During these initial three weeks I had the luxury of having my wife bring me breakfast to bed every day, and my parents coming over at lunchtime with tapperwares full of healthy, home cooked meals. I couldn’t have asked for better caring conditions. They were great during my whole healing process but really invaluable during this initial period.
I credit to this rigurous regime the fact that I had absolutely no problems with my scar (no infection, itch or pain) and no tendon pain. By the third week, I could feel the tendon healing nicely (the calf muscles moved slightly when slightly bending my toes down and pressing against the boot, which is a signal of the tendon doing what it is supposed to do).
During this time when boredom can set in, so make sure you have a laptop with a wireless connection (if you are an avid Internet surfer as I am) or at least an ample supply of good books and magazines.
Finally, to be able to sleep comfortably, I loosened up the bed sheets and rolled them up so that the foot could rest on the pillow without the weight of the sheets and the comforter on top of it (the boot is already heavy… you don’t need any aditional weight).
Exactly two weeks after surgery, the doctor removed my stitches (actually, they were staples). My incision was fairly large (about 6 ½” inches) so the process was not much fun. Fortunatly it was painless. I could feel the stitches being pulled out, but it didn’t hurt. The incision had healed wonderfully, undoubtedly because of my discipline regarding rest and elevation during the first two weeks. The removal of the stitches meant that I had reached one big milestone: I could start taking showers with both legs inside the bathtub, as the wound could now get wet with no problems.
210 comments:
Hi just found your blog spot and good to know so many others going thru same (yes i also found simon barratts). same as you its interesting to read how you quickly rearrange stuff like in the bathroom and bedroom to make things go alot easier - less stress - yes like you i've also taken a fall (2wks post) which hurt like anything and I wondered whether it was re-ruptured but I didnt want to go back to hospital and it seemed ok (not sore) within a couple of hours. Now Im 4 wks and starting to take splint off to stretch as advised - still cant get to 90 deg which means i cant put weight on it yet! but hoping without rushing to do so over next few weeks. Do have some swelling which I didnt expect but after reading so many others who even have swelling and stiffness after 6-12 mths I thought better about it. The other things (and there are many!) which you get stuck with when this ATR happens is the crutches and I was so sore from using them for the first week! but has since eased and also I now have better upper body strength - bonus. I live in a house with stairs and bedrooms are up and living is down! sounds awful but TV and computer and study are upstairs so I dont have to travel up and down too much! Just felt like writing to encourage others that it gets better.
regards char
Found your blog spot just after I tore my achilles tendon on August 28th. Had surgery September 4th and have been doing remarkably well so far.
Had a leg block that lasted almost 36 hours. That, with the Vicodin, resulted in almost zero pain. I expected some pain, for sure, and have been amazed how well that has been controlled.
I go in Monday, September 10th, to have this soft cast removed and my first hard one put on, I imagine.
Will be a long journey, but your blog has been wonderful. So much information and such a "reality check." Keep up the info!
Thanks again,
Paula
Char / Paula:
Glad you found encouragement reading my blog. I can assure you things do get better. I just hit the 8 month mark today and I'm doing better every day. I'm swimming and bicycling and walking normally. Still limp a bit in the morning and my injured calf is still 1 inch thinner (though working hard to put it up to par with the other one). Take care and stay positive!
Hi Paula,
Kuul, I had my diagnosis confirmed August 30th and my surgery on September 4th. Mine was a partial (almost complete) rupture that had gone chronic. I first tore in in May, and it was thought to be a muscle tear, I wish I'd know about the Thompson Test then. I retore it (again playing Softball) in August and my daughter's doctor did a Thompson Test on me when I had her in for something unrelated.
Anyway, I'm in week 9 now after 2-weeks in plaster, 3-weeks in fibreglass pointed down, and 3-weeks in fibreglass at 90 degrees. Today it's at least 3-weeks PWB in an Aircast. I suspect I've gotten off a lot lighter in terms of pain and retained flexibility compared with those suffering total ruptures.
I get to to take the cast off to do ROM exercises but we haven't started strength exercises yet. I have notice that my uninjured leg has gotten bigger and the other leg is literally 1/2 as large with its atrophying (really, since May). Don't know how long rehab is going to take but I was hoping to ski in March but may need to settle on getting back to Softball in May. (With a pinch runner?)
Cheers,
Bill
Wireless, Telecommuting and Senokot
Luckily for me, my vocation is mostly about working on a PC and on the phone. I'm generally part of project teams that only rarely every physically meet in their entirety. So, I ended up pretty much back to work after a few days. (Although I did have to decline a cutomer teleconfernce that day after the procedure when I was still fairly heavily doped.)
Having a home office where I could have my leg up helped, a lot. As well, I went out and got a wireless keyboard and mouse to accommodate needing to shift positions and be in unconventional positions for using a computer. Plus I have a wireless router in the house so that I could work off my laptop from the desk or flopped on the couch with the leg on the coffee table.
A headset with the phone let me do teleconferences and other calls.
The Senokot really refers to the first two weeks when I was still on pain meds. For me it was Percoset and that bunged me up pretty good. I didn't start the softeners until after the first bunch of days because I wasn't eating very much anyway. I should have.
For me the first three weeks were about making the major adjustments to being in a NWB cast and with crutches. I didn't leave the house much for the first week (didn't leave bed for the first day and 1/2 except for nature calls). And only after cutting down the pain med dosage to non-GA-GA levels did I venture out in the car. (Luckily it was my left leg that was hurt.) Still, I managed to get out and went to my Softball team's playoff games - we won - as well as starting to take the kids to their programs.
Like everyone else, my balance got better, my good leg got stronger, and my uppper body is bigger.
I learned to shower sitting down, and to shave standing on one leg and leaning against the counter. My colleagues became entertained by my hopping from my office to the printer or messing around the office kitchen getting a drink or coffee.
The weird stuff is not being able to go to the grocery store. (I could but I'd need to use their power cart with basket.) A compensation is that I now have a Handicap parking pass and I get the "good" parking spots when I need to hop into the mall or anywhere else with a public parking lot. Although it was weird driving into a large (unfamiliar) mall, finding that the store I wanted was on the other side of the mall, going back out and driving to the other side to shorten the distance.
Cheers,
Bill
It is only day two (post-surgery) for me. The pain is still pretty bad, but I'm trying to be optimistic. I intend to stay in bed all week with my leg elevated as I have a follow up appointment with my doctor in one week. I'm hoping that when they take the cast/splint off I have as good of luck as you did with regards to healing of the skin, etc.! I'm also paranoid of blot clots. Thanks again for your blog and for everyone's comments. I truly believe it WILL get better. For now it's very frusturating.
I am only 3o yrs old and completely ruptured my achilles back in Nov. I am 12 wks out and I am walking without my boot. I am suffering from terrible foot pain. Can anyone offer me some advice on this. It feels like I have no padding on the bottom of my foot. My PT and MD said it is due to not walking for 2 months and my muscles on the bottom of my feet are weak. They said do towel crunches and marble pick-ups. I have been walking for about 3wks now and it is really painful. I just went out and bought Dr Scholls inserts to see if the extra padding would help. Please anyone advice?
Also, I am still walking with quite a limp and going down stairs I have to swing the other leg around. I guess because I am used to being active and I am on the young side I am growing impatient. I need a little encouragment from someone who has gone thru this. When do you start walking without a limp and or getting down stairs normally?
I wanted to let everyone know about the magiacl alternative to painful crutches. I have read a few of these blogs and I understand the pain of crutches! I found a scotter called a rolleraid at kneewalkerrental.com
Go check out this site. Your insurance should cover it and you can rent them by the wk or month. I rented one for a month and it saved me. Try getting yourself a plate of food and try and crutch it by yourself to the table or living room. This little scooter makes you feel somewhat normal or independent again.
My last words of Post-op wisdom is do not get cocky with crutches on the stairs. I stumbled and put all my weight on my bad leg 1 wk after surgery. Thank god I had by boot on but I have never felt such intense pain in my life. I thought I re-ruptured it. Scoot on your but and give yourself a tricep workout getting up and down stairs. TRUST ME!
I am 3 months post-op. I did not have a complete rupture. I have now been out of the boot almost 2 weeks. What is bothering me is that I am noticing some slight tendon pain (like a light burning sensation) in normal walking - like I had with my chronic tendonitis before the surgery. I am wondering if this is normal? I cannot stand to think I have come this far and the surgery has not done the job. I am continuing with PT and will go let the doc take a look at it next week. Have any of you had this problem?
I’m new to this sight. I ruptured my right Achilles on the 2nd August 2008 and had surgery on the 18th August. My surgeon placed my leg in a semi cast with the front open to allow for swelling. On Monday the 25th August I fell in the garden placing slight weight on my bad leg. Hurt like hell at the time but today no pain at all. I was reading some of the comments on your Blog in relation to taking a fall and I’m hoping I have not done any further damage. By the way great Blog sight.
I have an appointment with my surgeon on Thursday the 28th August and hopefully the wound will have healed
Was so good to find this blog and know I'm not alone. Ruptured on August 17 pushing our pop up trailer. Blessings on you crutch walkers, I got myself a rolleraid. My PT friend is a fan of crutches for better overall conditioning...there is such a variety of ranges of recovery, I am a little frustrated not knowing which one I am, the fast or slow, but no one can tell you, I think, it has to be the process for you. I was active, swimming a mile and working as a hospital nurse, don't know if age (57) will play here. Would be interested in knowing from you who were out of work how long it took to get back...I have to book it up and down a long hall...
Hi, thank you, thank you. How good to know what other people have learnt ahead of you! Not liking to go for one-up-manship, more desperate for any ideas or anyone who has done the same, but I blew my right tendon running on the beach (mmhm not done that for quite some time, really was going for the chariots of fire moment) and 7 hours later while hopping and using crutches, blew the other one. Both complete ruptures. Had surgery within 24 hours of the first one going and am now in wheelchair 10 days later. Have picked up some reassuring and useful hints here. Thank you. I can offer one, which might already be on here, GRAB STICKS! Like the ones you can use to pick up litter. They have saved me bending and reaching and pulling muscles I didn't know I had. I think I probably use mine about 50 times a day.
Will read more now. Thanks for blogging.
Hi everyone,
I am two weeks post op and in my walking boot. I am not allowed to put any pressure yet. I will start physical therapy in week three. I feel like they are moving me quickly. My incision is healing well. The incision is more on the inside of my leg rather on the very back. Does anyone else have this? I thought the incision was right down the back of my ankle. Don't get me wrong I am happy about this because I think it is going to be easier once I start walking again. Is anyone having any burning on the incision with the boot on? This is an excellent website and it has given me a lift in my recovery. I am still not back to work. I am going to take my time. Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks.
My incision is the same slightly on the inside. I believe this way it’s easy, if the incision is at the rear running along the Achilles I think it’s more susceptible to knocking and irritating on the boot/cast and when you are wearing shoes again.
I'm also in a Cam Walker Booty and with the burning sensation when I get it I usually elevate and ice 'feels good' I have a few gel ice packs in the freezer, there great and also mould to the shape of your leg/Achilles. I also find it sometimes depends on how you adjust/tighten the velcro straps, as this also irritates the incision area. Well after saying all that I am nearly 6 weeks post op and may have to see a plastic surgeon as my incision is not healing. There is no infection, redness or swelling but the outer skin {epidermis} had not butted together properly causing it to overlap. So now I have to go and see a Plastic Surgeon on Tuesday 30th Sep to see what the best option is.
Have a look at my blog site http://paulrachillesrupture.blogspot.com/
Hi! I am also happy to have found this blog spot. I ruptured my AT August 19th, had surgery on the 25th, and am now coming up on 4 weeks post-op. Just wanted to share with you out there, be aware of small "charlie-horse" pains after surgery. It could be a DVT (blood clot) and you need to get it checked out ASAP. I have a small one, below the knee, and am taking one aspirin a day until I go back next week for another ultrasound to make sure it has not grown or travelled. Otherwise, I am healing well and am looking forward to my first boot position adjustment. Does anyone else have tingling and numbness on the bottom of your foot? Thanks for writing and good luck to each one of you during your recovery..
numpty! you are living my most recent greatest fear! you have my sympathy and wish you the speediest recovery! you are tough, i can tell by your sense of humor. hang in there.
Hi 48yo lady! Thanks for the encouragement. I think doing 2 at once is far better than doing one in then the other 8 weeks later. Can I ask what does 'Charlie-Horse' mean? I am sorry you have a DVT - really hope it behaves itself.
I have to say I am dreading having my feet repositioned (am in casts becuase it seems that we english don't 'do' boots ... bah-humbug!) I don't think I'm particularly tough, just a stiff upperlip, what-ho chin-chin, anyone for tennis? (in approximately march 2009 or whenever normal foot function resumes ... race you to the tennis court!) Of course half a bottle of Shiraz also helps lighten the spirits! Good luck!
Want to say thank you so much for your blog. I have been searching for some good info and I certainly found it here! I am probably the oldest one here I am a 62 year old woman. I injured my tendon stepping off a walkway onto the beach. There was a large rock I did not see and caught my foot wrong. I am scheduled for surgery in a week I will be so glad to get this started. I am so thankful I found you all here I feel so much better reading all the info written. Thanks for easing my mind, what's left of it that is! I wish I could have said I had a soccer injury of basketball but noooo I have to say I did mine by stepping onto sand.......gosh, that makes me sound really old, huh. I will be checking in often keep the good advice coming!
So happy I found this site.
Jan
Hi Jan and welcome to the AT site.
Sorry to hear about your injury, but keep your chin up and before you know it you will be back walking on the beach.
It’s amazing how this injury occurs regardless of age health or fitness it could happen any time.
The first few weeks are the hardest but it does get better, just stay positive and focused.
I am now at week 8, back in 2 shoes but moving very slowly with a limp.
I spend hours surfing the net and checking out all the great Blog sites, there is plenty of information and advice out there and it’s good to know you’re not alone with this terrible injury.
Happy healing paul r
I am 14 days post op and having extreme burning and tingling on the outside of my foot. This is especially bothersome at night and it feels like my foot is on fire! Has anybody else experienced this? If so I'd appreciate advice.
Hi MamaMia,
Burning and feeling like you foot is on fire is very common. I am now 8 weeks post op and would be able to answer any questions you may have because I had a bunch. There is going to be burning for some time, just hang in there. Let me know if you have any other questions. Take care.
I am 9 weeks post op. I am able to walk barefoot around the house with no pain. Some tightness now and then, but I do keep up with my exercise. I wear high top bass boots for extra support when I leave the house. Again, tightness and some swelling which I'm told is normal.
For the first 4 weeks I was in a cast with no weight. Then I received a walking cast for 2 weeks. At 6 weeks I was put into a walking boot. Have not had any problems so far. Just the tightness and swelling I explained. I am scheduled for Therapy Tuesday. Doc says one or two more visits to therapy and the rest if p to me.
I'm told Swelling can last up to 6 months. Tightness I am not sure. Haven't asked my doc.
Grreat blog. Nice to share our stories.
Tore my Achilles tendon 3 weeks ago, with an open (long incision) surgical repair 2 1/2 weeks ago. Using a Roll-About (kneeling wide-based Razor Scooter-like), for mobility, which is more user friendly than crutches, but not without its problems. The skin of the involved knee has gotten quite irritated. I have tried a variety of knee/kneeling pads, which have not helped. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Hi all,
We are a much larger communitee than I ever expected. I am a 43 y/o scrubnurse who always had an aversion to working on the Achilles Tendon repairs. Maybe because I subconsciously knew it would one day be me! I have been dealing with acute Achilles Tendonapathy for over a year. I recently had continous partial rupures that refused to heal. Surgery became my only option. Along with the rupture issue my gastrocniemus muscle proved to be extremely tight adding to the Achilles issue. I am almost 2 weeks post-op and continue to have numbness throught my leg. The Anesthesiologist seems to think it is residual of the nerve block but I have extreme pain and acute sensation on the lateral(outside)/anterior(top) portion of my foot. I am concerned about nerve damage. Did anyone else recieve a nerve block for their surgery? Did your block seem to last forever is partial location? How long did it take to reside itself? I have not been to the doctor for my post op visit. I am still in the splint. I am unsure of the next move. The post op info the doctor gave me was based on a different procedure than was actually done. I am unsure if I will get a boot or a cast. I am hoping for the boot. The cast is a source of great anxiety for me. I am hoping the doctor will take that into consideration as well and maybe give me a boot anyway.
