Question regarding nerve damage and endurance for standing/running

Hello everyone, I’m new to this forum, and I hope to undergo surgery later this year with Dr. Paley.

Two months ago, I informed my parents separately about my decision to have the surgery. Initially, they expressed some concerns. I reassured them by mentioning that the procedure I selected has a success rate of at least 95% and that I have taken steps to minimize the risks.
– I am only planning to lengthen my femur by 5.5cm, a relatively low-risk procedure based on the positive experiences of other community members and discussions with Dr. Paley’s team.
– I have been stretching daily for four months leading up to the surgery to reduce strain on my body during the rehabilitation phase.

Eventually, both of my parents agreed. I have already made the necessary payments and arranged for a caretaker whom I stayed with when I was young.

However, last Tuesday, my mom called me in tears, urging me not to risk becoming disabled just to increase my height. She believed I was making a rash decision and that only a mother could caution me against a choice I might regret and suffer from in the future. Despite her emotional state, I tried to discuss the matter with her calmly, but reason was difficult to establish at that moment. I listened to her, reflected on her words, and assured her that I would delve deeper into the subject based on her concerns.

Subsequently, my dad also reached out, expressing his worries about the painful nature of the surgical and rehabilitation processes. I had previously explained to him that the surgery would be performed under anesthesia, and with the use of painkillers, the overall process would be manageable if I diligently followed the rehab regimen.

It seems that this surgery is particularly challenging for parents to come to terms with. It felt as though two separate magnets suddenly aligned, with my parents unifying in opposition. Without conducting any prior research, they simply dismissed my decision due to perceived dangers and discomfort.

Nevertheless, some of the concerns they raised resonated with my own insecurities for which I lacked sufficient information or insights from other patients’ experiences.

Firstly, I came across information regarding nerve pain in a booklet provided by the Paley Institute.

– Nerve Injury
– Nerve injury can occur in any limb lengthening surgery but is rare if the distraction rate does not exceed 1mm per day and if the lengthening is limited.
– In case of motor symptoms (muscle weakness or paralysis), prompt nerve decompression surgery is recommended, typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
– Due to the exceptional rate control of the PRECICE system, nerve injuries are highly uncommon.
– While this complication is rare, if it occurs, there is no treatment aside from allowing the nerve to recover naturally, which it often does.
Additionally, I read in a patient’s diary:
– Many patients experience nerve pain during the lengthening phase.
– Nerve pain episodes typically occur during the 2-5.5cm growth period.

One major concern of mine, which I could not find sufficient information on, is:

1. Does nerve pain completely fade away after 1-2 years, or could there be occasional sharp pains even years after the surgery? Considering the numerous nerves, muscles, and bone mass involved in the procedure, can they heal sufficiently?

2. Particularly as we age, might the operated areas experience heightened pain, especially in cold or humid weather conditions?

Given my involvement in acting, I am also anxious about:

3. Post-surgery and after a year or more of recovery
– Will I be able to stand for prolonged periods? Or will my stamina or ability to stand diminish?
– How will my running endurance be affected? Can I expect a significant decrease, based on others’ experiences?

As filming TV shows or movies may require standing for extended hours, up to 7-8 hours a day, and may involve running or action scenes, these concerns weigh heavily on me.

Thank you for taking the time to read through this. I would greatly appreciate any shared information or personal experiences. With the surgery approaching soon, I am under immense stress… ;-;

Best regards,
Tom