My heel was numb and I couldn’t push myself forward nor stand on tip toes. I applied some ice, limped to the car and drove back home the best I could (I had to push my whole leg against the gas pedal pressing my right hand against my knee, as my foot wouldn’t respond).
I was taken to the emergency room of the closest hospital where they took some X-Rays, gave me some pain killers and, sent me home with a recommendation to see a specialist the next day. Early Monday, I went to see the orthopedist and after performing a simple Thompson test. You can see a similar test in here:
THOMPSON TEST VIDEO
He immediately diagnosed Achilles tendon rupture and scheduled surgery for the 26th (12 days after the injury).
In the following few days I started reading about Achilles tendon fractures to familiarize myself with the problem and the possible treatments. One of the first (and best) articles I read was this one; it mentions the “middle age weekend warrior” playing tennis or basketball as the most at risk group.
In my case, I was playing tennis after almost five years, and hadn’t exercised for at least the last two. I jumped straight to the court and started playing, without warming up or stretching. Big mistake.
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117 comments:
So was it a full rupture or only partial?
I recently suffered a full rupture on Oct. 9 and have started my own blog as well. I really like the way you've laid out a nice table of contents! Good job! :) My blog is at achilles.invisiblue.com.
Hi jayharle:
Mine was a full rupture, and a pretty bad one... I wish you all the best in your recovery. I will visit your blog.
i had surgery December 6 (Thursday) and went back to work this Monday. I try to elevate my foot as much as I can at work. My biggest problem, I have a cast on and my foot gets so numb that I cant even sleep. It feels as if my feet are about to break through the cast. Its awful and I did not feel this days following surgery.
Julius -
I also had full rupture and surgery on the 3rd of December..I have appt Tues, 18th hopefull to remove hard cast and get into boot..I have also been working and elevating on drawer of desk with pillow..
Julius:
The cast can be a problem when the foot swells. I was fit with a boot from day one, and it was pretty comfortable. I don't know why more doctors don't prescribe the boot instead of the cast... I can only guess it's just to eliminate the temptation to take it off. Good luck and get better soon.
Same problem with numbness here. Just had surgery yesterday morning (about 40 hrs ago) and my foot is so numb right now - it's incredibly uncomfortable. They have a nerve block drip going in behind my knee - it's called a Stryker PainPump - but it's more annoying than anything.
Not sure what's causing all the numbness.
BTW, called the doc about the numbness this morning because it was driving me mad. He said it was called "equinus" but I also felt like I was being rushed off the phone.
He asked if my toes were blue. No. He asked if I could feel my toes. Yes, but they're tingly - bad. Now I am realizing I can't feel the top of my foot when I touch it inside the cast, but I can feel my toes.
Ahhh this is driving me mad.
Hi Joe,
At my 6 week visit when I took the boot off at the doctor's office (I'm still in it 24/7) I immediately noticed how strange my foot felt --as though it were still wrapped in a tight bandage. My toes felt normal though (I had a lot of nerve pain at first because the doctor had to move the nerve out of the way during the surgery which traumatized it.) I have had the tingling and he said that is normal -- as the nerves need to calm down after the surgery. I was concerned about the "numbness" but he just dismissed it.He's a top guy, so if he's not concerned, I'm not. When I go back this week if my foot still feels strange when I take the boot off I will press harder for an answer and if I learn anything that may be of help I will let you know. Unfortunately I'm a very slow healer so I'm at 8 weeks and I am still not weight bearing. I'm hoping when I go this week I will get the okay to walk with some weight and the crutches. I am finally starting physical therapy this week. Yahoo! I want my life back. I think I've made a permenant impression on the living room couch from living on it for two months. Good luck to you.
Hello Everyone,
I've just got myself a boot (after 6-7 weeks) and have 2 wedges which I will remove at 2 week intervals. I touch the boot on the ground as Im crutching along..but Im scared to put full weight on it just at the moment, even with the angle its forcing my foot into. I slipped on my crutches getting onto the train the other day and accidentally put more weight on than expected - which hurt, but there appears to be no lasting problems..
As I apply weight, I do get the "needles", so am feeling my way back into it. The healing from the operation is a little infected too which is causing some pain, but otherwise okay. Hard to believe that this time last year I was comfortably running for 2hours+. Now I cant walk much further than 100m !!
Im back at work at least twice a week now, which is good for the mind (have been luckily able to work from home) and with any luck will begin physio when the boot comes off at the end of the month.
I dont feel 100% comfortable just yet in the boot but I think that next week I'll really start pushing myself to walk. The mind is the biggest hurdle at the moment.
Hope everyone's recovery is going well..
Cheers
Ryan, UK
Hello all.. I fully tore my AT playing basketball on Jan 13 just going up for a simple jump shot. No one was around and it was the classic "feels like someone kicks you in the back othe leg" feeling. I had my buddies carry me to the car to go to the ER. (I knew what it was as soon as it happened). The staff at the ER told me to go to the specialist first thing the next morning. He confirmed and it sounds like I was lucky to have surgery 3 days later on the 16th.
I just got into my second post op cast yesterday and now I am getting "cabin fever" really bad. Unfortunately its my right foot so I cant drive at all.
They are telling me that I have 2 more weeks in the current cast and then another cast for yet another 2 weeks and then I get to have the boot. But once in the boot i still will not be able to apply any weight for another 3 weeks!!!
With nothing to do I am sure that I will be here on a very regular basis.
Just thought Id send a message of hope to all those who have been visiting this great site. Ive posted a few times over the last couple of months and its been an up and down kind of a journey - but today I saw the surgeon and he said I can lose the boot today and run and jump in five weeks time! My rupture was on 24th Nov- and Ive been living in fear of permanent damage.. and even now I cant walk properly - but Im walking again for the first time with crutches and couldnt be happier!
The other thing the surgeon told me was to keep up with the exercises - so I have an alarm set durning the day to remind me to do them.
Wishing you all speedy recoveries.
Cheers,
Ryan, UK
I partially ruptured my AT 12/30 and opted not to have surgery. My toes still turn blue when I don't elevate my foot. Doc said it's normal. Something that saved my sanity is swimming daily (Xerosox) and renting a Kneewalker. Please let me know if anyone is experiencing blue toes long after the injury.
I just experienced the "kick" in the back of my leg feeling playing flag football today. I was covering a guy was backing up made a cut to the left and bang I went down. I was able to get up and put weight on it immediatly and It only hurts when My foot is has to extend. I've been on ice of and on all day and have it elevated. Im staying away from the surgery option for now and Im getting a Cam boot tomorrow. Anything I should expect in the next few days??
thanks for your input..
yup - ruptured mine on Sunday playing soccer...the sound was so loud I though someone shot me. Anyway, in for surgery tomorrow and will have plenty of down time to real all these posts and learn from those who have already suffered through this.
Had left badly damaged and torn achilles removed on Monday, April 7, replaced bad portion with big toe tendon. (A tendon transplant).
It is now Friday, and am at home with the cast. So far not too bad, I have had little pain, with only a few pain killer pills swallowed so far. Follow up in 10 days to remove sutures, etc.
The knee walker is a saviour. (Got the idea through this blog).
I have upstairs bedroom and found the butt lift/slide technique to work the best. On crutches it is a bit scary.
David P
Hello all,
I had a terrible rupture on March 14. I also felt like someone kicked me in the back of the leg while playing basketball. I iced it all night and woke up the following day and it just didnt feel right. My wife took me to urgent care where the guy did the Thompson test. He said it was my achillies. He got me into Dr. Hyer on the next day. He xrayed and performed an MRI. Then scheduled surgery for March 19. I was in a post surgerical bandage with ice cold water running through it for 10 days. I was then put into a cam boot. Thursday was my doctor visit. He told me to get rid of the crutches as soon as I felt comfortable. I walked that day with both crutches, the next day with one crutch and today I havent used any crutches. I start physical therapy May 16. I have 3 wedges in and will take one out after 3 weeks and then take 1 out each week after. I am so ready to get rid of this boot I have to wear 24/7. I thank God for Dr. Hyer. He was excellent.
I have to honestly say that to date the worst part so far has been when they took the staples out. The ones at the top were not bad but by the time they got to the one at the bottom it took all I had to just grit my teeth. I dont know if it would work or not but save a pain pill for the morning you get your staples out. I would think it is worth a try. I had pain all that day from the removal. Best of luck and hope your removal isnt as bad. My achillies the doctor said was a 9 on the scale of 1 to 10. My achillies was shredded and he had to use horse parts to put me back together. Anyone else feel the same way about the staples being removed?
horse parts??? i had no idea modern sports medicine used horse parts, cadavers yes but not from a horse. interesting. i am curious to know more.
i never had staples so i can't relate. my stitches came out painlessly. in fact, i've never popped a pain pill for this whole injury. what hurts the most is walking on it again with a proper gait and doing the balancing therapy exercises - the muscle around the heel gets super sore.
how did you rupture yours so badly? good luck!
Well, I ruptured mine playing basketball with some teens. Well, I dont know if the doctor was kidding about the horse parts or not but that is what he said. I wish I wouldnt have had staples. Did your heel get sore just walking in the cam boot? Mine is very sore since I started walking on it. I start therapy in a few weeks.