I also am loosing my ever loving mind not being able to do much. Crutch are quite difficult. You cannot carry anything!!
I had the nerve block but it wore off after about 24 - 36 hours. I am now 11 weeks post op and pain and swelling is almost gone. I highly reccommend renting a roller aid to get you through the next couple of months. It makes life much easier, especially trying to raise 4 children through all of this. I am now able to put weight on my foot but still use it for shopping etc. Good luck with the numbness.
Love the blog! I am 36 and ruptured my AT playing basketball. I required 3 hours of surgery which the doctor also had to take 2 tendons from my big foot as well. It is officially 3 weeks today since surgery but I am still experiencing serious tingling and burning in my foot! Is this normal? Is it normal to experience pain and needing to take painkillers?
43 yo scrubnurse here, I too have been having that tingling I am exactly 2 weeks post op. I have also had painful tingling on the top of my foot. An area they did not work on but is causing extreme pain. I would be doing great if I did not have to deal with that pain. The anesthegilogist was at my post op visit and he felt the tingling and nerve pain will go away with time. He believes it is from the nerve block they gave me. I too was using my pain pills for that but I think it only helped because I fell asleep. They prescribed a medication they give to people with chronic nerve pains like people with Fibromyalgia. A side effect is dizziness, doesn't work out well with the crutches though. This really concerns me because I had the surgery to relieve the chronic achilles problem and now I am dealing with the possibility of have a chronic nerve problem. I suppose I will just have to be patient, something I generally am not. Good luck with you tendon transfer I was scheduled for a possible transfer like you but came out not needing that much work. I hope you have success,
Hi to Scrubnurse...wondering if the tingling pain went away. Any other symptoms?(purpling of toes/foot/burning or freezer like pain/painful to touch the toes???If so, ask Dr about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome(CRPS). I developed it in week 2 of being casted. I am now in week 14, am walking with the assistance of a cane, using the bike, treadmill and lots of stretching exercises and am being treated aggressively with acupunture, massage, meds, and elevation,and of course lots of physio. Take care and good luck from Laura in Canada.
I just found you blog spot and I also am glad that I have other with my surgery. I had surgery on Dec. 30th. I am not in my first cast and will go back on Jan. 19 for another cast. I am going to be nwb for till Feb. 13th.. I wish I had an exciting story to till but I fell down a staircase and I am 57 years old.. I am ready to get on with healing and walking. I saw the information in the kneewalker and wonder if it is easy to use.. I am now using a walker and wheelchair. I will continue to read this wonderful blog..Good luck to everyone. Memaw in Texas
Laura in Canada... Things are getting better. The pain is strong but not as intense as it was initially. I have spoken to many of my collegues and they all agree that is will resolve itself it just take some time. I am trying to keep a positive out look. The rulle os luck in the OR tend to not favor those who actually work in the OR. They seem to be the ones with a less than optimal outcome. I am going back to the doc on Friday the 23. I have been cheating and walking with weight on my barefoot the past couple of days. My ankle is very tight and I am anxious to start therapy but not for the pain I am sure to experience. Thanks for the suggestion. Good luck in your healing process. Scrubnurse.
hi.. it's good to see that lots of people have had an achilles rupture and after time seem to be walking and jogging again. I am one day 2 of my post op for a full rupture and apart from when i have to lower my leg (and it throbs and is painful) its not too bad apart from in certain positions where the forces put upon the cast at the top of the leg transfer down to the ankle area and causes a bit of pain. You adapt and find positions which are ok.
I'm a little worried after coming to this site, informative as it is, it's left me a little confused because alot of people seem to have a cast on for 2 weeks and then move to a boot and some are even walking with crutches around week 6 if not earlier.. Now, Ive a cast on from the knee down with my foot at an angle to reduce tension on my newly stiched tendon which makes sense, BUT, my next appointment isnt for another 4 weeks, at which point ive been told the cast is removed, the foot repointed to gently stretch the tendon, then back in cast for 1-2 weeks, after all that, i move to an air boot...
im from the UK, and HAVE had the operation, yet the post op treatment seems a bit lenghtier.. is this just how it is?
Hey folks, I posted just before my surgery and that was 7 weeks ago. I have read a lot of these blogs and they have helped me understand that a lot of what I am going through is more common than i thought. I had been nagging the doctor the damn pain, shooting pain, burning pain, pain in my toes, numb toes, pain in the arch, just the gosh darn pain. I am not a big pill taker and hate the thought of taking narcotics that are metabolized in the liver because my grandpa died of scirosis at the age of 42. All that said, I have taken the pain pills (percocet) or else I would have gotten no sleep. Now seven weeks after surgery I called the doc and told him that these shooters are getting more intense instead of less and that I can tell when someone is touching my big toe, but cannot tell where exactly on the toe they are touching. He was concerned and said this is not normal at this point and said, and I quote, "the incision looks great, the tendon is connected and looks great, there is no sign of infection, we may have gotten into trouble with the nerve block." I mean wtf doc. May have gotten into trouble, that don't help me, what do you mean got in trouble. So he has put me on Lyrica (nerve pills) to see if that eases the shooters. I took one at 5:30 today and have not had a pain for 3 hours. Since that time I have read these blogs and it sounds more common than doc thought. I would really like to know if anyone had these shooting pains and how long after surgery before they subsided. Also has anyone had confirmed nerve damage, and what were the symptoms and cures if any?
PT30: i am a physical therapist, 30 years old, and had complete rupture of my left achilles tendon 2 days ago while playing basketball. i go in for surgery tomorrow. i will keep everyone posted on my recovery and use this blog in part to keep my sanity from being inactive.
hi,
hello everyone. yeah im here for the same reason as you guys. im on my third week of the healing process and its going ok so far. i get these occasional pain pokes which feel super wierd and hurt pretty bad. but im jus waiting till feb 12 when i see the doc and he can let me know whats the update on my ankle. but i got this burning feeling here and there and the swelling is still there just not as swollen as the first few days.
just keep the foot elavated and the healing will do its part.
hope all you guys have a good recovery
ali-
Bobby, Scrubnurse here. Your story is very similiar to mine. I am about 8 weeks post op. I am wienning out of my boot and have just begun physical therapy. I still have the shooting nerve pain but mine is mostly in my last two toes. Don't get to wigged out over it. I have been told often time when you have a nerve block it can take up to a year for it all to resolve. Try to realize what a shock that was for your nerves . You probibly had a toutniquet also so your leg was squeezed pretty tight. I tried the Lyrica but I did not like the side effects. It made me very dizzy. Being a blonde I suppose I was already disadvantaged.(LOL) I have good days and bad with the shooting pains it is more at night and I have been taking Norco a less intese pain killer. I too am not a fan of narcotics. The bad days are starting to be fewer. Don't be discouraged give it time to heal. This can be a long process but it will get better. Good luck with the Lyrica.
Hi,
Great blog. I had full rupture on Jan. 27 while playing basketball. Pushed off my right foot to defend a pass and wham-o. Knew right way what had happened; limped to my car and drove a mile or so home (not a good idea). Had surgery on 30th and reclining on my couch today watching 5 hours of Springsteen on VH-1 (while reading the blog). In hard cast now. Follow-up visit in 7-10 days to check wound and get boot I presume. Given what I have heard about first two weeks, I plan on spending most of it on couch/in bed to get those tendons to repair. I go back and forth whether or not I will play basketball again. I realize that I am too close to the incident but wonder about how others feel about returning to the sport where their injury occurred.
Hello to everybody. I had my surgery 4 days ago. This blog is fantastic especially during the days leading up to the procedure. Afterward the Orthopedic said it was completely severed and twisted. For two weeks I'm in a hard cast that weighs a ton. Most of the pain has subsided except when I stand and get that blood rush to the surgical site. I have been playing basketball several times a week for many years. My left AT exploded during one last game before going home. I'm probably going to find another activity. I'm 43 and can still run and jump but it is the stopping and landing on that hard floor that caused this.
Thanks to all.
Curtis in Mad Beach
Hi it's been 17 days since my surgery. I just recently got my boot on. I was supposed to get it on last week but my foot was still pointed too far downward and it was tight. I was dissapointed because I really wanted to shower with both legs wet. I finally did today and it was scary to be out of the boot actually.
Since the surgery I have had 4 falls. Two were out of a wheelchair of all things. the darn thing just tipped me out when I leaned forward a bit. It was a cheap rental and totally not worth it. Once was on crutches about a week after surgery. That one hurt and I was worried but the pain went away quickly. The last fall was today getting tripped up on my way in from my garage. My good leg did not clear the top step all the way and down I went. I saw my boot was about to touch down and I think it did but somehow I managed to swing it behind me and I landed on my stomach and forearms. I swear I feel like the clumsiest person right now! I'm wiggling my toes and everything feels ok.
I'm thinking of getting one of those knee walkers soon. I am supposed to start PT any time now and it will be a pain to get into the building from the car on crutches. All the handicap spots are always full so I know I'd have to come early and stalk to get one.
I'm a little nervous about PT. It was a love hate relationship when I was going through PT after tearing my ACL last year. I just want to get better but at the rate I am going I am going to have to knock on wood, carry a lucky penny/rabbit's foot, say a prayer or anything else just to not fall anymore :-)
Not sure when I will be weight bearing again but my surgeon told me it will be up to me and how much pain there is when I try. Pain, not what I want to look forward to.
I love reading all the comments in this blog and any others I find. It keeps me from losing my mind to boredom!
I really think the knee walker would be great. I thought about renting one but I have only one more week before I get my cast off and the boot on. I will be able to put some weight down.. Feb 13th will be six weeks for me. I too am worried about therapy ..I torn my ACL 10 years ago...I will be going 3 times a weeks. This week I have been pulling small amounts of weight on my cast just for balance. When I do it a lot my leg will ache at night...Love this blog spot and check it everyday...Rhea S.
I had surgery on my achilles on 1/29. Had my first post-op visit today where they removed my staples and put my into the CAM boot with two heel lifts. Seems early based on all of the other articles I've read on the site. Don't have a feel for when I'll be weight bearing but seems like a good sign that I'm in a boot and able to shower only a week removed from surgery.
I am a 43yo active female- . Tore my achilles playing tennis. 45minutes into the game, would have thought I was warmed up. Returned a serve felt like a snake ran up my leg and then fell forward- (then fainted)
I got surgery 12 days ago, and get my stitches out tomorrow.
My biggest issue is driving. I have 3 kids that need to be driven to and from school & activities etc. this is killing me. You can only ask for favors for so long. My husband can do a lot, but this is terrible.
Not working out I can deal with, but not driving is killing me.
Anyone have any input on driving again. (of course it is my right achilles tendon) and I have an automatic car.
Can you drive in the boot with the wedges? driving with my left foot seems hazardous.
I too ruptured my right achilles while playing tennis and have 4 kids. It was very difficult as I wasn't allowed to drive for 7 weeks. I have a great group of friends and neighbors who helped out. I finally started driving with my left foot and it wasn't that difficult. You might have a problem with your injured foot not being elevated if you are in the car for too long. I am just over 4 months post op now and still in pain. Things are getting better but it is very frustrating not to be back to normal. Best of luck getting through the non weight baring stage, it will get easier.
A great site and thanks for all the stories. I was playing football on Jan 31st heard and felt the "POP" and had my surgery on Feb 5th. I have a few questions.
How do you know your achilles is actually healing correctly. I'm about a weak post op now and have absolutely no pain or swelling? It's almost as if nothing was even touched down there. I have all movement of my toes and no burning or stinging past the first day. Probably due to the block. In the original post the author mentions that when he pushed down on her boot she could feel her calf do some work? Has anyone tried this at week 1 post op yet? I'm trying this now and feel absolutely no movement of my calf when i put my hand insinde my splint. Obviously, with my other good leg when I push down I feel the calf twitch.
Also, what are the signs of inadequate wound healing considering we have a splint over the wound and can't see anything.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your experiences.
Thanks,
Ready-to-play
I'm 3.5 weeks after surgery. Had a ruptured achilles from playing basketball. The pain has all but gone away, but I am certainly ready to get out of this cast.
My foot/leg is casted so my foot is slightly elevated. It has been on since I came out of surgery. Next week, I get put in another cast with my foot more at a 90 degree angle. I will be in that for 3 weeks, and then a boot will follow.
I have been very consistent with elevating and resting. I also began laying on my back and stretching my leg out and back towards my face, to work the quad area, where I've already lost a ton of muscle weight. The biggest thing I can stress is patience. If you are patient, days go by much faster. Pick up a new hobby (online poker for me) or read. It is an extremely long process and not being patient can tear you to shreds.
I got my last cast off and now have a boot. I was really surprised that I could walk without the walker for a short distance. My doctor was very please with my movement . My problem now is with the ache in my back and hip. I think this is because the boot is higher than my other foot even with my shoes. I am wondering if anyone else was having this problem. I am looking forward to starting my therapy next week and get on with my life. I have been very pleased with my doctor , Jeremy Britton, so if someone needs a good doctor in the Abilene,Texas area he is the one. I am now starting my 7th week and I finally managed to be rated as an advanced spade player on pogo...life is good...wI will keep updates as a go along..Rheasue
Ready to play,
I'm in the same boat as you.
I'm 19 days out from surgery and other than some pain the first day after the block wore out, I've been pain free. I was in an open front cast for a week and have been in an Aircast since.
When I slightly move my ankle I do see very slight movement in my calf- I'm hoping this is a good sign! I'm paranoid that I've somehow done something do re-rupture it. I can't really feel the tendon- especially compared to the tendon on my normal foot. I trust this is normal?
I'll be seeing the doc in two days and I hope to get some confirmation that everything is progressing. I hope being pain free is a good sign- not a sign of something bad!
Hey Tom,,
Just got out of my appointment and all is well. I'm 12 post surgery and my calf is totally smaller due to the atrophy. He said that I'm recovering marvelously and I'll be in the fiberglass cast for 3 weeks instead of 4 like he originally planned. I'm pretty athletic and in good shape as it is and he said that should help my healing time. I'll be in a boot after the fiberglass cast comes off. He said don't worry about the twitching of the calf muscle when flexing downward. It doesn't mean much especially when you can't see much of anything because of the cast plus your calf muscle has wasted away. The healing looked great and no infection. I had the disolvable stitches. The fiberglass cast is way more comfortable as the breathability is better and lighter in weight. We all just have to have faith that time will heal the tendon. With help of a good P.T. and rehab program. We should be back being fully active in 6 months (like pre achilles rupture).
Cheers,
Ready to Play
My scooter slipped from under me and I used my bad leg to rebalance myself and put a lot of pressure on it. My achilles hurt for about a minute then resided. I'm in a fiberglass cast. The pain only lasted for about 1-2 minutes, felt like a throbbing then went away. Has anyone done this and should I be worried at all. I'm sure we've all had something like this happen. Let me know your thoughts and thanks for all the posts.
LEN
I am so happy that I found this blog. My surgery for my recent tear was 2 1/2 weeks ago. I'm a 62 year old female and when I was 19, I had an accident that caused me to severe the right Achilles tendon. I have ruptured this same tendon 5 times through my life and as you can imagine, I have had several different surgical techniques through the years. This time, due to such extensive scar tissue, cadaver tissue was used. I'm doing pretty well but I do suffer from clastrophobia where the cast is concerned. I haven't heard any other bloggers talk about this and I don't want to sound like a wimp but it is a problem for me. Other than that, I am resting in bed surrounded by my computer, books and TV...guess it could be worse - ha!
