Nursing Instructor with severe foot problems

Published

Hello all,

I quit my full-time faculty job at a university due to my foot problems and took up a position as an adjunct at a community college so I would not have the same time committment. This semester, however, I had to decline that assignment too due to severe foot ache, and overuse injury.

I know I was born for teaching. My students and supervisors love me, but I cannot go on, as Nursing requires 12 hour shifts and I cannot do those anymore. I am devastated, but out of choices.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

Have you thought about working for an online nursing school such as Western Governors University? I have a friend who used to be a member here and she loves it. She works from home (no 12-hr shifts) and doesn’t have to be on her feet at all to do her job. You have to be careful that the school is accredited, so do your research. But if I were in your place as a professor, I’d definitely look into it. Good luck!

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).

What is the source of your foot pain? Can anything be done?

 

Up Vote Up Vote ×
On 4/17/2022 at 8:14 AM, hppygr8ful said:

What is the source of your foot pain? Can anything be done?

 

It is a combination of being flat footed and bad posture due to resulting injuries.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).
7 hours ago, feelix said:

It is a combination of being flat footed and bad posture due to resulting injuries.

Sounds Like my foot problems. I take vitamin D and Fish oil under the direction of my Physician. that and evening soaks in warm water with Epson salts. Yesterday I got a Thai massage which helped. This is what works for me so not medical advice. Always consult with your health care provider before starting a new regimen. 

 

Hppy

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Physical Therapy helped a little. But I will try Vitamin D and fish oil. Thank you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hmmmm!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am on physical therapy now and it is making a world of a difference. Let's see.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in oncology.
1 hour ago, feelix said:

I am on physical therapy now and it is making a world of a difference. Let's see.

I have always had left leg calf pain (from my 20s to my 60s). I just thought I had to live with it after meeting with MDs (just stretch they said). Well in  Mid April I fell getting up to go to the bathroom. Did NOT have hip pain until mid May. Finally gave in and went to the MD in June. It turned out I have 6 pelvic fractures, diagnosed mid June. Those fx are healing but I met a great PT along the way....She is dry needling my calf.. Amazing! I get up in the morning, apply the heating pad and am able to walk pain free by the afternoons. 

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in oncology.
8 hours ago, feelix said:

I am on physical therapy now

Had physical therapy again today.

Back History: I had broken my hip in 2016 on outside steps after an ice storm. My Ortho surgeon says it was the most stressful (and lucrative) weekend in his life. I will agree. the number of broken hips/legs/arms etc exceeded 100 that weekend and he was the trauma surgeon on call. My physical therapy afterwards  was minimal. Yes, I had to ride a stationary bike for 20 minutes, then walk 'heel to toe' for another 20. (I always commented was this so I could get out of a DUI?)

Last month  I was referred to my previous ortho surgeon with my 6 pelvic fractures and we went down memory lane.    I am bringing this all up because he recommended me to a physical therapy group that was specific to pelvic injuries. First I though it was misguided as the specialty was 'pelvic floor problems'. When I made my appointments I kept saying 'am I in the right place? I have never had a pregnancy, no dyspareunia, no bladder problems."  I found I am in the very right place....so many exercises to strengthen my girdle muscles, to strengthen normal pelvic muscles,  to keep myself balanced. 

My reason for this post is ....choose your PT programs wisely. Your rehab depends on it

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion