Upon arrival to the outpatient center they fit me in a surgery robe and assigned me a bed where I was plugged into a heart rate monitor and given IV fluids. I was also interviewed by the anesthesiologist who explained the whole procedure. After about an hour, during which nurses frequently stopped to chat and joke a little bit to release the tension, they shaved my leg and took me to the operating room.
Being my first surgery I have to say that seeing the operating room was a pretty intimidating moment. There’s plenty of complicated equipment around, and the light is very, very strong. And there, in the middle of it all is the operating table. At that point it is hard not to feel a little bit scared. Fortunately they gave me a plastic mask to put over my nose and mouth and told me to breath slowly.
The next thing I remember is opening my eyes after surgery, already in the recovery room. I noticed that I had the same walking boot I had before the surgery (like my doctor had said) but this time I also had a heavy bandage underneath it. They finally gave me some apple juice, made me go to the bathroom, sign my discharge papers and let me go home.
Once home, I crutched my way to bed, had something to eat and checked my emails in my laptop. For precaution, I took a couple of Vicodin for the pain, which was not so severe. I have to tell you that I was very concerned about the pain, since I had read horror stories about unbearable pain in several blogs. However, I never really experienced excrutiating pain, to the point that by the third day I decided to discontinue the Vicodin.
71 comments:
I never really felt any of the terrible pain either. I took maybe 3 vicodin total in the days following the surgery and after that nothing.
Just had my surgery yesterday (Nov.29). Thanks for posting your story- the blog site-because it helped me to understand what was happening to me and I felt more prepared going into surgery. You're lucky you felt no pain- mine hurts like a mother F-er. I'm taking the pain meds they gave me but they don't help much. Hopefully I'll have some relief soon!
Emily:
I hope you feel better. Let us know how it goes.
Best,
Mario.
To Emily: I had the surgery just over two weeks ago and I have been in non-stop pain that has been getting worse. At first Vicodin worked for the "surgical pain" -- which wasn't that bad and did go away, but it wasn't doing anything for the other pain. I constantly feel burning, pressure, throbbing sharp stabbing, etc.(It wakes me and haunts my dreams!) I saw the doctor. He said that is because the nerve is traumatized -- he had to move it during the surgery. (I had the fully open surgery) and that it can take about 3 months before it will completely calm down. He suggested Neurontin or Lyrica (but I can't take them). I wanted to share this with you in case this is the type of pain you ar experiencing -- as nerve pain isn't responsive to Vicodin, ibuprofin, etc. If this is the type of pain you have you may want to discuss this with your doctor. Good luck to you. I know I'm going nuts and searching the internet for any ideas!
Has anyone done the 1st week of recovery without assistance - ie: no wife around to assist? Both in family are military and wife has to deploy for 10 days. Just wondering if going alone is doable after surgery and any advice folks may have.
Anonymus @ Dec 04:
Definitely I wouldn't recommend not having anybody around to help on week #1. It is probably the most difficult week of all. For the first three weeks, due to the fact that the tendon hasn't healed yet, any little accident can be a big step back. I would go to a friend's house or even pay somebody to hang around for a week and help out.
Rgds,
Mario.
Well, it has now been 7 days since my surgery. So far, I seem to be making some stupid misktakes. Fortunately, I'm not in much pain at all now. I was prescribed Oxycodone, which turns out, is an opiate. After five days of taking it exactly as prescribed, and finally feeling pretty good, I went off of it. And then I had the worst withdrawl for two days! I really should have done more research prior to taking it, because, not knowing I shouldn't have, I quit cold turkey. For the past 7 days I have been resting and elevating religiously, only getting off of the bed to get to the bathroom. Now, I am paranoid about blot clots. Am I resting too much? Week one is over, should I be up and around on my crutches more? I plan to return to work 6 weeks after the surgery. But, is that too soon? I am in a soft cast/splint for the time being, which is itchy and uncomfortable but I see my doctor tomorrow so hopefully it will be removed and I'll get the boot to wear. Thanks for the comments + well wishes!
Emily: Are you taking Aspirin? My doctor prescribed it for the two weeks following the surgery, since it makes your blood thinner and reduces the possibility of blood clots. Check with your doc...
At six weeks you probably can go to work, but most likely you'll still be in crutches. If you have a desk job and somebody can give you a ride you should be OK (but always check with your doctor first).
I'm 10 days out of surgery and doing well. I had a little over a week between my initial injury and surgery. That week was a bit painful but I stayed of it and as long as it was elevated I was ok. After the surgery was a different story, from the moment I woke up in the recovery room I immediately felt pain. I got some advice from the nurse there to stay ahead of the pain which really helped. I was given Percocet and took it every four hours for the frist 4 days, even having my wife set an alarm to wake up and take it in the middle of the night. This worked well because if you miss a dose or take one lat it takes a few doses to regain control over the pain. I'm now 10 days out and not in much pain at all. The boredom is killing me though.
I ruptured my left Achilles tendon on Dec. 7 and had surgery on Dec. 14. The pain was not bad. I took two Tylenol the night of the surgery and three ibuprofin the following day. That was it.