I was playing frisbee with my PE class. It felt like I was kicked in the back of the Left leg. I knew almost right away what the problem was. Went to the local ER was x-rayed and the Dr confirmed, It was a complete rupture, this was on feb 19th. I was teaching about 150 miles from home and had to drive home in a car with a stick shift. I just laid the splint on the clutch and gritted my teeth and pushed. Surgery was on the 23rd. I was in one cast with the foot twisted to the right and pointing down, hurt my foot pretty bad. In that cast for 3 weeks then they adjusted the position of my foot and put on another cast, 3 weeks in that cast then in a fracture boot. I was able to walk with the crutches at first, then one crutch and now am able to walk about 1/2 mile at a time in the boot. I can walk without the boot but not normally. I will be going back to the Dr on the 16th of May and will probably start physical therapy after that. I too want my life back. As for removing the stitches, no problem with the top ones, didn't even feel them, but the last one I almost came off the table it hurt so much. Has anyone else heard that the other AT may be at increased risk of rupture? I hated using those crutches and was so glad to get the boot, but I'm now tired of it and want to walk normally.
Chuck, WV
Walk normally? I have heard that and all about walking with the proper gait. I have been walking in the boot for a week now on 3 wedges and havent seen a problem with my foot turning out or anything. Can someone explain more about the problems with walking, gait and the therapy for it. I appreciate it. Hope you all are recovering well.
Ok--- same 47 yr old woman that ruptured AT playing tennis (8 mos mark). FYI- I heard about the "weekend warrior", but I've been playing competitively since I was 12. I play 4-5 times a week- stretch prior and it happened any way...if it makes you feel better. Just started playing this week - taking it very slow. Happy to be out there, but still bummed about the pain level.
All the best
LG
Ok--- same 47 yr old woman that ruptured AT playing tennis (8 mos mark). FYI- I heard about the "weekend warrior", but I've been playing competitively since I was 12. I play 4-5 times a week- stretch prior and it happened any way...if it makes you feel better. Just started playing this week - taking it very slow. Happy to be out there, but still bummed about the pain level.
All the best
LG
I ruptured my achilles tendon 8 weeks ago, i was in a cast for 4 weeks and was given a boot to wear for 2 weeks.
When i returned to my doctor, he told me to FWB after another week,
I was concerned as i thought it sounded too quick. i took his advice and am now FWB more and more each day, it feels great not to have my boot or crutches.
I am still having some swelling to my ankle, but feels OK.
Anyone else have similar experiences to my timescale?
Regards
Steve
Steve and LG and other person above,
Steve, my name scale was a bit longer (8 weeks cast and then FWB with a boot for 4 more weeks). I have been in shoes for 4 weeks now. Recovery varies a lot for this injury (which I find strange). I caution you though, to begin walking with a proper gait as soon as you FWB go-ahead. It's easy to limp again with this, but doing that for too long can put your hips and back out of wack. You will know when you are walking correctly, cause it will HURT. Walking as been the most painful for me out of all of this, no pain pills thus far but when I walk I'm thinking that won't be a bad thing ...JK
Walking properly includes striking the heel on initiation and pushing off on the ball of foot at the end of the gait cycle. My PT explained to me this hurt because the fashci (spell?) tissue around the heel is being used again after dormancy, and it's just painful. If you have FWB status, I suggest walk slow and walk right.
LG, I am not a weekend warrior either and do yoga, so I think genetics play a part in this injury. I reach 4 months post-op tomorrow and walking is painful like you described, but I am determined to be walking somewhat normal by 5 months. Glad to hear you're back to tennis! I am back to mountain biking and it's great! although I'm taking it easy too...
Maya
oops, I meant time scale. hee hee
M
Hi Maya
Many thanks for replying to my e-mail. its great to get somebody elses experience, and views. I have been walking around the home a lot over the weekend, and have got a limp,but my leg/ankle feels OK, i hope the hospital will give me physio, when i go back in 2.5 weeks time,i am not going upstairs on my injured left leg yet, mostly walking on flat areas, its difficult to know how much walking to do, as it is i the back of my mind i might damage my tendon again, good luck with your progress.
Kind Regards
Steve
i recently injured my leg/ankle about
2 weeks ago and after i did it my calf hurt like someone hit me with a baseball bat and my toes are still numb. When I walk my leg feels very weak and off balance. I let it go hoping it would just go away but it hasn't so I made a doctors appt. for friday. Just wondering if any of you
had these symptom with your achilles
injury?
Hi
The symptons sound very similar to mine, i was playing football, and thought someone had kicked me in the leg, when i turned around there was nobody there!
because the pain wasn't too bad, i didn't think it was as serious and it turned out to be a ATR
Hope everything goes OK for you
Steve
Hello to everyone
Well I can't believe I did this.I have always been very athletic and kept myself in terrific shape...
Basketball is the arrow that planted me in this chair.Full rupture and surgery is next,I have never felt so helpless in my entire
life. Okay I'm off my self pity soap box--(just had to get that out of my system).I just wanted to wish everyone with this injury a speedy recovery.
BRW
Ruputred Jan 26th, 08 playing squash. great fun on the crutches over the winter! Four months later i am running again, not fast but running. Feels better but still stiff at times.
Is anyone having problems losing the limp?
I ruptured my achlles tendon playing squash, just under three weeks ago. I knew immediately, as I had done the exact same thing, on the other leg, five years ago. I guess squash is not an option for me anymore..I was gyming every day, running between thirty to forty mins, or five to eight km per day, around five days a week..I had just started to play squash, after a long time of refraining..and was just getting the hang of it, again..having been captain at university of the squash team, its always been my passion..alas..and my downfall. I had the operation almost two weeks ago and am waiting to get into a brace once my two weeks in a cast are up. Last time it happened I was in a cast for fivce weeks then the boot..also thinking of doing my own blog..but there seems to be quite a few here.
I ruptured my achlles tendon playing squash, just under three weeks ago. I knew immediately, as I had done the exact same thing, on the other leg, five years ago. I guess squash is not an option for me anymore..I was gyming every day, running between thirty to forty mins, or five to eight km per day, around five days a week..I had just started to play squash, after a long time of refraining..and was just getting the hang of it, again..having been captain at university of the squash team, its always been my passion..alas..and my downfall. I had the operation almost two weeks ago and am waiting to get into a brace once my two weeks in a cast are up. Last time it happened I was in a cast for fivce weeks then the boot..also thinking of doing my own blog..but there seems to be quite a few here.
I ruptured my achlles tendon playing squash, just under three weeks ago. I knew immediately, as I had done the exact same thing, on the other leg, five years ago. I guess squash is not an option for me anymore..I was gyming every day, running between thirty to forty mins, or five to eight km per day, around five days a week..I had just started to play squash, after a long time of refraining..and was just getting the hang of it, again..having been captain at university of the squash team, its always been my passion..alas..and my downfall. I had the operation almost two weeks ago and am waiting to get into a brace once my two weeks in a cast are up. Last time it happened I was in a cast for fivce weeks then the boot..also thinking of doing my own blog..but there seems to be quite a few here.
Mimet, sympathies about this second ATR. Please check out http://achillesblog.com/
It's a pretty active community for ATRs and anyone can have their own blog. I'm sure a lot of us would love to know more about your re-rupture (I know I sure would).
Good luck with everyone's recoveries.
hello to all, i am a 25 year old female who ruptured achillies april 22 2008, it has been the hardest recovery for me i am very active i was playing basketball i took a quick step and it snap, i thought someone threw a ball at me standing from the side. unlike everyone my doctor used a cast boot on me after my surgery so i had access to my leg. This boot had a part where i used a air pump to pump it making it hard like a cast thats what my leg sat in and then a cage covered it everyone that sees it says it looks like i am going skiing or i have a robotic foot. each week i went in they changed the potion. i went from 30 degrees to 15 and down to 0 which is where i am at. I started pt last week i only ware the boot if i go for long walks i am on week 7 post surgery. the first three weeks were hell everyone thinks i should be fine because i am young. WEll wrong i feel like my doctor is rushing me at 5 weeks he told me to walk and by end of week loose crutches and the next week take boot off. WEll the first day i bared weight my insition came open had to go right back to let the nurses re bandage me, anyone going through this? my pt guy thinks i shouldnt be limping still well hell my leg burns everytime i take a step i cant make my leg move certain ways it takes me forever to think how to move it. and anyone have suggestions on how to break up that scar tissue mines is thick and hurts. I go to the doctor in 4 days for check up it will be 8 weeks then. PLEASE ANYONE GIVE ADVIse
For the anonymous 25 year old..I would go for a second opinion..I was operated on by Mr skinner at the royal national orthopeadic hospital and I think he would be a good person to see. It takes ages for the leg to return to normal, this is my second time round (tore my right one, four weeks ago, and my left one, five years ago!) so dont be impatient about getting back but you will eventually..good luck!!
I'm a 34-year old male. I've been on a 10 year break from playing sports and was playing basketball with some younger guys from work about a month ago. I didn't stretch out good before the game, and was overweight and out of shape. My team lost the first game and I was going to be damned if I let some young'uns beat me twice. So during our second game, I pushed myself a lot harder. Too hard. So... we were winning and I had the ball and was about go for a drive when, suddenly, it felt like someone threw a brick and hit me very hard on my left heel. I heard a "pop" ring through my head and I immediately hit the ground. Things blacked out for a brief second and I was confused as to what had happened. I looked around for the "brick" that had hit me but, of course, there wasn't one. I was about to cuss the guy out that was defending me, thinking he had stepped on my ankle but he claimed (with witnesses) that he wasn't that close to me. The guys helped my get to a chair where I removed my shoes and socks and saw that there was a gap in my achilles tendon. Upon looking it up on the web, I knew it was what it was.
