Achilles rupture surgery - support group

[damian]

Hi everyone,
I live in Perth, Western Australia.
I have a fully torn/ruptured achilles but can still hobble around and have little pain.
It has been over 3 weeks already and I have the option of surgery or conservative treatment to be made on Tuesday 6/3/07. Initially my physio thought it was just a calf strain and it would get better.
My first bit of advice is to go straight into a doctor and get the appropriate checks and ultrasound to confirm the degree of damage as early as possible.
When it happened it felt like someone had martial arts kicked me in the back of the lower leg, could hardly move on it and lots of swelling. Sure signs something is up if it ever happens to you!
I am leaning towards surgery, as I am told it has the best statistical outcome for recovery and reduction in chance of re-ruptures later on.
I did it after dancing in a very energetic way at a night club for 3 hours.
I am 34, fit and healthy and like everyone else wondering why it has happened to me.
I personally think the mental effects of something like this at times can be greater than the physical ones.
I have certainly been doing a lot of soul searching and growing up over the last 3 weeks and to make matters worse, I am also going through a separation with my wife (1/1/07).

Rather than sink into a pit of despair, I'm trying to stay positive and thought it would be good to start a support group online and hopefully get some good news stories from people who have been through or just about to go through the same experience.
I'll be logging on as much as possible and providing updates on my progress.
Looking to hear from anyone who can say they have been through it all and come out the other side.
Cheers,
Damian

[damian]

Hello everyone again,

I forgot to mention that I have heard the following from my surgeon (1/3/07).
If anyone has any updates on this, please post so we can all see and compare.
This might only be applicable in Australia but here goes.

Surgery = 4% approx chance of re-rupture.
Surgery = Very high chance of full recovery strength in leg (98% plus?)
Conservative method (no surgery) = 12% approx chance of re-rupture.
Conservative = 10% approx loss of power on average for rest of life?

I'm sure each person is different and there are inherent risks with any surgery, including infection and general anesthetic.
The above are only averages so could be better or worse depending on allot of factors.
Would like to hear more stats if anyone has access to real research material.

Cheers,
Damian

[Elmoblue1964]

Hi Damian........am 8 weeks post opp, i live in the UK, and most of what you said is the same here. I Would go for the surgery as they say 3 to 6 months for recovery....and 12 months with out. and thats if your lucky,....you still might need surgery then....I did have a complete rupture and did it on the 14/12/06...left it three weeks, thinking i could walk it of , but nooooooo way., had the opp on the 3/1/07....(it felt as if i,d been shot from behind). spent 2 weeks in a back cast, then 6 weeks in a boot called a rom......told to leave it off last wednesday, and been walking without crutches since then. Still walk with a limp, leg aches at end of the day. There is still a lot of scare tissue around ankle. I have made other posts in some of the other threads, (plezzz take a luck) but dont take all whats said in them, and others, coz you,ll end up on a downer......hope you have a quick recovery and you get back to your boogying...lol......

[damian]

Hi Elmoblue1964,
Thanks for your post and encouragement, it does make a difference to know other people who are going through the same thing are making some good progress.
I will be interested to continue to hear how you go over time (seeing you are so far ahead of me). Sounds like your recovery is fairly rapid but as we all know, it's good to take it easy and not rush anything.
I'm off to speak with my orthopedic surgeon again today and give him the green light to go ahead with the surgery. Agree with your comments, I want a fast recovery and the best outcome, seems to me that surgery is best. Almost everyone bar one I spoke to said go for surgery, including my Physio, who said he had a 40 year old (in 2006) have a very fast recovery and actually go back to playing squash (scary!) after surgery. My physio felt that with surgery I should get back to around 95% to 98% of full original strength.
Just looking forward to being normal again and back into society.
Take care and talk soon,
Damian

[dougdigital]

Damien, good to hear that you're going with surgery. I'm 20 months post op and in good shape. As long as you take your time with your recovery you will be dancing very soon. I started dancing after about 4-5 months post op. I'm not much of a dancer though :). I felt the same way that you did when I first ruptured my achilles, I was only 25 when it happpened. The doctor said it was a combination of ignoring soreness and rarely stretching before doing physical activities that can cause that to happen. I injured mine playing basketball which I used to play everyday. Did you ever feel any soreness in your achilles before your injury?

Elmo - Looks like your doing great in your recovery! I had just got out of a plastered cast at 8 weeks and you're already walking!! That's awesome, you're going to limp for a short while but you'll notice a bit a progress each week. It'll start to get a little easier for you and then eventually you'll walk normal. Does your foot still swell up at the end of the day?

I wish for both of yall a speed recovery. If you have any questions at all please reply I check these forums daily.

[sentence]

Hi Damien,
I ruptured my achilles in July 2006. I know how you feel.
Iwas running sprinting in the parents race at my daughters sports day. Complete rupture. I had conservative treatment.
10 weeks in cast to the knee and 6 weeks in a walking boot with heel lifts.
Just to show you things do get better. I can now walk limp free, I am wearing heels(I forgot to say I am a woman and these things matter) I am still having Physio because my ankle is a bit tight at times. This is because there is still some scar tissue in the area. But let me tell you I was down depressed and thought I would never be able to walk properly. but I can, and I am sure you will. Just don't rush it ask the health professionals as many
questions as you want to. Dont't be fobbed off. Let people help you and before you know it you will be on the mend.
Good luck and keep us posted on your your progress.

All the best

Sentence

[damian]

UPDATE: Went to Orthopedic surgeon yesterday 6/3/07, have given him permission to go ahead with the surgery and filled out my hospital admission forms. We talked about the procedure, which takes around 1 hour from being cut open to stitched closed. I have been told I will also get a Remote Block, which helps with the pain and is anesthetic at a particular nerve location in the leg to reduce the transmission of pain. I will also be given a self pain medication machine (morphine) post op, press the button and it relieves the pain without having to ask the nurse etc, it's administered via the drip line. My local GP has already given me some low dose sleeping tablets which should help me sleep better with the cast on while in hospital and at home. My surgeon thinks I'll be out the next day after surgery but would be ok with me staying one more day if I felt I needed it. I should find out by phone if I go in tomorrow 8/3/07 or have to wait until Saturday for my surgery 10/3/07. I am told the best way to reduce infection is to make sure I keep my leg elevated (top of toe is in line with nose) so the sweeling isn't as bad.

QUESTIONS: How did people go sleeping in bed, did you find it very difficult, did you have lots of elevation of the leg while sleeping? I'm sorta scared about the shower and toilet arrangements, wondering if I need something for the bed, or if getting up on crutches was OK for everyone. Not sure how much time I'll be able to spend at the computer initially in my study, if I haven't posted it's because I'm still recovering after my surgery but will come back as soon as practical.

RESPONSES: Thanks to sentence and dougdigital for there replies so far.

Sentence, interesting you had the conservative treatment and looks like you are mostly back to normal. Agree with how depression can strike, hoping people can read this forum, know things will get better and reduce the sadness and fear as much as possible. I have a technique of just trying to be in the NOW/present moment, helps me a alot. It's still a rollercoaster and comes very soon after my separation with my wife, a double whammy but hell I am going to be one strong person after all of this is over.

Dougdigital, 25 when your AT went, must have been really tough, a real loss of immortality sets in and a feeling of fragility occurs, a real growing up is felt and I suppose we feel more careful about sports and activities forever more! Would never have expected this to happen, always felt I was fit enough and strong enough to do what I
wanted, especially dancing. I never felt any soreness in my AT before injury, on the night of injury I felt I might have had a slight twist of the ankle but it certainly didn't bother me. Possibly an early warning sign I should have headed. I did from time to time get cramp in both calf muscles if I was pushing myself (cycling, dancing) but I would just back off and rest and all would be well. Maybe that could be a warning sign as well, who knows, my physio friend thinks I could have fatigued the AT that day, as I'd done a lot of exercise (gym, walking, dancing) and probably should have been smarter. Ahhh hindsight is a wonderful thing...LOL...anyone got a time machine lying around!

