 years ago, and I asked her just the other day....how long does it take to feel like yourself. She said, for her, it took up to a year. So, for now...be good to yourself and see your doctor for additional help if need be, listen to your body, and don't be afraid to tell your boss how it is!

It might be beneficial for you to ask your doctor for a letter outlining your restrictions...and tell your doc what is going on so she can be VERY specific...he is clueless and needs to be enlightened...good luck and take very good care of yourself. Some women need more time to heal...

RKM- I am just over 5 months post op and still do not feel like myself yet. Some of us take longer than others and I am considered a "slow healer". Please listen to your doc and not your MALE boss who is obviously clueless about this. I should also state that their are plenty of women who don't get it either. How can anyone that has not gone through this understand. On the other hand it sure would be nice just to have an understanding boss. Like stated above, get a very specific letter from your doc. It sounds like she is taking nice care of you. I do not work but give you gals that do big praise. Stand your ground with your boss and listen to your body. I'm sure you have heard that many times before but it is the truth. Maybe you could ask your boss if he would prefer you take it a little easier than usual for a while or hurt yourself & be out of work for an undetermined amount of time while you recover from overdoing it. I would like to know his response.

i saw my doctor last week for my 6 week check up and she told me to keep my weight limit at 20 pounds for several more weeks and then gradual increase it over several more weeks. and i still try not to bend over too much or stretch to reach for things. take care of yourself. these ladies are right you only have one you. and the i would agree with the lady who suggested you get your restrictions outlined by your doctor and bring that not in to your boss. good luck.

I gave HOUR the letter from doctors about the lifting restrictions and half days. I was gold before my surgery. Upon my return they sent me to tje worst facility. They have been riding me hard. It feels like they are trying to get me to quit. OH and yes I have told my boss that I needed to take it easy per Dr.'S orders, if I didn't I would be in worse shape and no good to anyone. He stated that 'he agreed', but his words/actions say differently.

Human Resources...not HOUR, sorry. OH and the other thing is, they told me that I have to work everyday until my half days are up. Is this legal?