Anyways, to shorten up my story (I was just dying to tell ya'll how it happended), I had the surgery done that same week. I was in a splint with my toes pointed down for 2 weeks, and now... the splint is off, the staples removed, and they've put me in a boot. They also ordered me to keep weight off of the injured ankle. My inscision healed very nicely, I was happy that the scar won't be that noticeable when this is all done and over with. So, my ankle is still a bit sore but, overall, the pain isn't really that bad.
My ONLY concern is: so far, it feels like I'm not getting full movement when I pull my foot in (or up). My recently repaired tendon feels tight and, also, my calf muscles are always cramping now and I am unable to stretch it no matter how hard I try. What I mean is... it just doesn't feel natural... feels like my AT is too stretched now or something and they're not able to pull on my calf muscles properly. I can't tighten or flex my calf so it stays soft and always cramps up. Am I doomed??? I am hoping that this is only normal for the first month of recovery after surgery. Those of you who have gone through this before me, please help. Is this normal or am I going to have less movement on my left ankle forever. That would suck.
It's surprising to see so many people that've experienced this same type of injury. I feel somewhat comforted that others can understand the same pain and frustation I've gone through. We are all members of the ATR club now. Rock on!
May all your tendons heel well.
My wife ruptured her AT 10 weeks ago, she's making a good recovery and can now walk with just one crutch.She can get about the house and the office unaided, the one problem she has however is swelling, at the end of the day her ankle and foot are very swollen, do any other sufferers out there know how long this swelling will last
Hi Andy P,
Its amazing you got into the boot just after two weeks..i Had my op in london and just got into the boot after four weeks of cast and still feel my achilles is v. vulnerable and tender..and I can not move it much..so what you'r feeling is definately naturaly after just two weeks post op..I would really take it easy and keep your leg up and weight off as much as possible for next two weeks. It sesems each surgeon/country has different technique for achilles tendon rehab, but in U.K they are more conservative..but perhaps with reason..I wouldnt try to stretch achilles or the calf muscles just yet, best to wait untill it heals a bit more..its still early days..imagine the healing going on inside..two weeks is nothing!!
Hope it feels better and heals well...I am five days into the boot and can walk without crutches..travelled to egypt for a wedding and even danced a bit last night..although it is now a bit sore today..better safe than sorry, as I'm learning..so I'm keeping it up as much as possible today!!
all the best..
Im a 49 year old male, former soldier, but out of shape, overweight, and hadn't worked out regularly for months.
Took my daughter to tennis classes, and was hitting the ball with a kid (the instructors son)next court over.
He of course, was having his way with me - moving me back and forth across the court.
This went on for about 45 minutes, felt tired, wanted to quit, but just wanted to push on and get a couple of good strokes on this kid (which I was beginning to do).
Then, (as I read thru everyones blog - it was classic) I felt like someone had thrown a large rock directly on my Right heel - thought it was a ball from the other court, looked around for the ball... it wasnt there - foot felt like it was hanging on a string it wobbled so loose.
Then, tried to walk, couldnt do it, dazed, confused, foggy like... pain was so great - tried to play it off in front of the kid (no problem - just gimme a minute) but in my heart, I thought it was broken, as I broke my left ankle a few years earlier playing basketball.
The kid I was playing said he didnt see a thing and you must have been stung by a bee, cause there wasnt anything else around you.
Gathered my children, they insisted on stopping for Burger King - told them we couldnt go inside, but agreed to go through the drive thru.
The pain was so great I could not complete giving the lady the order and called my daughter to crawl into the front seat and speak to the drive thru lady and complete the order.
I began to shake from the pain, and took ALL of what composure I could gather to re group, and get thru the next 5 minutes.
Made it home - my wife gave me Motrin, and I went in to the ER the next morning.
ER Doc promptly did the Thompsons test, and called several of the younger techs over to see, this "classic example" of a weekend warrior, doesnt exercise often, middle aged, goes out and plays some court sport, and here he is in here.
I was hoping he would say its not that bad - I live in Germany and commute by train to another city daily - sometimes taking several trains. When he told me I would have to have surgery and be on crutches - I was SO traumatized... the thought of being on trains with crutches - as I told him - was NOT an option and they would have to come up with some other option. He laughed as he filled out my order to see Ortho three days later.
Ortho Doc promptly told me I needed surgery AND i WOULD BE ON CRUTCHES and he cleared an Operating Room to do percutaneous surgery (ANY ONE ELSE HAD THIS???)- the NEXT day. They didnt give me time to think of a way to get out of it.
Surgery went well - despite my fears - I someone how managed to get on and off the trains without breaking another leg - and people (here in Europe anyway) have just been SO compassionate.
My German Bosses told me they would pay for a taxi to bring me from the train station all the way inside my work campus and directly up to my building - and return to the train station -- for two weeks. (not a ton of money.. but the thought of them offering me this on their own. I am a senior manager (I manage 115 software developers)- - but I doubt if any bosses in the states would make the same offer)
The Die Bahn (Train) personnel are parked when my train arrives at 8:06 am with a golf cart, (they did this on their own - I never asked) and drive up to the train as soon as it pulls up and takes me around the train station all the way to the front of the train station to the taxi stand where they taxis are lined up in front of the building - and refused to take a tip.
Three 1/2 weeks later I got out of my cast and into CAM walker - feels like I escaped from prison.
In retrospect - I feel it was really dumb of me to jump out there like that playing tennis. Im the sole bread winner in my family and risked my not being able to work just screwing around - this injury gives you lots of time to think and sort thru lots of things.
Heidelberg Germany
Hi all.
I have nothing so exotic as as a rupture (at least I don't think so)But I was kicking a soccer ball (first time in over 30 years) around tonight with a group and within 15 minutes my achilles was very sore right behind the ankle of my kicking foot. If I touch it feels bruised but I have full motion and stretch. I have played ice hockey all my life ( i am a 47 year old male ) but in in skates your ankle is well supported and your power comes from your thighs and hips. I guess what I am wondering is could this be caused by the repeated impact of the ball against my foot.
Hi,
I completely ruptured my right achilles on May 14th playing football (soccer).
I had a new type of surgery the following week which uses LEEDS-KEIO tape.
Basically, this is an ultra strong tape which is drilled through your heel bone, and then criss-crosses up your achilles, joining it together.
I was out of plaster in only 2 weeks after the operation and physio started a week after that. I was walking (very slowly) within 30 days of a complete rupture which is amazing.
You are left with 7 scars on the back of your ankle/leg and the3 recovery is still long but obviously more comfortable if you arent in plaster.
I have also been left with some nerve damage to my foot but that is slowly recovering.
I wish everyone who has had this injury a speedy recovery. Just be a patient patient!!
There is a diagram of the surgery procedure on this link :
www.earthmed.co.za/xiro.htm
benmiles11@yahoo.com
Hello everyone, I am a 37 year old female, full rupture on my right foot on June 8th, had surgery on the 13th, 2008. Was playing my eighth slow pitch game in eight days and ruptured it during a quick take off to catch a line drive coming down in front of me. I am having a really difficult time with this because i have three kids, and I am on maternity leave with a 9 month old baby that I can no longer care for. I have had to pull my just turned 13 daughter out of the last two weeks of school to babysit for me. I had some weird problems post-op and wondered if anyone else had them. I had significant pain immediately post op but was almost completely gone by day 3 and stopped taking my percs completely. Problem was significant dizziness, vision problems and vomiting on day 4. Day 7 and the pain has started up slightly again but is bearable. Anyone else have significant problems with dizziness and nausea? Also have sharp needle like pains in my incision site today. Going back in 6 days to have my stitches removed and a new fibreglass cast.
I had nausea for a couple of days and it was attributed to the pain medication. As to pain (particularly at the incision site), I have found that leg elevation (above heart) is very effective in reducing pain and swelling. Hope this helps.
Joe
Im 36 years old and fully ruptured my left achilles tendon on June 8 playing racquetball.
I served the ball, back peddled to center court and as I moved forward to hit the return, it felt like my opponent kicked the back of my ankle. My ankle felt kind of numb and tingling, but it didn't hurt too bad so I tried to walk it off. After a few steps, I realized that I wasn't kicked and there was something wrong. I took a seat on the court and checked my ankle. I knew I had injured the tendon and that "knowing" was what hurt. I hopped to the car on my right leg, sweaty and injured with the game tied up at 10 points!!
I went to the ER hoping I would be corrected by the doctor, but the Thompson test confirmed what I already know. A full rupture.
I got a half cast (a plaster strap along the bottom of the foot and up the ankle held on by an ace bandage), some crutches and an orthopaedic surgeon referral.
This is going to be a great summer!!
It has been so helpful to read about the experiences of others...
I had a complete rupture of my left achielles on June 18th. I wish I could say it happened as a result of my athletic activities..
On June 14th we had 100 guests to our home to celebrate or 20th wedding anniversray - while dancing the night away, I twisted my right knee. I went to the doctor on June 16th, and was told to stay off it until our celebration trip to Maui on June 22nd. On June 18th, I was laying on a chair in the yard and the phone rang. to stay off my right knee, I hopped on my left leg to get the phone - and you guessed it, blew out my achilles in my left leg!
We cancelled our trip to Maui, and I had surgery to repair a torn menisucs in my right knee AND a full ruptured achilles in my left leg. I was in a wheelchair for the first 3 days, but my knee is already doing great, and am now on crutches.
