Shoulder surgery and driving

[ARB1977]

Those of who had shoulder surgery, I'm having rotator cuff surgery. Since I can't hold the wheel with both hands have you guys used one of those knobs that attach to the steering wheel?

Thanks

 

[earlyre]

steering wheel spinners are Technically illegal in many states w/o a prescription. so check your local laws, and check with your doc for a scrip for "medical equipment"

I did used to work with a guy who had one, but he only had one arm that really worked.
The other was atrophied, basically "gimpy" couldn't really do much with it.. so he had to have an automatic trans, and the spinner.

never mind.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brodie_knob
http://www.suicideknob.net/state_laws.html

 

[Fleetmon]

FWIW....I have bursitis and I use a spinner on my tractor with p/steering. It is MUCH easier and less painful after steering around for six hours while mowing.

 

[Boomer]

I think these are illegal in some states. Check local laws before you put one on your car.

 

[IndyIan]

I imagine you could get a medical exception? Also I was thinking that putting a ring on the inside edge of the wheel would allow you to steer with a couple fingers through that, but not hook your sleeve like a knob could.
On my tractor I just palm it, to steer with one hand while running the loader with the other, but it wouldn't work well for emergency maneuvers.

 

[72te27]

I've had both rotator cuffs repaired. I've driven with both of them, a week post surgery. With power steering it simply wasn't a problem. Took a 12 hour road trip to NYC with the left arm in a sling. (I'm right handed.) Driving on the interstate and in downtown NYC presented no issues. Then again, no emergency maneuvers were required while driving.

You always put yourself at risk when you get in a vehicle post surgery, just like you do prior to the repair. You certainly increase the risk some amount when you drive with one arm unuseable. You have to assess your situation and ability. YMMV.