My staples were removed on Dec. 27 and my plaster cast was replaced with a fiberglass one, which I will have for four more weeks. Then I will begin PT.
I have been moving quite a bit on crutches since the surgery. My calf would swell daily and I would elevate and rest it for a few hours for relief.
The past few days I have felt some throbbing in the mid-calf area. If I elevate my leg it goes away. At times when my leg is not elevated or I am crutching around then I feel no discomfort. It is sporadic throbbing that can be relieved through rest and elevation.
Anybody else experience the same. I do not think that I have a blod clot, but I guess that possibility exists? Maybe I have been doing too much movement? Maybe the throbbing is the tendon healing? Any ideas?
They gave me 2 types of anesthesia for my op. They gave me a "knee block" first before going into the OR and once in the OR they gave me the general. After waking up..the knee block had my leg "dead" from the knee down which had me paranoid bc I couldnt move nor feel me leg. I didnt stay ahead of the pain immediately after surgery and when the knee block wore off it felt like my leg was in a fire and was burning uncontrollably!! Other than the first 2 days i havent felt any pain other than the occasional throbbing from standing up after 6 - 8 hours of layin down.
Hi Everyone,
I had my full rupture on Dec 6th, surgery on Dec 14th. The actual rupture didn't hurt very much, nor did the post-surgery...although it took me FOREVER to wake up.
When I woke up, I had on a big splint, and attached to this splint was some plastic wrap that was attached to this tank of water that was supposed to ice down my calf (I could hardly feel any cold at all since my splint was underneath it). Has anyone else been prescribed this piece of equipment? Nevertheless, they sent me home with this, and the first thing I did when I got home was unhook the thing so I can crutch around the house. Also, I just received a $1k bill for this and my walking boot. My insurance paid $300, and I'm responsible for the rest.
Has anyone ever been prescribed this piece of equipment, and is this something I can fight?
Does anyone else feel blood rushing to the area after taking their leg off the pillow and to the floor?
hi !
yes, I do feel a blood rush everytime I stand up and try to go to the bathroom.... the leg feels hot.... very uncomfortable.... you too??
Had my surgery on the 6th March the pain wasnt to bad at first just managed on paracetamol.Had my stitches removed on day 12 an the pain seems to have got worse, i get the usual throbbing and burning now it feels really sore on the heel not sure if this is normal or whether to go back to the hospital anyone else experienced simillar pain.
Yes I feel the blood rush everytime i stand up as well. I hope it is a normal feeling and something that goes away because it bothers me for a second when I feel that way. I am glad other people feel it too. DOes anyone know what a blood clot feels like?
(T.D. 27 yo f)I had my surgery on 3/11 and I was in a splint and then 2 different casts for 6 weeks. I got my last cast off on this past Friday (4/25) and got a boot. I still can't walk though! I started physical therepy this week. I was told that I could do total weight bearing, but it's very difficult. Are any of you walking yet? How long did it take? Any suggestions on what to do to help w/ full weight bearing?
The first 3 days are painful after the surgery. I feel better now but can't wait to get this cast off. I am so bored!!
I just had surgery this past Tuesday (5/6) and my pain was really only bad for the first two days after surgery. I am actually ready to go back to work tomorrow (desk only and elevated). My toes turn purple from the swelling of standing on my feet whenever I get up - is this do to swelling? Will it go away?
About 18 hrs ago I had surgery to repair my Achilles rupture. The anesthesia wore off about 7 hours ago and ever since I have been experiencing the most severe throbbing pain where I had the surgery. I have been taking Vicodin regularly for the past 12 hours but it does not seem to have any effect. Can't sleep, am just waiting for the doctors office to open so I can call them. Any suggestions anyone?
I completely ruptured my right achilles in Rwanda and had to
struggle home to canada for surgery.Mine hurts like a bastard and am requesting demerol to alleviate pain and help me sleep.Maybe it was the 40 hrs of travel to get back that did not help!!Elevation seems to help but I think the wound under a cast is not perfect.Hopefully I can share my experiences as whilst waiting in heathrow for 8 hrs I found this site and it helped a lot! Good luck all you'll be hearinjg from me!
By the way I forgot to say my surgery was exactly 24hrs ago.Felt good last night but today,my God it is hot,stinging and sharp.Hope this will subside in the next few days.I cannot believe others got away with a few Vicodin.About an hour ago I would have tried street drugs!!
Have my demerol and now controlled pain.I was fully open due to the ragged edges to be joined and less chance of nerve damage,or so I was told.I told my surgeon I did not care about a scar just do a good job so that I do not risk going through all this again.
Anyway will be on here regularly as have alot of elevated leg time!
I ruptured my tendon on 4/29 and had my surgery on 5/8. I think the most painful part for me was the pain block, to block the pain from the knee down. It took about 5 tries to find the right spot. I never experienced a pain quite like that, it was a burning pain. My surgery was at 9am and I did not start to feel pain until about 7pm. I was told by the nurse to let them know when I had the first sign of pain and I think that is the key to keeping the pain under control. It is know 2 weeks after the surgery and i still am in the spint. Sometimes I do still feel the occasional stinging, it feels like the pain I felt with the block. Has anyone else experienced this? Other than that, I have really experienced no pain. I was perscribed Vicodin every 6 hrs, but now only take it before bed to help me sleep. I am starting to get bored, but I'm glad I have my computer. Can't wait until this is all over.