It has been quite gruesome so far. I have been a splint cast for 10 days, and today my doctor removed the stitches and put me in a cam boot. The pain today has returned to what it was like at the beginning. I will be using wedges in the boot, removing them one at a time weekly over the next 3 weeks. My doctor has encouraged my to use my crutches to start, but wants me to put weight on it more and more over the next 3 weeks.
I am sure many of you would agree, this had been extremely discouraging at times. But I know maintaining a positive attitude will go along way to speeding up my recovery.
I ook forward to following all of your coninued healing and progress...
All the best...
Wow...thank you all for your postings. I ruptured my achilles tendon on Jun 27th while playing soccer. I too had that "being kicked" feeling; I even blamed one of my opponents for kicking me and causing the rupture...LOL! Anyway, I was seen in the ER and was diagnosed w/ a muscle tear and calf muscle strain. It wasn't until I followed up w/ my primary care doctor on Tuesday that I was officially diagnosed w/ ATR. Saw the ortho surgeon on Wednesday and had surgery on Thursday. So I spent the 4th of July weekend all "perced" up (Percocet...my friend in the beginning). I am currently in a splint and will go to a cast on July 21st (that's when the sutures will be removed too). Based on all that I've seen on this blog it appears I should ask for that boot as opposed to a cast on the 21st? I'm supposed to attend a Sorority convention in Orlando from 24-31 Jul and I'm wondering will I be able to manage. Will I be minimal weight bearing by that time or still no weight bearing. Anyway thanks for all the postings; it certainly helps to read other's stories; I'm not in this alone. Oh...my husband has been the bomb...he and my children are the reason this last two weeks have not been all bad.
I'm a 37 year old female with 2 young children and a full time job. Here is my story; on June 1st I was at a picnic playing a relay race when another player kicked me on the side of my ankle. This injury probably caused a minor rupture, but this was not diagnosed. I saw a doctor the following day and in the course of 4 weeks the injury was treated like a severe bruise, during these four weeks I was using crutches. After the fourth week, and showing no improvement, I was finally sent to an Orthopedic Surgeon. He put me on a walking boot and sent me to have an MRI taken. Two weeks later and still waiting for authorization for the MRI I bent over to pick something up from the floor and yes…you guessed it, I felt like someone kicked me right in the ankle. Finally on this day, due to the second injury I had the MRI taken. Three days later I was told by my doctor that I have a full rupture to my AT. I'm scheduled for surgery on Tuesday July 15th and as I've been reading (although it's been 6 weeks since the injury), the adventure has just begun. Reading all of your stories has really helped me understand what to expect and has also given me comfort to know that I'm not alone. Best wishes to all of you and may your tendons have a full recovery.
Just call me Quetico...
Today is July 17th. I will have AT surgery on the 22nd in Waconia, MN. Mine went out on me just after rounding third base during a softball game on July 14th. I bike about once a week and am otherwise active, playing softball once per week. I'm 41 and now I know that I can't give it 110% running the bases anymore. I have been working (a desk job), but my foot is (or my toes are) still a bit swollen. Plan to work tomorrow, then rest over the weekend, work Monday, then take Thursday off for the surgery (2:30 pm). I'm hoping that works out OK. I'm a little concerned I'm not raising the foot and icing it enough. Any suggestions are welcome.
Well I ruptured my Achilles in April 2007 and although it seemed like it would never be the same again, I can now say that it close to being 100% better. I, like many did mine playing tennis after not playing for years.I was 46 at the time. All of a sudden I felt a pain in my calf like someone had thrown something and hit me there.I had surgery to repair the rupture, wore a back slab cast cast for 10 days then a Cam walker boot for another 5 weeks. Physiotherapy really helped get the stretch back into the tendon. The first week was the worst as it seemed like I'd be off my feet forever.I am left with an ugly scar and a lot of scar tissue which makes my heel look fat but luckily it all works like it used to and I can walk like before.I am a liitle reluctant to try tennis again. So hang in there all you injured people. It does get better!
Hi! I have ruptured my AT in July 2006 in the same way, playing tennis, starting the run for a short ball near the net. I wish you good and total recovery. I found the http://achillesblog.com/ website, made this year. I needed it back in 2006, but it's a good thing for the "fresh" ATR folks. All the best!
MRI shows partial tear of AT. Podiatriatrist says he wants to wait 30days from injury and reassess. says is contrvertial as to surgery or not. I'm in a CAM boot. I am very active and plan to stay that way. I hear surgery is best guarentee it wont happen again. he said that was contrvertial. Any partial rupture people out there who have healed well without surgery?
Yep, I did my achilles almost 4 months ago. You can read about my progress here http://rupturedachillestendon.blogspot.com/
I ruptured my AT four weeks before the surgery. I knew I had damaged 'something' but the doctor thought it was a minor strain and would heal by itself. That's how well GP's are trained here in the UK. Four weeks later, I was just about managing to walk and then was referred to a specialist.
I was operated on and had a cast with my toes pointing down for 3 weeks. Have just had that removed and another cast put on with toes in an almost neutral position. This will be changed in 3 weeks to a cast with the foot in a neutral position. This will be PWB.
At the moment I am using crutches to walk and am coping ok.
Can't wait to start walking normally again.
If anyone is reading this in the UK always rush to A&E if you feel a snap / pop as GP's will ask you to take off the shelf painkillers irrespective of your symptoms. They will always wait till the worst possible thing to happen before doing anything about it.
Wow, misery loves company. I had a full rupture on July 8th, surgery on July 11th, came out of the cast in two weeks and went into a brace which weighs a ton! I take off the brace at night and wear a light weight splint to sleep in. On the evening of Aug. 10th, I fell off my knee walker onto my left leg and reinjured the tendon. Not a rupture, but a tear so I'm back in a cast. It's been a long hot summer. But the worst of all of this were the spasms that I got in the back of my leg after the original injury and the second injury. Has anyone experienced that kind of pain?
Prior to posting my comment, I merely took the time to read through some of the comments regarding this injury. And most sound the same, whether weekend warriors or individuals who have been playing the particular sport for years. I torn my achilles on August 16, 2008 while out playing football with my son at the park. Prior to this happening, I had not warmed up nor stretch. Also, I am in pretty good shape, but had not really been out to like exercise nor for a few weeks, but otherwise, did some moderate exercise. Well, was standing, went to run, and heard a lound pop. And as it has been said before, it feels like you have been hit with a bat, etc., Well I have had the surgery on August 29, and is currently wearing a foot splint/cast. At this time, I feel so helpless, not able to do the things that I normally would do. Like help around the house, etc. Putting on my clothes is the biggest challenge for me and taking baths, which I have adjusted rather well. Have an appointment to see my specialist on Sept 16, so I will ultimately find out when the time will be for me to wear the boot. Fortunately, the injury occured on my left leg, which enables me to drive (which is with the right foot). But now, I am developing the mental phase of this injury. Constantly feeling my other leg, which is not injury to ensure that its okay. Telling myself, I am not doing anything to help anyone else as to not injury myself again. Sitting down at work poses a challenge for me as well, which I am working through this as well. But all in all with me, its just the mental aspect of this situation, any advice?
I tore my achilles playing basketball. Talking junk, I got the ball done a quick crossover. POP!!! Down I went. I was kind of shock, had the deer in the headlights look. I was looking for whoever hit me with something or anything. Not much pain. Tried to get up. It was a no go. Finally got to my feet hopped to my truck and tried to drive home. It was a no go. Couldn't even press the gas. Had to get someone to drive for me. Surgery scheduled for 9/17/08. Thanks for all you guys support in advance.
I ruptured my tendon 6 years ago. Just wanted to let people know that after about 1-2 years I was back to all sports - running, windsurfing, bicycling and have a nice strong repair. Things to focus on --- #1 keep that leg up (ideally above the heart) as much as possible. The less swollen your leg, the better it will heal. Once the tissues get swollen, they are more prone to staying that way if you are not aggressive about elevation.
#2 Ice is your best friend - it will help swelling and the pain.
#3 Heating pads can help with muscle spasms and the thermacare pads can give a nice long gentle heat on the calf muscle. Massage can be a big help if and when your doctor okays it.
#4 Walking on the sand is awesome exercise
#5 Don't go too fast with the rehab. There is a fine balance between rehabing well and overdoing it and causing reinjury.
#6 A body pillow for sleeping with a cast is worth trying.
#7 Don't take levaquin or ciprofloxacin antibiotics unless a life or death situation. There can be a causal link to tendon ruptures. The FDA recently issued a "black box" warning about this.
#8 Don't despair. Take is as an opportunity to live life at a slower pace. You will really appreciate that first time you are back to walking!!
Best of luck to all.
I'm in search of someone who ruptured BOTH of their achilles tendons at the same time. I have been trying to do research and have yet to find someone who was as unfortunate as me. I ruptured mine on the 6th of June 08. I would like more information on the pain that they suffer having TWO bad legs instead of just one. Standing is painful after about 5 minutes and since my doctor and physical therapist have never treated anyone with two ruptures I want to know if I am getting everything I need as far as treatment is concerned.
Hi Kimberely, I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling rupturing both achilles tendon at the same time. How did it happen? I ruptured both mine but with a five year interval inbetween. STill, I know what it's like to have two vulnerable achilles and have had to really watch i dont overdo it on either..If it's painful to stand then simply dont..with time it will heal well. I am seeing the best physio here in london so let me know if you'd like his name, he is choca block with appointments but simply the best. Its a long recovery but the key is patience and not to try to do too much at the same time..they will get better but just take it easy while you can. Things happen for unknown reasons and we just have to accept and make the most of it. Good luck and be careful!!
