Having trouble with the of an ECV

[appleorchard]

I'm early 60s and overweight, never have used an ECV at Disney. My DH does since he has post liver-transplant bone issues. But I've done somthing to the ball of my foot--mostly likely some type of tendonitis or bursitis and can barely walk on it. We leave Thursday for Disney!

I know the simple answer is to rent an ECV. But I'm normally able to handle walking and am embarrassed both at the idea of using one and the fact that I might drive badly! Also don't want any whispered comments about being overweight and using an ECV out of laziness. I'm really resisting this! And I'm a nurse, I know I'm being an idiot. Anyone else deal with this? Did you get over it once you were there? So many people have such serious problems I feel bad about even taking up an ECV for this--but I really am having a hard time walking.

Any words of wisdom for me? I would greatly appreciate them!

 

[Mrsjvb]

the bigger issue is your lack of experience using one.. practice before you leave at your local grocery store or wally World.

I found it was more the lack of familiarity that is the biggest hassle.. I watched once while 2 ladies traveling together each in their own ECV literally break the housing off of one and ram into the bench at Tiki Room so hard she fell out of the ECV. also NUMEROUS times I saw people get stuck in lines because they couldn't maneuver around tight corners.

Disney's standard response: RENT ONE period. if you have issues walking. you won't be the first and you won't be the last.

 

[of2dbeach]

we rented one off site for my mom . she had knee replacement surgery a few years ago. she can walk pretty good but not far and not at a fast pace. She has since gotten a Dx of Emphasemia (i know i spelled it wrong ) she was super nervious using it. She had to go from the lobby to the room so she drove it and i drove behind her in the SUV. yeah we prob looked like nuts.she did fine till she had to get it into the room then I had to do it or pay for room repairs .She did fine at Disney untill we wanted to go to Epcot and we went on the monorail. She wanted me to drive it in and the cast member said Nope its yours you hafta drive it in. She did ok was scared then didnt let go of the button and almost went out the other side of the door! ok yes I grabbed her.. was pretty funny to watch and we warned her to take it slooowly. At Epcot they have an elevator to get back down from the monorail so we did that and it seemed easier then fighting the people . you will do just fine. take it slow and easy till you know how it all works. practice at walmart like the other poster said.drink lots of water and wear sun screen on your face and back of your neck. Moms neck got burned even though she wore a floppy hat.once you let go off the button it stops automaticly. not a jaring kinda stop, just a quick soft kinda stop. Hope this helps you .

 

[appleorchard]

Thanks--I'm having an MRI tomorrow and if there's no tendon rupture or fracture my foot doc will inject cortisone. He'll also give me a stiff-soled sandal that can be adapted to the painful area. Of course, this will happen the day before we leave if not the morning that we leave-ugh! I've watched my DH handle the ECV for the last 5 years, you'd think I would know what to expect. I'm a very good driver in real life lol.

 

[ttintagel]

I broke my foot on my last trip and ended up using one; sister uses one at the parks since a spinal injury. I was worried about getting dirty looks at first, but by the end of the first day I was so over it. I picked up the controls quickly, too. The only real problems I remember having were people running out in front of me when there was no humanly possible way to stop in time, parents allowing their kids to play on ramps and climb on railings, or folks just not seeing me because I wasn't at their eye level. Anyone gets unpleasant with you, just give 'em a big smile.

One time a little boy looked at me and said, "I want one of those!" His mother or grnadmother made a sour face and said, "Yeah, must be nice." I gave them a big smile and said, "Yeah, it's great having a broken foot! Do you want to trade legs with me?" The little boy laughed, but the mother looked suitably abashed!

 

[I Love Pluto]

PLEASE put it OUT of your mind that you don't deserve to feel less pain. You DO deserve to have some comfort on your vacation. The use of an ECV - and what other people think - should not be a stress. The ECV should make things EASIER for you, not cause more issues.

We all have weight issues from time to time. Many of us - especially those with mobility problems - go up & down in weight from medications & from lack of exercise (that hurts too much to do). It is NOT your fault. Forgive yourself. You will lose the weight, but not overnight!