[damian]

UPDATE: I go into hospital at 9:30am tomorrow (8/3/07). My surgery should take place in the afternoon, about to head off to bed shortly and get a good nights rest. My sister is taking me in and staying with me while it all takes place. Very thankful for that!
If you take St Johns Wort, by all accounts it can effect some treatment, so my advice, don't have it at least 24 to 48 hours before you go under for a general anesthetic.
Catch you all on the other side, will be away for a few days but will be ready to update you all again once able! Stay positive everyone! Hope everyone's AT recoveries are going as well as can be expected....Damian

[Elmoblue1964]

Hi Damian again, glad to hear your having surgery, it will go ok, you probably wont read this till your had your opp. My opp lasted about an hour and a half, stayed in 1 night, felt fine to go home the following day, with no pain. Sleeping is ok. I found It no problem, and i had very little pain, after surgery. Yes i elevated it for the first 2 weeks, have a bath with your leg hanging out, it worked for me (friends never said i stunk anyway.lol) thats when your in a cast, after that ,if you have a boot you can take it off, have a shower of bath. BE CAREFUL NOT TO SLIP, we dont want to damage the repair, as some one has in another thread. Toilet is no problem either. Hope evething goes ok GOOD LUCK in your recovery

[dougdigital]

Hey Damian,

I'm glad to hear that you're getting the surgery. I know it will go well. My surgery last around an hour and I was allowed to go home on the same day. I had very little pain as well. You will want to keep it elevated as much as possible. I did the same thing as Elmoblue as far as taking a bath. Sleeping was easy, I just took about 2 or 3 pillows to use for elevation. I would put one pillow under the thigh and two under the calf to create a gradual incline. You'll find using the toilet simple as well. The doctor encouraged me to do leg lifts about twice a day to strengthen your leg. It doesn't really speed up the healing process but your leg will quickly adjust to wearing a cast.

The injury was definitely a wake-up call and it made me grow up. Now, before I do any kind of exercise I will stretch anywhere from 15-30 minutes and I will also stretch for about 10 minutes after the exercise. If I feel any tightness or discomfort in my achilles now I usually cease whatever I was doing. I haven't felt any discomfort however in a long time. I hope your surgery goes great along with your recovery. Keep us updated.

[Elmoblue1964]

Come on Damian, hows it gone.........hope it all went ok........

[Megs]

Hi Damian
So glad to have found support. I ruptured my Achilles last Saturday night 3/3/07 at a wedding, just like you dancing. Mine was to the Nut bush. I thought I had been kicked from behind, the pain was unbearable. I have been feeling useless and being hard on myself. I'm not used to being dependant on my family they depend on me, they are also finding it hard helping around the house and cooking meals.

.. I started a new job the Monday after my injruy which involves stairs I guess it's funny watching me go up and down on my bum. The blessing is that the job I just left involved 10 hrs a day on my feet in which case I would no longer be employed I get to sit at my new job. My house is also high set is proving to be a challange.

I have not seen a surgen yet, I have an appoitment on Wednesday at the local hospital. The emergency department has just put me in a cast and told me not to bare weight for at least 2 weeks. I was getting concerned because the emergancy department doctor said it would need surgery and then ended up just put me in the cast and said that he would get someone to ring the next day if needed, which did not happen I have been given no information at all which makes it hard no knowing what to expect. I was getting worried cause the surgery had not been done and I thought it would now be too late to do. I now know after reading here that is does not have to be done right away, and it feels good to know others are going through the same thing and can relate to how I feel.
Maybe they will give me an option on Wednesday about the surgury.

[Megs]

damian
hope all went well with the opp, Can't wait to hear

[Beung]

I ruptured my right Achilles on Jan 25th 2007 while playing basketball.
It didn't hurt when it happened but I knew exactly what had happened when I felt the thud. I wasn't jumping, I didn't land on anyone's foot or anything like that, I made a pivote to dribble across the top of the key when I felt the snap. This was about an hour and a half into that game, so it's not like I wasn't warmed up.

I had surgery a couple of days later and was in a plaster cast for 2 weeks.
I was then placed in an aircast for 4 weeks with 2 heel lifts. I was NWB for the first 4 weeks.
I was told to remove the lifts one at a time every 4-5 days during the last 2 weeks and have PWB and could walk with the cast for about a week.
I have now been cleared to go without the aircast for almost a week now and can stand with 50/50 weight on both legs (mostlye heel weight while standing). I do feel slight pressure on the tendon if I bend my knee a bit and that is what scares me the most.
Walking is still quite scarey for me because I can feel how tight the tendon is still but seems be getting looser little by little. If I am sitting around watching TV or something, especially in the morning when the tendon is really tight, I will put the aircast on to stretch it a little bit instead of my limping doing the stretching.
My doc has referred me to Physio now and I will be going in for an assessment/treatment later this week to start my rehab.

My recovery seems quick compared to the others I have read, my rupture may not have been as bad?

[Beung]

I ruptured my right Achilles on Jan 25th 2007 while playing basketball.
It didn't hurt when it happened but I knew exactly what had happened when I felt the thud. I wasn't jumping, I didn't land on anyone's foot or anything like that, I made a pivote to dribble across the top of the key when I felt the snap. This was about an hour and a half into that game, so it's not like I wasn't warmed up.

I had surgery a couple of days later and was in a plaster cast for 2 weeks.
I was then placed in an aircast for 4 weeks with 2 heel lifts. I as NWB for the first 4 weeks.
I was told to remove the lifts one at a time every 4-5 days during the last 2 weeks and have PWB and could walk with the cast for about a week.
I have now been cleared to go without the aircast for almost a week now and can stand with 50/50 weight on both legs. I do feel slight pressure on the tendon if I bend my knee a bit and that is what scares me the most. Walking is still quite scarey for me because I can feel how tight the tendon is still but seems be getting looser little by little. If I am sitting around watching TV or something, especially in the morning when the tendon is really tight, I will put the aircast on to stretch it a little bit instead of my limping doing the stretching.
My doc has referred me to Physio now and I will be going in for an assessment/treatment later this week to start my rehab.

[damian]

UPDATE: Just a quick message to let you all know I made it through surgery, so far so good. Will post more soon on the specifics. If in doubt about your achilles injury, go and get a ultrasound scan to confirm the extent of injury.

[damian]

UPDATE: I have made my appointment to go back to my surgeon on the 26/3/07. 2 weeks and 4 days after my surgery. Which I am sure means the next full cast will be put on my leg.
Before you go into surgery, make sure your GP prescribes some sleeping medication to assist in getting some decent sleep when you get home.
This has really helped me but got to be careful going to the toilet in middle of night as you can be a little groggy and could make a mistake and slip on your cast.
If the toilet is a long distance from your bed, get a bottle if you are a guy, maybe a bed pan for the girls.
Could be a very worthwhile investment, it was awesome while in hospital.
Just a word of warning, post surgery, you have to go to the toilet every 6 hours, or the nursing staff threaten you with a cathata? (spelling)
Anyway, one of those horrible tubes all the way into your bladder, I found it very difficult to pee in the bottle sideways in bed and in the end had to stand on one foot
next to the bed with a frame and do it from there. One of the more stressful moments while in hospital, it gets easier with time.
Not long after I came out of surgery I was offered dinner, due to fasting etc I went a little crazy eating but I can tell you I paid for that later.
My advice, only eat small amounts afterwards until your stomach settles, keep your fluids up.
I had a drip in my arm which really helped, was also given a PCA, an automatic morphine machine, gives you around 1ml each time you press the button.
This was a blessing for the pain but it probably also upset my stomach, so keep the button presses to a minimum, there is sometimes too much of a good thing
but at least it reduced the pain quite a bit.
They also check your vitals every hour to start with, blood pressure, heart rate and body temp, this can keep you awake all night depending on when your surgery takes place.
So the 4 toughest things while in hospital, pain, nausea, urinating and lack of sleep.
If someone can be at home to help you through the early days of being out of hospital, it really makes a difference.
Also, getting outside into the sun can be a real mood lifter.
I bought my own crutches before I went into hospital, only $55 and you can get used to them before hand.

QUESTIONS: Did anyone have any dull ache or pain in side of the stomach/mid section just above the hip bone? On the same side they had the AT surgery?
Just trying to figure out if I have muscle strain or a reaction to the medication post surgery?
I have had it on and off since Friday 9/3/07, the day after surgery but because it is not acute and seems to come and go, I haven't gone to my GP to get it checked out.
Was thinking maybe I would go tomorrow if it's still hanging around, just to be sure it's nothing else.

Did everyone who got a half cast with bandages find that it felt loose over time. The tip of my foot is not exactly restrained.
Had a friend who used to be a nurse, tighten the bandage at the end to make it feel more secure. But it's sorta gone loose again.
Any thoughts from anyone on this?

RESPONSES: Thanks to Elmoblue64, DougDigital, Megs & Beung for there messages so far.

