Yeah, start out small, I had surgery on my right ankle, when I broke both bones in it, and I couldn't even touch the floor with my toe for six weeks.(doctors orders) I didn't sew for months, and I still have trouble with the ankle swelling some. I also have back trouble, so I sew a little, lay down, and rest my back and ankle, and then sew a little more. I pray you get well soon, good luck to you. Your table runner is sooo awesome.