Full Rupture while skiing on the morning of the 14th of February..It ruptured in my downhill ski boot !! Not good. Ski patrol loaded me into ambulance strait into the Montreal general trama center.Way painful removing the boot..Had the surgery monday the 16th and was placed into a fibreglass cast with toe slightly pointed. I will be given the air cast with heel wedges on March 11th. I thank all of you for your insights .. Im chomping at the bit to get my recovery started Im 44yrs and in excellent shape WILL KEEP YOU POSTED.
hello,
I am 7 weeks post op. I tore my achilles tendon playing badminton on Jan 13th. A day later I had surgery. I was in a fiberglass cast for 1 week. Then put into a removable boot cast with 2 inch heel wedges. It was tender and a bit swollen at first, but no real pain. At 3 weeks I started an intensive swimming program; 40 minutes a day, laps, flutter kick, whip kick, lots of underwater stretches, pedaling an imaginary bike in the deep end, walking in the water... I was able to let go of the crutches at 4 weeks, started driving as well (right foot, standard car) I removed a 1/2 inch wedge a week. In addition to swimming I use my trusty stationary bike for about 25 minutes a day. as well as the exercises from my physio. He says my mobility is awesome, I feel my ankle is getting stronger every day. I am now walking mostly without the boot cast, with a slight limp. I only use the boot cast if I need to walk fast. I am not on my feet a lot during the day. I just wanted to tell you of the success I have had with swimming; physically and mentally.
P.S. I am a fit 48.
With regards to driving are you driving with or without the boot?
I'm about in the same situation as you- I'm 5 weeks out but I feel really strong and cant walk without the boot if I'm careful. Wondering if there a risk of driving without the boot? Doesn't seem likely but.
About driving, I just started this week without the boot. I live in a small town and on highway I love my cruise control. With full wedges in the boot it was hard to drive, but as I took the wedges out and I could feel my ankle move around more in the boot it became more comfortable. My abs got a work out, because I was lifting my whole leg up and over from clutch to gas.
Good luck
Well I started driving minimally- I am not carpooling other kids, although I feel I owe everybody. I am just using my left foot- seems hazardous as my injured foot is in a boot and is in the way. The one comforting issue is that I can brake well.
I am a healthy athletic 29 year old male. I am 2 1/2 weeks post op from a full atr. My surgen said my foot was able to be @ 90 degrees post op and he put me in a walking boot with no wedges. I have no pain and I actually feel like I could just get up and walk. Now I know that is not an option but that's how I feel. I have been reading everyone's blog and I know the healing process is different for everyone, but I almost feel like there is something wrong seeing that i can wiggle my ankle side to side and up and down only 2 1/2 eweeks post op. My surgen instructed me to wiggle my ankle post op to avoid blood clots during the healing process. I have used my crutches with no weight bearing on my bad foot and I have faithfully elevated my foot to help the healing process. Can somebody please respond and tell me if my situation sounds normal. Maybe i am just getting lucky in the healing process. I fear that somehow the tendon re-ruptured, but maybe everyone has that fear post op.
I had the same fear at about the same time as you. I don't think you have anything to worry about. Here's my story:
Was in fiberglass cast for 1 week then into an AirCast walking boot. At 3 weeks was given permission to weight bear and sleep without the boot. I almost immediately ditched the crutches since I didn't experience any pain. I have really good range of motion in my foot and my tendon feels strong.
I'm at about 5 1/2 weeks now and I've pretty much stopping using the boot while walking around the house. I have a slight limp but otherwise, it feels great.
My doctor had said he'd have me out of the boot at 8 weeks but I figure as long as I'm very careful (and I am) there isn't much risk at this point given I'm only going without the boot inside of my house. I do wear the boot at all other times. For driving, I wear a sneaker and put the boot on when I leave the car.
Anyway, maybe I'm lucky and maybe I'm taking a huge risk by being in shoes after only 5 1/2 weeks but I have to say this whole experience, at least for me, hasn't been nearly as bad as I feared. I feel the mental benefit of living a relatively normal life at this point far outweighs the risk of a re-rupture.
Well it is Monday today and I go see my doctor on Thursday. I can't wait.
I am pretty sure the last time I saw him he had told me I would be able to lose the crutches at 3 weeks post op, which is Thursday. I am so excited, I just want to start my PT asap.
Well after reading a few more blogs about the speedy recovery's, I feel a little better about my situation. Atleast I now know that there are people that are actualy walking without a boot at 6 weeks.
Hi all, so glad to have found this blog, really great to read all the comments. I fully ruptured mine 2weeks ago playing netball. Had the op and due to see the consultant again next week. Everything was fine with no pain, but have been experiencing burning sensation around the wound area for the last two days. I have seen odd mentions of burning on threads here but wondered whether it was something to be expected or something to be concerned about??
I wrote my original blog on Feb. 28th which was about 2 1/2 weeks after my surgery. A week ago, I had my stitches removed and the doctor had planned on another hard cast for a few more weeks. I begged for the boot as I was getting rather bad leg cramps and wanted to be able to adjust the boot if necessary. I was told not to put weight on it until April 10th at which time the leg will be re-evaluated. As I said in my original blog, this was my 5th rupture so I really didn't know how I could manage another operation but I'm happy to say, so far, so good.
hello all,
43 year old male, ruptured my tendon on the right foot on 21 Feb, 2009, had surgery to repair on 27 Feb. I have been elevating my foot for two weeks now and look forward to Thursday when I will have the staples removed and get a boot. I was moving along pretty well until recently when I started feeling irritation along my heel; it's as though I were walking on rocks even though there is no real weight on my foot other than the foot itself. This becomes intensely painful at night, like someone driving a nail into the bottom of my foot. It gets better when I do not elevate which is why I think I don't experience it during the day because of bathroom visits, etc. Anyone with a common experience? The surgeon saw my leg on Tursday and said everything looked fine, but the pain started in earnest on Firday night. I have a call in to the surgeon, but its Saturday and I don't expect to hear anything soon. I was off the percocet, but I went back on last night. Thanks...
Your intense pain could be from the nerves at the base of your heel. These nerves run up the back of the foot to the incision site and can become quite painful as they rejuvenate (no, I'm no doctor but I have experienced the same sharp pains and this is what my doctor has told me). I don't know if that is your problem, but if it is your pain will subside in a few days.
Hi There, great site, i have beend reading it over the last few weeks,i am just beyond 3 weeks now, so heres my experience.
23rd Feb - Surgery and Cast, released from hospital the following day with strict N-W-B instructions. This proved to be the most frustrating time, you feel pretty helpless, thankfully i was able to do some work from home which kept me sane!
4th March- Returned to hospital and has my stitches removed, god they look ugly, very fierce looking,the wound is cleaned up and my foot is pushed up a bit and i have a cast on again. Strict instructions N-W-B.
18th March - Just over 3 weeks since the operation i return for my check up and the wound is examined, its ok,my foot is pushed up to walking level and i am placed back in cast and told i can start to put some weight on it, i have been doing this gradually since yesterday and have still used a crutch to keep steady, i am feeling a lot more confident now and feel i am finally on the road to recovery, i return to hospital on the 8th April to have the cast removed and to start some physio, onwards and upwards....
Hello New Friends! Had surgery on March 13 for a complete rupture. Wondering if others had this experience when the injury occured ... that of very little pain. I thought someone hit me with the force of a hammer but was helped up and could put weight on the leg without pain. Didn't cry until I found out that surgery was the only hope of ever normal foot function again (and yes I'm a girl).
Hey, thanks for putting up the site. I ruptured my left achilles tendon playing basketball 7 years ago....and ruptured my right achilles tendon 10 days ago. Really didn't want to go thru this again but, after reading about the person who's on their FIFTH rupture, I feel like a jerk for being so "woe is me". My sympathies REALLY go out to that person. Had my surgery 4 days ago...this one was alot less painful, thus far. Had pain the day after surgery and took some pain meds (percocet) that day but haven't needed any since. This is such a strange injury to avoid, it appears. Anyway, I hope everyone gets thru it okay and comes out on the other side with a fully recovered tendon. Thanks again for posting this site.
Had my Op for a total rupture 5 days ago, 10 days after being told by a French Doctor it was just a calf tear from snowboarding!!
The pain was pretty bad the first few days after the Op, i was wondering if anyone else had twitches in their calf muscle whilst asleep that is so painfull it wakes you up in sweats? Will this do any damage? I have a back cast/bandage and have got quite good movement as it has loosened since the Op. Cheers Bob
What a brilliant blog. Helpful from rupture to rehab! Could anyone tell me how long the unbearable pain lasts, please.
Much obliged
It's good to hear from others dealing w/ the same injury.
what a pain in the butt. that's for sure. there don't seem to be too many of you that have had complications from the rupture surgery. i have. my luck. and you'll be so glad it's me and not you.
in all honesty tho, this whole ordeal has presented many blessings. i have to admit. so here's my saga.
and it HAS been a saga. i tell u.
Nov. 20 rupture tendon after 6 months of tendonitis.
surgery Dec 10.
so grateful my family had talked me into staying in New Orleans for the surgery and recovery. I'm just divorced, 2 precious (and spoiled) kids (11 and 12) and 2 dogs (lab/dane mix and beagle). my brood.
i really had no idea what I was heading into. i actually thought i could handle everything myself. wrong. very difficult recovery. had trouble with pain control. morphine was like being given advil. finally switched to dilauded. some relief. my parents were amazing and i thank God for their care.
they drove me back home to charlotte after 5 weeks. incredible to see the kids and be home. upstairs on my knees and down on my butt. worked for me.
cast off in 6 weeks. scar pretty ugly, gotta say. but it is what it is. then walking w/ the boot. every week one "riser" out til boot is flat. 5th week ankle started to bleed. thot i had torn the only bit of the scar that had not healed, on the back of my ankle. had an appt w/ the doc the next week but saw his assist who put a stitch in. didn't think was infected. not red and no puss (sorry to be graphic but i want to warn people) but there was fluid from the site. the asst. thot it was lymphatic fluid. wrong.
the stitch lasted 12 hrs. but i just took care of the site til appt. w/ the doc 5 days later. bad news.
serious infection. march 10 back in surgery to open wound, clean and leave open to heal.
after 1 nite in hospital, home w/ iv for antibiotics and a "vac" to promote healing. the wound is covered w/ a foam piece and a tube place over that and taped down. the tube extends up your leg and attaches to a machine that you wear over your shoulder 24 hrs a day. a nurse comes to change the dressing every 3 days and cleans the iv. you know what? u just get used to it. seriously. and hey, i got a cast cover for my leg and enjoyed a bath every day!
i will say the kids were FREAKED. and u have to be careful the dogs don't get excited round the tubes. don't want those suckers pulled out. i also have had a precious nurse who has become such a dear friend. that's one of my many blessings.
so next turned over to chief honcho foot and ankle doc in charlotte. Hodges Davis. from new orleans. doncha know. same group of friends. i'm in good hands. he's not too pleased w/ what he sees but infection under control. takes me off the vac. yeah. now i dress the wound myself. not bad if u don't mind looking at the inside of your ankle. shocking for the lay person. but educational, i suppose. i know what the tendon looks like.
so he refers me immediately to plastic surgeon.
set to do a reverse sural artery flap and graft.
okey dokey. checked that out on the internet. hmmmm. sounds like more pain to me. gearing up for that.
surgery is april 7...then off my feet again for four weeks, non weight bearing. in 6 weeks should be able to bear weight and then we get to see how much of the tendon repair survived the infection.
and on from there.
so write if u have any questions. i'll update next week. i'll take all the prayers i can get!
Elizabeth-
woops, i meant, did u just have surgery?
it's not me it'smy hubby.He didn't have surgery, they have just put a cast on, happy the ends will meet in time, but the pain is unbearable. He is a strong guy but is almost constantly running with sweat from the pain, he has no appetite and the tears are hard to keep away it hurts him so much
Oh - i am sooo sorry for him. just relay my story to him so he can see things could even be worse!!! (my blog is the auntie mern from today)
so, here's the scoop. i assume he ruptured the tendon and they are not doing surgery or is he waiting for surgery. my situation was that i had a 9 day wait til surgery (i actually travelled to New Orleans 48 hrs. after the rupture) i was in the boot and was told i could apply some pressure which i did. i know i had darvocet and advil...and for whatever reason the pain was bearable. the pain after surgery was intense i have to admit. really intense even tho i was on morphine and then dilauded.
bottom line is your hubby does NOT have to suffer like this. seriously. this ain't the civil war. you've got to call the doc ASAP and get a prescription. he needs something stronger...hydrocodone...something to give him relief. he's OBVIOUSLY in excruciating pain. lemme know!
thanks marynel, going to doc in the morning
On the topic of pain relief, there is something called CYP2D6 deficiency that 5-10% of people have (myself included), and most don't know it. It isn't a health problem at all, in and of itself, but it can have a major impact on how your body handles certain drugs.
In particular, if you have this issue, (problem doesn't seem like the right word), oxycodone and codiene won't work for you. Those drugs need that CYP2D6 enzyme to be turned into their active form (that is, the form that relives pain).
If you think you might have this issue, let your doctor know, because it can have other effects on some other drugs you might take either now or someday.
So, if you were given oxycodone or codiene for pain and it didn't do anything, you're not crazy or a sissy, you may have CYP2D6 deficiency.
Also be aware that there are plenty of doctors out there who are unaware of this issue. Mine wasn't, and he's a very good doctor and surgeon.
Doug-
Thanks. That's so interesting and it explains a lot. I was literally in the hospital 2 days longer for the rupture surgery cuz they couldn't get the pain under control. I have been doing a bit of research in the pain control dept. before i go in for my next surgery tuesday. i'll see if my doc knows anything about this. knowing what i now know about lack of relief from the morphine, i'm hoping things are not quite as brutal this time around. we'll see.
Marynel,
Just to be sure I was clear, CYP2D6 deficiency does not effect how morphine works. In fact, that enzyme turns codeine into morphine, codeine's "active form."
I forgot to mention that tramadol is another pain drug that depends on CYP2D6 for its activation.
ahha. got it. still don't know why the morphine isn't
really effective. chemistry, i suppose. this time around i'm just gonna make sure there's a Plan B.
anyway, thanks.
Marynel,
If you were getting the morphine by mouth, (as opposed to intravenous), in the hoospital, it can be hard to predict how much of the morphine will get into your system. There are other similar drugs that are more reliably absorbed when taken orally.
Good luck!
Had surgery on Feb. 17th (5th time on the Achilles that I tore years ago. I've had my second visit to the doctor and this time I think will be the charm. The tendon was lengthened with cadaver tissue. I was hoping to be out of the boot by now but the doctor wants to take it slow (can't imagine another surgery) - so now I'll be nwb until mid May. My leg swells and the tendon, although feels strong, is tight and stiff. Hang in there everybody!!
This is better than psycho-therapy for me. I ruptured my tendon on Jan 31 and had surgery 3 days later on Feb 3. I am now 10 weeks out and going to start PT today. I am walking without the boot but with a considerable limp. I have had considerable stiffness, especially after waking up. It does tend to loosen up a bit as the day goes on with more activity. If I had to make a recommendation to anyone with the same injury is, DO EXACTLY WHAT YOUR DOC TELLS YOU. This is an injury that you can recover from if you do it right and don't try too much too soon. I will post again after my first round of PT. Good luck to everyone.
Surgery March 13 Plaster cast off April 13. Stopped my forward fall with the surgery leg April 14. Excruciating pain, very fearful I reputpured. Saw doc today and he thinks the tendon is still connected but cant tell for sure because of scar tissue and swelling. SCARED Anyone have comfort for me?
Surgery March 13 Plaster cast off April 13. Stopped my forward fall with the surgery leg April 14. Excruciating pain, very fearful I reputpured. Saw doc today and he thinks the tendon is still connected but cant tell for sure because of scar tissue and swelling. SCARED Anyone have comfort for me?
JJ, I too stepped down with my bad wheel about a week after surgery. It was wet outside and my crutch slipped out from underneath me when walking into and office building. The pain put me through the roof but I did not re-rupture the tendon. They use a very stong material to sew the tendon back together. You should definitely keep it elevated and take some pain killers.
Hi,
I ruptured my right Achilles tendon on Thurs April 16th. I am getting a 2nd opinion from a more experienced ortho surgeon on Monday, Apr 20th and if he is available later that week, I will get surgery from him.
This is a very informative and supportive blog and community. I'm trying to stay positive. A few questions:
1) Does anyone have any experience with flying in airplanes post surgery? What is the earliest period that this is possible? I have read about the potential for blood clots, but I travel a fair amount of my work.