Secondly - when you get your ECV - ride it around the resort, imagining the park crowds around you. Stop quickly for that imagined person in front of you. You can do it!!!

You'll feel a lot better in less pain!!! Now - be GOOD to yourself!

 

[appleorchard]

Well, my MRI is in a few hours, then I see my foot doc in the morning. I'll feel better if I have a visible sign of injury, like a surgical boot or something lol. It seems pretty inevitable that I'll have to use an ECV--the smallest amount of walking makes the foot and big toe swell up. Thanks, all!

 

[minkydog]

I'm early 60s and overweight, never have used an ECV at Disney. My DH does since he has post liver-transplant bone issues. But I've done somthing to the ball of my foot--mostly likely some type of tendonitis or bursitis and can barely walk on it. We leave Thursday for Disney!

I know the simple answer is to rent an ECV. But I'm normally able to handle walking and am embarrassed both at the idea of using one and the fact that I might drive badly! Also don't want any whispered comments about being overweight and using an ECV out of laziness. I'm really resisting this! And I'm a nurse, I know I'm being an idiot. Anyone else deal with this? Did you get over it once you were there? So many people have such serious problems I feel bad about even taking up an ECV for this--but I really am having a hard time walking.

Any words of wisdom for me? I would greatly appreciate them!

A few years ago we had plans to visit WDW at New Years. Unfortunately, I broke my ankle at Thanksgiving and was in a cast for several weeks. I got the cast off 4 days prior to our trip. So needless to say, there was NO WAY I was going to be able to walk the 5-8 miles/ day that a trip to WDW requires. Yes, I was youngish (about 50) and a little overweight, but my foot was about the size of a paint can and it hurt! So I got an ECV from an off-site vendor, they brought it to the hotel and showed me how to use it. I'm happy to say it was a God-send and I didn't run over a single person.

Do not worry about "taking up an ECV". If other people want an ECV so badly, they need to get there early or rent off-site. Frankly, I don't care what anyone thinks about me using an ECV. They don't know me. I don't feel the need to justify myself to anyone else. Without the ECV I would have been very limited in what I could do. The ECV helped me keep up with my kids and we all had a good time. That's what matters most to me.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Let's imagine for a second. It's not you having this problem with your foot but it's your loved DH or a dear friend. They come to you and tell you what you posted, about their worries because of their size and others. What would you tell them? I can bet it comes down to something in the line off "don't be so stubbornly nuts, off course you get an ECV. You need it, so you get it, what others think is their problem and not yours".

Am I right, or am I right? (I know, arrogance, but with this you can just predict the answer ).

OK, now for the real question in this all; why would you expect less for yourself and be harsher for yourself than you'ld be for anyone you hold dear? Taking care of yourself is also taking care of loved ones. Messing your trip up will mess DH's time up also. If you find it difficult to care properly for yourself, at least emotionally manhandle yourself into getting the ECV with the knowledge that DH will be so much happier than when having to deal with you stumbling around in pain.


As far as your driving skills go; you can practice. First times are most difficult and after a time or 2, 3 you'll know quick enough if you can do this safely or not. Go to a Walmart or something at home and try it out! It's less crowded, so easier to have a try. If you find some weak spots in your driving skills, knowing them is a nice step in the right direction. Most difficult for most is getting an ECV on and off a bus. Here you've got a great DH coming along that could offer assistance if need be. Renting offsite would be smartest, those tend to be easier to move around. Just make sure you keep the speed on the lowest possible level if having ANY worry about driving but KNOWING you are responsible.

 

[appleorchard]

Seeing the doc in an hour with MRI films in hand! Yes, I'm always on my mom's case because she won't go again because of all the walking and won't use an ECV! I know it's just crazy to be so stubborn--I wish Disney's scooter's weren't so darn big! We already requested a room near the elevator (BWV--a necessity!) for DH, so I'm hoping not to need one at the hotel. If I come back today with a cast on my foot, I will. But then I won't feel bad about using one lol.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Seeing the doc in an hour with MRI films in hand! Yes, I'm always on my mom's case because she won't go again because of all the walking and won't use an ECV! I know it's just crazy to be so stubborn--I wish Disney's scooter's weren't so darn big! We already requested a room near the elevator (BWV--a necessity!) for DH, so I'm hoping not to need one at the hotel. If I come back today with a cast on my foot, I will. But then I won't feel bad about using one lol.