Had surgery 3 days ago. The pain is not that bad, I woke up this morning and the top of my foot is swollen huge. I imagine the rest of my foot is too, but I have the splint on. DId anyone else's foot swell huge after the 3rd day?
its gonna be swollen for a while so keep it iced and elevate
Hello I just ruptured mine today while playing basketball. Im in a cast right now and im anxiously waiting to get the surgery done. Ive read a bit so far, but how long can i really expect to be off of my foot. Im 30 years old and very athletic.
Hello all! I too have ruptured my achilles. I did it while playing basketball over three weeks ago today. It's amazing how some of us has the same storie. I too had thought someone came down on my leg, it went numb and I hopped to the sidelines. I then went to the Urgent Care Center, near my house. He told me it was a muscle sprain. Gave me one day off!!! I work at a distribution center picking groceries for well... grocery stores. So it is a prodution job. Well, I took the rest of the week off thinking it was just a sprain. The next week I worked as usual. This past week I went to an orthopedic doctor and had my MRI done yesterday and found out it was torn. Im having surgery June 3. Im glad that I found a place to talk to people. Im very active, just turned 30 and dont know what Im going to do. Guess I will get out the 360 and start playing it...A LOT!!! Anything that I should expect being in a lot of pain??
Hi Gang,
I joined the AT rupture club at 10:38 am this past Sat. playing soccer. I am awaiting an appt. to see the Ortho. doc. I live alone and am hoping for the best in my post-op self care. Has anyone handled the post-op solo?
Thanks,
Wayne
I ruptured mine on June 21st while in an all out sprint and had surgery on July 2nd. You're all probably wondering why it was such a long wait. Well here it goes...
I was originally supposed to have surgery on June 27th (on my birthday... go figure), however whe I arrived at the hospital, they never put my appointment in the books. So they said that they would try to "squeeze me in". I told them no way that I'd want to get "squeezed" in. It's not like I'm getting a haircut. This is me walking normally for the rest of my life. So I left that place and my best friend here knew a good orthopaedist that was much closer to my house and was very well known. I went in to see him on July 1st and was under the knife on July 2nd.
Talk about nervous... I felt like a 5 year old getting his first shot and I'm 27! They gave me the nerve blocker and asked "do you feel anything?". I replied "it's starting to tingle a bit..." then I woke up in the recovery room with the walking boot already placed onto my leg. The nerve blocker was very awkward. I got a little nervous when it was almost 13 hours after surgery and still had zero feeling from my knee down. But by hour 16, I felt like Uma Thurman in Kill Bill as I sat there and said to myself "wiggle your big toe".
I was in pain for the first 12 hours after surgery and that was it. I told them that the pain killers they gave me (Norco) weren't doing the trick so the doctor prescribed me Dilaudid (a morphine). Talk about great! I took 2 and I felt awesome. I took about a 6 hour nap and woke up to just minor discomfort. A full 48 hours after surgery, I was in zero pain or discomfort.
Moving forward a week, I had my first post op appointment with the doc. As they removed the dressing, I found out I ha 17 staples in the back of my leg. Pretty cool looking if you ask me. Made me feel a little bad ass, not gonna lie. The incision was only about 2 inches long as compared to some others that I've seen. My foot itself wasn't swollen, however around the incision it still was. The doctor tested my ROM with it and he said that I'm making awesome progress. A week after surgery I could get my foot to go completely neutral without being in much discomfort at all. He said to come back in another week to remove the staples and we'd talk more.
On July 17th, I got my staples out. I'm going to have a scar, but it won't be noticable at all since it's so small. The doctor also gave me the green light to get my foot to a neutral position in my walking boot. I have one more layer to go with my boot, but otherwise I'm there. I'm still on crutches till the doctor says I can put weight on it (probably another month and some change... trying to be optimistic here!). I'm not in any pain or discomfort at all and haven't been since the 2nd day after surgery.
I will be checking in on this every day and marking my progress as my doctors appointments come and go.
I was at ski race camp and....(I'm a 45 yr. old single gal) I'm having my surgery tomorrow. This site has really helped me understand what I may expect. I've got a small tear (2.5 cent.) Not much pain, hopefully that'll continue after the surgery. I can't work until this is healed. I'm gonna go stir crazy after a couple of days!! I hope I can ski by Jan?! I guess racing may be out, this year?! I'm thinking of flying to my folks after a week or so, to rest. I hate to have them hangin at my 2nd floor condo for too long. Has anyone done this? Would this work? I want to fly back home for rehab, thou...
Hi all,
First off, this is a great site. Full of useful info and glad to learn about others experiences with this.
Im a 36yo male and had a full rupture on the left side while playing at the beach. Nothing special, just jogging into the water.
Anyway - I was taking the antibiotic Levaquin while this happened (8 days into a 14 day perscription). Turns out there's tons of info on Levaquin being implicated in tendon injuries.