2) I have someone who can help me during the first 2 weeks post surgery - but after that, I will be living solo. Any feedback on whether it's much easier to handle chores, bathroom, etc after 2 weeks, would be helpful.
Thanks!
2 weeks post op aren't that much different from 2 days post op except that you should be narcotics free after 2 weeks.
WHEELCHAIR helped me. I use it in my house and it enabled me to use two hands to get stuff done.
Gene,
I think you will find it difficult by yourself 2 weeks post op, I know people who have done it but it's hard because of the swelling and the fact that your foot needs to be elevated for all of the time at the beginning.
In saying that, I was living by myself for about 1 month only 4 weeks post surgery, and managed fine - crutched my way to the shops for groceries and exercise, got lifts with friends to social events and even a lift to work every morning.
Guys, thanks for the feedback so far.
I just got back from surgery tonite. The doc tells me it was a success! I had a complete tear and part of my tendon had retracted into my calf. Currently have a hard splint with a ton of Ace bandage around it. On percaset and am elevating it. i can't put any ice given the thickness of the cast.
So i'll ask the dr if I can travel on a plane in about 4 weeks.
Gene,
I had surgery on Feb 3 after a rupture on Jan 31. 10 days after my surgery I had blood clots and am currently on Coumadin. I've done a lot of research on the flying issue after surgery as I travel for my job as well. It will not be recommended because of the already lack of flow because of immobility. As the other poster said, 2-weeks post-op will still be hard getting around on your own. I ruptured my right AT so I was unable to drive for 8 weeks after surgery. Definitely get your docs advice on air travel but, coming from experience with the clots, it's nothing to mess with. Good luck and best wishes...
To the poster regarding blood clots, that is something I will have to research further. At this point, I think traveling on planes will be unlikely.
Blood clots 10 days post surgery? Is this commonplace? Do you mind sharing some stats such as age and physical shape? I'm 32 and live quite an active life - my doctor thought I would have low risk for blood clots, but now I'm a bit concerned.
Thanks again and good luck
p.s. my first day post surgery was spent just elevating the leg and doing work off of my labtop. however, it's nighttime and my leg feels super swollen against my cast! I hope the swelling subsides overnight.
Gene, I just turned 40 years old this past Sunday. I actually ruptured my tendon playing soccer. So I consider myself a very active person at 6'1" and about 205.
I've had a lot of discussions with my Orthopedic Surgeon about my experience with surgery, clots, etc. Since the veins in your lower leg are much more narrow than those in your upper leg, clots can form more easily after this type of surgery. My doctor didn't expect clots for me either. Hopefully you doc has you taking asprin to help slim the chance of clotting. You need to watch for swelling or a sensation of pressure in your calf area. Obviously, you will have pain in your lower ankle area from surgery but be conscious of the feeling you have in the actual calf. On that 10th day after surgery, I got out of bed (still with cast on) and used my crutches to head to the bathroom. Immediately there was a intense pressure in my calf that was quite painful. Called the doc and they sent me to the hospital for a Venus Doppler (sonogram) and they found the clots. I hope this helps. If something doesn't feel right, always check with your doctor. Hopefully, you won't encounter the clot situation but as a fellow Achilles Rupture patient, I would wait to fly until you are mobile on the leg.
Thanks for the feedback. Yeah, I'm on Aspirin twice a day, along with my Percoset. I think i'll know more when i have my post op visit in two weeks.
A fact I didn't realize for those who live in New York City - Duane reade has a home delivery service: I purchased a shower bench and a wheelchair today, all at costs that seemed lower than the surgical stores and off of Amazon
It's so nice today in NYC (Saturday) and I'm on the couch watching the NBA Playoffs.
I've tried to lower my calorie count but how much weight gain did people experience?
I'm 30 and quite active, but I feel like I'm expending a fraction of the calories I used to prior to my injury.
My pain/swelling is worse at the end of the night and when I wake up - I have been elevating it every moment I can get.
hi all,have been following this thread since december when my hubby fully ruptured his a.t.and i now feel its time for me to add my views.firstly treatment in the uk is a whole lot different than the u.s.a,so its very difficult to compare.however here,s my story.16th dec hubby had op,2weeks post op in cast,then boot for the following 6wks,BUT the day he was due to come out of hospital he was in severe pain and only his continual complaining that a on call doc order a mri scan which showed BLOOD CLOTS!THESE ARE NOT TO BE MESSED WITH(eg.flying).then injections every day(not asprin) of warfrin plus tabs and visits from medical team for a week at home.continued on warfrin for 3months.he returned to wrk as a site manager 16th feb and 2 weeks later had boot removed(whoopee he can now drive)nearly 5 months later he had no re-rupters(which is quite common)but still has a limp an after 12hrs walking around site all day who wouldnt have a limp.however we have just been given the ok from doc for him to fly,but alot of insurance companies either wanted an 90day exculsion which we can just give or will not insure you at all cos of the clots,so beware all if you intending to fly check out terms and conditions of companies as the differ and could cost you the earth if needed to claim for ANY reason!!! ivejust bought hubby some flight socks as i no i,ll still worry when we fly in a couple of weeks,but he really needs this holiday and to be honest so do i,its been a strain on us both for different reasons.by the way he was playing football for the first time in 25years when it happened(how unfortunate)he 49yrs old and needs to stop being silly(hehhe,joking).take care all.karen
Stitches are out today! It's been 2 weeks post surgery. The Dr. said the swelling was minimal and that the curvature of my foot (when hanging over the exam bed) exhibited the right tension of the tendon.
I was very focused on keeping the foot elevated the past two weeks; I think that combined with my age (32) may have helped in the recovery so far.
I'm now in a walking boot, i am still non-weight bearing in my right foot for another 3 weeks. But it'll be nice to actually wash my right leg/foot in the shower in a few days!
It was 13 weeks ago that I had surgery. I am 3 weeks into physical therapy and noticing a dramatic difference. My mobility and strength is coming back gradually. I still walk with a slight limp but that will hopefully subside in the next week or two. I am starting to see the light and it feels good. To all of you who are still in a cast or boot...take it easy and know that if you rehab the right way...you will be back to normal. Don't get down, instead be thankful that you will be able to walk as you did before. It's only a lump in your oatmeal...
Hello, Kerry here. I have recently had surgery to repair a partially torn L achilles tendon. I was playing softball when it happened, in North Eastern Alabama. I finished that game and played 2 more before we were eliminated. Kinda dumb, huh?
Surgery was on the 23rd of April, on the 11th of May got out of the splint and into a boot. Not walking, nor will I for several more weeks. Did start light PT yesterday and go 2 x's per week.
No real pain, and only missed 2 days of work, day of surgery and the Friday after. I was able to only take 2 of the Rx narcotics, which allowed me to return to work. I was set-up in a different office and not allowed into the mill.
My AT torn off my heel, did not tear in two, and not all of it was unattached.
I have not asked if I will ever be able to play again, and am afraid to ask. Also, I do not know if my employer will be happy if anything like this happens again. I was only working for them for about 8 weeks prior to surgery.
This spot will be flagged and I will be returning daily.
good luck to all.
Hello out there it was May 21st when I had my surgery. This has been the worst incident in my life I'm a 36 yr old who was playing some basketball when I fully ruptured my AT. Then after 4 days of being in a temporary splint, the splint caused a cellulitus infection because it was rubbing on my outer ankle bone. This caused my Dr. to not cast me at the one week post OP mark and also keep my leg in a splint that only covers the back of my leg which is ace bandaged on. Today is the two week mark after surgery and I'm taking antibiotics for the infection. 4 days from know I will be back to the Dr. to hopefully get a cast. I dont like the fact that I dont really have much protection around my ankle, and at night when I am just falling a sleep I get muscle spazims which make my foot twinge. The Dr. says that is not enough to damage the tendon it still lets you know its there. I also had tenderness in my lower calf only to the touch. That led the Dr. to have me get a Dopler of my leg to rule out blood clots. To anyone out there that can answer these questions: 1.) My swelling is mostly around my ankle is that common ? 2.) How would you know if you reruptured the tendon ? 3.) Has anyone else not recieved a cast right away ? Well just to add to this misery I am a cop and an out doors type of guy and this sitting around is killing me. Hope everyone has a speedy recovery. Bob G.
Bob,
I ruptured my Achilles about 4 months ago now. I am now in week 7 of physical therapy. Swelling around the ankle is very common. I still have swelling and tightness after being on the foot all day.
You would definitely know if you re-ruptured your tendon. I stepped down about a week post-op and went through the roof but luckily didn't damage anything. DO NOT PUT ANY WEIGHT ON YOUR FOOT AT THIS TIME. This injury is a pain in the arce but you have to do what the Dr. tells you and take it slow. I too, am very active and it was very difficult for me to sit at home for the first 6 weeks and not be able to do anything. I ended up with blood clots 2 weeks after surgery and am still on Coumadin for that. Pay close attention to any pain in your calf. It's better to be safe than sorry. Hang in there and read some good books.
It will get better but you must be patient...
I had surgery 5 days ago on my Achilles Tendon as I had a full rupture of the tendon while playing tennis. I am half-casted and was prescribed Vicodin and Toradol, as an anti-inflammatory. I have been resting, icing and elevating my leg for 5 days and just today noticed that the knee of my casted leg is very warm to the touch, especially when compared to my non-injured leg. I have no other pain or symptoms (besides occassional leg twitches in my injured leg). Should I be concerned about my skin temperature on my knee? Is this a sign of an infection? I can't see my incision wound since I am casted so I don't know if it's red or pussy. It doesn't feel swollen.
It was june 13,2009 I ruptured my achilles playing softball. I was at third base and picked the ball up in motion to 1st and short stop yells 3rd !! So I changed motion toward second base runner and that's when I thought someone stepped on the back of my heal. I instantly fell forward face in the dirt!! I was in slot of pain for about 20 minutes.
I had surgery June 16th and I am 9 days post op. Experiencing calf cramps, tingling infoot, hot sensations, and bottom of foot cramps up. I was put in hard cast 1wk post op. Within 24 hrs I had to go back and get cast off because it hurt so bad I had to go back on pain meds!
Doc says I can opt for cast for 3 more weeks or if I am 100 percent compliant that I don't put my foot down I can start walking boot! With crutches of course.
I was more concerned about the calf cramp. I took a muscle relaxer thinking it would help , which it did. But after looking up norflex I found the side effects stated It could cause tendon injuries!! I was mortified! I had been on norflex for about 3 weeks prior too this injury. Very healthy female and was surprised this happens to me. Statisticly this does not happen to women. That's what the doc said anyway.
Ihave great doc at domino farms sport med clinic in Michigan . I could not be happier with them. They are team USA hockey surgeons!!
I am really anxious to start PT can't wait to play ball again!
Hi everyone,
Like everyone else here, I suffered an achilles rupture on 31 May 09. This is my second time different side. I opted not to get surgery because I noticed I was not a complete rupture. I got an MRI done and confirmed it! It was a partial tear indeed, but it sure hurt when it happened, more so than the complete rupture I suffered 6 years ago. Anyhow, I got put on the boot right away with the boot poiting down 15 degree. I haven't seen a doctor since, but next week I have an appoitment as I want to know how my achilles is doing. About two weeks after the injury I almost fell down because my crutches slipped and the first thing I did was to put my bad foot down and I felt it!!! It felt the achilles strech, or whatever didn't tear. The pain was immediate, but not severe and it went away very quick. This Sunday will be a month since my injury and I'm still contemplating getting surgery. I live in Germany and would hate to be on crutches come winter. Based on a lot of your experiences, surgery will give me the best chance at recovering faster than if I let it heal on its own. Not to mention the possibility of re-rupture deminishes.
I would like to read your comments on me getting the surgury a month after the injury. My foot looks fine, I bit bigger than my other foot, but not swollen and everything seems to be in place. But again, I'm not sure if I should continue with the slow recovery process or just get the surgery. On my previous injury, I did get the surgury, but it took a while before I was on my feet. the scar healed nicely and haven't had any problems with that achilles since.
your thoughts please...
Complete rupture on June 2th playing hoops, surgery on June 5th. Tendon was rolled way up into the calf and the doc had to dig it out with his index finger. traveled from San Diego (stopover in Newark, 23 hour door to door) to Costa Rica on June 20th for a mostly month long vacation with the family. Crutched through the rainforest for almost a mile. I'm at 21 days today and am supposed to be able to put weight on it at 28 days. I might do 5% for the next 7 days. Still have lots of swelling the ebbs and flows based on elevating the leg. This blog, which I found today, is making me feel better mentally. Pain is just weakness leaving the body. Hang in there.
my name is jackie I put in an earlier blog on june 25th my injury date was june 13, 2009.
I am approaching 1 month since my surgery. I am getting a little worried about being able to start PT. I cant even put my foot down it feels like little needles in my heel.
I am not like trying to put the foot down but sometimes when you have to brush your teeth i have no choice.
I have had a couple of close calls when I am doing stairs.
Is there anyone out there that has had this surgery and went back to playing ball or another sport again? I would love to have some input on maybe ancouragement ! I really want to play ball again! But I am afraid!
Still get tingles in foot not as bad. But thats from the nerve block they gave me. Not sure if I would OPT for that again!!
My situation is a bit differant since I haven't actually HAD a rupture of the tendon. I have achilles tendonitis with Haglunds Deformity (bone growth back of heal) and the pain and/or discomfort is always there despite PT, stretches, icing, ect. My DR finally suggested surgery which is in 6 weeks (plan to help my daughter with her toddler and newborn)
I was wondering if there is anything I can do now to prepare for the surgery which might help improve the recovery process. I am pretty inactive trying to prevent pain as well as further damage.
I wonder if the surgery and recovery will be close to what you folks are experianceing. I couldn't find a website that deals with Haglunds Deformity surgical recovery so thought this might be close enough.
Thanks for any suggestions!
I'm going to have surgery on my achilles rupture in about 10 days.
I tore my achilles in early June, didn't have insurance, and have just hobbled around on crutches since then. I just (as of this morning) was granted Cobra coverage, though I had not accepted it last April, and no longer have a "pre-existing condition". I'm young and quite active, but a little worried that waiting so long for surgery has weakend both my achilles and my entire left leg, making the recovery process a bit more difficult.
This website is great. Thanks, all, for the support.
Watch out for Blood Clots.
I just ruptured my Achilles playing basketball on August 5. When it happened there was more numbness than pain in the area. Realizing that it was my Achilles, I went to my Ortho the next morning. At that point, most of the pain was in my calf, which he attributed to some type of muscle tear in the calf. He put me in a walking boot, sent me for an MRI and scheduled surgery 6 days later (anticipating the MRI would show a full rupture). I spoke to him the day before the surgery and indicated there was still a lot of pain in the calf accompanied by some swelling. He asked me to get a venus Doppler ultrasound that same day to make sure there wasn’t a blood clot in the calf (1 in a hundred chance he said). When they did the ultrasound they found 2 clots in my Perneal veins. With this information they decided to postpone surgery for 9 days to see if they could get the clots to clear or at least stabilize.
With surgery still pending, they put me on Lovenox to thin the blood. This type of blood thinner can come in and out of they system pretty quickly. So to add to the fun of the Achilles rupture, now I had to give myself shots of Lovenox in the stomach twice a day for one week. I had another ultrasound 2 days before the scheduled surgery and the clot was exactly the same. They felt confident that the clot had stabilized and kept the surgery as scheduled and had me start taking another blood thinner (commaden (sp?) the day before the surgery.
On August 21, 2009, I had the surgery and everything went well. I was put into a splint and am scheduled to get the stitches out on September 1. The first 3-4 days were very painful. Whenever I tried to sleep, I would wake up 30-60 minutes later and it felt like someone was trying to drive a nail into my heal. There was no comfortable way to keep the foot elevated for any extended period of time. Now, after 7 days, I’m off the pain killers and able to sleep while only getting up 3 times during the night.
