I didn't really have any pain until about 5 days beforehand. It took 2 trips to ER before they figured out what was going on and told me I needed to get to U of F Shands hospital ASAP. I happened to get a surgeon who studied at Mayo Clinic. I don't like pain meds, so I only took 1/2 Tramadol every 4-6 hours along with Tylenol and used lots of ice for pain. I started out in wheelchair, but able to.use walker before leaving hospital. Now I use rollator walker in the house mostly and crutches when I go out. Doesn't make me feel as old, haha!. I'm learning to use 1 crutch or cane and practice in the house every day. I ride upright bike 30 mins twice daily and started walking on treadmill a month ago. I did 1/2 mile today in 18 mins. It's hard work on treadmill and really gets my heart rate up, but I walked on treadmill daily for the past 35-40 years and I want to again! I also have about 45 mins of strengthening exercise I do daily too. Thank God I'm retired and can dedicate this much time. It's a lot of work, but it's worth it in my opinion! So whatever happens in surgery, you can get better and heal. Keep me posted. ...Cindy