So, my story is that I am a teacher and at the end of the year I was asked to play basketball for the teacher's team against our 8th graders. I declined but when asked to be one of the cheerleaders I accepted because I was a past gymnast and cheerleader. Forty minutes into the assembly I over powered a roundoff and landed wrong. I had surgery and have been going through the entire recovery process. I am beginning to walk and am going to try to drive for the first time this weekend. Someone wrote tips for survival and I really believe the one that said take it slow and enjoy life, just at a slower pace. I live in the states so your offer for a good physio won't do me much good. It is nice to be able to read others journey. I have learned to be humble and appreciate so much more through this whole ordeal. I so agree with things happening for unknown reasons and have kept that in the forefront of my mind this past summer when things were really rough. Thanks for the response.
I ruptured mine on Tuesday Oct 8th. I was playing basketball, thinking I was back in high school again, but my body thought otherwise. When I went to the ER I was told it was an ankle sprain, but after seeing the Orthopedic Dr, I was told my achilles was torn and I needed surgery ASAP.
My surgery is on Monday Oct 13th and needless to say, I'm scared sh*tless. I'm 25 and I've only had my wisdom teeth pulled as far as surgery goes.
Thanks for this site. It's really helped me to know what to expect in the coming weeks.
Hello all. After reading these posts, sure sounds like a great group of people who are trying to make the best of the situation. I am a 27 year old female who tore my right achilles playing volleyball. I didn't read any volleyball injuries yet on this blog. The doctor thought I was really young to have this happen to me. But...I am not too surprised. I was very athletic in highschool, and have unfortunately gained some weight after my wedding. I am thinking perhaps the weight gain along with not being in shape helped this happen. I did start a walking program about a week before my injury, and am wondering if I pushed myself too hard.
I was so scared to have surgery. I didn't even need serious surgery for my wisdom teeth. I was mostly afraid of going under. Needless to say, the doctor up here in Alaska was great. I have had barely any pain, and the cast comes off 5 weeks and four days after surgery. A boot will be next, with possibly a little weight baring if the doctor gives the okay. My rupture wasn't that painful. More like a tennis ball hitting my leg instead of a brick.
My worst fear is playing volleyball again. The doctor said over time I will forget about this fear and will be playing like normal again. I don't think he knows me well enough....
I have spikes on my crutches now to assist with the snow and ice. Not very good timing, but it could be worse! Atleast on vacation we rented a wheelchair and I was pushed all around D.C. That was nice being pampered, but it sure is getting old. I'm very independent, and feel like I am in a cage. I just keep looking at the horizon and appreciating all the wonderful people around me.
Wishing good recovery to you all!
Hi Everyone,
I feel a little guilty posting on this blog as I haven't ruptured my achilles tendon. However, I'm facing surgery for a bone spur which is impinging on, and apparently damaging the tendon. Based on what I've been reading, this may not be as serious as rupturing the tendon, but nonetheless still surgery is required which will be shaving the spur, detaching and reattaching the tendon. Is there anyone out there who has had the same injury as mine and can tell me if the procedure and aftermath is the same as the one that I've been reading about for those who ruptured their tendon? My surgeon said it would be 6 weeks of NWB and then months of rehab before I could be fully recovered.
Would you recommend walker, knee walker, crutches or what? I'm a 67 yo male in good shape, but I'm guessing that my physical activity will be extremely limited for awhile and that worries me. I can assure you younger folks that recovery from injury at 67 is a WHOLE lot different than it was in my 30s and 40s. I'm not invinsible any longer!
Thanks for your help and for this blog.
Denny
Hi everyone,
First time posting, although I've been reading all of your posts. I completely ruptured my right achilles October 8th (my 27th birthday) playing volleyball. I had surgery last Wednesday (22nd). It's been frustrating. I had my first major fall today. Managed to hit my stitches pretty hard. Just hoping I didn't jar anything loose. Has anyone fell or hit their incision area hard on something? Was everything okay afterward? Just wondering how concerned I should be.
This is such a pain. To top it off my mother has been staying with me trying to take care of me, but I'm afraid she's driving me nuts. I've always been so independent, having to ask for help really sucks. Okay, enough venting for now.
Shannon
Hi Shannon..first of all, take it easy..its horribly frustrating being so helpless, but you'v got to accept it as it just takes Time to heal.Iv had it happen to me twice and the first time I got into a depression..second time round I just accepted it and stayed home, and the time passed much quicker. I would go and see your dr if you fell on it so hard,just to ease your mind, they can take off the cast and check everything..I did that so many times! all the best!
I have kind of a unique situation. I injured my Achilles during an exercise class in 2006. I had to wear a CAM boot for about 6 months but the tear never healed. So of course...surgery. I went to the ortho surgeons in our city thinking they should know how to do the surgery. The morning of the surgery as I was waiting in pre-op, the dr came in and said he was doing some research on theinternet and he found a procedure that he is sure will work. Well what am I to say. I had the surgery. I had a hard cast for 2 weeks and then a CAMs walker for another 6 months. I could tell something was wrong and after a few xrays, it was confirmed that there was so much scar tissue that had grown around the tendon from the surgery. I had to have a 2nd surgery to remove the scar tissue. I wore the boot for another 3 months but there was no change. After a long time of just putting up with the discomfort, I went to another well known orthopedic clinic in Minneapolis MN. I had an MRI done and the surgeon couldn't believe the tendon was in such bad shape. 5 weeks ago on Sept 22, I had 5 inches of my tendon replaced. I had to wear a hard cast for 2 weeks. Now I am in an aircast with heel lifts. I take an 1/8" heel lift out each week and I have 7 to go. I have to wear the cast all the time except for showering. I can bear weight but only with crutches so I spend most of my time in a wheel chair when I am at home. I am not taking any chances this time. I go back for my 6 week check-up in a week. I sure hope everything is okay. I am glad I came upon this website. So many things that I was experiencing is exactly what everyone else is experiencing. It is reassuring to know patience is the best. Thanks for all the good advice.
I don't have a lot to add, but I thought I'd briefly sketch out my story here as well. I'm a 33-year old male, and I tore my Achilles on October 12 playing flag football. The injury itself shocked me a bit as I wasn't doing anything terribly athletic at the time, but was simply throwing a pass. The experience was basically the same as everybody else's, I felt/heard a pop, and it felt as though somebody kicked me in the back of the leg. I knew immediately what had happened.
I had my surgery on October 22, and have been hanging out at my house ever since, leg elevated. I had a nerve block which I carried around with me for a few days after the surgery, which really helped with pain. In part because of it, I think, I only really had bad pain post-op on one day when the nerve block was wearing off.
Otherwise, right now, I really only have pain when I crutch around, but even that is lessening, and I'm able to move around for longer periods of time. I hope to make it back to work this week. Right now I'm scheduled to be in a cast for four weeks followed by a weight bearing boot.
Great site, thanks for putting it together.
-Mark
so I'm back. I posted a few weeks ago before my surgery. I have 2 1/2 weeks left before I get the boot! I'm in no pain, but I'm bored out of my mind. I don't know how many more crossword puzzles I can do and episodes of "NCIS" I can watch. Any suggestions folks?!
For those of you who have just injured yourself, take it easy and remember that at some point you will get better. I am the only one here who was unfortunate enough to rupture both of my achilles at the the same time. One of the best things I did while my legs were still in the casts was to flex my feet as much as I could. My therapist couldn't believe how much range I had. I am almost 6 months into recovery and just started driving 3 weeks ago. Walking is almost normal most of the time, I can't get on my tip toes more than 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch and running and jumping are still out of the question. Progress is coming but it is slow. The best thing to do is find all the positives you can because if you dwell on what you can't do it just depresses you. Another must is good shoes! When I went out and bought four new pairs of good quality shoes my feet didn't hurt as much. Also, make sure you tell your doctor and therapist everything so that you are getting the best and right treatment. Lastly, it's not easy to ask but when you need help ASK! There is no need to be the tough one trying to do everything yourself. Best of luck to all with your recovery. It looks as though I will be continuing with my therapy for some time.
Hello
I am a 47 year old male finally going out to exercize one day playing soccer.
The previous day I got soccer shoes and the hole bit. Next day woke up fresh and ready. After 15 minutes of playing I went to kick the ball when all of a sudden I thought one of the players kicked me hard on my left leg. To make a long story short I had surgery 10/27/08. Today is the 5th day after after the sugery, and I am walking fine with crutches.
I stoped taking the pain killers, after the second day. Because it was making me very drowsy.
For as long I have my left foot up, and iced up I have no pain.
The only problem that I have now is the pain in my right calf muscle. While walking with my crutches. As I pull my right toe to me i feel tightness and a sharp pain from three inches above my heel to where the achiiles tendon muscle meets the calf muscle. (I'm a heavy guy of about 250 lb's, walking with crutches using only my right leg).
I'm concerned about this and worried that something else might be wrong in my right leg.
Anybody with the same issue?
Please Resopond
I'm typing this for my dad as he says the words cause he's a slow typer (i'm his son)
For the 47 year old..I would have the tightness in the calf and the non ruptured achilles checked immediately..you do not want to rupture that one as well! Especially if you say you are a big guy and so there's huge pressur on the one leg while on crutches..dont take any risks..I would stay in a wheelchair and get seen by a dr asap..good luck!
