I just messed my ankle up and am going to a conference in a couple days where I normally walk 15-25 miles/day for the next week.
I’ve been advised to use a wheelchair instead of crutches. And will rent one when I get there.
I get the feeling that I’m throwing myself into the fire here, having never used a wheelchair before, and likely spending a crazy amount of time in one moving around over the next week.
I usually can’t deal with sitting down for more than an hour or so before my back hurts, so I’m worried about that.
What advice do you all have for me? What do I need to know? What pro-tips should I take for the next week?
If you can, get one of these:
I’ve never used one, but I know 2 people who have and most of what they have said is positive.
Definitely this, and maybe a motorized scooter for days that really require you to move around. Also check the conference site or call them to see if they offer any accommodations. But, OP, you’re probably not gonna be making it 15-25 miles a day no matter what you do. Be honest with yourself and others about your limitations and don’t push yourself too hard. Have a backup plan to get around if you need to.
From what I’ve been told, these things are terrible on your knees if you put your weight on them. So think of it as a crutch, not a skateboard.
YMMV.
Just make sure you practice before trying the advanced stuff.
It saddens me that the clip ended early. I have no idea if he did a sweet trick and stuck the landing, or is dead. There is no inbetween.
…well that one doesn’t need a longer clip. Truck is fucked. Thats the only outcome.
A rental wheelchair is going to be kind of the worst, because it’s not fitted to you and your needs. But at least you can stand up now and then for a break. Be prepared for the fact you’re no longer at eye level with most people around you, and you’re probably at boob level for many of the women. Some say this is why the old tradition of having a lap blanket began, but I just made that up. If you’re trying to get across the street and idiots are standing around on the curb cut, don’t get there and say “Excuse me.” Because they’re selfish bastards and you’ll get run over by a car before they move. Cross full speed, (whether you or someone else is pushing) and about ¾ of the way there, yell “WATCH YER BACK!” so they can jump in self-preservation. The phrase also works in crowds.
Oh, and wear your seatbelt.
Maybe you could rent a mobility scooter instead? Some are suitable for indoors (3 wheels) and the speed is adjustable. It might save the use of your arms and hands, which are not used to the movements you need to make
Go up ramps backwards to prevent falling onto your head.
Wheelchair ramps rarely have the correct slope. Every day is arm day.
I don’t know what’s wrong with you and sitting, but you can put in the brake for your wheelchair and do dips or something if it helps