BEUNG: Sounds like you are making some good progress. How old are you? Keep us posted on how your rehab goes.
How are things mentally for you, you coping OK?

MEGS: Wow, another dancing injury, I was trying to remember what the nut bush dance involves?
Must have been tough for it to occur at a wedding.
Would be interested to know your age bracket.
Don't be hard on yourself, I know how it gets, I've stopped trying to play the what if game and just get used to what has happened.
Whats the latest with your options? Did you have an ultrasound scan to see how bad it was?
If you are struggling mentally, try a book called: The power of NOW by Erkhart Tholle (I think).
This came to me from my sister at a critial time and helped no end with the mental aspects.

ELMOBLUE: My sister bought me a plastic outdoor chair and non slip mat for the shower, which has been great.
I have a little bucket I use to prop my leg up.
It's great to have a shower every day.

DOUGDIGITAL: Agree with your comments about it being a wake up call.
I still find it amazing to look back on my life only 3 months ago and compare to today.
As my older friend keeps on saying, it's another stepping stone of life.
It's certainly easy to take things for granted.
I would expect people who have been through an AT injury to be different and to probably appreciate all
of the small things in life.
I know I am different already, certainly learning a lot of patience.

More news from the front line later!

[Beung]

I am 33, in pretty good shape and very very active. I play Basketball, Volleyball, Softball and Golf 2-3 times a week.

Had my first physio yesterday and things went pretty good. Just working on some flexability right now. The ankle is getting looser and looser each day.

My goal is to be able to Golf this summer and I have no desire to run, jump or anything like that until atleast the fall or even winter. Although I really enjoy doing the other more vigorous activities I have to be realistic and I have to tell myself that I do them for "fun" and its not like I get paid to do them so pushing it to be able to get back into it early is too much risk because a re-injury may effect other more vital day to day functions. Plus, I have not been able to go into the office in over a month (I work in IT so some of my work can be done remotely but I am more valuable on site then I am remotely) because I injured my right Achilles so I couldn't drive. Is missing yet another month of work worth being able to go play say softball this summer - I say no. I think Golf is a good transition activity for this injury. Very low impact yet still working the tendon while swinging/walking and should help to reduce the scar tissue that can build up of the ankle was left inactive.

[NoeNoe]

Hey guys..just sharing my story checking if anyone had any tips they could share with me. Well, I am a 24 year old and I tore my achilles o 3/1/07 while playing socce..I received a pass and when I turned to back pedal, I felt like is someone a loud pop and as if someone had kicked me with all their strength or thrown a rock and my ankle. I had to be carried off the field while an intense heat formed in the back of my leg. I figured it was a sprain and nothing serious until the ER doctor told me I probably had a torn Achilles tendon and would need surgery. When he told me this, I almost passed out from the disappointment, it was a severe blow. He referred me to a great orthopedist the next day. The orthopedist scheduled an MRI, which showed I had an unusually high tear, which needed surgery repair and depending on if the muscle was torn aswell, then a graft to reattach my Achilles to the muscle. Well..yesterday, on 3/14 (two weeks later), I finally had my surgery after being on crutches and a walking boot. The muscle appeared to be ok, so all I ended up getting was my Achilles fixed. I was put in a splint cast (hard on the back) with bandages all around. When I woke up I was injected with a block anesthesia on my lower leg so that I would be free from pain for the first 24 hours I was at home. That helped a lot, but it is now wearing off and I am starting to feel a huge amount of pain, like my ankle is burning..it is not enjoyable. I was prescribed Vicodin for the pain so hopefully it will work. My doc said I should be in the splint from 3-6 weeks and then maybe a walking boot for a few more weeks, depending on how my recovery progresses. He says because of my age it should be a quick recovery, but unfortunately I will only be about 95% as strong on my leg as I was before. This has been a really humbling experience for me and has really made me appreciate something so many people take for granted, like walking. Once this is all over I will never take it for granted again and will appreciate every minute I have with this gift. I am currently in Law School, but luckily my surgery was during a week and a half vacation, so I have some time to recover before having to lug a bag full of books all day. Any tips on how to feel better or be more useful and less dependent are appreciated please! Also, what is the easiest way to shower? Trash bag on the cast or laying down? Thanks for any help and my sympathies to anyone who has had this happen to them..it is horrible, painful, and very bothersome, but also humbling and a very good lesson on appreciation. Thanks!!! :eek: aah the pain!!!!!

[damian]

UPDATE: It's now 1 week and 1 day since my surgery. I had a slight slip onto my cast last night PWB (Partial Weight Bearing) going to the toilet, was annoyed with myself.
But luckily didn't feel any re-tear or problems. Spoke to my surgeon about it this morning and he seems to think it will be fine and there is nothing to worry about.
Maybe I should consider it the first test of the surgery and my first unofficial physio!
My surgeon suggested that I get the splint/half plaster cast bandages tightened up while in at the GP today.

QUESTIONS: Many people out there inadvertantly do a PWB early and get through it OK? When do people normally go back to work?

RESPONSES: Thanks to the responses so far, hope everyone is doing well with there recoverys.
It can get tough mentally but just remember there are others (like me) who understand what you are going through, don't be afraid to reach out to friends and family.

BEUNG: We are very close in age (I am 34), isn't it amazing to be so active and still have a problem with the AT.
Sounds like your first physio went well. Which gives hope to all of us behind you.
I work in IT as well and a bit unsure about when is a good time to go back?

NOENOE: Wow what a great story, I really feel for you and know exactly how you feel. So you are just out of surgery! I'm only a short amount ahead of you, will be interesting to compare notes. If you have a lot of pain, maybe it's time to go and get it looked at. My pain levels have been OK so far.
Re your shower question, I was given specific bags and tape from the hospital, I sit in a plastic outdoor chair in the shower with my foot up on a bucket.
You should do the same, it's very empowering to be in the shower and at least be clean every day.
Get outside into the sun sometimes, read books that inspire, talk with friends and family.
Sometimes we just have to be alone and be happy with our own situation, make the most of the time spare to be lazy.
Don't pressure yourself worrying about going back to study, get a friend to help carry your books for you.
Don't go back too early if it means pushing your injury.
I'd expect at least 2 to 3 weeks off at least resting.

[Beung]

Realistically I could have gone back to work no more then a week after the surgery, just I didn't "HAVE" to go back and I wasn't able to drive so it would make getting to work very difficult.

The body is an amazing, to think of what actually happens with this injury and the ability to repair itself is quite amazing (with help from medical profession of course). I think you know yourself better then anyone when it comes to where the limit is when doing rehab either with the therapist or when doing at home exercises.

I do some form of stretching about once an hour, I know that mobility/flexibility is the most important part right now and the strength part will come later.
How fast and how fully you recovery really depends on you. Going to physio once or even twice a week for an hour isn't going to cut it. You have to do the exercises everyday, as much as possible. Not only to work on the flexibility but also to build confidence. I find that when doing the stretches the "pain" is more of an awareness that there is an injury there not that it actually hurt. I am not saying it doesn't hurt physically but there is a mental part to it and there is good pain and bad pain. You have to be willing to take your stretches to the point of discomfort and a little beyond that not too much though - we are in a state of recovery, then improvement, we are not just trying to maintain and ride out the injury.

[damian]

UPDATE: Went to the GP yesterday 16/MAR/07, had my bandages tightened and my right side stomach/groin area checked, he seems to think nothing to worry about at the moment and could be muscle strain. If it gets worse, I am to go back. Last night, the bandages felt too tight, so I actually undid a couple of them. my leg was throbbing and felt it best to give it some room. Will get my sister to put the other bandages back on today, a little less tightly. There is a fine line between loose and tight.
Starting to prepare my mind for the thought of going back to work. Once I get my next cast on 26/MAR/07, figure if I can go back to work, that might be good. Will discuss with my surgeon.

RESPONSES: Does anyone have any positive stories they would like to share to help people get through it all?

MORE: I was thinking I might get involved in some volunteer work once I am fit and able again. I have become so dependant on peoples kindness and help that I wonder how some poeple are going out there who don't have it. Would be nice to give back to the community in some way. Every day is precious, even the ones we spend getting better with casts on etc

[Beung]

I have a bit of a tip for recovory, I am not sure if any of you are into this sort of thing or believe in it but I am.