Hey all, I ruptured my achilles two days ago, and after the ER visit yesterday and finding this blog, I was prepared for the orthopedist to tell my to get ready for surgery. I saw him this morning and he said that based on my decent range of dorsi flexion and plantar flexion, and my limited swelling, he thinks it is a partial tear, and that I am not a case for surgery. We are going to reevaluate in 6 days, see what my deficits are, and go from there. Maybe an MRI, maybe not, but definitely a lot of physical therapy. I am 28 years old, and far from a weekend a warrior. I make my living from physical fitness, and being in shape, so he said that factored into going almost straight to rehab in a month or so.
So I guess my question to all of you out there couch bound like myself, is - what was your range of motion like before surgery? Like I said, the Doc said mine was decent, but I still lack the ability to raise up on my toes. He said part of that is because it is indeed torn, and it is less than 48 hours out. What did it feel like before surgery? And did you know you had a partial tear and had surgery anyway?
I am just a little skeptical of not operating, as I have to make a 100% recovery regardless of the time scale.
Thank you for your information, advice, and your help. And good luck to everyone in there recovery, I feel for you all.
Michael
Hi everyone,
I posted a little while ago, I ruptured my achilles on my 27th birthday playing volleyball. I'm about 2 1/2 weeks post-op and feeling pretty good. I had surgery on October 22nd and have about 5 1/2 weeks of cast time left (8 weeks total) and then I get the ever elusive walking boot and start PT (I can't wait!) After reading all of your great posts, it seems like most people had the 'traditional' surgery. I had the percutaneous surgery, and there is only a relatively small incision (7 stitches total). I was wondering if anyone else had this type of procedure, and how the healing process has been? Anyone out there who's had this and walking yet?
p.s. I just wanted to say hi to Mark, we both had our surgery on the same day. Good luck with your recovery.
I have been living under the assumption that 33 is the new 23. I have really enjoyed getting into a lot of physical activity and preparing for a 1/2 marathon over the last year and a half. I've had big plans to do a triathalon sprint and a marathon next year when for the first time in my life, I will have surgery for an athletic injury. While playing shortstop for my college team, I made a fantastic play up the middle and threw on the run to get the runner out at first....turned to tell everyone two outs and felt a ball nail me in the back of my left calf. I turned to yell at my first baseman, and she was still holding the ball looking at me. I decided my best option was to sit down. I called for my assistant coaches and trainer to help me off the field. I didn't see a ball where the tendon rolled up, so I was hoping I was being a wimp and it was a pulled muscle. Meeting with the team doctor that night and then having the MRI the next morning confirmed an ATR. I will be having surgery and I'm really just angry at my body right now. I feel like I am in as good of shape as when I was a player myself, and now this happens. My husband and children have been wonderful, but I have a feeling this will be a trying time for all of us over the next eight weeks. Thanks to everyone who has posted to let me know what I have to look forward to and plan for. I hope all of our recoveries are quicker than we hope. This is definetley one way for God to teach me patience!
I suprised my wife on her 32nd birthday with a phone call telling her I couldn't walk. Needless to say, she wasn't very happy as I had rendered myself unable to carry either one of our 10 month old twin girls...or their car seats...or push their stroller. Of course it had to be my right leg, so I can't drive either! I feel terrible about not being able to help her more and I am only a month out from surgery. The only advice I can give is to do what your doctor tells you to do. Each ATR is different, ad if you had surgery as I did, he is the only one who knows what it looks like in there. My biggest concern will be gaining my trust back in that leg. I was told that 6 months is about average for a full recovery, can anyone agree/disagree with this?
It takes longer than six months for a full recovery..to be honest, I dont think it ever recovers its full strength. I am six months down the road from my second AT rupture and surgical repair, and it is still not recovered. I think it takes closer to a year to be closer to normal function. Anyway, no point crying over spilt milk, or torn achilles, things happen for a reason, adn we just have to make the best of it!
I am 54 years old. I had an accident on 8-21-08 which took me to ER. Doctor came to door, asked what happened, sent me to x-ray. Never saw him again. Medical assistants came in, said my ankle was broken, put partial cast on and told me orth. doctor would call me. No phone call. I called them and was told that it wasn't broken, to pick up x-rays up and take to family doctor. I handed her x-rays, not telling her anything and asked her what she saw. She said it was broken, to leave on partial cast and keep using crutches. This was 9-11-08.
Upon my lawyers advice(long story) I saw an orth, dr. on 10-7-08 when I was informed of the ATR. I knew there was something wrong with my ankle, but I didn't know what. It just flopped around but I could walk on it (carefully). Had MRI followed by surgery on 10-31-08 (trick or treat???) I don't remember the doctor speaking with my after the surgery so I don't know exactly what was done or how it went, but I will find out more on Monday when I go back to have my stitches taken out. I have a partial cast with plenty of ace bandages on to keep it from moving. I have not had much pain, except one time when I lost my balance and out of habit put my leg down to catch myself. Didn't take me just a microsecond to lift it back up!!!! I also had 2 of those stupid involuntary jerks when you're almost asleep. Jerked my leg and I screamed, the pain was so intense. Didn't sleep at all those nights. I fell twice and have no fingernails left from catching myself when I lost my balance too many times. Good news is that I never hit my injured leg. Now my so called good leg is not so good. It hurts around my achilles tendon. I try to stretch it out some to keep it from injury. I will discuss this with my doctor on Monday. I am not looking forward to PT. PT is short for pain & torture, isn't it???
I am angry because I feel that if the ER dr. had done his job and looked at my leg he would have seen the ATR and I would have been a lot further along than I am. From the time of my accident til the surgery was a little over 3 months.
I will post more later. I want to thank everyone for your posts. It has helped to read about everyone's experiences, although I was shocked to hear that there are so many with ATRs. Hope everyone heals with minimal problems. Me included!!
Ladyb, which country were you treated, or rather not treated? sounds atrocious the level of care you recieved! I would sue them!! Good luck with your rehab..take care of the other one..
I originally posted on 10/20/08. Just like Shannon, I'm 27 and tore it playing volleyball. I had my surgery 9/24/08. I finally got the cast off after five and a half weeks, used a walking boot and crutches for one week, and now I am doing physical therapy. My therapist is great, and doesn't believe in pain. I was at first scared about the PT. We have been doing a lot of stretching, and he has me warming up on a stationary excercise bike before my stretches, or walking in the deep end of the pool with the water just below my shoulders. This allows for 25% of my body weight to be on my feet, and I'm suppose to walk around the deep end and warm up the ankle that way as well. I'm suppose to do this routing, (either pool or bicycle), twice a day. He says we will begin strength training once I get more range of motion in my foot. I still can't walk down stairs normal, it causes too much stretching on the achilles. He gave me some lotion to rub on the scar to help break up the bad scar tissue underneath. He says there is 'good' scar tissue and 'bad' scar tissue. The bad tissue is glueing everything together, and hindering my stretching progress. I thought that was interesting. Good luck to all!
Hi Mimet, I am a 54 year old female from U.S.A. There have been a lot of people tell me that I should sue, but we'll see. I do agree that I wasn't given the care I should have been given. I know it all comes down to me not having insurance, although the medical bills will not be paid by me, my attorney will see to that.
I did go to the doctor today, had my stitches out, and a full cast put on. Dr. said everything looked really good.Still can't bear any weight and I go back in 4 weeks.
Dear Ladyb,
Well it's great your achilles is on the mend now, and in the right way..I would make sure my nutrition is optimal at this point..I used to find too much alcohol aggrevated it, and somehow delayed the healing, perhaps because of the poor blood supply there..anyway, good luck with it, I wish you all the best! The month will go by quickly so just make the best of the time off and not walking, as you can..
Mimet, Thank you so much for your concern. Healing slowly because of alcohol will not be a problem. I don't drink. But I know things will turn out okay, just taking forever. But I'm thinking positive, making plans for the future, and yes, not walking anywhere that I don't have to. Thanks again!
I suffered a full rupture 6/13/08 and I had surgery on 6/18/08 and Ive been through the splint to the boot. Ive been out of the boot since 9/30/08 and I am now walking ok. I still walk with a limp and I still have soreness and pain, the one thing I thought would go away by now is the swelling. I still have swelling and Im am trying to not limp but it is very diffcult. I would like to know how long will it be before i get full strength and not limp? Also I am going through physical therapy. I hear it will take 6-9 months is this true?
Hi Everyone
I ruputered my achillies playing soccer in Sctland.I was told on a couple of occassions it was just bruised and to take it easy and rest.No matter what I done the pain remained and my walking was poor.I went to Sydney had a scan and 3 days latter had surgical repair.I am bitter that nhs in Scotland has made people so lazy and uncaring.I am now 3 weeks post op and looking forward to eventualy getting out of this cast.Hope we all get run again.
hello all. Thanks for all of the helpful posts. I ruptured my AT about five hours ago. The local ER was great. Turns out the attending had played college football at centre college at the same time I was playing basketball for maryville college - huge rivals. What surprised me the most was the lack of pain. I have torn ligaments in my knee, sprained ankles and broken bones, and this was nowhere near as painful as any of those injuries. There was no doubt what had happened though. The sound was more of a thud than a snap or pop and I looked behind mebecause I thought one of the little kids had threw a ball and hit me in the lower leg. I didn't see anything so I started to take off running but the foot wouldn't work. My friends thought I was lying because I could walk on it as long as I didn't allow the foot to pivot. I see the ortho tommorrow and will begin the road to recovery. To all of you weekend warriors out there, lose the excess weight before you begin to play strenuous sports. I am 70 pounds heavier now than when I played in college and have not trained my legs to force my 250 pound frame into motion. The initial stress on the AT is said to be 3-7 times your body weight at startup. That is 750-1750 ponds of pressure (damn, that's near a ton). I guess stupid is as stupid does. Wish I would have known this about 5 hours and 10 minutes ago. I would have stayed home and ate a salad. I think I will go out and by a powerball ticket tomorrow though. Ironically, I just took out an AFLAC temporary disability policy 3 weeks ago. Looks like every gray cloud does have a silver lining. At least now I will get paid for my time away from the office. Now that is just lucky! I wish you all a speedy recovery and thanks again for posting - it helps me see what hurdles are coming up.