In any case, seems like Dilaudid took the pain away much better than Perkoset.
So far im 2 days out and starting to feel a little better. Mostly painful when standing up. Elevating the leg seems to help a lot - no pain at all, just some boredom!
Thanks again for the great info!
I joined the club on September 7. I went down on my mountain bike and got my leg caught up under the bike in a nasty crash. Went to the ER. Was told I strained my calf and keep off it for a week. 2 weeks later I knew something else was wrong. I self diagnosed it as AT rupture and made an appt with the Ortho. HAd an MRI and found to have a 5cm complete rupture.
Had the surgery on the 25. So far the pain is manageable with the Percoset. But man I hate how it makes me feel. I am going to wean off it tomorrow at 3 days post op. I need to be back to work by Wednesday.
my husband just had the surgery today. he has been placed in a hard fiberglass cast. i was wondering what i have in store for me the next few weeks/months. he is planning to go back to work in 3 days. can i ice this cast down, or will the cold not get through? any advice greatly appreciated.
I was in a fiberglass cast too, for 3 months. Six weeks in the bulky post-op cast and then 3 in a smaller cast. The first 6 weeks, lots of elevation (even in bed at night) and ice packs at the top of the cast and around the toes. Rest & elevation will help keep the swelling down. Swelling inside the cast, around the ankle, can be uncomfortable. I stayed on top of the pain which only lasted about 4 days. The first few nights, even setting the alarm to take the Vicodin in the middle of the night. "Smooth Move" tea works well for constipation from the pain meds. (take at night before bed) I'm done with the brace that I had for a month, after the cast. Once the cast was off, I was swimming 4/week and walking in the pool. Do as the doc says....This isn't something you want to rush thru. I had my surgery in Aug. and he says I should be able to ski in Jan. I highly recommend buying a plastic shower bench (Bed Bath & Beyond) I placed it in the tub with my cast hanging over the edge and the shower curtain draped around/over my thigh. I also wrapped a towel around the cast with an ace bandage, just incase. Everything was pretty easy, just a hassle. You have to "think" about every movement and other people, around you. Food preperation and caring a coffee cup is a challenge and help is appreciated, but your husband should let you know what assistance he needs! I got sick of people asking if I needed help. I could get around fine, just a lot slower. I also had a lot of fun in the electic carts available, for use, at most stores! Good luck!
thanks for the great information! last night was difficult, after the nerve block wore off. my husband tried to tough it out without taking pain meds, despite the advice of the doctors, nurses and myself. your comment really helped though. i read it to him and he immediately iced and took the vicoden, so he agreed to stay on top of the pain from this point on. we also plan to set an alarm. glad to hear the severe pain should only last a few days. those carts do look fun! thanks for the info and heads up.
So glad to help. Not sure if you have children (I don't) but I did have a kidney stone, which they compare to child-birth. That pain was a lot worse than my Achilles! You'll have to relay this to your husband once he's feeling better! Elevate, elevate, elevate.....
The day of my surgery was a bit scary...I was checked in, prepped and ready to go. I just had to decide if I wanted the spinal or the General anesthetic. I know the GA has more risks but I wasn't sure if I wanted to be awake with the spinal and since the last spinal I had was during child labor, I wasn't sure If I wanted to feel the tendon being stretched during the procedure with my body half numb feeling the tugging. ell, they rolled me in and I started asking tons of questions about what they were doing and they made the decision for me...It was great..I woke up, felt like 10 minutes. I was glad my surgeon knocked me out..I'm sure I was talking too much and that's why. I recovered in another room and let the GA wear off and allow the morphine and tylenol 3 to do their job. I did warn them that I have a sensitivity to Tylenol 3 (codeine) and when I told them my IV monitor was talking to me they cut me off and tried regular tyleno. They decided to keep me over night to monitor pain and sure enough by morning I was begging for more Tylenol 3 and risked the weird hullucinations. I weined myself off by day 3 when I got home. Can't stand codeine!!!
I am now in my second cast and hopefully on the way to recovery. I had my surgery on Dec. 30. I am looking for to Feb 13th to get the cast off and go into a boot. I will start 3 times a week therapy. I never thought I would be riding around Walmart in a motorized cart but it works. I have been very careful and keep my leg elevated. I have not had any swelling and very little pain in the last few weeks. I have a new appreciation for all things I took for granted..Like taking a bath, getting dressed, just getting from one place to other. I am 57 years old and realize that this will not be a short journey but I am ready for the test..I want to be walking good by summer and be ready for my grandson to come to Texas for a visit...I enjoy reading this blog everyday...internet is wonderful..RheaS.
Hi everyone,
It's my first time posting. My story briefly: I'm 22, I ruptured my achilles playing soccer and had surgery on January 12th. I'm going on 4 weeks in my cast and I absolutely hate it. I'm scheduled to be in a cast for another 6 weeks, but after browsing through these posts it seems that I might benefit from getting into a weight-bearing boot sooner rather than later. I'm okay with being cautious with my recovery, but another 6 weeks on crutches seems unreasonable. Should I seek a second opinion from another doctor?