Anyways what I am talking about is negitive ions theory. I wear negitive ion bracelets and have done so for over 2 years. When my injury happened they made me take them off, welll more like they cut them off because of the IV I was wearing. You can't wear jewelery during the surgery even though it's not "hard" jewelery, they even made me take my ear-rings out.

Anyways I haven't got a chance to go pick up some new ones until this weekend and I don't know if it was just coinsidence or what but I bought them on Sat afternoon and by Sun morning the swelling was really down. So much so that the flexibility in my ankle has greatly improved.

Now again, I believe in that sort of thing but you may not so take it for what it's worth. They are pretty cheap and can be purchased at most golf retailers. I wear one Titan kind because that is what I have always used but I now also wear a Trion:Z one, I thought I would give it a try. Give them a try and let me know what you think.

http://www.trionz.com
http://www.titanbracelets.com

[dougdigital]

Damian,

Its great to hear that you surgery went well and that you're doing ok! I hope that you're keeping your leg elevate as much as possible. At the beginning stage its all about getting as much rest as you can. I had a cast on right after surgery so I can Imagine that bandages would give you a problem. That area is very tender, and once you're in a cast it even takes a while to get use to resting your leg in the cast. I missed a week of work after my surgery but I fortunately have a desk job. Mentally I would vision myself at work before I started back. I did the same thing for each step of my recovery. I visioned myself putting on a walking boot, then I visioned myself walking, later running. Everyday brings you closer to doing these things. It is a long process but its a life changing process that today I'm greatful for. I didn't know about this forum or any forums during my recovery but can imagine the extra confidence that it would have given me. I'm here for anyone who needs advice along the way. Stay in touch

[Megs]

Well finally after alot of presure from me on the doctors,I am getting my surgery tomorrow. Ultrasound reveled that my tendon had completely snapped one end down behind my ankle and the other in my calf.The doctors however did not want to operate cause I am not a sports person,I was made to feel second rate and not werthy of an operation.I informed him that my foot ment just as much the me as any athleats foot (not happy.) The ultrasound technition said it would need surgery and can't understand why it had been left so long she was wondering where the doctors get their licences. I was thinking if the doctors have no intention of doing surgery, then why the ultrasound?
My brother had surgery 24hrs after he did he's I just don't understand the wait.
Damian Glad to hear your recovery is going well,keep up the good work.

[Megs]

I am getting sugery tomorrow and was planning to go back to work friday, will this be possible? I sit at a desk and can put my leg up, only hassle may be the stairs, but i have them at home anyway. what do you all think?

[A killies]

Hi Megs
I have been following your thread, you seem to have had the same issues as me........I was told by A & E doctors that because I was not a proffessional althlete!!...... i would have to go with the non - conservative treatment (6-8 weeks in plaster), however after 2 weeks of doing my research decided that I wanted an operation to repair the AT. I found the consultant who was a specialist in this field, made an appointment to see him and he agreed it needed to be operated on, and surgery was done the following day! The consultant also advised that the reason SOME Drs don't like doing this surgery is because it is a very skilled procedure, in his words.' the ruptured tendons are like a horse tail, with loads of fine hairs..........just try and stitch them together' he also advised that it depends on the individuals cirumstances, age etc....
Good Luck with your op..please let me know how you got on.........also rest for the first 2 weeks and keep your leg elevated, my advise is dont go to work.......it is a serious injury you have, so let it heal..........Im sure the work will still be there when you go back! best wishes.......

[dougdigital]

Megs,
I'm glad to hear that you're getting surgery. You will definitely want to rest as much as possible before going back to work. I was able to have a week off after my operation before returning to work. I had a desk job as well, I took a couple of pillows with me to provide cushion for my foot while I propped it on top of my desk. I would use a chair sometimes as well. I could send you some pics of what I did if you want. I took me a week to master the stairs but I finally got the hang of it. Going down the stairs was more difficult than going up. I would be extremely careful when going up and down stairs but as far as sitting at a desk I would go for it! Best Wishes on your surgery and let us know how it went

[damian]

UPDATE: Hi everyone, starting to get into a groove and slowly building my confidence with crutches and dealing with the day to day activities of life post surgery.
Sleeping with the bathroom light on, so if I go in the middle of the night, I see what the hell I'm gettng myself into with the crutches etc.
Last night, I wasn't happy with the restraint on my foot area near my toes , so got up and used an old bandage to really tighten the area up myself
I'm really suprised at the amount of freedom in leg movement I can achieve at times with the back/splint cast and bandages on!
Looking forward to the next step on Monday 26/3 with my surgeon, getting a new cast on and who knows maybe a Boot.
Still not 100% sure of what is going to happen next but my guess is a full cast will be put on and I will be required to have it for another 4 to 6 weeks,
before moving to the boot.
This time I plan to ask lots of questions, so I have a clear road map of the time frames involved.
I haven't had any further Partial Weight Bearing (PWB) slip ups, and feeling OK that I didn't do anythng bad the first time.
So almost 2 weeks post surgery and only 1 PWB incident, which I feel is pretty good.
I still get blood rushing to my toes foot each time I stand up and move around, or sit at a desk with my leg down on the ground!
I currently only take 2 x paracetamol pain killers with ifbrufon (anti-inflammatry) each night, a couple of hours before I go to bed.
I take 1 aspirin per day in the morning for blood thinning, to stave off blood clots.
I take a range of vitamins each day to help as well.

QUESTIONS - Could some of you guys/girls summarise how long you spent in each stage, with each cast type etc
Would be nice to have some summeries for future reference.

My surgery was 8/MAR/07, since then I have been in a back/splint plaster cast with banadges, tightened at least 3 times already.
The angle of my foot appears to be around 30 to 45 degrees downward.
I go to my surgeon 26/MAR/07 to go to the next stage. 2 weeks and 4 days post surgery.

RESPONSES:

BEUNG - Thanks for the tip Beung, does anyone have any other things like this that may prove useful.

DOUGDIGITAL - I like the way you visioned doing something before it happened.
I really think you are onto something here, as the power of positive thinking is an amazing thing and find that it works for me as well.
It also really helps your frame of mind and keeping happy about the next stage or step.

MEGS - Nice to hear from you again! Glad you are going ahead with surgery.
You got me thinking about whether I have any damage further up my calf muscle as well.
I assume you meant that you actually have 2 tears, one down low and the other up high?
I always assumed the rupture/tear would only be in one location.
I was never checked out in the entire calf during my ultrasound, not as far as I had expected anyway.
Good luck for your surgery, let us know how you go!
In answer to your question, take at least the first 2 weeks off work after surgery!
Don't rush back, it's not worth it. This is serious and you deserve a break to heal.
I plan to have at least 3 weeks off (post surgery) before going back to work (IT).
My boss is OK with me doing some stuff at home to start with and coming back in a gradual way.

A KILLIES - Thanks for your positive input!

MORE: I have been on the web and found some interesting articles (research) about early mobilisation (movement) of the muscle.
In other words, it may actually be better to start careful rehab earlier and not be kept prone in a cast for as long as usual.
That's not to say you want to rush anything, just that months on end in a cast doesn't necessarily mean the best or fastest outcome for the muscles.
Would be worth discussing it with your surgeon and doctor and see what might be best for each individual persons situation.

WEBSITES:
http://www.orthoassociates.com/achilles_protocol.htm
Physical Therapy Center - Achilles Tendon Repair Protocol

http://www.bestbets.org/cgi-bin/bets.pl?record=00704
Early mobilisation following achilles tendon repair speeds up recovery and improves functional outcome

[Beung]

I had my surgery 2 days after I ruptured. There wasn't even a doubt, my doc told me surgery wasn't necessary but he advised it.

I was in plaster for exactly 10 days with < 90 deg in my ankle.
I was then in an aircast, NWB for 3 weeks and 1 week PWB with 2 heel lifts. Removed a lift every 5 days or so for the last 2 weeks.
I was able to limp around and returned back to work on the 7th week.
This week has shown the most visable improvements and the most confidence building week so far. I think once you have no cast of any form and start seeing the improved range of motion of your foot it is quite up lifting.

