I am wondering whether to get back to running sooner than a year if running on groomed trails might be an acceptable option. I am speaking about those with no roots, rocks, etc. and beautifully groomed with soft wood chips. I know after years of running on the roads the pounding our joints take a toll (otherwise I wouldn't be here

)and there is certainly less pounding on well groomed trails.
My post op protocol indicates that at 2 weeks an elliptical trainer is fine to use. So the motion is the same as running for the most part less the pounding.
I am going to get Dr. Clarke's take on the groomed trails when I see him on Tuesday. Not that I am ready yet but I would like to resume running at my 6-month mark but definitely do not want to screw anything up!
Actually I enjoy trail running more than the roads anyway so I hope this will be an option.