Hey Stephen,
There are varying degrees of treatment for this injury that I find suprising and it could be due to many different factors, and I'm certainly not a doctor but if what you're saying is 4 wks in hard cast and 6 more weeks to go in hard cast...I'd be concered for muscle atrophy for sure. I had 4 wks in hard cast and 3wks so far with walking boot with all wedges out and now partially in my own shoe assisted with crutches 80% of the time but hopefully build up my quadraceps above the knee as I'm feeling pain in the knee from walking without crutches and was really surprised at how quickly my calf shrunk( my surgeon called it a chicken leg) funny guy! It could depend on alot of factors but it sure wouldn't hurt to get another orthopedics opinion. Of course...I'm the patient that felt determined to go to the gym and try the stationary bike with my walking boot at 5 weeks and felt good. Didn't tell the doctor though until a couple of weeks later and he said "that's fine, your body will tell you when it's too much!"
Talk with your doc or get a second opinion, it will put your mind at ease!
I am in the Air Force and tore my achellis playing basketball. I was initially diagnosed with a talus bone fracture and torn ligiments in my ankle. The incident happened the 21st. Went to the doctor on the 23rd and was told to try to walk on it as soon as I could. I was not able to apply any pressure to the ball of my foot. Also i was told to come back in a month for a follow up appointment. Had I listened to the first doctor i saw, i would not be playing sports in a year. Anyways, I had the surgery 24 hours ago and today I have not been able to stand due to the pressure in my foot. Everytime I stand to crutch my way to the potty, I feel as if someone was sawing my foot off with a butterknife. The pain is unbearable and the vicotin is not quite working. Would this be a pain from nerve damage or is this normal?
I am 3 nights into post op froma fully ruptured achilles. I have been reading your blogs since Monday the night I tore it. Thank you for all of your stories & suggestions.
I am in a lot of discomfort & going through the Px Dilaudid like clock work every 2- 2.5 hrs. But my leg still manages to catch me off guard & swell before it is supposed to .
IMP QUESTION: I have been getting 3 so far in my 3rd night post op. Severe Spontaneous Muscle spasms in my calf(injured) my toes curl HARD & my achilles fires like no tomorrow. It lasts all of a sec, just enough to wake me up from a deep sleep. Thus creating more uncontrollable inflamation & pain.
I have increased my potasiu,(bananas) b12,vit d & selenium to help with my electrolytes. I have also be drinking my ultima(electrolyte beverage for long endurance marathons).
Please share any related experiences. I am scared to fall a sleep.
TO Annonymous AirForce
To answer your leg/foot pain question.
It is normal to feel that amount of pain in your lower leg when standing.
The achilles and back of your leg has been traumatized with cuttin,stiches, moving and pulling.
When our legs are elevated for prolonged periods of time, and then lower below horizontal the blood pools to the lower limb very rapidly, hence the heavy, burning and painful sensations that we get.
Additional movement during the first few days post op- any additional movement can trigger the bodies inflammation response.
I am one of the lucky that has had severe pain from day 1 of post surgery. I have resorted to only going to the bathroom for the potty.
I use a plastic urinal for peeing-this has decreased the amount of time I was spending going to the bathroom to pee. My leg could not take it. The meds are doing crazy things to my body & I can't keep up.
I am on an extremely regular Medication regime to help with the pain(I think I almost have it licked). With the dilaudid, pain killer, anti inflammatory meds and T3's. I have to eat dried prunes and take stool softeners to keep my body working internally. I slide myself across the room on my butt just to keep my leg elevated and then prop my leg up when sitting on the toilet.
I know this sounds like WAY too much information. But I have just had it with the discomfort & pain.
Steven,
Listen and trust your doctor. I had my surgery on Aug. 11th. I was in 3 different hard casts until Oct., moving towards neutral. My doctor told me I could go home and braid my leg hair after the last one came off! Then went into an adjustable brace and was able to wear a larger shoe. Sure I had atrophy, but it it's looking more normal every day and I'm hoping it'll be 100% in a year? As soon as the cast was off, I was in the pool, daily. Swimming, calf raises and walking. Started rehab in Nov. I went back to work on Dec. 31st (I'm a flight attendant) I spent a week skiing Steamboat Springs early in Jan. and am heading to Snowbird next week. The pool is GREAT rehab and listen to your doctor!!
"Smooth Move" tea is great for constipation from pain meds. Drink a cup in the evening and the next morning everything should work fine!
To Al,
One of the medications that my dr sent me home with was valium, for the muscle spasms. Your muscles (tendons) were severely traumatized during the surgery (and the injury) 5mg of valium (diazepam) will calm the muscles. So call your dr and tell him about the spasms. Used in conjuction with the pain pills (if you are still on them) makes for a very peaceful sleep.
I might also add the knee walker has saved me. It cost $100/mo to rent and it is worth every cent. I can zip around the kitchen, carry a drink to my spot on the sofa. Answer the door. Huge improvement on my quality of life.
To Colorado Tennis Player
Thanks for the tips. Can you tell me how the knee walker works. I am looking online for one and just trying to figure out logistics- outside etc.