[NoeNoe]

:confused: :confused: Well I’m one week and a day post-op and I am a little confused. I have my first post-op doctor’s visit on Wed. the 28th. I currently have the ‘half-cast’ on, which goes on the back of the calf all the way down to the middle of the foot, and then my leg bandaged around that up to beneath my knee. Anyway, I am reading how a lot of the people who have had this surgery continue to experience pain and are pretty much confined to bed, etc etc, and I am worried that maybe I may be underestimating this a bit.. When I first posted my story on here I was right @ surgery time and I was very worried, etc., but now that this time has passed, I can safely say that I am pretty much pain-free, except for some occasional stinging and/or itching where I figure the stiches/staples are. For some reason, I feel really confident because of this, to the point that I feel that I could rip off the bandage and walk like if nothing ever happened. I can move my foot a little bit, flex it up or down, my toes, etc..., have gone shopping for furniture (with a wheelchair ofcourse), and even went back to the gym today for the first time since this happened 3 weeks ago (to work the upper body). What have you all’s exoeriences been? The same? Different? Do you guys think I’m being too careless? I feel awkward because other than my bandaged leg, I feel fine. Any comments or suggestions, anyone want to tell me I’m doing something stupid? Anything is appreciated, as I’m feeling confused..thanks! :confused:

[Canuck007]

Hi Everyone.
Great forum, thanks Damian
I am from Vancouver Canada. Nice to hear how everyone is coping with this nasty injury.
I am two weeks into my injury. I had surgery two days after it occurred. Most of the doctors I consulted with recommended surgery because of my age 37, and the amount of sport I play. I play a lot of hockey, league and rec (3-4 times week) but that's not how I did it. Started playing badminton about 3 months ago, used to play a lot in high school. I was feeling great, excellent cross training. I was into my 3rd game, just a real casual match with some "soccer mom's", and I put all my weight on my left foot to hit a long shot and it gave. I knew in an instant what I had done, and I was in complete disbelief. It felt like somebody had hit me hard in the back of the leg. I dropped down immediately shifting all of my weight to my right leg to limit the damage to my left foot. The surgery went better than I expected, however the doctor told me that I had a blow out of the tendon, and not a clean break, which could create complications in the future? I only had bad pain for about 2 days after the surgery, and then only had swelling. I have been taking a Advil for the pain before bed, about every second night. I got my walking cast today, very nice cast, would highly recommend it (bledsoebrace.com). Its specifically made for Achilles repair, much better than the typical air casts according to my doc. My spirits have been pretty good, I am fortunate, I am an account exec and only need my mouth and car to function to make a living. The really ironic part of this story is: my co-worker (has exactly the same title as me, works next to me) tore his Achilles one month before me, same leg, playing squash. He is a long time Rugby player, played at an elite level for years. So I guess the moral of the story is stick with the high contact sports, stay away from the racket sports and soccer mom's?
Good luck everyone, I will keep you posted on my progress.

[damian]

UPDATE: I am no longer taking any pain killers, have been like this for a few days now.
I was taking them to help sleep as it was getting a little painful during the day but now it seems fine most of the time.
I'm still taking 1 x Aspirin every day (for blood thinning only), to prevent DVT (blood clots), looks like I should probably do it for 6 weeks post op.
Will discuss with my surgeon on Monday and let you know.
I do get some tingles in my heel and some numbness in my little toes, not sure if this is just because of the cast or if it's post op nerves healing etc.

RESPONSES:

BEUNG - Thanks for your update, looks like you had a fast tracked rehab recovery and things went well.
Very uplifting story for all of us behind you! :-)

NOENOE - Sounds like you are doing very well indeed! One word of advice, just take it easy until the 28/3.
Not long to wait now and it's also early days.
There are some very interesting studies on the benefits of early weight bearing and mobilisation of the ankle and foot after surgery.
Check out some of my website links for more info, as you are feeling so good about it, maybe you could discuss with your doctor and fast track your rehab some more in
a controlled way. In summary don't be confused just be happy you are dong so well!!!

CANUCH007 - Hi, glad you like my forum! I also like badminton, played a lot at high school and can see now I will have to take it off my list of possible future sports.
By all accounts, based on what I have read so far, regardless of your type of tear or rupture,
as long as the surgeon did a good job and knows what they are doing, you have anywhere from 4% to 1% chance of re-rupture, so I wouldn't worry too much.
The key thing is to build it back up carefully and not push yourself too hard, too quickly.
I am reading that elite athletes generally take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to return to full sport activities.
I plan to take up kayaking (after 6 months post op) as it's almost all upper body and should be fun to get fit and see the rivers and oceans around me in Western Australia.
How many weeks post surgery did you get your walking cast?

WEBSITES:
http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/achilles_tendon_rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture - GREAT INFO

http://proceedings.jbjs.org.uk/cgi/content/abstract/85-B/SUPP_III/244-c
OPERATIVE REPAIR AND EARLY MOBILISATION OF ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURE

http://www.physioroom.com/research/reviews/200311_review_achilles_tendon.php
Immediate full-weight-bearing mobilisation for repaired Achilles tendon ruptures: a pilot study

http://www.bestbets.org/cgi-bin/bets.pl?record=00021
Operative repair is best for an acutely ruptured achilles tendon

http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/late_versus_early_repair_of_achilles_tendon_ruptur e_clinical_and
Late versus early repair of Achilles tendon rupture.

[Canuck007]

Damian,
Kayaking sounds like a great way to get into shape and enjoy nature at the same time with this injury. I hope to be able to play hockey in the next 6 months, the hockey skate locks in the foot, therefore I hope it will not stress my tendon. Now that I have my walking cast I plan to hit the Gym hard, working my upper body and right leg.

I got my walking cast 2 weeks after my operation. Every doctor is different. I think it also may depend on the walking cast you have? The bledsoe cast that I have is very supportive and specifically designed for this kind of injury, therefore I think you can use it sooner than a typical air cast. My friend at work went into his walking cast approx 4 weeks after his operation, but he has an older doctor that may not be up on the new technology? Just a guess? I just got my walking cast today, and am going to have a conversation with my friend about the advantages of this cast. My Orthotics doctor told me the air cast is not the best option for an Achilles tear, and is designed for broken bones.

[Canuck007]

Noe Noe,

Hi, great to hear about the fast recovery. I would caution you however. The stitches that are holding your tendon together can be easily torn without proper time for the tendon to fully mend. I have heard of guys having the same experience as you, very little pain etc. they put too much weight on the foot too soon and re-tore. Then you need to go to surgery again, that can be very nasty with extra scarring. I heard of one guy even needing a graph from another part of his leg to fix the tendon properly. If it was me I would error on the side of caution and be patient. On the other hand I have heard of guys being fully mobile after 4 month?

Just a thought.

[A killies]

Hi Damian
You are doing a grand job on this forum...............its nice to see your enthusiasm and in particuar the reseach and links you recommend. I am sure every one appreciates all your good work.
I am into week 4 post op - very bored and want to get down to he gym or something, but i keep holding back just in case I am pushing it a bit to early. NOENOE.....it should be a no no, my advise take it easy, you are pushing it a bit too early, one of the main factors of healing after surgery is rest............. I am hoping to be out of the boot in 2/3 weeks (if all goes well) - my synopsis:
ruptured achilles on 6/2/07
Operated on 20/2/07
Put into air cast boot 29/2/07 - 30 degrees flex
Boot adjusted 5/3/2007 to 20 degrees flex
Boot adjusted 19/3/2007 to 10% flex
Due to see my surgeon on 2/4/2007 -

Happy healing eveyone..............Damian keep up the good work


UPDATE: I am no longer taking any pain killers, have been like this for a few days now.
I was taking them to help sleep as it was getting a little painful during the day but now it seems fine most of the time.
I'm still taking 1 x Aspirin every day (for blood thinning only), to prevent DVT (blood clots), looks like I should probably do it for 6 weeks post op.
Will discuss with my surgeon on Monday and let you know.
I do get some tingles in my heel and some numbness in my little toes, not sure if this is just because of the cast or if it's post op nerves healing etc.

RESPONSES:

BEUNG - Thanks for your update, looks like you had a fast tracked rehab recovery and things went well.
Very uplifting story for all of us behind you! :-)

NOENOE - Sounds like you are doing very well indeed! One word of advice, just take it easy until the 28/3.
Not long to wait now and it's also early days.
There are some very interesting studies on the benefits of early weight bearing and mobilisation of the ankle and foot after surgery.
Check out some of my website links for more info, as you are feeling so good about it, maybe you could discuss with your doctor and fast track your rehab some more in
a controlled way. In summary don't be confused just be happy you are dong so well!!!

