Visit to the ortho did not go as planned...

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hcipi

Mouseketeer

Joined

Feb 1, 2013

• Jul 1, 2015

• #1

Apologies ahead of time for asking what has been asked and posted, but the info I am finding seems mixed time wise and I have heard there have been recent changes to the GAC policy.

The short version: Possible ruptured achillies tendon, put in a knee high big boot for 4-6 weeks (MRI planned and recheck after we get back from WDW). AUGH!! I thought a few shots of Cortisone would fix me for the trip....no go

So I am actually clunking around pretty good the last 4 days, no pain for once, however I am getting worried about the amount of walking and standing that will be occurring on this well planned (to the point of obsession) trip and the pain in other places that might occur from having my right side 2-3 inches higher (no shoes are making left/right even-just gotta deal with it)

I plan on giving it a go for the first couple of days and hopefully the whole vacation...however if it becomes a problem what is the procedure and what is offered in my situation?

Also does anyone know if this boot will cause a problem fitting on rides like Aerosmith RRR, or space mtn. ect. I assume I will have to bring a plastic bag to cover it for water rides...I feel like an idiot as there are so many that truly need the assistance...suggestions?

thanks again...

 

Earstou

DIS Veteran

Joined

Feb 18, 2003

• Jul 1, 2015

• #2

As someone who just got out of a boot last week, I suggest you use a wheelchair or scooter. I ended up with knee, hip and back issues due to the height difference. I'm still dealing with the hip issue, making it hard to rebuild endurance. You can try doing without, but have rental information handy so you can get one at the last minute if you want/need one.
Towards the end of wearing my boot, I would take it off while riding in our compact car, so that I didn't have to have my leg twisted to get my foot to fit. Could you possibly do this on rides? You would need some way to secure your boot, maybe a backpack, not sure as I don't ride rollercoasters anymore?!

 

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hcipi

Mouseketeer

Joined

Feb 1, 2013

• Jul 1, 2015

• #3

Thanks- good things to think about. I have been reading about availability of wheelchairs/EVC. I have been concerned with the hip/back issues I have heard that develop with walking in the boot.
Right now standing is weird, I seem to tip over once in awhile!! I will have to hang on to a member in our group for stabilization I guess!
Although the boot can come off, it is big and clunky, I don't think any back pack will fit it! I will figure something out I guess-

 

Earstou

DIS Veteran

Joined

Feb 18, 2003

• Jul 1, 2015

• #4

Yes, I had a lot of trouble adjusting to my big clunky boot. It was on my right foot, and sometimes I would just suddenly veer off to the left! I got it in March, and finally did get used to it. I learned to rest and walk on the heel, as that was the only flat spot on the bottom of the boot. If I was walking a distance, I would do the heel to toes gait, but it really took a while to perfect it. I was very entertaining to watch until I adjusted.
Wish you the best of luck with it!

 

gap2368

DIS Veteran

Joined

Feb 27, 2015

• Jul 1, 2015

• #5

I would get a wheel chair or a scooter as you would not qualify for a DAS card most rides you can go in the normal line depending on how tall you are you may have problems getting in some rides ( space M comes to mind) but I think you should be fine it might take you some extra time

 

JennyDrake

Darkwing Duck's Biggest Fan

Joined

Aug 8, 2000

• Jul 1, 2015

• #6

As someone who ruptured her Achilles just two years ago, GET THE ECV.

Walking in the boot will be brutal and will make your hip and knee hurt.

 

nikkislaght

DIS Veteran

Joined

Feb 19, 2012

• Jul 1, 2015

• #7

Been in a boot more times than I care to remember and unless you buy a wedge and walk around on for the whole time, you will get hip and back issues. And walking around Disney Ina wedge and boot will not give you the happy memories you would be wanting. Get a scooter or wheelchair, off site so you can use it to and from your hotel. You will not qualify for a DAS as its called now, as you will be considered a guest with mobility issues and will be able to use the alternative extrance anyway, you will be given a return time, or get fast passes. And if at the park your body gives out on you they will tell you to rent one of their chairs, and if it's later in the day , there may not be any available..
Hope you have a great trip

 

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hcipi

Mouseketeer

Joined

Feb 1, 2013

• Jul 1, 2015

• #8

ok, all options considered..If I were to rent a wheelchair or evc could it be delivered to resort? We are doing ME and will not have a car. I did read you can rent from Disney for "length of stay"...is that easier?
Thanks again!!!

 

Earstou

DIS Veteran

Joined

Feb 18, 2003

• Jul 2, 2015

• #9

Usually it's easier to rent off-site and they do deliver.
For more info I suggest reading the FAQs on the disAbilities board.
Wheelchair and evc info is in the second post there.

http://www.disboards.com/threads/di...disabled-1st-trip-next-trip-wish-trip.595713/

 

seashoreCM

All around nice guy.

Joined

Aug 25, 2001

• Jul 2, 2015

• #10

"So I am actually clunking around pretty ..."

A walking cast or boot should be used sparingly unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Use a wheelchair or scooter the rest of the time which, during a day at a Disney park, could be over 90% of your movement.

Picture yourself with a wheelchair (or scooter) as you tour the park. What snags can you envision yourself getting into prior to boarding a ride and excluding jeering from bystanders? If none then you are not a candidate for a DAS.

A ride is not suitable for your condition if you can envision yourself getting into a snag while riding and with nobody near you.

 

Last edited: Jul 2, 2015

JennyDrake

Darkwing Duck's Biggest Fan

Joined

Aug 8, 2000

• Jul 2, 2015

• #11

I highly recommend Walker Mobilty. They will deliver to your resort and you meet them there to get your wc or ECV. They were very nice and courteous when I used them. Much less expensive than renting from WDW AND VERY IMPORTANTLY you have the wheels from your room to the bus stop to the park to the inside of the park.