Thanks
Al
I fully ruptured my achilles tendon playing tennis on 2/9, had surgery on 2/13. I have been keeping my leg elevated per instruction and am due to have my cast removed (hopefully) next Wed. My question--how soon do most people start exercising, rehab? Do I have to wait until my leg is weight-bearing?
I ruptured my achilles on January 10, and had the surgery on January 20 (missed Obama's big day). I had just started execercising again after having a baby 6 months ago. I went to the gym a couple of times, played soccer one night, and then went to play recreational dodge ball with a group of friends. I stretched out for everything but dodgeball. I've had 3 children, and this pain was about an 8 on the pain scale. More like spasms than constant pain.
At the ER, they did the "thompson test". You lie on your stomach with your feet hanging off the end of the bed. When they squeeze your calf, your toes should flex, unless your achilles is ruptured, in which case, you are in severe pain and toes don't move at all. Not fun.
My surgery was 10 days later, went well and they were able to get my foot back to "neutral" meaning my toes were not pointed down at all.
I woke up with a hard cast, which stayed on for only 10 days. Now I am in the boot, but not allowed to walk on it. They say I can put pressure on it, but no pushing off. But even just putting the boot on kills. I have alot of swelling, but am probably being more active than I should be. I have a hard time sitting still, and we have a baby and a 7 and 9 year old. I do "alphabet" exercises with my foot a bunch of times a day (trace the alphabet out in the air).
I was given vicodin, but stopped taking it on the second day as it was making me sick to my stomach. Ibruprofin has worked fine for the pain. I do have throbbing in my heel, and some painful tingling in the bottom of my foot when I touch it. I do keep a pillow under my foot all night, to remind me when I wake up, not to jump out of bed.
I'm starting PT next week, and am wondering how soon people are able to drive? It's my right foot. I'm hoping I can be weight-bearing in the boot starting next week (6 weeks post surgery) - but I have no idea. Everyone's stories vary so much! I'm also wondering what sort of PT people are doing? Hoping to start swimming soon, too.
2 tips for everyone:
my husband brought an office chair home (with wheels) home for me to get around the house with. I can push off with the good leg, and it allows me to get the baby out of her crib and get around the house alone, so this has been a big help. Before my chair, I had help from friends in 4 hour shifts to help with the baby everyday.
Our other big savior,was the website "carecalendar.org". My friends set up a calendar where friends could log on and sign up to bring dinner for you, or give you rides to the dr, bring groceries, or just visit. It was so easy and then people could just sign-up for whatever works for their schedules. We've never had so many great home-cooked meals!
Good luck to all!
I ruptured my achilles tendon on Tuesday. I am still waiting to have surgery. The doctors say i should have surgery saturday. I am wondering if i'm doing anymore damage by waiting so long... (even though i don't have a choice). I was also wondering just how long is the surgery?
I am having surgery on Tuesday march 3rd. This is a great sight. It helps to know what to expect. My question is, i am supposed to go to Scotland on June 17th for a 60th birthday golftrip. I am retired so when i start rehab I can work like hell. Do I have any chance of getting there??? you can e mail at brucelaff@aol.com
I ruptured my achilles tendon on Feb 12 in exercise class. Feb 17was surgery, and today begins the 5th wk of recovery. I always had the walking boot, I can't tolerate a cast and I advised my Dr from very beginning. He has 40 yrs experience so I felt I was in good hands. Had 2 post op appts, Feb 23and last one on Mar 6th, and Dr told me tendon was still intact and I was doing fine. I have been able to put some pressure on it with walking boot, of course, but I am nervous and don't want to overdo it. I am single as well, my mom came to help me out the 1st two wks and after that, I have been solo. Of course neighbors and friends have ran errands, taken me out the few times I have ventured out. It's doable, but better to have someone around, preferably family. Having a chair with wheels (my mom thought of that before she left me alone) has been a LIFESAVER, I would highly recommend that, for sure. I roll everywhere keeping the pressure off the leg, leaving hands free to fix food, do things, etc. Also helps in healing process as you are not putting pressure on foot and less likely to suffer injuries. It felt great to take a shower for the 1st time lately standing on two feet, and able to wash the area w/soap and water w/out boot on as Dr suggested. I've been off work since the surgery, and have an unexpected 3 day trip this Monday in which I feel I can handle. I have ordered a wheelchair both ways just in case, and being dropped off and picked up to/from airport. My 6 wks appt is March 27, and I am hoping that I can at least drive by then (my right foot is the injured one), although after reading some of the posts here I am starting to worry. I also have a trip scheduled for the 30th which I had already mentioned to Dr and he acted as if it wouldn't be a problem. Thanks to all for the posts, they are really helpful.
I ruptured my right achilles on Feb 17th in a cardio class using the step bench. Got 3 opinions and had surgery on March 12th.
First night was HORRIBLE - good thing there were good movies on TV that night - I couldn't sleep due to the pain, even with the meds. Didn't get to sleep until around 3:30am and then awoke after only 1 1/2 hrs.