Ah, so having a visable "reason" for needing the ECV would make it easier for you? That can easily be fixed, obviously!


Seriously though, consider the option! And also even when there isn't a fracture and/or reason for a cast some will find comfort when using a supporting stocking, bandage or whatever. Even more so when having the leg down for longer and gravity also coming into play. Discus it with doc to make sure there are no reasons why you might have to stay away from stuff like this. If OK and not needing a cast; consider trying it out to see if it might make you feel more comfortable.


Oh, and don't then drive yourself crazy with "ah, it feels better, so now I don't need an ECV".


*gives that sturn look*

 

[appleorchard]

I know, ridiculous, isn't it? No worries, though--I just got back from the doctor and I have a torn tendon and possible stress fracture. I'm in a walking boot for 4-6 weeks. So I have no choice but to get the scooter for the entire trip--even at the hotel. I already ordered it. You know you're in trouble when your doctor picks up the radiologist's report while looking at your MRI and says, "Wow, that's interesting" lol. I tore the flexor hallucis brevis muscle, no idea how. He says it's not a common injury and usually the result of trauma. I hurt myself frequently and just keep going so who knows how I did it. I had to have a tendon in my thumb repaired 3 years ago when I tore it taking off a pair of pants and catching it in the pocket! Yes, I'm a klutz and obviously a not too well put together one.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

I know, ridiculous, isn't it? No worries, though--I just got back from the doctor and I have a torn tendon and possible stress fracture. I'm in a walking boot for 4-6 weeks. So I have no choice but to get the scooter for the entire trip--even at the hotel. I already ordered it. You know you're in trouble when your doctor picks up the radiologist's report while looking at your MRI and says, "Wow, that's interesting" lol. I tore the flexor hallucis brevis muscle, no idea how. He says it's not a common injury and usually the result of trauma. I hurt myself frequently and just keep going so who knows how I did it. I had to have a tendon in my thumb repaired 3 years ago when I tore it taking off a pair of pants and catching it in the pocket! Yes, I'm a klutz and obviously a not too well put together one.

Ouch, harsh way to learn this lesson.

Practicle; look into getting a wheelchair for in the room. Has a MUCH smaller turning radius which you will find a huge help for getting around and actually still doing things like grabbing a brush, grabbing some clothes etc.

Reading about BWV, I'm assuming it's a DVC stay? That would probably be even more problematic -already is, this time out- but find out if you can still get an accessible room, pref. with a roll in shower. Not only will you be very glad with the space in the bathroom to get around safely for something as simple as using the toilet, but it's the easiest and safest way to shower from shower seat to wheelchair. Because let's face it; wet floor, one foot in a boot you need to stay off; that's asking for it for too many folks. (tip; MANY towels! Both before showering as a wall to stop the water as afterwards to kinda built a dry standing area before transferring.

If not available; ask for a showerseat. This can be put over the tub, which is a lot safer when showering then sitting down in the tub. Also getting out is loads safer. Discuss things with special needs, they can tell you what can and can't be helped with.

Elevating loads will be something you'll most likely appreciate. If so; don't feel bad to discuss said posibilities while in a restaurant (sometimes it's possible to get a table with one more seat, so you can elevate). But most of all; be realistic towards yourself! Don't overdo it, don't push yourself too much, don't rush yourself getting in and out of rides because others are waiting. Take the time you need to do it safely.

And if you want to remember this trip becoming interesting; have as many caracters as possible sign the boot. One of those plastic ones that don't tolerate signing? Have them sign the sock underneath, a cover up you made for it etc.


And as far as being a klutz; has any doc ever looked into it? Sometimes it's more than just being a klutz. I can do, and have done, all of the above. Used to be considered a klutz, until we knew there was a medical reason for it. Since I've been able to learn that there are multiple reasons besides just bad luck or Klutzwoman for this sometimes.

