Going back to work

[Sunshine8946 44]

Hello again! One more question... I have a desk job but the job itself is pretty stressful (65+ hours/week) and often requires travel. When would you suggest going back to the actual office after surgery? (I do have the ability to work from home for a while afterwards.) My biggest fear is having an "accident" at work or in the middle of a presentation! Thanks for any advice you can provide!

[Pinkgirl1234 761]

I went in 2 weeks after for a few hours...it's hard.I am on limited duty .about 5 hours a day...now I see why people take 4 weeks.

[sbyrd3 3]

I had surgery on 12/14 and have to go to the doc tomorrow about going back to work. I don't feel that I am ready. I am a phlebotomist in the hospital the first 2hrs and then clinic the other 6hrs. I do a lot of walking, stretching, bending and leaning up against a counter. I have been having a real hard time getting in my fluids and Protein. I am always dragging my butt. I do my exercises and that is enough for the day. I'm sure only getting in 30oz of fluids and about 30 to 40 grams protein is not helping much. I have gotten IV fluids twice in a month.

[jj7481 363]

I had a two week, no more than 10 lb restriction. After this my surgeon didn't place any further restrictions on me. I went back to work the following weekend (2 1/2 wks post op). So far so good.

[Sunshine8946 44]

I had surgery on 12/14 and have to go to the doc tomorrow about going back to work. I don't feel that I am ready. I am a phlebotomist in the hospital the first 2hrs and then clinic the other 6hrs. I do a lot of walking, stretching, bending and leaning up against a counter. I have been having a real hard time getting in my fluids and Protein. I am always dragging my butt. I do my exercises and that is enough for the day. I'm sure only getting in 30oz of fluids and about 30 to 40 grams protein is not helping much. I have gotten IV fluids twice in a month.

It sounds like you need more time for sure! I would say a desk job it would be ok after a month but you are always on the move! Take care of yourself and stay out as long as you can! Good luck!

[psvzum 81]

I would give yourself as much time as you're able. I took off two weeks/medical and another eight days vacation. My surgery was 12/2/15 so with the holidays it ended up being the entire month of December.

I'm in sales and work out of my home when I'm not travelling. Even so, I was really tried and it was nice to be able to nap when needed.

[gpmed 623]

It usually takes people two months to regain energy. I'd suggest maybe six weeks off and two weeks working from home. Remember it's better to request more time than you need and go back earlier than not request enough and have to ask for more.

[cknhealthyme 11]

My job allows 6 weeks every two years to recover from surgery without using leave accruals. I didn't take advantage of it when I had both of my knee surgeries, now my knees are jacked up. I am going to take the 6 weeks this time; not taking any chances. I also have a desk job but the restroom is way down the hall and the kitchen on another floor. I think I would prefer getting used to the new way of life at home.

[Jessica Ellison-Correa 66]

I'm in a peculiar situation and work in an office but only 2 days a week but its alot of walking so I'm thinking of taking 3-4 weeks

[Sunshine8946 44]

I'm in a peculiar situation and work in an office but only 2 days a week but its alot of walking so I'm thinking of taking 3-4 weeks

i think that's a good idea. I am only two days post-op and can not even fathom going back to work anytime soon! They will wait for you and they will want you back healthy and focused! Plus you are more important thank any job! Good luck!