Had a splint on the first week and then a cast for the last two. Getting my cast off, stitches out and a new cast tomorrow. Crutches have been hell - seriously thinking about the Kneewalker - especially if the news tomorrow indicates cast for more that another 2 weeks.
Well I just had my surgery today. Thursday, April 2. My doctor said I would be in a cast for 2 months! 30 days with my foot pointed down and 30 more days with my foot upright! I haven't experienced any pain. They put a catherter in my leg and it is numb and will be numb for 3 days. I also have pain meds, but this numbness feel extremely wierd. I'm so worried about the recovery time. I'm hoping I'll be playing tennis by the Fall. Please tell me this is doable. I miss the courts already!
I was in a cast for 2 months and then a brace for 1 month. As soon as the cast was off I was at the gym, in the pool; swimming & walking. Once I ditched the brace I did rehab at a sports rehab/training facility. I had my surgery in Aug. I've been back skiing since late Dec.
I had my surgery over 2 weeks ago. The pain was worst the first 3 days. I had my follow up visit 10 days after surgery. the Dr. said get rid of the crutches. Since then ever time I get up the blood rushes there and I feel like my calf is on fire. After a few minutes and it is fine. How long does this pain last? I am also having pain just below the knee in my calf muscle on the outside, especially when i first get up. anyone know why?
Stempy, good luck. I had same feeling with blood rushing down, it will subside. I would say that lasted about a week & 1/2 or so. I wish they told me after 10 days to get rid of crutches, I used a chair rolling around the house more anyway so I did not use them as often. I hated them and found I'd rather be stationary than have to deal with them, especially going out. Didn't experience pain that high up, you may want to ask your Dr about that one. Good Luck, and be careful, you don't want to overdo it and make things worse.
Well I ruptured my AT on April 5th 2009 and had my surgery today April 10, 2009. I went in at 8:15am and was back home by 12:30pm. They didn't give me a blocker shot some of you mentioned, to numb from the knee down, but when I told them I get real nervous and will sometimes panic the Anesthesiologist gave me an extra shot of versed. I'll tell you what, that was the best thing that could happend because after thatall I remember is waking up and it was all over.
It is 3:54pm and there is absolutly no pain. I am taking Tramadol and my first dose was at 1pm. Honestly I feel like I could get up and move around but will stick to the program of no movement for the first day ( just to the bathroom) I will keep posting and updating when/if pain kicks in and how bad.
This board is great, it really put my fears to rest when I could hear other peoples story. I hope my story will help. Good luck to all and God Bless.
I'm (42 year old male) currently in limbo as I ruptured my achilles playing soccer fri night. I'm a keeper and I had crouched down to gather the ball and was pushing off to move forard into position to throw the ball down field. I collapsed as it felt like someone stepped on me from behind. In fact through the pain and shock of the event I was pissed at whoever did that to me. But there was no one there. I hobbled to my car and called my neighbor doc who confirmed rupture with Thompson Test. I'm taking Vicoden left from a surgery I had last year (thank goodness because the pain is quite strong without it. I'm now just waiting for mon morning to go see ortho doc. Thanks to all for sharing. I feel better informed going forward.
24 y/o Male. Ruptured my LA two days ago playing squash. Saw two surgeons today, one was a moron, the other a godsend. Going in for surgery tomorrow morning. Incredibly worried as I live in NYC and am basically on my own. Going with the open surgery, in addition to some reconstruction since I would like to be able to play squash again at some point. Here's hoping.
Anyway. I just got a whole mess of movies and should be good to go for the weekend.
How long are we talking before I'm walking without crutches? I could give a damn about the boot, but I'm ready to pitch these things out the window and it's only been two days.
Stay strong everyone!
Brian
germ2600 at yahoo dot com
Brian,
Do what your doctor says, you don't want to be out any longer than you have to. I was in my first cast for six wks, my second & 3rd for a wk each. Each time moving my foot back to neutral. I was almost there and then wore a brace (never an ugly boot) for almost a month to finalize back to neutral and for protection. I could wear a shoe over the brace but had to buy a cheap sneaker in a larger size. As soon as the cast was off, I was in the pool, swimming & walking. I was skiing all winter (5 months post op) with no problems/limits. Good luck
I guess I'm in for a "ride." I tore the A/tendon on 4/26 and surgery is on 5/6. Thank you all for preparing me.
Love reading the posts. Tore my RA Tuesday night 5/26 kickboxing. It was my anniversary and I should have been at home but wanted to get a bit exercise before having dinner. It was exactly as other people said, I thought someone had stepped on the back of my foot as I started a sprint. The original injury hurt but later on my foot just went numb and as long as I didn't move it a certain way, it didn't really hurt. Anyway, had surgery 5/29 using a nerve block. The nerve block was fantastic. They gave me some drugs to put me in a temporary fog so I didn't feel the pain of the block. Now 24 hours later, it hurts and hurts a lot. They warned me. I am taking Percocet and advil every 4 hours and its seems like the advil works better then the drugs. The drugs just make me tired. I have a cast for 10 days and then am suppose to get a boot. I drove before the operation with my left foot without a problem. I am wondering if the cast is too bulky to tuck my foot up away from the peddles now. I see that people are taking a lot of time off work. I need to go back to work on Monday because I am in the middle of a crazy job. Am I crazy to think that it is a possibility? I too get purple foot after being up right for 10 minutes or so. How are people icing their leg with all these bandages. A little ice would be nice right now.