CANUCH007 - Hi, glad you like my forum! I also like badminton, played a lot at high school and can see now I will have to take it off my list of possible future sports.
By all accounts, based on what I have read so far, regardless of your type of tear or rupture,
as long as the surgeon did a good job and knows what they are doing, you have anywhere from 4% to 1% chance of re-rupture, so I wouldn't worry too much.
The key thing is to build it back up carefully and not push yourself too hard, too quickly.
I am reading that elite athletes generally take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to return to full sport activities.
I plan to take up kayaking (after 6 months post op) as it's almost all upper body and should be fun to get fit and see the rivers and oceans around me in Western Australia.
How many weeks post surgery did you get your walking cast?

WEBSITES:
http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/achilles_tendon_rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture - GREAT INFO

http://proceedings.jbjs.org.uk/cgi/content/abstract/85-B/SUPP_III/244-c
OPERATIVE REPAIR AND EARLY MOBILISATION OF ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURE

http://www.physioroom.com/research/reviews/200311_review_achilles_tendon.php
Immediate full-weight-bearing mobilisation for repaired Achilles tendon ruptures: a pilot study

http://www.bestbets.org/cgi-bin/bets.pl?record=00021
Operative repair is best for an acutely ruptured achilles tendon

http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/late_versus_early_repair_of_achilles_tendon_ruptur e_clinical_and
Late versus early repair of Achilles tendon rupture.

[Canuck007]

Has anyone tried ultra sound for recovery? I know some physio use it to speed up the recovery process and reduce scarring. There are some home ultra sound devices you can purchase for relief of pain in joints and tendons. Has anybody tried these or heard any results?

[Tillymint]

Damian....great thread you have started here !!! So good to know that I'm not the only one out there with this god awful injury.....not that I would wish this on my own worst enemy :(
I have posted my story on seperate thread and look forward to chatting with you all!!
Tillymint
x

[Megs]

Hi all, well surgery is all done, all went well no weight bearing for 6- 8 weeks, (think I'll go the 8) and I went back to work 2 days later (never got to read people's feed back about going back to work before then. my leg also elevated on cushions, my leg has been quite sore. I was stuck in traffic yesterday coming home from work for about an hour and it was just throbbing, today the pain seems to have eased (no pain killers) I have rested all day, I have it all bandaged with a back splint. I go back and see the doctor on 5/4/07 for my new update. feeling alot happier now it's done. thanks for everyones feed back

[Canuck007]

Hi Megs, Try to keep your leg as elevated as you can. I made the mistake of not elevating it enough after my surgery, and it got very swollen. Try to keep it elevated when you can at work also, (on a desk or chair). My doctor told me that the leg will heal faster when elevated, because the blood flow is better.

Good luck with your recovery.

[Tillymint]

Hi Megs,
Like Cannock007 I cannot emphasise enough the importance of keeping your leg elevated (above the level of you heart is the recommendation). It helps prevent excess swelling and pain and also blood clots. Keep the leg elevated whenever you are sat down.
I carry a pillow with me wherever I go and use this to cushion a hard chair or even a table. I have had lots of looks when out at cafes etc when I turm up with pillow in hand and make myself comfy !!
Another tip when your cast is off is to put your pillow in the footwell of a car if you are a passenger. It soaks up all the bumps in the road and protects it from any sudden jolts.
Tillymint x

[A killies]

Hi Megs
Good luck with the recovery after your op, I think every body is saying the same thing......keep your leg elevated and make sure you rest. I was advised by my consultant that the first 2 weeks after surgery it the most important recovery period. Plenty of rest and elevation so that the stitches can heal. As Tilly pointed out its will prevent pain.
Take it easy Megs........happy healing.

[Elmoblue1964]

Hi All,....been a couple of weeks since my last post......am 12 weeks post opp now, just up, ed my physio 2 day .he said i can start jogging, for 100 meters then walk a 100...and repeat,....not used crutches for 6 weeks now, do all the other exercises i,ve been given....ankle aches on and off during the day, and is swollen.......but they say thats ok...(i hope) i elevate my leg as we all do.....i seem 2 have a large scar tissue, inside of ankle, physio said, not only i completely ruptured my AT, but says that there are over tendings there that i could of partly ruptured them as well. Surgeon has repaired the main one, but left the others ,to repair them selfs,.....thats why theres more scar tissue than norm. has any 1 else had the same proplem.....hope you all recover to full fittness.....ELMOBLUE.

[Elmoblue1964]

Hi All.. its been a while since my last post,......am 12 weeks post opp,.been told to up my physio.......told to jog 100 meters then walk 100 ,.and repeat....not used the crutches for 6 weeks now....do many more exercises, that i,ve been given as well. My ankle is swollen and aches during the day on and off...i elevate it as we all do.........i have a lot of scar tissue on the inside of ankle (like a big lump).asked physio what it could be and he says, when i completely ruptured my AT .....i proberly partly rupture some other tendens....surgeon repaired the main one, and left the other to repair on its own, thats why i have so much scar tissue...has any one else had this problem......hope every one recovers to full fittness.........ELMOBLUE.......:cool:

[NoeNoe]

Hi all, glad to read everyone is doing well! Well I just hit 2 weeks post-op and had my doc visit. They took off the half-splint and bandages, took a look, and decided it was time to remove by stitches..it hurt a little bit but it felt good afterwards. Unfortunately, I was upset to find out I would be put in a full cast for 3 more weeks. They took off the stitches and put me in a cast from my foot up to about 5 inches below my knee and my foot still pointing down. He called it a walking cast and gave me a little ‘cast shoe’ to put over it so I can start putting some weight on there, as long as it doesn’t hurt. After the three weeks are up, I should be out of the cast, and into a walking boot so I can start my phys therapy. Doc also said I could go back to the gym but upper body only, so I’m excited! Well, hope everything is going well for everyone else, good luck and keep up updated!

[Canuck007]

Elmoblue,
I too had a "blow out" of my AT and the surrounding tendons. The doctor that did my surgery told me he tried to sew everything up, but it was difficult. My surgery lasted almost 2 hours, so I think he tried his best and did not rush the repair. (I hope)
So far I have a bit of scaring but not more than expected. I am going to try ultrasound and laser therapy to try and repair some of the scar tissue and aid in the healing of the tendon.

NoeNoe,
I am very surprised at the differ en casting types and treatments that have been posted on this board. I guess each doctor has his own preference. I am surprised that your doctor will keep you in a solid cast for 5 weeks? My doctor had me in a solid cast only 2 weeks, and then put me in a true walking cast. The walking cast he gave me is awesome by the way, I would recommend it to anybody who has a AT on this board. Go to www.beldsoebrace.com if you want more details. It has been 3 weeks Post Op and I can walk in my brace no problemo. I have 3 wedges in the brace, and have been told to remove one every 2 weeks. In 6 weeks I should be walking according to the doc.
Let me know what you think?

[sazza]

Hi everyone

My name is Sarah and i managed to a full rupture on my tendon 10 days ago, followed by surgery that day. I'm going to the hospital in just under an hour for an assessment as i am experiencing bad swelling in my calf. does anyone else remember having suffering from the same? Hopefully they may remove the stitches today and maybe recast (forever hopeful). I can just about cope with the physical aspects of the injury it's the mental side i'm starting to struggle with. There's only so much daytime tv and books to read - find myself having deep and meaningful chats with the cat! Does it hurt to have it recast (i'm mentally preparing myself for some pain!).

My surgery actually took 3 and half hours - however surgeon said it was the worst case he has ever seen (if you're going to do it do it in style is what i say). He said i'll be in cast for 12 weeks but i find this hard to believe...how long have you guys been told to expect?
Anyway it's a comfort to know others are in a similiar situation cheers sarah

[damian]

UPDATE: Hi everyone, good to see lots of new posts on here.
I went and saw my surgeon on Monday 26/MAR/07 and now have a new cast on my leg with my toes pointing down still.
I also had my stitches out at the same time.
It is blue and is basically made out of a plastic weave tape that sets with water.
It has a little give in it, so won't break easily if I knock it around.
My surgeon has advised that I will be in this new cast for 4 weeks (till 23/APR/07)
Still no weight bearing but I am allowed to touch my toes on the ground.
After 4 weeks in this cast which is very lite by the way! I will be moving into my walking air cast boot with heel raises for 6 weeks.
At this stage I will hopefully be able to start walking around without crutches.
I asked about physio and my surgeon doesn't want that to start until after my air cast boot comes off!
So no physio for over 12 weeks post surgery.
Seems like a long time to me. The surgeon feels that physio's are too rough and cause re-ruptures by pushing people too hard too early.
I still believe that it would be good to start some gentle movements when the air cast boot goes on and I will discuss with him again on 23/APR/07.
I still haven't gone back to work but I have been cleared to start a gradual return about 3 weeks post surgery. Since yesterday.
Just looking to find a client (IT) site that is happy to have me with crutches, leg elevated, reduced hours etc.
I'm still taking my daily aspirin but the surgeon says I can stop anytime I like, as he feels that 2 weeks post surgery is enough for blood clot threats.
After what I have read it's up to 6 weeks post surgery, so have decided to continue until the 23/APR and my cast is taken off.
I'm still going through my separation with my wife which has been really hard,
so if you feel you have some stuff to worry about, try an AT rupture recovery AND seperation from your partner at the same time! LOL
I discussed what I might be able to achieve post recovery and my surgeon thinks I should just live a normal life and just make sure I stretch the AT before
any heavy exercise or sport.
I'm still getting swelling and some pain/difficulty going to sleep at night with the new cast.
I'm also still siffering from numbness and tingling in the right side of my right foot/heel area which the surgeon feels is normal at this stage but I'm not so sure about that.
I have found that pain killers at night seems to help a little if required but just trying to avoid taking anything unless I have to.
Making sure your leg is elevated most of the time will really help with pain management, healing and swelling.