I’m doing my best to rest, but am anxious to get back to work and some level of activity. It’s been very helpful, and sometimes discouraging to read the entries on this site to know what’s coming in the weeks and months ahead.
hi everyone,
here's my story. i ruptured (6cm) achilles july 7th, surguery august 14th (yes 5.5 weeks waiting, which was psychologically pretty crappy). i am now 19 days post op. the first two weeks i was in a tensor bandage cast, which i had no issues with. wound looks great, no infection. so now i'm in a hard cast, i think this is day 6 but feels like day 60. i have burning, tingling, jabbing and firing pains in my heel, ankle and lower achilles, especially at night. doc says these are normal. i wanted you all to know that you are having normal pain if you have no infection, i guess we all just have to bare this stage out. looking forward to sept 14th, when i move to the boot with 3 wedges... still no weight bearing, but its the next step.. we live for these next steps!!! i'm looking forward to sitting in the shower and not freaking out about my cast getting wet... take care everyone, Shelley in Brockville Canada.
Hi kids. I've been reading this blog since I ruptured my AT on Aug 6. I had surgery on the 20th of Aug and have to admit my experience has been smooth compared to some. Soft expandable cast for 10 days. I actually flew 7 days post op. Doc had me take aspirin before during and after the trip. Got off the pain meds 3 days after the surgery. The stuff they gave me plugs you up in no time flat. Got the stitches out at 10 days and into a boot adjusted to 22 degrees. In two days(3 weeks) I go to neutral and partial weight bearing as tolerable. So far the biggest piece of advice to anyone post op is to get a scooter. The absolute best invention ever. Great around the house, and gives you plenty of freedom to go out in public shopping or eating. My protocol now is to get weight bearing gradually between week 3 and 5. Then a shoe with a wedge at 6 weeks. Doc says I can chip and putt (but suggests an ASO brace for safety). 8 weeks full range of motion exercises. Somewhere between 10 and 12 weeks I hope to be hitting full golf shots (carefully). Seems aggressive considering some of the other posts I've read. But my Doc believes the muscle atrophy is the biggest hurdle to recovery. I plan to stay cautiously aggressive during the rehab. A physical therapist friend has given me a great program of stretching exercises to do during my recovery (not associated with the AT rehab). So I hope to use this time to increase my flexibility and not become a complete couch potato.
Thanks for the wonderful site. I ruptured my Achilles playing basketball September 19th and had surgery yesterday(September 21st). The pain has been incredibly bearable. I was actually surprised that I've had as little pain as I've experienced. I would fully recommend Orthopedic Associates of Wisconsin if you have this procedure done in the Great Lakes region. I'm following the RICE formula and have felt pretty good. I'm just excited to begin the road to walking and believe that process can begin in five weeks. Any suggestions on how people survive going back to the job site in the cast? THANKS AND BEST OF LUCK TO ALL
I'm 5wks post op and in PT for 2wks. It was feeling fine until now. I find it is hurting more than normal and I think I see a new bruise near the incision. I can't move it like I use to. What is going on. Thanks
i just 'woke up' (if you can call that sleep), so i guess this is day 1 for me. surgery for a full rupture of the right (damnit) AT yesterday afternoon, 9/30. i guess i was unlucky - the nerve block started wearing of after 5 hours. they told me to expect 10-20 hours. but those 5 post-op hours were encouraging. i felt relieved and (obviously) pain free. like so many others on this blog, i'm not in love with pain meds - but that brief flirtation you have with thinking you'll be the one to get by with advil only ('i don't no stinking percocet') goes out the window when the pain sets in. the frustrating part is even when you do take them, the throbbing is bad enough to make sleep and concentration difficult. that said, if anyone pre-op is reading this: it's not unbearable. it hurts. it makes life hard. but it's not the end of the world - and i'm not even 24 hours out and i imagine i feel the throbbing subside, if just a bit.
at any rate, the operation was a breeze. the block had me numbed up good. i had a mild IV sedative on top of that and by the midway point, i was alert and talking to the surgeon. i was in recovery for maybe 45 minutes before they let me go. i think the hard part is now. aside from the throbbing and occasional sharp stabs, there's obviously a long road ahead. not only can those of us right AT victims (anyone else see the numbers on how many ruptures are left vs. right? it's crazy and makes me feel like a sucker) not drive for a while, but i've got a 16-month old i'm in love with and it's hard to accept i can't play with him and chase him around as he explores every nook and cranny of our place.
still, i'm very grateful for this blog and to all those who shared. i had a long wait between injury and surgery (i'll post that quick story under (how i ruptured ..') and i visited this site frequently. i'm sorry for all those who have had difficulties, but i think it's great there's a forum to share and encourage and reinforce.
so day 1 it is: elevation, rest, lots of liquids, vitamins and healthy foods.
i'm scheduled to get the cast removed in 2 weeks. Make that 13 days :)
Here's to walking, driving and running!
-Marc
Hey, I am a 20 year old student and college baseball player. I ruptured my right Achilles at practice two weeks ago doing sprint work. I was born with a club foot which could have contributed to the injury as I am in good shape and the doctors told me it is rare for a young athlete to have this injury, but it does happen. I had surgery Friday and today is Sunday. I am looking to get back to classes tomorrow but the pain is intense when i try to get on my crutches and walk around. When I sit and elevate my leg I am completely fine. Anyone have any insights about how long it takes for the pain to go away when simply walking. My doctor said it was because all of the blood going back into the repaired area which makes sense. I am just looking to get back to school asap.
Hi,I ruptured my achilles tendon 10days ago. The doctor in emerg. put a splint on it, with my toes pointing down, and gave me an appointment with the specialist for a week later. That doctor removed the splint, did the test on me and told me I had ruptured the tendon. However, because of my age (63) and the fact that I didn't play any sport decided not to do surgery. He prescribed an air boot which was fitted in the ortho, shop straight away. My question is,as the boot is at right angle and I take it off in bed, how is the tendon going to heal? I don't see the specialist again for 5 weeks. Also, is it normal to have more pain in the upper calf than around the heel area?
I ruptured my tendon on October 2, ( no surgery) was put in a fiberglass cast for 2 1/2 weeks and am in an aircast now. I am 60 years old and am anxious to get back to work. I sleep wearing the aircast and am wondering if anyone removes their cast at night. I am afraid of doing more damage to my leg but find the cast a necessary evil. I a using a leg caddy but still get some intense pain along my heal and my calf is pretty tender. My next appointment is in 3 weeks to reassess and maybe start putting weight on the leg.
I fully ruptured my AT playing basketball on October 22nd, surgery October 26th. I don't know if I have a conservative doctor because he isn't around much and I really don't know my time table or any information. Everything is happening at such a rush and since my surgery good ole Doc has been on vacation for a week. I've been placed in a hard cast with my toe pointing down and have an appointment with him Monday. Stopped taking all pain medication because it constantly upsets my stomach and i'd rather eat a full meal than sit there groggy. My boss is very aggressive in these tough times and expects me back in the office on Monday, and I have no information or ammo from the Ortho to dispute me having to come in. I still have to take tons of naps during the day and getting around on the crutches is both cumbersome and painful at times. I don't like the casts and I definitely don't like restrictions to my movement, does anybody have an idea what to expect from this type of recovery?
I ruptured my right AT playing softball. I was rounding third base heading home when I thought the third baseman kicked me. While I was lying in the dirt yelling interference to the umpire, someone threw the ball to third baseman and she tagged me out. Where's the compassion. Why didn't she let me crawl back to third, once I figured out that I was not kicked because there was no one near me. Well I went to the orthopedic md the next day and surgery was scheduled for the next week. I was hobbling around pretty good for that week. Surgery went well, accept for the asthma attack when I woke up. But they quickly treated me with the breathing treatment. So after breathing was restored it was home to recover. I got the block so there was not much pain right away. After the block went away I was happy to oblige myself with the percocet. Kept my foot elevated for the most part except for bio breaks. Had one slight fall scare trying to get a package from the mailman. Felt a slight pull that kind of scared me into staying put. After 2 weeks I got my cast and bandages changed. 10 of the 12 stitches were removed with the remaining 2 to be removed in 4 weeks. Had a spot that wasn't healing as well. 4 weeks came, got the cast cut and remaining stitches removed. Still a little spot that is not healing as well. He left me with steri strips. Got fitted for my brace. Looking forward to walking and driving again. Had maybe 3 trips with left footed driving. Its not pretty but was functional in those few emergencies. I take my cast off while at home and put it on when I go out. Still can't get my surgical area wet. I am really looking forward to a long and full shower. Got lots of dry flaky skin on my leg and a scabby surgical area. But, I think I need the scabs to make sure that the scar heals well. This has been the greatest blog. For all of you who have gone through and are going through, thanks for sharing. Signed: Ready to walk in GA.
to the anon poster from 10.31:
as someone who's at 4 weeks now, i can say it definitely gets better quickly those first 2 weeks. for me at least (full rupture, right AT), the first 36 hours after the block wore off were the worst. huge improvement the next 4-5 days. Got used to the cast and crutches. Ditched the percs after 2 days and slowed the ibuprofen after 5 (took aspirin for 2 weeks for clots tho).
i went out a couple times those first two weeks, but was lucky to be able to work from home. it's completely manageable to go out but the risk of a fall and the desire to elevate as much as possible to help the heeling kept me in for the most part.
After 2 weeks, i got the cast off and got a VacOped boot (a plastic frame with a lined, beanbag cushion that hardens when you suck the air out to protect like a cast) that allowed me to put weight on the bad leg. Was able to balance and stand and walk too (tho crutches are suggested for guidance). By 3 weeks I was taking short flights (Bos>NYC) for work and taking stairs w/o crutches. i've been lucky to have no pain and no complications in healing.
don't know if that's helpful ... in short I'd say, you CAN go back to work after 4 days or so, but I think, depending on your doctor and his/her protocol of course, 2 weeks makes the most sense.
Good luck.
To be honest here it's awful. There will be a lot of freakish swelling so keep it elevated as much as you can. I felt like my foot was a water balloon. Every time I'd stand up or lay down it would fill up and then deflate. I couldn't do much of anything myself without it being a huge production. I actually moved back in with my parents for about 3 months so I could get some help & I'd recommend you do something similar. Pain killers necessary for about a week or two but leave you in a haze. A little advice is to drink a lot of water & supplement with lots fiber (wink, wink). Even though you're in a cast and it doesn't seem like much, make sure and move your toes often. Some products & services I started at this point which may or may not help, but probably didn't hurt:
-Acupuncture (2x/wk initially, then 1x/wk & still doing it)
-Enzymes: Supposed to decrease scar tissue and inflamation. I use(d) 8-10 vitalzym x/day. Expensive! About $150/mo
-Ligament restore is supposed to provide materials for healing & decrease inflammation. I didn't discover this until 5 months out. Wish I would have known about this earlier. I would have started with 8 caps/day for about 3 months and then the recommended 4. Expensive! $80/240 caps.
-San Qi 17: Chinese herbal pills that supposedly promote healing. Very interesting story with these. Look it up. I went 12-18 pills/day for about 5 months. Moderately expensive. About $40/month.
-Essentials fats: You should be consuming these anyway, but if not, do. Helpful for healing and inflammation. Moderately expensive.
-Arnica tabs: For swelling and minor trauma. Super cheap.
-Ibuprofen: Go to Costco my friend.
-Vit C: I took 3 grams/day for almost 3 months & then tapered off. Good for inflamation and involved in tissue formation.
-Zinc: I want to say 400mg/day for almost 3 months. Don't know why it's useful but I read that it is found in high amounts at injury sites.
-Protein: I'd consume 1-2 grams/lb of body weight. Protein is the raw material for tissue.
I ruptured my tendon playing basketball and had surgery on Monday. The pain was pretty bad the 1st few days and my wife thinks I'm overdoing it. She said that she had 3 c sections and that pain is just as bad. Can someone who had a c section and a rupture comment on the pain comparision?
Alot of interesting comments here. Some I can relate to and some I can't. But everyone responds to and heels differently from surgery.
I would like to start off by saying that my surgeon is the team orthopedic surgeon for the Seattle Mariners so I am guessing he has seen his fair share of these. Since my injury was sports related (soccer) this made me feel alot better especially when he said the operation was succesful.
Nevertheless the surgery for a complete rupture was about 45 minutes. I was rolled out of the operating room with a hard cast and sent home about 1.5 hours later with a container full of percocet. Didn't like the percocet and after a day switched to extra- strength tylenol. After about 5 days realized I needed something stronger so asked for something stronger and got Vicodin.
Anyways 2 weeks in the hard cast mostly lying around watching the Olympics. Got a little cabin fever so after about 3 days made a few short trips out of the house on crutches. Tried working the second week with not much success(about 20hours) After 2 weeks, the cast was taken off and replaced with a boot and the sticthes removed. My instructions were to start PT right away (actually the next day) and to start out 25% weight bearing with an increase of 25% per week. I am currently at 75%waiting for the last week to get rid of the crutches. I am guessing the boot will stay for awhile.
After 4 sessions of PT I have regained between 50% to 60% range of motion. Swelling is gone. Obviously no weight bearing yet only stretching, icing, and electro stimulation.
Excercises consist of picking up marbles with the toes, working a variety of leg lifts to prevent additional atrophy, and adding some crunches and other core excercises. Have my follow up visit with the doctor in 2 weeks so I guess I will see what's next on the road to recovery. So far so good.
Hi, I'm Jon Hof, male 57, living in Cardiff Wales UK. Completely ruptured my right achilles tendon 4 weeks ago. The doctor suggested it would be safer not to operate but to have a plaster for 6 weeks. They would then reposition my foot then put another plaster or a boot on for a few more weeks. Does anyone know about the "boots?" If I have a "boot" will I be able to walk without crutches? Thanks, great blog.
Hi JonHof. I ruptured my right achilles on 18th January 2010 and opted for conservative treatment using a 'boot' which was a Vacoped which allowed adjustments to the foot angle over the recovery period. I was encouraged to weight bear as early as I could do so comfortably which was around 3-4 weeks after the rupture and whilst it did make getting around easier, the boot put my bad leg at a different height to my good leg and so it did hurt my back and hips a bit. How are you getting on with your treatment? A word of caution, I re-ruptured 10 weeks to the day of the original rupture and 10 days after coming out of the boot so take things VERY steadily. I had to have surgery last week to mend the damage I had done.
Ischia (Wiltshire, UK but currently recovering in Mid Wales)
Hi nice to read how all the different recoveries have gone. I tore my right achilles skiing. Only mine tore near my calf muscle and actually above where some of my muscle attaches. This fooled the doctors into thinking that my tear was not complete because my foot responded well to the squeeze test at the calf. After further investigation it turned out that I needed surgery 90% torn. I am now about 3 weeks post op and looking forward to getting into the boot rather than the hard cast I am in. I am experiencing pain in my foot and ankle, I think from not moving it. And my calf seems to tighten up and has random pain. Has anyone ever torn their achilles up high on the tendon and if they have how long was your recovery and what was it like? Thanks for any help.
Greetings all,
I, too, tore my Achilles tendon and opted for surgery. Three weeks post-op I experienced my first pain. I had been completely sedentary up to this point (rigidly following the R.I.C.E protocol) and had been pain free. However, I elected to walk on it today (peg leg) and apparently am now paying the price in pain.
My question to those who are (or were) a few weeks post-op... did your injured foot (the one afficted with the now repaired Achilles tendon) continue to turn visibly red in color and become uncomfortable whenever you were standing upright (even if you were using your crutches and not putting any weight on the surgically repaired foot/tendon)?
Whenever I stand up now... after this day of putting light weight/standing on it my repaired foot flushes red with blood and I experience pain in the repaired tendon (at the surgery site). These symptoms remain until I elevate it again... and I've no idea if it should be normally occurring...
I snapped my left achilles playing soccer on March 28th this year.
In some respects I have the dubious advantage of having been through this before having snapped my right achilles on friday 13th June 2003.
Back then I was in plaster non weight bearing for 3 months even though I had surgery. It took 6 months before I was back running 10k's.
This time I am delighted how things appear to have moved on and the new regime of early weight bearing is a God send as I am currently working in a role where I am on my feet a lot, and mortgages still need to be paid.
I had surgery 2.5 weeks ago and i've since had my stitches out.
I'm pretty much back to 90 degrees too so hobbling around is working for me.