 

[appleorchard]

Darn, I really hadn't thought about how to manage the shower. I know they have WCs you can use at the hotels. We have a built-in shower seat at home. My DH just suggested that I should stay home! That's probably the reasonable option but who ever said DISers were reasonable about Disney. I guess going to the pool will be out, unless I can take the boot off right before I get in and put it back on as soon as I get out. Sounds like more trouble than it's worth. Too bad, I love the quiet pool at BWV.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Darn, I really hadn't thought about how to manage the shower.

You're not the first and will not be the last on that one.

I know they have WCs you can use at the hotels.

True. But honestly? They are beyond........ usable, IMHO. They are so worn down, at best they are very uncomfortable to use. Not so best, you could even run into material problems. Perhaps it's worth it to look around to friends and family? If anybody has one sitting around or knows about one that you could rent free or cheapdirt? You can fly it in without having to pay for it or count towards your bagage. Which leaves me wondering; are you flying? If so another thing to already put some things in place for; flying with your boot.

We have a built-in shower seat at home. My DH just suggested that I should stay home!

DH means well. Probably the safest thing when klutzy ;-) but he wouldn't stay at home either. Seriously though, a roll in shower would be perfect but if none is available, there are enough showerseats to request. Can already be done from home, if need be repeat at check in. Not perfect such a seat and tub, but so much easier and safer. If you forgive being stubborn while down there, you should be able to enjoy showering without needing any well..... medical help.

That's probably the reasonable option but who ever said DISers were reasonable about Disney.

We're biast, obviously! But won't tell DH that. No seriously; it'll be a totally different thing for you, seeing how it's not a normal thing for you. But it can be done, esp. when you realise your limitations, use aids and ask for help where need be. It'll be different but can still be an amazing trip .

I guess going to the pool will be out, unless I can take the boot off right before I get in and put it back on as soon as I get out.Sounds like more trouble than it's worth. Too bad, I love the quiet pool at BWV.

With some boots that's an option but with a tendon rupture I doubt that would be a smart thing to do. You will move your leg as soon as you're not immobilized and even a smallest movement can ruin any healing that just began. Definately discuss this with your doc before trying it out yourself (whether for swimming or anything else).

But; not to give up! There are swim "gloves" available at pharmacies etc. that you can use to keep the boot safe. You simply put them over the boot and you're done. They're made for plaster casts and alike, so will keep you dry when just peacefully swimming around. Just make sure you get into and out of the pool in a safe way. Not sure about the options at BWV, but either there will be a lift, bump steps or zero entry pool. Sane and safe all are options that you can either use alone or with some assistance. Might just be that the quiet pool is too troubling as those features tend to be found at the main pool and not quiet pools.

 

[utterrandomness]

You know you're in trouble when your doctor picks up the radiologist's report while looking at your MRI and says, "Wow, that's interesting" lol.

When my sports med received my MRI results for my knee last March, she said, and I quote "Oh my gosh, how are you still walking?!", so I know how that is.

I'm also having trouble with the idea of using an ECV at Disney, but people already stare at me for using the priority seating on the bus so hopefully I'll be used to it by then.

I'm sorry to hear about the walking boot, I've heard they can be a pain.

The shower takes some practice, but it gets easier.

 

[appleorchard]

Does anyone know how the buses are working these days--do you wait in the regular line or still wait in the ECV spot? Fortunately, we won't have to deal with this often; we can take the boat or just "drive" to HS and Epcot from the Boardwalk, and we're moving to BLT for the last two days and can monorail or just "drive" to the MK from there. AK and DTD are our only two problematic areas.

 

[PFW]

If you are going to be using the portable shower seat ask them for a handheld shower head as well. It would probably give you more control over things.

 

[appleorchard]

Great idea, thanks!

 

[appleorchard]

I shouldn't have worried so much about this--the scooter is great and I couldn't possibly have done this trip without it! To anyone who's agonizing over using one--don't worry about it! When you need it, it's a lifeasaver!