SUMMARY SO FAR:
AT Injury on 10/FEB/07 (overuse - dancing)
At this stage it was thought just an AT or calf strain.
Discovery of full repture 28/FEB/07 using Ultrasound scan.
Surgery on 8/MAR/07. Put into back cast with bandages. (2 weeks 4 days)
Put into new cast, toes pointing down on 26/MAR/07. (4 weeks)
Should go into walking air cast 23/APR/07 for another 6 weeks.

RESPONSES:

CANUCK007 - Sounds like ice hockey could be OK for your AT but I would do some careful research first just to make sure.
By all accounts the ultrasound used by physio's is well worth it for speeding up the AT recovery process.
See weblinks below, looks like it may be worth it.
It is so true about keeping your leg elevated, makes a big differance to the pain levels and swelling.
I'm jealous you seem to be making such good progress, wish my surgeon was as forward thinking as yours,
I didn't get offered the beldsobrace, only an air cast boot which I have already paid for before I knew about the better brace.

TILLYMINT - Welcome, hope all is going well with you so far!

MEGS - Glad your surgery went well. I feel that no weight bearing for 6 weeks is long enough, if you are offered a start sooner than 8 weeks I would go for it.
Don't forget you can always go at your own pace and use crutches and partial weight bear until you build your confidence.
My surgeon had me in the back cast for 2 weeks and 4 days, now I have the new cast on for 4 weeks, so no wieght bearing at all for me
until 6 weeks and 4 days, from all of the research I have read so far, unless you had a particular bad tear or difficult repair,
this is a long time to wait until you can start using the muscle again. My surgeon is very conservative, so if I'm waiting over 6 weeks then this is a long time!

ELMOBLUE1964 - Nice to have you back! Wow you are jogging 12 weeks post op, lucky you, I'm not allowed to start my physio until 12 weeks post op but can start to walk in the
air cast boot after 6 weeks and 4 days post surgery. I suppose I should be thankful for any progress I suppose and not feel like I am missing out on a faster rehab program.

SAZZA - Hi Sazza, it doesn't hurt to have it re-cast but some small pain if you are getting your stiches out, nothing you won't be able to handle and it doesn't take too long.
I think we all suffer from swelling pain, good idea to get it checked out, let us know how it all went.
Wow your surgery took a long time, mine was under an hour. If your surgeon thinks it was the worst case, I'd trust him when he says he wants it in a cast for 12 weeks.
Probably shit scared of a rerupture and undoing all his hard work on the opertaing table. He might mean 12 weeks in all of your different casts,
rather than just one cast for the entire 12 weeks. I will be in casts for at least 12 weeks all up as well.
The mental aspects can get tuff I know, really teaches us patience, you should use this oppurtunity for personal growth, I know I have.

NOENOE - Sounds like we are pretty close. At least you only have 3 weeks in your next cast, I have to wait 4 weeks!
Also I'm not allowed to put any weight on my leg at all for 4 weeks, apart from touch toes on ground a little, looks like you can at least partial weight bear
in your cast, so you have a small win there! Its good news mate, you should be happy.

A KILLIES - Thanks for your kind words, I really want to make this forum a place people can come to, to be informed and as happy as they can going through the experience.
Sounds like you are just ahead of me and doing well. Sounds like you are on a more agressive rehab schedule than me!

WEBSITES
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=2017013&dopt=Abstract
Effect of ultrasound therapy on the repair of Achilles tendon injuries in rats.

http://www.aidmytendon.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.achilles-tendon-injury
Some more interesting info on the AT and ultrasound usage.

[NoeNoe]

Damian, I too am still getting an odd sensation on the outside of the injured foot and it gets quite annoying. It feels like I am being picked with splinters, like a stinging sensation. That same area is also still numb from about the middle of my food to the left and down to my small toe. I was also worried but my doc said it is normal, as the nerves need to regenerate from the incision and the stitching and this is completely normal. I hope this puts your mind to rest a bit! Good luck.

[sazza]

Hi Damian

Thanks for the reply....i would say the last 24 hours have possibly been the worst of my life and this is coming from someone who has gone through childbirth twice. I finally managed to get in contact with someone at the hospital regarding swelling..after cast removal and lots of poking and proding it was confirmed that i'd manage to tear my calf muscle (my friend still can't understand how i managed to do this whilst in cast!!!!). I had another applied but within 6 hours lost all feeling in my toes (which felt like ice) and pins and needles. This then meant another trip it A & E whereupon they split the cast then bound it with bandages to relieve the pressure in my foot. - Obviously it was way too tight. I was told to return the next morning as the temp. one was not sufficient and if knocked etc could cause further damage. I arrived the next morning having only just left (3 hours time difference!) whereupon i waited 3 hours in complete agony and on top of that was refused pain killers...such charitable people in the NHS!!! Finally after seeing a second consultant who completely contradicted what the previous consultant said the day before i might add, asked why i was there. Once i explained that A & E insisted i return he said they were not professionals in this area. As a result i returned home (in lots of pain i might add and totally knackered from lack of sleep). Joy!!!!

What's this about taking asprin noone has suggested anything of the sort to me!
Sorry to hear you are also going through a relationship break up....i guess at the very least it might take your mind of the pain and swelling.....anyway keep in touch it's nice to know there are others out there!
sarah

[jamar]

Hi Damian (and others),

My name is Marla, and I had a 100% rupture of my achilles tendon on 21/03/07, playing soccer (now 1 1/2 weeks post-op) thinking that someone had given me a huge whollop at the back of my heel only to discover no-one there :eek: . I attended the emergency department of the hospital and was admitted immediately and underwent surgery on 22/03/07. My first post-op appointment is not until 02/04/07, but from what I understand my recovery process will be very much the same as yours.

At present I have the half cast at front with my foot pointing down, dressing on back and bandaged to hold it all together. I am taking less pain relief now and may well have overdone it all yesterday with significant pain to the arms and shoulders today from the crutches ! (I went to watch the finals for soccer that I was to be playing in, and then out for dinner !).

On Monday I believe that the stitches will be coming out if it has all healed O.K. and then have a full cast (the first of many) which will gradually be changed to move the position of the foot to a 90 degree angle over a period of 10 weeks (ish), and then into an orthopaedic boot for a period of time ...

Oh to walk on 2 feet again without the need for crutches. I did have a face plant into the floor 2 days post op which I had worried I had damaged something, although I guess that is yet to be seen and have 2 weight bearing experiences on my toes when I have lost the crutches out from beneath me ... I'm just no good at these things !!!

I should know exact progress to be expected following monday's appointment.

In the meantime enjoying not cooking, cleaning, tidying, washing, ironing, working ! :D

What's others experiences of when you are able to return to work ? My medical certificate states 'until cleared by the orthopaedic surgeon'..... whenever that might be. :confused:

Cheers, Marla.

[sazza]

Hi Marla

What are the chances of us both doing a hundred percent rupture on the same day? I too am having stitches removed on Monday...heard this can be a little sore. My surgeon also stressed i'd be in plaster for 12 weeks, but managed to knock it down to 10 the other day! :D - so only another 8 to go (feels like forever though)
I guess you also will have it recast every 2 weeks at varying degrees...i've heard it can be painful each time as they alter the position of your foot still no pain no gain:(

i managed to tear my calf muscles the other day when reaching over for something whilst leg was out straight....so word of warning be careful because it bloody well hurt! :o

Anyway hope it goes well on Monday..best of luck, it's a comfort to know you're going through the same thing as well!