Not really supposed to be weight bearing quite yet though so I am sure that I am at risk of putting strain on the repair if I misjudged my amended walking gait.
Still, no pain, no infection at the wound site, no tendon pain and more crucial I can flex my calf and move my foot so it all works.
Can wait to get into the air boot in 1.5 weeks and get back into the physio exercises to get my range of movement back.
My wife has already told me that my soccer career is over, i'm not sure whether i'll be in a hurry to get back into 10k club runs again this time round so it'll be swimming and cycling, along with the walking and being on my feet all day at work.
Fingers crossed that it's all working out as well as I think that it is.
Bon chance to all of you going through the same thing.
Shandra 35year old
Interesting to learn that there are so many people who have experienced the same as myself. I completely ruptured my achilles on April 10 and surgery on April 15. I tore my achilles exercising at a boot camp doing stair exercises. I was wondering if anyone experienced swelling in the ankle area. Im not experiencing any pain but it freaks me out to see it. When should I call my doctor and how soon do I do therapy. My doctor mentioned it but did not provide any dates at all. Guess Im just anxious to get well soon and don't want to do to much too soon! Also with the boot on it just feels weird are we suppose to keep it on 24/7? This is the fourth week since my injury and third week post op. Any suggestions? Also should I be driving?
Hi just tore my left Achilles its not a full detach but it is painful. trying to figure out how fast i can drive my Stick trying to get some friends to loan me a automatic. also work has said i can have a few days off but want me back this weekend i don't have to work hard but i am on my feet a lot going to get a scooter to go around on. overall just trying to see how fast people were driving their cars again i need to drive and since its my left its the clutch side. thanks for any help and info
After a long hiatus of not being active, I was playing basketball on 5/1 and ruptured my achilles tendon. I accelerated to get a rebound and I heard the infamous "POP." My ankle gave away and subsequent footsteps felt as if my foot was caving into itself. I consider myself in shape..6'3" 185 lbs. However, from reading these posts, it seems that this injury is the proverbial "ticking timebomb," and can happen to anyone.
After the injury, I went home and did some research online and was pretty sure I had a complete tear. I went to the emergency room the next morning and this was confirmed by the "Thompson test." I met with an orthopedic surgeon a few days later and scheduled surgery on 5/14 (13 days after the injury).
Surgery was successful. I had the nerve block and general anesthesia. I'm currently 4-days post op and there is zero pain. I will get my cast replaced in two weeks and have another for 4 weeks.
Thanks a lot for the blog. I am in the UK and found the info here very helpful. I am a fit, non-smoking 30yo female, and I fully ruptured my AT playing tennis on 6th June 2010.
I have had the op on Fri 11th June 2010. Like many of you I have pain in my leg when I have it down (i.e.g, when getting to the loo on crutches or moving from bedroom to lounge), particularly in the mornings after lack of movement of the leg.
I understand that I need to keep my leg up on pillows as much as possible and I will try to do this. The doc told me I would get a diff cast in 2 weeks and then be in cast 4 more weeks after that (this is if all goes well and to plan, no wound infection etc).
I hate being so dependent on people and not being able to do anything for myself. I used to lead a very active lifestyle and this is a complete nightmare. Also, I am originally from NZ so my family is miles away. However, my boyfriend has been amazing!
I have one question: the need to have my leg up on pillows, is that to help with pain or will it be useful for healing as well?
Hi I'm from the UK as well. Completely ruptured my achilles dancing to the Proclaimers (I could Walk 500 miles - oh the irony!) at a friends 40th bash (never want to hear that song again!) on 22nd May 2010. I had surgery on the 27th (the day before my youngest daughters 3rd birthday party which was cancelled!). I am now in cast number 2 following the removal of my stitches. I'm not sure what comes next as I had to switch hospitals to have the stitches out - I was staying with my folks in Devon with my 3 girls whilst they were on half term) - so have been searching desperately for some information. I have 3 daughters aged 3, 4 and 7 - no family close by - so it's a complete nightmare. I have read all the posts about resting and elevating your leg - try explaining that to a 3 year old! I have been lucky enough to be able to stay with family for the first 3 weeks but am now solo - just me and the girls for the vast majority of the day. Thank God for good friends is all I can say. Great Blog - it's good to know that you're not alone!
Hello Folks: I am a female and was jumping double dutch rope one day with some family members when all of a sudden I was stopped dead in my tracks by what I immediately thought was a good kick on the back of my right leg by one of my cousins. I immediately found out that no one had touched me. I could not figure out what had occurred to me until I went to the emergency room and the doc said congratulations, you have ruptured your archilles tendon, geeze.... Believe it or not, this was two years ago. I am 2 years post op to my right archilles tendon. I can still feel tightness on the leg as though the rubber band has no more slack to give. lol...:} I do my morning stretches, otherwise, it is difficult to walk. But as soon as I warm up the tendon with stretches and exercise, it doesn't feel so tight, however after being sedatary on a chair at work for a while, I can feel the tightness when I finally get up and start to walk. I still get really bad burning sensations if ive worked for over 30 minutes and the next day, I have to take a good amount of meds to find some relief. My surgeon is one of the best in his field here in Massachusetts and I know that the surgery was done correctly, but the physicians all seem to think that the burning and tightness is normal even after two years. I am very conciensious of it, since it eight feels tight, or it burns or both at the same time.
well I wish you all good health, but this thing about tearing your archilles tendon is no joke. Will I ever feel normal again
My husband ruptured his Achilles tendon a few weeks back, and after surgery the nurse recommended that he use a sofa cushion to prop his foot up at home. I can't tell you how much of a difference this made! Because it's firmer, wider and more supportive than a normal pillow, he had much less pain when propping it up, especially when he was trying to sleep. (We tried a regular pillow too--not so good.) Hope this suggestion helps; good luck to all those recovering--and to their caretakers!
hi am 2 days postop am very nervous since my dr said weightbeaqring as tolerated, which, upon standing feel a tearing sensation wondering if others have experienced this feeling. Am 49 with 33 yrs of being on my feet, trying to stay positve, but am feeoling overwhelemed, due to my busy lifestyle and lack of it at this time
Had surgery for total AT rupture 6 days ago. Great blog, because I don't really know what I'm in for. Some observations-get a kneewalker. It makes life a lot easier. Second, forget percoset. Pain is really bearable, compared to severe constipation, which I endured and drank glasses of prune juice, laxatives, grapes. Upset stomach for 5 days, but it took 24 hours to get bowels moving.Also keep leg elevated-virtually no pain during this time If you have to take pain meds, be sure to take a stool softener, mild laxative, plenty of fiber,fluids. Watch out for dehydration.One sign is dark, yellow urine-should be lighter yellow if properly hydrated. Early on for me, but have to get driving soon.Doc said no driving for 8 weeks! My R tear resulted from a trip while stepping backward, so it seems like it may not take much. Lots of burning pain when leg hangs down, like when using crutches. I'll keep in touch, as my situation develops.Interesting site at this time.
1 week post surgery. Doc cleaned dressing. Rebandaged. Due back in 1 week-25 staples to be removed. Then a hard cast for 4 weeks. Still NWB. Not much pain, but no driving due to R foot. Looks like very long haul. No idea when back to work.
Hi All, 47 year old male, ruptured it completely playing squash. Got a question for all you cast experts. My foot is now in the fibreglass cast in the equinas (pointed foot) position following the Op and the initial backslab. Its OK but I feel a lot of pressure on my heel. I gues its because of the position. Does anyone else get that? Toes are good colour etc but the pressure gets me down sometimes. Also I am due to travel to Madagascar the day after the last cast comes off. Reckon I should cancel? Im a bit nervous about hours of airport walking! Any feedback gratefully received. Geoff
I partially tore my AT 20% in April. After a bit of hemming and hawing, I finally had the surgery in July. Debridement, tendon reconstruction and a pin later, I am seven weeks out and my doctor wants me to start weaning into a show. I had one PT session and he too wants in me a show by the end of the month. I am a little concerned with this because while I can wear sandals, shoes/ sneakers are not an option; I can barely get my foot in and just a little bit of walking leaves me propped up for the rest of the day.
While I am a staunch advocate for myself, I am not sure what care I'm "supposed" to be getting. I DO know that I don't feel comfortable out of my CAM Walker just yet. I would push for more physical therapy, but what more can they do for me than I do for myself at home?
Suggestions please...
hi, i ruptured my achilies tendon 4 weeks ago playing rounders on the beach! I had an op a week later and am now 3 weeks post.
I'm so glad to have found this blog and to hear others experiences and frustrations. I think that my biggest problems are my lack of independence and getting to grips with crutches - i am still quite unsteady, have sore hands and have had a couple of tumbles. I'd love to try the knee scooter thingy but have a house full of steps (2 to th downstairs loo, 2 to the kitchen, 5 to get outside!!) so it probably isn't a realistic option for me. Any hints on crutching prowess?? Any words of advice on any aspects of recovery gratefully received!
CJ
Hello. First I would like to thank everyone for their informational posts. I ruptured my AT this past Monday playing soccer. At 37, I am not as fit as I was when I played in my 20s. My wife and I had our first child 2 months ago. This was extremely bad timing for us. I feel horrible that my wife has to take the load of childcare responsibility. Luckily, my mother in law drove 6 hours to stay and help.
I had my surgery yesterday, and I have been resting and elevating. I had the nerve block as well, so I have not experienced pain yet. This blog is helping me prepare for what is to come.
My question is, is Monday too early to return to work? I have a coworker bringing a wheelchair with a leg lift. If not, I would. Have to take FMLA leave unpaid.
I'm sure this is early to ask, because I have no idea how much pain I will have. I was just wondering the earliest people returned to work
Hey yall. 27 years old, tore my Achilles a month ago today. 3 weeks out after surgery. Was playing flag football and as the ball was snapped I went to explode out of my stance to rush the quarterback and POP!Had the fiberglass on for a week and am just so completely bored that i decided to post a comment. My surgeon said it was a pretty bad tear, had three and a half inches of seperation b/t the two ends and some clotting was found during surgery. Anyways good to feel like i'm not the only one going thru this misery. Speedy recovery to you all!
Chris
green bay, wisconsin
GO PACK!
OK its just over 8 weeks since my Op for full rupture. The cast is off but my heel is still 2 inches from the ground so walking is impossible. Im trying to do mobility excercises and heel toe stretches but my hospital offered no physio or even a walking boot! I'm wondering how long it will be before walking is not too risky. Are other people having physio? How essential is it? I dont want to rush the recovery but I also want it back to normal as soon as I can. Any advice on rehab would be appreciated. Geoff
I had surgery 5 and a half weeks ago for complete achilles tear. I was in a partial cast for 12 days and the boot since. Have graduated from two crutches (non weight bearing) to one crutch, and now to a ergonomic cane. Seeing the ortho today. Have been to a PT twice weekly for three weeks. The whole thing is going to be slow to full recovery and I am now getting adjusted to the reality. I think the most important part is getting used to and learning how to get the boot on and off. Big pain but necessary.
John, I am pretty much the same time line as you. I am 6 weeks out from surgery for complete rupture. I am now in a boot with partial weight bearing using 2 crutches. I am massaging the incision and doing gentle range of motion. I keep my leg elevated most of the time as it seems to swell when down. I have a very physical job so unfortunately am not able to work until I am much more mobile. This site has been very helpful to share experiences. Seems like there are so many different approaches to rehab etc.
Hi Diane, I have two more wks. in the boot, close to full weight bearing and using a cane in place of a crutch. Swelling is still a problem, jacuzzi and ice work well but ongoing
Very validating blog site. I tore my achilles while playing basketball on Sept 28th, was walking on it forever, and finally got an MRI and had surgery October 12th. The pain has been a non-issue and my doctor fit me for a boot with heel inserts. I am trying to rest as much as possible, but this is making me buggy. I'm hosting a poker party tonight just to stay sane. I'm hoping for 6 weeks like this to heal, 6 weeks more in the current position, then I will shift to neutral. The problem s that I am incapable of sitting around at home with my leg elevated
I am 3 weeks post surgery. I just got the hard cast off, and I am onto the boot. Doc said no weight bearing for 3 more weeks, until my next appointment. He also said I may not need physical therapy. I don't buy that. John and Diane - you both are 3 weeks ahead of me. What do you think about PT? I would think this is an essential step to recovery.
And I have one more question. My calf muscle is mush. Since I have been in the boot, I have more pain in my calf then I have ever had. I feel like I need pain meds more now than ever. Did anyone else feel the same? Is this something that will go away?
Hey Dennis, I was non weight bearing for the first 3 weeks in the cast and then non weight bearing 3 weeks in the boot. I was encouraged to start partial weight bearing and have had a lot of pain from it so was told to hold back a little longer. I remove the boot a number of times a day to move my foot up and down, it is really tight.My doctor said the same thing about possibly not needing therapy, but I definitely feel like I need it. I have occasional swelling but as soon as I elevate my leg it gets better. I did not experience any calf pain. My calf, and thigh have really atrophied, mush is a good descriptor, I would mention the calf pain to your doctor. Keep posting. Good to hear from someone whose progress I can measure close to mine.
Now in Week Eight and full weight bearing and physical therapy. Using a cane for balance and trying to walk in line but experiencing tendon pain and sensitivity at surgical sight. Do not know what the balance is between strengthening, stretching and being patient and letting time heal. Any thoughts out there at the seven and a half week mark?
anyone use ultrasound to treat post op pain and promote healing?
WOW PEOPLE!! Have just been reading these blogs - I am schedualing surgery now...but after reading I am having second thoughts and thinking of therapy alone. I live alone in a two story...don't have people to help me after for any extended period. The recoup sounds pretty dramatic and very long. Would appreciate advice and thoughts. I'm 67...in good shape (at least I was before becoming a couch potatoe to this dam thing). I bike, hike, swim...sounds like all that is a long way off. g
been using ultra sound in physical therapy for pain and scar healing, but not sure if it is doing anything.
Dennis, I hope you are still reading this blog because I am experiencing exactly what you described in your latest post.
I am 2 weeks post-op, just got the cast off and am in the boot, doing gentle range of motion exercises a few times a day, but still non weight bearing. My calf hurts like crazy. I hadn't taken any pain meds since 3 days after surgery and now I need them all the time. It kind of feels like a cramp, or like a really strained muscle. Like you said, the pain is up high in the calf muscle, not down where the incision is or where the tendon was repaired, which is kind of weird to me.
The other strange thing is that the bottom of my injured foot is incredibly sensitive to touch. When I take the boot off to do my exercises, I try to rub my leg gently and the foot, just to get the blood flowing and to try and loosen up the muscles. They look like mush but feel extremely tight. Anyway, when I touch the bottom of my foot it hurts like pins and needles. Does that happen to you?
I have 3 more weeks of NWB and then I get to learn to walk again in the boot. My doctor says PT is a must, and I really can't imagine not doing it. However, he doesn't want me to start PT until 8 weeks post-op, which is when I'll be back in a regular shoe and able to walk fairly well.
I'm also planning to join a yoga studio as part of my rehab and my doc said that was a good idea and probably something I should continue with throughout life to keep my joints, tendons, and muscles both strong and limber.
Had my second achilles surgery this morning at 7am. It is now 5 pm and still no feeling in my toes and I cannot wiggle them. I did not experience this after surgery on my other achilles. Can the nerve block last this long? Let me know if this happened to you. Thanks.
Hi everyone, I ruptured my achillies 3 weeks ago can you believe as simple as just skipping thought I had hit something when i heard the bang. Yesterday plaster came of was put into my cam boot, I really thought I would be able to get arount better, but to my diappointment my surgeon has said another 6 weeks nwb I am shattered being a fairly active person I feel like my wings have been clipped. I to am now experiencing alot of pain in my calf muscle. I have really been interested reading everyone,s experience makes you feel not alone in this, hope everyone gets beter soon
Robyn (Australia)
40yr old Giants fan!
I ruptured my achilles celebrating the Giants world series. I guess it will be a good story for years to come...lol
Mine was Nov. 1st. Had my surgery on Nov. 8th. I go in tomorrow (Dec 20th) to get my hard cast removed. I'm not sure if I get another hard cast or walking boot. HOPING for walking boot. One weird thing is, when I went to get the initial hard cast, they didn't remove the stitches. Now they have been in for 1 month. I assume they come out tomorrow.