Hey guys and gals, I posted last night after my injury when I was very deep in internet research, but today I truly have a couple of questions you may be able to help with. My ortho was in surgery today so I don't see him initially until tomorrow. Last night, I could not flex the ankle downward at all. The calf would flex, but no motion followed. Today, there is some motion there when I flex the calf. (I know I should probably be resting it instead of flexing it, but I can't help it). Is gaining a little motion the day after the injury normal? Did any of you experience this? I am hoping that perhaps this is just a partial rupture, but I think that perhaps the flexion of the calf is causing a retraction in the Sheathing that surrounds the AT and this is the reason for the ankles movement. Any answers, or good guesses?
I've read through the entire blog and I have not found anyone who had a problem like mine. In April of 2007 I totally ruptured my left achilles playing basketball. I had surgery and went through the recovery process. On November 16, 2008 I totally ruptured my right achilles playing basketball. It was the exact same move. I'm a 43 year old male who played college basketball. Now my basketball career is over. I will never play again. I know the drill with the recovery process. I had surgery on November 21, 2008. Good luck to everyone who has had this surgery.
I ruptured my Achilles Tendon last night (left foot) and I have an air cast on right now and I"m curious, should i take my foot out and ice it??? I also feel more comfortable with my foot on the floor, and not with it up in bed. SHould I keep it up more?
I keep wiggling my toes and trying to keep blood flow. They didn't give me much info at the emergency room. I see a specialist this week.
any info will be appreciated
Hi Daniel, You should definately ice your achilles to keep the swelling down, and keep it up. I would see a apecialist asap to have your achilles repaired asap; time is of the essence of having it sewn back together so it can start healing..
Happened to me twice..you will recover! good luck!!
My vacation injury..never travel without insurance, luckily I had extra! I was having a great time in the Mayan. It was a wonderful evening and we decided to go dancing. Well, since I rolled my right ankle playing tennis last year, I though I'd better take my high heel shoes off to dance. Bad move...we decided to go up stairs to the suspended dance floor which was not crowded,a great song came on and I must have jumped straight up and before you know it I was running around the dance floor which had a few couples on it and started screaming to everyone to get off. My brain told me that the floor was moving but acutually my foot was dangling, I had no pain though. Long story short..the hospital in Mexico was fantastic...they splinted my up, gave me a wheelchair and I enjoyed the rest of the holiday by the pool with non stop drinks! I'm excited to say that I'm at 8 wks post surgery, surgery went well, no complications, I've ditched the boot and in 2 two shoes...bit slow, occasional swelling but in physio and getting back my life one step at a time. Hang in there...it's not all doom and gloom. Life has a way of making us slow down and take note of where we are and where we're going. Remember mind and positive outlook will get you back on 2 feet quicker!
I was playing basketball on the Feb 4th and another player stepped on my Achilles. Went to the doctor on the 6th and he said it is ruptured. Having surgery on the 10th. Not looking forward to the recovery after reading everyone's posts!
Wow, great info on here.. Just ruptured my achillies last Wed Feb 4th.. had Surgery Feb 6th (Friday) .. back at work on Monday. Ruptured mine playing basketball going up for a rebound, i see a lot of people claiming they had no pain..? Wow, I was rolling around banging my hand on the floor for a few minutes untill the 'numbness' kicked in. I'm seeing a lot of people having success with in a 8 week time frame, i was planning to invest in wieghts ect... but from the looks of it that would be a bad idea with reading some of the success stories i mean im not planning to jog or anything like that but at about 2 months at least being ok to limp from station to station for weight lifting.. Bad idea?
I ruptured my achilles on 19Oct08 playing tennis. I'm 34, I had all the right symptoms, weekend warrior, 30-50yrs, no warm up ect..I got a dropshot early on in the game and went for it. my achilles tendon snapped and it felt like being hit with a bric. Went to hospital right away, got x-ray(no broken bones-but cant see tendon with x-ray). And had to stay for observation (I thought) But actually they wanted to do was surgery, I want told I could not eat or drink. My father who is a accupuncturist came straight to the hospital and talked me out of it. He opposed the surgery, the doctor from the hospital told me I would never play tennis again if I would not have surgery. I was really in a dilemma. I then choose not to have the surgery, more because my father insisted. But on the second day I went to see a specilist, he let me do an MRI to make things sure. The MRI showed the ATR very clear and according the specialist surgery was the best option. But I told the specialist of my dilemma and then choose to have an cast instead. My leg was cast for 2 months, just before Christmas it came off. The first day with cast was the hardest. Because without surgery the cast was much longer, from the toes up to my thigh. I could not move my knee and felt kinda claustrofobic with it. I almost went nuts. But after that it was much better. I even went on holiday in November on crutches. The nice thing was I was allowed to jump cue on many occasions. After the cast was removed, I had like no more muscles in the lower calf, like only fat. But after 3-4 days the muscles came back. I visted a herbalist and accupunturist to assist in the healing of my tendon. And also doing fysio now. i still cant stand on my toes on one leg, but walking is almost limp free. I been to 2 hikes of about 4 hours without any problems. I recently changed my socks to the shorter one, because the longer socks tend to block the bloodflow causing the tendon to be very stiff and swollen. After using the shorter socks the tendon was much more flexible and the swellings were much less. I'm waiting a few more months before I try play tennis again. In the meanwhile I do my exercises. Wish you all a speedy recovery.
regards
Rayman Young
I ruptured my left achilles on Sunday 15th February while playing badminton. Normal story, looking for the small child who hit me round the back of the leg. Went to my local A&E and they confirmed it was a full rupture. The hospital said they do not normally carry out surgery and have a conservative approach. When I spoke to the Registrar though he said if it was his leg he would opt for surgery. Moreover, I had spoken to friends who are physios and they said to push for surgery. I am therefore hopefully having surgery tomorrow or the next day. So anyone in the UK, think hard about whether you want surgery or to let nature take its course. Hopefully I'll have some mobility by the time my first child is born in 2 weeks time. The way I look at it you only have one choice, either to be positive or negative about it..it's an easy choice. Wishing everyone all the best
Hi,
Thanks for all the information. This whole thing is a mystery (and bother) to me! Last week I learned that I ruptured my Achilles tendon about a month ago. I thought it was a bad sprain and taped it up, but we were on vacations so I just limped along. Then after we can home, I broke through the ice and cranked my toes to the sky. I think I hurt it again (that may be when I tore it?) it hasn't really been painful, just a persistent burning feeling at the back of my heel and numbness on top. I cannot go to tip toe at all -- no response.
I am not at all athletic and late 40's. We had been in the car for 8 hours when my son started to get car sick, so I jumped out to help him, and fell off the curb. I meet with the doctor in two days to discuss surgery. any thoughts on what I should be asking the doctor? How quickly can I hope to return to work? I assume the surgery is usually out-patient?
Thanks,
Hi Feb 23rd Anonymous...
Mine was outpatient surgery, and I think that is most common.
When you return to work depends on what type of work you do (manual or office) and how easy it is to get to work (i.e. can someone drive you, or do you need to walk/ take public transport). I was back at the office 1 week after surgery, but be prepared that your foot will still be painful and swollen, and you'll definitely need to keep it elevated. Don't attempt public transport until you can sit upright (with an unelevated foot) for a couple of hours without the swelling getting too painful.
Once you find elevation isn't so necessary, get out on your crutches or a wheelchair as much as possible to stay fit and stay sane. You meet lots of nice new people doing so too!
Paul.
Alohas: I had a full rupture with my right A.T. last March 08. It was miss-diagnosed twice (they said it was just a sprain). Finally, I had a MIR in May 08, and was told to go see a surgeon. The surgeon told me a lot of time had elapsed, and suggested a graft implant, but he warned me that I should be conservative with my expectations in regard to my rehab. But the surgery was successful, and eight months after the surgery I began to run again. Now I am running 3 miles daily. So
stay hopeful folks.
Some of my toes are still numb and also the top and outside portion of my foot, up to my ankle, is also numb. I told my surgeon about it during my final visit, and he somewhat defensively said he could not understand the numbness due to the fact that there were no nerves
in the proximity of the repair. Has anyone experienced the same thing, or know what is going on?
Hi ATR friends
Well... I am a professional ballet dancer in orlando, flI am Cuban and have just turned 40 this past February 26 2009
and this is my story. At the very end of my ballet class I was about to make a jump and .. you guess it kutupammmm!! the snap happened. I suffered a full rupture and got sergury in 4 days I was put in cast for 10 days get the stitches out and back to a cast for 4 more weeks.
Let me tell you the first 3 days did not go well. but noe I am ok. I elevate the leg all the time and stay possitive. As a ballet dancer I can tell you all I think is to get well soon, do what i been told and wait for the day I can perform again, and I now I will. For douse out there stay positive. ok?
I have to tell you my mother in law and my wife are my angels.
