Al Ke,

Just a suggestion; if you are unsteady with a cane, you can go to a walker or a rollabout, that may ease there concern. But I agree with everyone else, your doctor needs to be very specific. (ie the heater, how long to sit, stand, stoop, bend, etc.)
I also was driving with my left foot. I don't believe this was ok, but I really wanted to be at work.