FYI on the crutches...I found that local pharmacies sell extra pad for $15. Totally worth it! They still bother me but not nearly as much as the straight rubber.
35yr old male
complete tear of right AT on 1/8/2011
surgically repaired 1/10/2011
Hi all...this blog has been great and the hints and suggestions for getting by has been huge for me. I am 5 days post-op and had my first shower. My wife found the shower stool at a thrift shop for $7 shown on the main page of the blog and allowed me to get clean for the first time today! (She had to help and I kept my foot out of the tub) Hooray! Mind you, I put it in a huge Macy's plastic bag, and then put a towel around my knee to keep any water from sneaking in.
I ruptured it playing basketball...I am in good shape, run a lot and over the winter have been doing SeanT's Insantity workout. Great workout. A friend asked me to come play hoops and wasn't going to, but changed my mind the day before...uggh.
I was fortunate that my ortho squeezed me in two days after the tear to get the healing process started.
Got the block...couldn't move my toes until noon the next day...the pain totally showed up and was intense. Had been taking Ibu and immediately started taking percoset. That totally messed with me and I stopped taking the percoset as soon as I could, 3 days later and continued with the ibu. If you have confirmed pain, do not miss a your next scheduled ubi dosage. I fell asleep and went 8.5 hours without anything on day 3 and payed the price that night with sharp pains, burning, and twitches that caused considerable pain. It 10 hours to get the pain back under control. I am keeping it elevated all of the time other than going to bathroom or taking a couple laps around the first floor of my house with my crutches to move around some. Dr. told me that he likes it if I can get up and move around a bit when not elevating and if I can tolerate the pain. He talked about keeping the blood flowing and good for blood to go down in their once in a while...but then return to elevation.
I am an active guy and my active life is very important to me...I hope that my dr. puts me on a good PT plan. I played a sport in college and have had to recover from injuries before, so I understand the road of rehab and the importance to start using the injured part to heal it. It looks like with the AT and being a bit older than in college, this may take more time.
My questions...I wonder if going to pool to walk in a pool and do some easy swimming will help with strengthening the tendon as we move forward. I will do what needs to be done to heal up effectively and safely.
Again, this blog has been very helpful from the original author, to all of you contributing your experiences as well. Please share your story too.
Best to everyone...I plan to update again further on in the process.
35yr old male
complete tear of right AT on 1/8/2011
surgically repaired 1/10/2011
Hi all...this blog has been great and the hints and suggestions for getting by has been huge for me. I am 5 days post-op and had my first shower. My wife found the shower stool at a thrift shop for $7 shown on the main page of the blog and allowed me to get clean for the first time today! (She had to help and I kept my foot out of the tub) Hooray! Mind you, I put it in a huge Macy's plastic bag, and then put a towel around my knee to keep any water from sneaking in.
I ruptured it playing basketball...I am in good shape, run a lot and over the winter have been doing SeanT's Insantity workout. Great workout. A friend asked me to come play hoops and wasn't going to, but changed my mind the day before...uggh.
I was fortunate that my ortho squeezed me in two days after the tear to get the healing process started.
Got the block...couldn't move my toes until noon the next day...the pain totally showed up and was intense. Had been taking Ibu and immediately started taking percoset. That totally messed with me and I stopped taking the percoset as soon as I could, 3 days later and continued with the ibu. If you have confirmed pain, do not miss a your next scheduled ubi dosage. I fell asleep and went 8.5 hours without anything on day 3 and payed the price that night with sharp pains, burning, and twitches that caused considerable pain. It 10 hours to get the pain back under control. I am keeping it elevated all of the time other than going to bathroom or taking a couple laps around the first floor of my house with my crutches to move around some. Dr. told me that he likes it if I can get up and move around a bit when not elevating and if I can tolerate the pain. He talked about keeping the blood flowing and good for blood to go down in their once in a while...but then return to elevation.
I am an active guy and my active life is very important to me...I hope that my dr. puts me on a good PT plan. I played a sport in college and have had to recover from injuries before, so I understand the road of rehab and the importance to start using the injured part to heal it. It looks like with the AT and being a bit older than in college, this may take more time.
My questions...I wonder if going to pool to walk in a pool and do some easy swimming will help with strengthening the tendon as we move forward. I will do what needs to be done to heal up effectively and safely.
Again, this blog has been very helpful from the original author, to all of you contributing your experiences as well. Please share your story too.
Best to everyone...I plan to update again further on in the process.
35yr old male
complete tear of right AT on 1/8/2011
surgically repaired 1/10/2011
Hi all...this blog has been great and the hints and suggestions for getting by has been huge for me. I am 5 days post-op and had my first shower. My wife found the shower stool at a thrift shop for $7 shown on the main page of the blog and allowed me to get clean for the first time today! (She had to help and I kept my foot out of the tub) Hooray! Mind you, I put it in a huge Macy's plastic bag, and then put a towel around my knee to keep any water from sneaking in.
I ruptured it playing basketball...I am in good shape, run a lot and over the winter have been doing SeanT's Insantity workout. Great workout.
Got the block...couldn't move my toes until noon the next day...the pain totally showed up and was intense. Had been taking Ibu and immediately started taking percoset. That totally messed with me and I stopped taking the percoset as soon as I could, 3 days later and continued with the ibu. If you have confirmed pain, do not miss a your next scheduled ubi dosage. I fell asleep and went 8.5 hours without anything on day 3 and payed the price that night with sharp pains, burning, and twitches that caused considerable pain. Took 10 hours to get the pain back under control. I am keeping it elevated all of the time other than going to bathroom or taking a couple laps around the first floor of my house with my crutches to move around some. Dr. told me that he likes it if I can get up and move around a bit when not elevating and if I can tolerate the pain...but return to elevation.
I am an active guy and my active life is very important to me...I hope that my dr. puts me on a good PT plan. I played a sport in college and have had to recover from injuries before, so I understand the road of rehab and the importance to start using the injured part to heal it. It looks like with the AT and being a bit older than in college, this may take more time.
My questions...I wonder if going to pool to walk in a pool and do some easy swimming will help with strengthening the tendon as we move forward. I will do what needs to be done to heal up effectively and safely.
Again, this blog has been very helpful from the original author, to all of you contributing your experiences as well. Please share your story too.
35yr old male
complete tear of right AT on 1/8/2011
surgically repaired 1/10/2011
Hi all...this blog has been great and the hints and suggestions for getting by has been huge for me. I am 5 days post-op and had my first shower. My wife found the shower stool at a thrift shop for $7 shown on the main page of the blog and allowed me to get clean for the first time today! (She had to help and I kept my foot out of the tub) Hooray! Mind you, I put it in a huge Macy's plastic bag, and then put a towel around my knee to keep any water from sneaking in.
I ruptured it playing basketball...
I was fortunate that my ortho squeezed me in two days after the tear to get the healing process started.
Got the block...couldn't move my toes until noon the next day...the pain totally showed up and was intense. Had been taking Ibu and immediately started taking percoset. That totally messed with me and I stopped taking the percoset as soon as I could, 3 days later and continued with the ibu. If you have confirmed pain, do not miss a your next scheduled ubi dosage. I fell asleep and went 8.5 hours without anything on day 3 and payed the price that night with sharp pains, burning, and twitches that caused considerable pain. It 10 hours to get the pain back under control.
I am an active guy and my active life is very important to me...I hope that my dr. puts me on a good PT plan. I played a sport in college and have had to recover from injuries before, so I understand the road of rehab and the importance to start using the injured part to heal it. It looks like with the AT and being a bit older than in college, this may take more time.
My questions...I wonder if going to pool to walk in a pool and do some easy swimming will help with strengthening the tendon as we move forward. I will do what needs to be done to heal up effectively and safely.
Again, this blog has been very helpful from the original author, to all of you contributing your experiences as well. Please share your story too.
Best to everyone...I plan to update again further on in the process.
Hi just came to the club, I ruptured my tendon on Jan 3rd with surgery on the 7th. Leg up for the past two weeks but going to the Doc tomorrow to remove stitches, hope it would not hurt since I have not felt any for this period. Your blog was helpful in explaining somethings and the journey ahead to the total restoration of my leg.
Thanks Vaughn
I must say I am shocked how the treatment varies. Yes, the tendon take 3-6 weeks to heal but my recovery has been amazing. I am 4 weeks post-op and walking in my boot (full weight bearing). I was off crutches in 2 weeks. when home I walk without my boot. My surgery wound was healed in 2 weeks and I was in PT 1 week after surgery. I have full range of motion in my foot, some tightness in my achilles but this Friday (week) I will be in a regular shoe. I had a full achilles rupture and honestly have experienced very little if no pain. I missed no work and have been doing p90x, in my boot of course.
Hi...7 days post-op ruptured achilles...in a split cast...! Had top part of cast removed due to bluish toes!... I am behaving...icing..on sofa or chair with elevated foot!
HOWEVER..whenever foot is put down to use crutches ..toes turn blue...but quickly recover when elevated! anyone else have this?
Ron
I didn't actually tear my achillies..but cut it right in half when my snowboard stabbed me in the heal going down stairs. I had a huge gash in my ankle and instantly knew it was my tendon..went to er and was rushed to emergency surgery 4 hours later where they cofirmed I completely severed it. I'm in a plaster cast..which is wildly uncomfortable and heavy especially when trying to sleep. It is 2 weeks post op in 2 days and I go to hopefully get this cast removed. Has anyone else experianced cutting the tendon..not tearing it? I'm hoping the healing process is somewhat easier having a clean cut?
David B
Am post-op day 2 and with some pain which is well controlled with Vicodin. Nerve block just wore off. In fact they left me with an indwelling ropivacaine pump that the surgeon said would continue the block for 4 days. Could not move my toes and I did not like this. So I stopped the pump and am on Vicodin--much better. Just noticed how different all the post op treatments are. Seems to me that the clinical data are incomplete but just read an interesting article and am going to try to convince my doc to allow me to start weight bearing in a dorsiflexion stop boot at two weeks(maybe one week?).
http://www.ejbjs.org/cgi/content/abstract/90/9/1876
Hello
I am very grateful for this blog and resultant comments. Whilst this is very frustrating, it is comforting to know so many have been through the same and emerged (eventully).
I am 26 and ruptured it last week playing squash. I had surgery on Thursday 3 Feb and I'm currently in a back slab, leg elevated and on lots of painkillers.
I am due to see the consultant 1 week on wednesday but i just slipped on some water and put weight on my foot/ankle. It was only for 1 second but it hurt like you wouldnt believe. I am terrified that I've done some damage (re-rupture, open the wound etc.) but being totally honest, now the pain has subsided it feels no different to before I put weight on it.
Having read the comments here it would seem I am not the first to accidentally put some weight on it during the NMB period. If this happened to anyone else I would love to hear from you.
lesson learnt!!! Rest only for me now.
Tore my achilles on Feb 14th saw two surgeons on the 15th and went with one on the 16th. Surgery took 20 min doc said it went great and no complications. The 17th was painful..doc upped me to two vicodine every 4 hours 600mg of ibprofrin every 6 hours and a valum every 8. Pain is pretty much gone now. Trying to get back to 2 vicodine every 6 hours. Hope i can get of the pain meds in a day or so. Any thoughts? Follow up apt this fri to get into a boot.
When after a surgery there is relief in the body and you can pretty well manage to meet the needs of life after the surgery you feel much better.It is best to be with an expert surgeon to have a smooth sail.
Im 20 years old and in college. I tore my achilles about 3 weeks ago and had surgery 2 days after. I had quite a bit of pain and trouble with the pain medicine upsetting my stomach at first but I am off it and better now. I am in college and have to move a lot and don't have a lot of time to elevate my leg other than the evening and when i am asleep. Is this ok if I only am able to elevate that little?
Im the 20 year old again and I am also in a complete cast and they never took out stitches or anything in my cut. So im just wondering if this is going to heal right and if there are still stitches or staples needed to be taken out?
Full achilles tear. I'm 10 days post-op and have given up the crutches...going with just the walking boot. The doc was fine with it and I figure the earlier I get moving the better. It really doesn't put any strain on the achilles because my foot points down in the boot. I am very surprised I'm able to walk with no pain so quickly.
I ruptured my right achilles on Jan 19th. Had surgery on Jan 26th. I am 7 weeks post op and things are looking up.
I am an extremely active person during the summer with sports and kids activities. I was extremely depressed at the fact that any news I was hearing by word of mouth was "I will never be the same".
I am currently in an air cast that I keep on if I have the thought to hobble and I take it off when I know I will be sitting for lengthy periods of time. When I am doing my cap'n hook impression for my kids and wife, my foot feels as if I am walking on bone. Not like I know what that feels like but its the best way I can describe it. Does that feeling go away?
I am curious to know about driving. When have some of you gone back to driving with your right foot? I am going to ask my doc and see what he recommends. I am also curious about "the Limp"! Like I said I have been hearing this by word of mouth so I dont know what to believe. I am projected to start physio in 4 weeks and before I say hello to the therapist that is the first question I am going to ask.
I have accepted the fact that this year is a write off when it comes to baseball, football, running, hockey and chasing my kids. Can anyone out there let me know their story how long it took for them to get back to doing activities that were back to normal or close to it.
I am just curious to know if I am looking at the light at the end of the tunnel or should I expect a train.
Can anyone help me out???
This Blog is the best site I have found yet on this topic.
HI I HAD MY ACHILLES TENDON SURGERY ON jAN. 17, 2011 AND i AM NOW TWO MONTHS AND ONE WEEK FROM SURGERY...WAS IN A CAST FOR SIX WEEKS AND NOW A BOOT...START PT IN TWO WEEKS...MY PROBLEMS IS THAT WHEN I TAKE MY BOOT OFF TO STRETCH MY FOOT AND WHEN I PUT MY FOOT JUST TO TOUCH THE FLOOR IT FEELS LIKE IT IS NUMB IN SPOTS AND FEELS LIKE MARBLES UNDER IT...DOES ANYONE ELSE FEEL LIKE THIS? WONDERING IF I SHOULD CALL THE DR OR WAIT UNTIL THERAPY STARTS..I WOULD SO APPRICIATE IT IF SOMEONE COULD RESPONSE ...THANKS SO MUCH! MARY ANN
Haha, I think you mean you elevate your leg to decrease swelling (not increase circulation). It's the medication you take to prevent blood clots that stops you from clotting!
I completely ruptured my left achilles on Feb 28 playing basketball, and had surgery on March 3rd. Was placed in a plaster cast to start but had it removed due to an abrasion and it's very uncomfortable nature as it was very bumpy. This was about a week after surgery and they just moved on to the walking boot. I've pretty much kept myself on my sleeper sofa in the living room, as my bedroom is in my finished basement. Swelling went down considerably in two weeks, and after 3 weeks, looked even better with still a little puffiness in the entire foot, but can now start to see my veins, and some bones. I've maintained non weight baring for the entire period so far. March 30th I am told I can put partial weight while still using crutches. My only real issue thus far as been some intense itching with the entire foot, not just the incision area. Was told that my nerves are most likely acting funny. The only real way to let it subside is to leave it alone and not scratch, which can be maddening, using benedryl cream too. I shower standing up, putting my foot down for balance, covered in a bag. So far, so good. Two very minor near falls moving about the house, but no pain, and everything seems fine. I've had alot of muscle atrophy, and can not see any muscle on the front of my shin bone. Can't wait to start firing up these muschle a little bit. I'm a 37 male, in good shape, and hope this aids in my recovery, although I've pretty much come to the conclusion that playing basketball with very competitive talent should not be in my plans as this is my second leg injury, acl renconstruction 7 years ago.
I ruptured my Achilles tendon in May of 06. Well, I believe I first ruptured it during a thanksgiving gathering in 05 playing basketball. I finally decided to see a doctor after my third time injuring myself in May. I was not able to walk for nearly a year! It is now 2011 and playing basketball again but experience pain the day after. I've become accustomed to every pain and ache.
I would like to know if any of you are still active post surgery. If so, do you use something for support. I currently use ankle wraps, sleeves and braces. They all work fine but would like to know if there is something a bit more specific.