I have a question. dose anyone know what kind of food you should eat for a faster recovering ?
God bless you all
Israel
hi guys,
my story is very similar to all of you. i was playing capoeira after having been out for a week, didn't warm up well enough and "pow". just got out of surgery today and i'm a bit surprised by the pain actually. i have quite a high tolerance and also a good dose of pride, but post-op it's quite excruciating. seems like it toned down a bit for people after a couple of days, right?
What a great blog. Thanks. Like so many others, I partially ruptured my AT on the 6th of March. The rupture was unsual because it was high up on the tendon near the calf muscle. Not one pop, but three pops when it let go. I am relatively fit, but I was running soccer drills with a lot of lateral movement which I do not do very often.
Fortunately, at the ER I was able to see a PA with a deep othopedic background. We did the consult right there and, pending the Surgeon's review in the morning, chose to do the surgery the next day. This is an easy decison when the surgeon is the best in the area and you already know them. I had surgery on the 7th and spent the night in the hospital and was home on the 8th. I have had some swelling, but each day has been progressively better. I went off prescription pain meds on the 12th and returned to work on the 16th.
The prognosis is a minimum of 4 weeks in a hard cast and then a minimum of 4 weeks in the boot. Immobility is frustrating, but each day is a little better.
Giddy Up.
This truly is a great blog. I completely ruptured my left Achilles last Wednesday (March 11) snowboarding at Whistler with my son. My wife had to take the train/bus from Seattle since my car has manual transmission and I could not drive. My surgery was 2 days ago (March 18). I was training for the NYC marathon in early November and my doctor said I might still be able to do this. Anyone have any thoughts on this? I typically would have started rigorous training at the end of June. Thanks to everyone and to a fast recovery to all.
Dear Sin,
Having had my second achilles rupture on my other leg ten months ago, and still not being able to run as it is not as strong as my other leg, I would definately not recommend training for a marathon in November. As my dr said, something else in your body will be compromised to carry it off. I reckon it takes at least a year to heal and then to strengthen it depends on your persistance. Good luck!
Hello Sin,
I can't speak from personal marathoning experience, but I suspect it is possible, but maybe only if you are able to get some significant early progress, and most doctors seem to go very slowly with the rehab.
I've pushed things faster than my doctor advised. (I'm a doctor, too, and we make terrible patients.) I'm now five weeks postop, and you have to look pretty closely to see anything abnormal in my walking. My calf is definitely weaker, and is a bit smaller, than the good calf. The range of motion is very close to normal. The weakness shows if I try to walk fast. I'm certainly not running now, but I'm off to a good start, and I suspect I'll be able to run pretty soon.
I prefer cycling over running, and I did start cycling this week, with the cleat on the affected leg moved back toward the heel, to lessen the strain on the calf and the tendon.
So, I think you could do it, but maybe not if you follow the usual long rehab schedule, which leads to so much muscle atrophy. If I were in your shoes, I would certainly at least be giving it a try.
Best wishes,
Doug
Thanks for the responses Mimet and Doug. I will start off with swimming and biking, and see how that feels before running. The pain has subsided quite a lot since surgery 4 days ago. No drugs today (so far). Hopefully this is a good sign :-)
I am going to ask a friend to build me a small climbing wall (6 rock holds) so I can a least do some upper body work. I am going stir crazy.
Thanks and cheers!
Sin, I think you may be missing an important point. Swimming and cycling will help maintain your aerobic fitness, and that's great, but you're not going to run a marathon if your calf is too weak to give a good push-off with each stride. That calf muscle needs specific attention, minimizing the muscle atrophy and regaining strength early on, so you can get on with your marathon-specific training in reasonable time. I suggest you start with calf-specific training as soon as you can. Even in the five days between my surgery and my first dressing change, I was twitching that calf, just a enough to make the muscle move a little, while I listened to lots of music.
Doug
On March 6 I had a car gas tank I was scrapping blew up on me Taking out my AT. I don't know what cut it But after getting up and putting out the fire I felt some pain and looked down and it looked like I stepped in a bucket of blood. It cut all muscle, nerves and the AT clear to the bone. Three days in the hospital, 10 days in soft cast then on to the boot. at 4 weeks i can walk on it and stand with a captian morgan stance. Qorey, Ohio
I completely rupture my right achilles tendon on Feb 6th. I had surgery on Feb 8th. I was immediately put into an Aircast Boot. Similar to the Camboot but in Alberta, Canada this is what it was called. Before I ruptured my achilles tendon, I had fallen on ice and had a third degree sprain on the left foot. I ruptured my achilles tendon in the doctor's office, as I was hopping on the good leg, as I could not weight bare on the sprain. I thought the left was broke. As I was hopping there was a pop, and I was on the floor immediately. I went directly to the ER and was admitted. If you are keeping track that is both ankles were out of commission. I was in a wheelchair for outside, due to the icy conditions and using a walker in the house, right from my release from the hospital on the 9th of February. My doctor told me that I could weight bare with the boot on immediately. It was extremely painful, but I did. I was walking outside with the use of the walker by week 3, and by week 6 was using crutches. I also got the boot removed at week 6, and have been walking without for the cast two plus weeks. The doctor also did not recommend physio, but I am going to make an appointment anyways, as I want to make sure this heals correctly. While I had the boot on, if I was staying put on the couch for any length of time I could undo the boot and let my ankle out of its prison. During this time I did do small movements with my foot (pointing and flexing my toes). If there was any increase of pain I stopped, as I did not want to do more damage. I did have to sleep with the boot on, though. At 8 weeks today since surgery, I am walking slowly with a small limp, going up and down the stairs. I still get a fair bit of swelling by the end of the day.
Medical recovery treatment is quite different from most of you. Wonder why???
Hey all.
I'm 7 weeks post-op repair. I had the typical full-tear injury, pushed forward quickly while 'playing' and pop. I literally whirled around quickly to see who had shot me or at the very least thrown a bowling ball into my lower leg. After seeing no 'culprit' and trying to take a step, I knew immediately what had happened. Fortunately, had surgery the next day and placed in a cast for 4 weeks. I've been in the camboot for 3 weeks now and am working on progressing to full weight bearing this week.
On thing that may make some of you feel better is that while there is no real absolute known reason for an achilles' rupture, one of the primary accepted medical thoughts is that of gradual fraying of the tendon over the years. A little here and there and then one last forceful contraction pops the remaining strands. My surgeon told me my tendon was extremely frayed in addition to the acute tear, indicating years of micro-injury. This makes sense as I played basketball, volleyball, and racquetball for ~ 25 years. Lots of sprinting and jumping.
Good luck to all, this injury is definitely a test of patience.
my son ruptured his achillies tendon 10 days . he is only 19. gets operated on 29.5.09. is there any one out there who has done the same thing of this age. I would like to know how recovery was and did you get a full recovery and go back to sport. he ruptured it playing rugby and stepped off his left foot which went into a hole on the park than got tackled
I had a full rupture in early March snowboarding.
Am finally in for surgery this Saturday. I am nervous only because it has been more than 3 months since injury.
Trying to get a sense of the length of time between injury and surgery and recovery? Does anyone have any sense of this?
Dave
I had surgery May 18th. Not only did I rupture the tendon but had some loose bone and a bone spur. The doc had to reattach the tendon with a bone screw. It has been quite and ordeal. I'm four week non-weight bearing with 4 more to go. It has taken some time to get use to getting around using one leg and sleeping in the air cast.
I sustained an 80% tear in my right leg when a wheelbarrow tipped over and sliced the back of my ankle. I am not 6 weeks post-injury and 5 weeks post surgery. Had to go back to surgery 4 weeks after initial due to infection.
19 years ago I had a complete rupture of my left achilles while playing tennis.
Anyone else injure both??
Hi, yes I tore both my achilles tendon, in the same way each time, playing squash! six years inbetween both injuries! I tore my left one just a year ago and that's still in recovery, as I dont have my right one to balance the weakness anymore..good luck to you..it must be fate!!
I'm a 47 year-old male living in the UK. I ruptured my left AT whilst leading a dance group last Saturday, June 27th. This was the first time I had danced for nearly 3 years. I did do a warm-up with stretching, and do regular work-outs and cycling, but feel I should have got in training by doing light dancing or trampoline work for a few weeks before starting up dancing again. I was doing some Michael Flatley-style Irish dancing when it happened, and the 'snap' was so loud my friend to the right heard it.
I'm in an equinas cast and still debating whether to have surgery next week or let it heal naturally. According to an article by John Chalmers in the Vol. 8 No. 1, June 2000 Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery (http://www.josonline.org/), the rerupture rate for those letting the ATR heal naturally and those undergoing surgery is the same, so long as the injured leg was put in a cast within 48 hours of the injury. I wonder if rerupture rates are also affected by the quality and type of physiotherapy, and whether anyone has tried any 'alternative' remedies such as homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic etc.
I had a complete rupture on July 2, 2009 doing a round-off. My doctor did not do a MRI or xray but said he could tell from palpating. Strange....
I am healthy 33 year-old tumbling coach that has not had any other serious injuries.
My boyfriend of 6+ years couldnt be bothered to come help me because he wanted to party for the 4th weekend. So,,,, I kicked him out.
I have decided to be casted instead of surgury because I am afraid of the surgical complications!
I feel so alone, I can't stop crying. I can't do anything around my house and it hurts so badly. I understand that I will be casted for 3 months and then will not be able to walk without crutches for at least 6 months.
I don't know what to do, I am alone, helpless, hurting, and so sad....
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