If Percocet isn't working, you could have a fairly common enzyme deficiency called CYP2D6 deficiency. CYP2D6 is an enzyme that handles activation and inactivation of some drugs. About 5-10% of people are deficient of this enzyme, and most don't know it. The primary pain-relieving ingredient in Percocet, oxycodone, needs CYP2D6 to be converted into its active form. I have this issue, and made sure I had hydromorphone after my surgery, a drug that does not need CYP2D6 to work properly. The next time you see your primary care doctor, discuss this possibility, as it could have important consequences for other drugs you might take in the future.
Good luck!
Hi everyone
i have A/T. i have to go for surgery on 17jun. after reading this blog i am feeling so nice. but i do have one q about doing all of your stuff by your self( imean to ask is when can i go to bathroom by my self?)since i dont like taking help from any body for this stuff, please help me.
Hey, it' bad, but not THAT Bad, Anonymous! You will manage to at least get to the bathroom, unless it's really far away. The worse part of this whole thing was exactly that, having to depend on others for everything, but you will be able to manage that, I hope!! Hang in there.
i AM 3 WKS AND 3 DAYS POST OP AND STILL A LOT OF PAIN i LAY AROUND WITH MY BOOT ON LEG PROPPED UP IF i TRY TO MOVE AROUND MUCH i SWELL NO WEIGHT BEARING AS OF YET i HAVE READ A LOT OF POSTS WHERE SOME ARE EXPERIENCING LITTLE PAIN i THOUGHT MAYBE i WAS DOING SOMETHING WRONG DR HAS ME ON PERCOCET IT HELPS i HOPE THIS EASES UP SOON. CEECEE
Yes, CeeCee, I feel your PAIN!! I am exactly 4 months post op now, and all I can say to encourage you is, It Gets Better! I think I was in the same frame of mind at the point you're at as well. This is tough, and all of us heal in different stages. But just elevate, ice, rest, all that! I've been lucky, not feeling much pain (still swollen at end of day, though, and tight when doing the range of motion exercises). Been back to work 3 days a week for about 2 months or so now, and I drive ok, at 4 months and I ruptured the driving foot. I am still VERY careful and only do short distances (8 mins from my job to home) but I can make it to Happy Hour now, and it feels so good to get my independance back! That was the HARDEST for me, in my early 50's & & live alone, w/no relatives around. Have great neighbors and 1 of my daughter's sorority sister, that's the only way I got thru it (Mom came as well for 1st 2 wks). Hang in there, you'll be fine.
Ladyjewels
I had my AT surgery on 5/7. I'm one of the lucky ones with absolutely no pain after the surgery. All I needed was 2 alleve tabs for 10 hours when I felt some "twinges" and that was it. I had a hard splint for 2 weeks and stayed off the foot, completely. Went back to work after 4 days off only because my commute into NY City is ez. I am not hero when it comes to "body fixing" but wanted to get up and around ASAP.
On 5/14, splint off and a cast on for 6 more weeks with a 2inch heel. I added "heel size" to good shoes for balance. I have 3 weeks left and I hope the cast comes off and I start to wear shoes with 2" heels and then slowly get to normal heals shaving off a bit every week or 2 AND going physical therapy.
Life is Good !
Hi everyone, I snapped my achilles tendon playing football on the 7th June. I thought somebody had smashed a sledge hammer into the back of my left leg, funny thing is as soon as I was helped off the pitch I had no pain at all. I was left just feeling realy dizzy and thought I was going to pass out.I went home had a few beers and went to bed. It was the next morning it hit me, the pain was unbearable and I could not get out of bed. My wife drove me to the doctors who told me, he suspected I had a total rupture and sent me to AE
At hospital as soon as I told them I did it playing football the sympathy stopped.
I had the op the following morning. I had morphine the first night but since then I have not needed any pain relief. My leg is in plaster now for 3 weeks until my out- patient appointment.
Just had the cast off and stitches out. I am gutted, they told me today I wont be having a aircast boot fitted, so no walking or work! They have put a moulded splint on and changed the angle of my foot to stretch the achilles a little. The physio has given me some excercices to do every hour which will stretch and strengthen my tendon as well. The hospital say they have a 98% success rate with this treatment, rather than the boot. Plan is every two weeks I go back for a new splint. They say I should be in my shoes with wedges fitted and walking by the end of July although still with crutches. They say this method has a better chance of a stronger repair and lower chance of rupture.
98% sucess rate is not bad I suppose!
I must thank the british NHS they have been brilliant.(and the wife)
My one god send is the Elecrtic disability scooter that I borrowed to get around the house on.
Any suggestions on other treatment please let me know
Hey,Gricey Uk. Just curious on what type of exercises you can pass along that they gave you (I am trying to PT myself, due to the out of pocket expenses I am already incurring. Anything you can send to jones6961@bellsouth.net would be helpful. Welcome to the club!!
Ladyjewels
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