I ride horses and am anxious about how long it will take for me to get back on board and be able to jump. I ruptured my rt achilles tendon last fall but it was not diagnosed until 2 wks ago and I had sugergy 4 days ago. Any riders out there who can comment on how this injury has affected their ability to ride?
I ride horses and am anxious about how long it will take for me to get back on board and be able to jump. I ruptured my rt achilles tendon last fall but it was not diagnosed until 2 wks ago and I had sugergy 4 days ago. Any riders out there who can comment on how this injury has affected their ability to ride?
Ruptured my right AT on 4/9 playing hoops. Was able drive on it all the way home and wait for my wife to take me to the ER. 4/10 I had surgery. Have a follow- up on 4/20 to get stitches removed. I feel pretty good;off percoset, taking 2 tylenol, and able to move my toes. I feel as though I'm healing well at this point. I'm a fairly healthy b-baller. Is it possible to get the walking boot instead of a hard cast. These casts are so cumbersome and uncomfortable. I prefer something I can take on and off. What do you guys think?
Great blog! It's nice to know I'm not alone. I'm 51 and ruptured the left AT playing racquetball (4/5/11) and had surgery 9 days later. It all went well and I have a wrap much like a cast that is hard in the back and soft on the front side. My biggest concern was the extreme pain of getting up for a bio break and feeling the blood rush to the incision as well as the repaired tendon. I was shocked this happens as fast as 30 seconds and then doesn't go away for an hour or so. I'm on my second full day after the surgery and by using a "plastic urinal" from the drug store for $5.00 and not getting out of bed, the pain is much, much less. I look forward to reading more and passing on how my recovery is going.
hey everyone, great helpful comments. i am grateful for this blog...it has provided encouragement during what would otherwise be a completely discouraring thing, so thank you!
a question i have...i am 6 days post-op and my pain has all by disappeared, but i am feeling some tightness in the heel and the bottom of my foot. what's that all about?
i would love if someone could help me out by giving an answer to this issue. thanks!
Joe and all,
After counting, I guess I'm now 5 days after surgery and have a similar feeling. I'd say my heel is a combination of tight and numb. It doesn't hurt, so it may just be from elevating it with minimal blood flow getting to it. I continue to just wiggle my toes just to keep things moving without causing any stress. I'm happy to report that staying horizontal with my leg elevated has really reduced my pain (and need for as many pain-killers) significantly. I've done much reading on this site and as I prepare for the weeks ahead, I'm thinking of investing in the iWALK-Free crutch. I'm hesitant to buy it before seeing my Doc at the 2 week point, since I may be put in a boot and encouraged to start putting weight on it, meaning I won't have much need for the crutch. From reading all the info on this blog, it seems different Docs and different degrees of rupture have different recovery treatments. I'm just looking forward to getting back to some portion of normal mobility while not rushing the healing. Thoughts anyone?
Nick
It sounds like we are in the same place recovery wise, so thanks for your comment. I was worried something went wrong, but your post has cleared my worries, so thank you.
As far as the iWalk crutch, I thought about that too. I decided against it for 2 reasons:
1- I can't imagine it is easy to balance on that thing. I'm sure you'd get used to it, but in the mean time falling backwards with that crutch could be catastrophic, as you couldn't really avoid landing on your foot positioned the way it is.
2- It's pretty expensive for something you'd only really use for this. Unless you plan on doing this again, it may not be a worthy investment. Renting one of the carts might be a better thing.
Those are my thoughts, but I would like to hear the testimony from someone who this has worked for, because I'm sure I'm wrong.
Thanks again for your comment. I too am looking forward to getting back to being mobile. Being a youth pastor who works with kids a lot, and also a guy who plays a lot of sports, I'm getting stir crazy. It's even led to some pretty strange dreams, haha. Not sure if any of you have had that...maybe I'm just a weirdo.
In any case, blessings to all of you in your recoveries, and to those of you who have already recovered but provide encouragement to us who are still in it. Thanks!
Joe and all,
A few more days have passed and the pain is still minimal unless I sit for too long which I did today. I got out of my routine of just laying in order to do some work and a change of scenery out of the bed. I'll try to get back to more laying down tomorrow.
I did more research and ended up ordering the iWALK-Free from a place that sells them "used" and they will also take the item on return for basically a $70.00/week rental. I know I'm taking a risk but the freedom that crutch looks to provide seems worth it. I'll be the test case and report back, but it won't arrive for a few days yet. Hopefully, I'm not reporting back that I did what you feared and fell right on the leg. As a life-long athlete in many sports requiring balance, I'm pretty sure I can handle this simple walking crutch.
As for other wierd things, I still have that "numb" feeling on my heel and last night as well as today, my ankle twitched a few times in the direction of my toes up. At first it seemed like this hurt, but it really didn't and was more of a shock. In total, its happened 5-6 times. As for dreams, I rarely recall my dreams, but I had one last night where I got out of my cast and the first day by accident, I stepped on the ground with no boot or any support and was able to walk...talk about a crazy dream. I guess we know my mind is pretty focused on the upcoming weeks.
Happy healing to all. Any info on the iWALK-Free crutch or other help for guys one week post surgery is appreciated.
All,
I was happy and surprised when I returned to my Doc at the 2 week post surgery point. They said all has healed well, took out the staples, cleaned up my leg, and placed steri-strips on my incision. Based on all I had read in this blog and other places, I expected a boot. I was happy all went well thusfar, but surprised when they put me into a hard cast now for two more weeks. The plan is to allow the incision to fully heal, ensure no rubbing of the wound, no twaeking of the tendon, or chance of infection, then see me in another 2 weeks (11 May). I understand that I may get put into a boot OR another cast for two more weeks based on what they see on 11 May. I'm OK with following the Doc's orders, but was hopeful to get past the cast. I do recall my Doc saying pre-surgery that he is very cautious about getting the incision healed first. He also said he would have me back in 6 months, so I may have some agressive PT once he does put me in a boot. Since I'm 51, maybe he has extra concerns for healing, not sure. The good news is I have no real pain and have been off the pain killers since Easter. Just more waiting ahead and use of cruthes or the iWALK Free. I hope everyone else is healing fine as well.
I'm five days out of surgery, I think. Pain was awful the first two or three days, but has eased up. I just wish I could get out of this heavy cast with the cotton oozing out of it and everything kind of fitting wrong.
I am trying to develop some fitness in the rest of my body while I recover -- lost so much while I wrestled with the chronic tendinopathy.
Really wish I could figure out how to get over the little 8-inch stile between my shower and the floor of my bathroom. I'm afraid I won't clear it in a hop.
Feels so silly to fret over this stuff.
haycock,
I'm 16 days out of surgery and can maybe provide some insight, however, I was in a soft cast, then at 13 days post-surgery, they removed that cast and the staples, put on steri-strips for the incision, then put me in a hard cast for 2 more weeks, so my situation may be different. I know pain has been completely gone for many days and I've gotten better at crutches, even feel safe going up and down stairs. I keep my leg elevated when practical and even bought an iWALK Free crutch ($275.00) which I got better at day by day. I use it interchangeably with the standard crutches. I feel it provides better mobility and use of hands, as well as exercising my bad leg thigh. Last night, I walked with my wife and our dog down 3 houses in my neighborhood and back. Sadly, I learned that I wore off some skin where the hard cast hits my shin. Gotta let that heal some now.
As for bathing, I found the tub is the best, but before surgery, when I showered standing on one leg, I did what I call a "crab-crawl" with my butt down and on my two hands and one good leg used to walk. I did that to and from the toilet and in order to safely get into the shower over the 8 inch stile you refer to. Hope some of this is helpful.
I'm looking forward to May 11th, when they take this cast off...I should either get a boot or two more weeks of another hard cast...this is apparently based on what the Doc thinks about how the incision is healed. He told me right up front, the timeline was 6 months, but also said he is REAL cautious about the incision healing first an NO complications. I assume I'm still on the path for 6 months.
I'm almost 8 weeks post op from complete ATR. Ruptured my right achilles playing basketball. I'm 50 yrs old and in good shape. Had surgery 3 days after rupture followed by 3 weeks in a cast, 3 weeks in a boot and on crutches. After 6 weeks I was boot and crutch free with FWB. I was driving with my left foot 2 weeks after surgery(Just takes practice). I have 4 kids and they all are involved with sports or other activities. My wife was doing a wonderful job balancing work and the kids activities but I needed to help her out. I feel very comfortable driving with the left foot. Returned to work behind the desk after 4 weeks. Physio therapy started 3 weeks ago and I'm walking around with a slight limp but with stiffness in the tendon. I didn't know there were so many of us out there with this injury. I just wish all of us a speedy and painless recovery..
Got my first post op appointment today. (I was able to reschedule it from next Wednesday to this Wednesday -- YAY!) Eight days out of surgery. The pain is manageable, more manageable than the agitation and frustration. About the same level of pain as before the surgery, so that's very good. I am hopeful that this clunky first cast will be transformed into a sleek, light, regular cast. This one is driving me nuts. I bought a Cast Cooler, a gadget that helps keep your cast dry and relieves itching. I'll report on that soon.
Hi
I'm 3 weeks post op and just had my stitches out and been put in the boot. The physio has told me to take it off and pull my foot up gently by wrapping a towel around it. I have done this a few times but it doesnt move far at all. I am scared to pull too hard. Does anyone else do this exercise and do you pull till it hurts?
Im a 39 year old male.
Any suggestions email me
roberts.craig@sky.com
Thanks
My May 11th appt with the surgeon went well. He was particularly focussed on any swelling and there was none, so he (and I) were very happy. That was 4 weeks post-op, but for 2 more weeks, he has me in a Air Cast with a significant foot wedge. The Air Cast allows me to bathe it as well as soak the leg in my hot tub, so that was a nice switch to a more normal life. My Air Cast is pretty heavy, but comfortable and nice to be able to remove when I plan to just rest with my leg up. Unlike some other Docs, mine didn't suggest any walking on it and more crutching around for 2 more weeks. Either my full rupture location or my Doc's very conservative nature means my instructions are no walking or attempting any movement or stretching of my leg/ankle. He did say after these 2 weeks, he'll adjust the wedge under my ankle and we'll begin some physical therapy. That is on May 31st. Wishing all successful recoveries.
I am three weeks post op today. Got my stitches out last week -- not painless by any stretch, but tolerable. My new cast is lighter and shorter which makes it easier to get around. My knee scooter is da'bomb. It makes it so much easier to get around everywhere but my own home. My favorite thing is this gadget that circulates air through your cast via a vacuum cleaner. It's easy to set up, not expensive to buy, approved by my surgeon (as long as it's not blowing stuff into the cast, he thought it was okay). I tried it for the first time today . . . well the first four times because it felt so good I had to do it again and again. Nice relief.
Following op 3 months ago I have a 2cm section in middle of wound which has re-opened and is proving very tough to heal - any tips welcome.
Love the blog! I partially ruptured my achilles playing soccer (40 yr old). Didnt realize what happened for a long time. It hurt like heck but I thought I got kicked just under the calf, didnt get much better after two weeks of severely hobbling around, made a Dr. appt (took a week to get one) and was in surgery the following week (month after injury). I had been trying to stretch it out during the two weeks post injury...not smart! the tendons were about 2 inches apart because of that. Anyway, surgery went well 95% rupture. Get the stitches out tomorrow. I am in an L shaped splint with an ACE bandage on it, no hard or soft cast. I had tremendous pain when the nerve blocker wore off because I neglected to take the pain pills...not smart either. It took about 12 hours for the pain meds to catch up but I havent had any pain since and I have been off the pills for a week. I am hoping to get the stitches out tomorrow and get into a walking boot. I am a little nervous since I have absolutely NO pain now and I can move my foot some since its not in a cast. Seems like most people were immobile and in pain during the first two weeks...makes me wonder if something is not right. Anyone else have no pain after a couple of days? I cant wait to drive again!
Just found this blog as well and I'm very interested in hearing about the responses to the iWalk-Free crutch. I don't have an ATR but a bone spur which requires surgery and cutting of the Achilles. This looks like a valid option to using crutches. How difficult is it to get used to it? How long can you comfortably wear it? I live in a two-story, so will this be better for getting around? I like the hands-free concept, a lot.
I've also seen them on eBay for around $300 if anyone else is interested.
cltgamer and others,
I'm now 6 weeks post-surgery with strict instructions from my surgeon to not put any weight on my foot/boot. I got the iWalk Free from a company off the internet named vitalitymedical.com for $275.00 total with free shipping and it arrived in about 3 days. They also charge around $70.00 week "rent", so if it doesn't work, you at least can send it back and get some $ back up until 4 weeks. I gambled not knowing how long I might use it because of that option. In the last two weeks, I went on two business trips with it on and was able to go through airports easily (just had to submit to pat downs, but TSA was real professional). Imagine all the logistics of an airport and security with crutches...you just can't use your hands, whereas, I had both hands free to get tickets, put my hand carry stuff through the security checkpoint, use a cell phone while walking, and carry anything in either hand etc. While at conferences, I had flexibility to hold a drink and shake hands and even stand for extended periods of time. Like anything, it takes some getting used to early on and after a long week, I have some minor pain in my shin and knee, mainly because the boot ends further down my leg than the cast which worked better in the iWALK Free. AT home, I mix it up between normal crutches and the iWF. I probably have had it on for up to 8 hours on numerous days and sometimes when sitting, I take it off and sometimes, I just leave it on. I also do stairs just fine...imagine hauling a suitcase up or down stairs with crutches...iWF allows me to do that one step at a time.
I see my Doc Tuesday, so I'm hopeful I can be able to start some weight-bearing and can ditch the iWF soon, but if not, it will get me trhough another trip in mid-June. I ultimately will put it up on e-Bay when I'm sure I'm done or advertise it via this blog. I highly recommend it for another reason too...it gives my stomach and other thigh muscle some exercise, so atrophy of those muscles has been limited some.
I had surgery for right achilles rupture on 1/17/11 (tore it while playing basketball). In a cast for 2 weeks, then put into a walking boot for 30 days (still with crutches, but doc encouraged me to put some weight on it), after which PT would start. I'm a 50 year old male who can't sit still and 30 days in the boot was way too long. Looked into a few passive exercizes to do before PT started, and found a few that really heldped. At 4 months post op I played basketball (cautiously) and at 5 months post op my doc released me to do whatever I want. I'm back playing hoops without much thought of my achilles. As for the exercizes, I did 3 different ones, all with the boot off: #1) spell the alphabet with your toes, #2) do circles in both directions with your foot/toes, #3) put a tennis ball on the floor and roll your foot over it, gently applying tension on the ball as without stressing your achilles.
I hope this helps. This blog made me feel a lot better when I was facing surgery, and I hope my quick recovery might help others. I think the biggest thing is to get movement back into your foot/leg ASAP.
Mark
smHi had achilles surgery in Jan...was in hard cast for six weeks, non weight bearing, started Pt six weeks ago...feel some strength in my ankle but still have numbnesss around my whole foot, pain if i walk more than 20 mins.. it has been 5 months now and am wondering if anyone else has had this after their surgery.. I know they told me a year for it to be back to normal but didnt expect to have numbness and pain like this...
Consider asking your doc to prescribe Neurontin or Lyrica to treat your neuropathic pain.
First of all this blog is great. It has helped me tremendously to understand what to expect and how to be prepared as best as I can. Full ATR 6/14, went to the doctor on 6/15 and in a boot until my surgery on 6/22. I am in leg splint that goes above the knee. I have my first post op exam 6/30. ATR happened playing tennis after several years. This is a bummer because my cycling and running season are done for the year. Anyway, I am staying positive.
Regards,
Tryster66
Just found your blog as well as and have an important question. I don't believe I had a full tear because I only experienced pain when I tore the tendon (playing basketball) and for a day or two after surgery. I hate the crutches and found that I could get around with the boot they had provided after surgery. I know this in notRICE and was possibly stupid but my surgeon said "let pain be your guide." After two weeks I was able to get around without the boot and not crutches by keeping my ankle straight and being careful. Its now three weeks and I certainly cannot and will not stretch my achilles, but am getting around OK. Bottom line, am I in serious risk of my tendon not healing correctly??
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