[jamar]

Hey Sazza,

Who would have thought eh !!!! Nice to find someone else who has done exactly the same thing at the same time ! We'll have to continue to compare notes ... now ... word or warning, I am the biggest wuss known to mankind, so not looking forward to having stitches out (for pain reasons only .. looking forward to it for sure though to get a decent cast hopefully !!!!) :D

I know exactly what you mean about the next 8 - 10 weeks feeling like forever !!! :rolleyes:

Ouch :mad: re: calf muscle ... mine is still pretty tender and that's enough without tearing that as well.. I hope that that feels better for you soon !

Good Luck on monday, I look forward to hearing how it all goes for you.

Cheers, Marla.

[jamar]

So .... progress report.

Yesterday I had the stitches out ... I have such a weak stomach when it comes to these things... but at least it looks like everything is healing up nicely. Stitches sting when they come out ... my first experience with them .. interesting.:eek:

I also now have a nice blue fibreglass cast which is just SOOOO much lighter than the old one. They just slightly moved the position of my foot, up a couple of degrees. I go back in 2 weeks to move the position again and get a new cast again. So many colours to choose from, I'm liking this !:D

Crutches still suck. What does everyone use ? Underarm or forearm crutches ? I'm wondering whether forearm crutches might help the issues I have with my shoulders (and excruciating pain) with the underarms. Doc's yesterday told me the shoulders will 'toughen up'.... hmmm....:mad:

[sazza]

Hi Marla
How you doing? Had my stitches taken out yesterday...hurt a little with the last two, lots of deep breathing!!! :( New cast put on due back in two weeks for the next one, at least it's one milestone over! Still find it swells if not elevated which is a bummer as theres so much I would like to do. Had some news today not sure if you are familiar with the show x Factor, it's a singing contest which is on the television in England, well I have an audition on the 19th (should get their sympathy vote if nothing else!):D If i manage to get through the 1st round i'll go back again early June. Only prob is if I am successful you have to stay at boot camp, unsure if this would be poss. with leg situation. At the very least it will be an experience to meet Sharon Osbourne and Simon Cowell! :confused: Anyway I hope it all went well for you, take care
sarah

[cjturneruk]

Hello all, quick sitrep with regards my injury...

Nov 24th - Football - pop.
Nov 25th - GP Appraisel - AT Rupture.
Nov 25th - A+E - calf muscle tear diagnosed.
Dec 1st - Re-exam - Suspect AT Rupture
Dec 4th - Ultrasound
Dec 28th - Diagnosed AT Partial Rupture (too late to repair)
Next weeks/months until Mid March 07 involved - casting and crutches, rom boot and then physio.... still limping at this stage and very nervous.
March 14th - day before return to work, re-ruptured:( walking up stairs at home.
March 17th - Surgery
March 21st - recasted from slab to light cast at point.
March 28th - recasted to less of an acute angle, 25 staples removed, surgeon explained the original repair or lack of had not healed and the tendon was macerated, also cut into calf to lengthen tendon. Now like this for 3 weeks then resetting foot/ankle position again. Total will be 8 weeks to 10 weeks in a cast again. Then rom boot for another 4 weeks, then physio again... Seems like my Nov to March was a complete waste of my time and my partners, gutted. But trying to stay positive.

Good luck to all and nice to have a moan with some like minded / injury stricken posters.

Not Happy that my diagnosis took so long in the first instance, and all this even though I was ringing the hospital every other day to chase my report. Seems pretty poor service to me. Not blaming the consultant but bitter at the NHS for not having enough people in post to asses and read the ultrasound report....

Word of advice to all.... get yourself a waterproof leg cast cover - assists no end in showering and bathing. Learnt this the hard way, first time around didn't know about them. expect to pay around £20.00.. although I understand one particulare make is available on presciption as it reduces the cost to casting departments due to people nt returning to have casts replaced due to them getting wet. Speak with your consultant / health advisor or search on the net... I think the one available via prescription is called sealtight cast protector.

[jamar]

Hi Sazza, An update to my progress above.

Hi all, today I acquired some forearm crutches to see if this would alleviate the shoulder and arm pain, no luck so far it seems, if anything it makes it worse... :(

Does anyone have any suggestions ? I'm not the fittest person in the world to start with, and this is just excruciating ... the pain is from the interior of the shoulder/arm joint, right down the main muscle there (whatever that is called).. taking panadol/advil combo which alleviates it somewhat but not for long and rubbing in nurofen gel and voltaren ..

Thanks, Marla.

[Megs]

Hi It's been a while since I was here,but all is going great I have my post op appointment tomorrow and hopefully the stiches will come out and I will have a lovely new cast. NoeNoe Like you I have not had any pain since 2 days after my op except for the odd twing and feel I could just stand up and walk away it's like nothing is wrong except you have a silly cast on your leg.
[[B]B]Marla I have also just got some forarm crutches which I find alot easier,but I must admit I never had the pain that you are discribing. On the work front I was starting a new job 2 days after my rupture,I had been waiting to start this job for 3 months, so I was not going to miss out. I went along and have had no issues.The only time I have had off was for my surgery and my RDO the following day, but it really goes down to how you feel in yourself, don't go back until you are ready I just really had no choice I wanted my new job.
I will let you all know how I go tomorrow,I might opt for a purple cast.:) :) :)

[Beung]

Hello all, quick sitrep with regards my injury...

Nov 24th - Football - pop.
Nov 25th - GP Appraisel - AT Rupture.
Nov 25th - A+E - calf muscle tear diagnosed.
Dec 1st - Re-exam - Suspect AT Rupture
Dec 4th - Ultrasound
Dec 28th - Diagnosed AT Partial Rupture (too late to repair)
Next weeks/months until Mid March 07 involved - casting and crutches, rom boot and then physio.... still limping at this stage and very nervous.
March 14th - day before return to work, re-ruptured:( walking up stairs at home.
March 17th - Surgery
March 21st - recasted from slab to light cast at point.
March 28th - recasted to less of an acute angle, 25 staples removed, surgeon explained the original repair or lack of had not healed and the tendon was macerated, also cut into calf to lengthen tendon. Now like this for 3 weeks then resetting foot/ankle position again. Total will be 8 weeks to 10 weeks in a cast again. Then rom boot for another 4 weeks, then physio again... Seems like my Nov to March was a complete waste of my time and my partners, gutted. But trying to stay positive.

Good luck to all and nice to have a moan with some like minded / injury stricken posters.

Not Happy that my diagnosis took so long in the first instance, and all this even though I was ringing the hospital every other day to chase my report. Seems pretty poor service to me. Not blaming the consultant but bitter at the NHS for not having enough people in post to asses and read the ultrasound report....

Word of advice to all.... get yourself a waterproof leg cast cover - assists no end in showering and bathing. Learnt this the hard way, first time around didn't know about them. expect to pay around £20.00.. although I understand one particulare make is available on presciption as it reduces the cost to casting departments due to people nt returning to have casts replaced due to them getting wet. Speak with your consultant / health advisor or search on the net... I think the one available via prescription is called sealtight cast protector.

Ouch, that is really too bad to have it re-rupture, especially almost 4 months after the initial injury. I wonder if not having the surgery the first time around had anything to do with it. I hope this time things go much better for you.

A little update on my injury:

I have been going to physio twice a week now and things are progressing good. Flexibility is coming back but there still is very little strength. Still some pain at the tendon if I put too much weight on it. I might have pushed it a bit too much last time I went to physio, there is more pain and more swelling then usual. I got 2 new exercises instead of the usual 1 so that might have something to do with it and they were both more intensive then any of the other I have been doing - I will have to tell them to dial it back a bit with the exercises.

[cjturneruk]

Hi All, just some advice if anyone wishes to take it on board, after having recoupterated and rehabilitated for 4 months and then rerupturing. I'd just advise everybody not to rush things no matter how frustrated you are at the slow progress, mind you don't miss any steps or stairs or hyperextend on dorsiflex, dont put too much power through the achilles at too an early stage. Be really really mindful of slipping or losing your feet and be careful on your crutches when going up or down stairs, its sometimes too easy to get complacent. I wouldn't wish a rerupture on my worst enemy (well maybe?:) ) Wishing you all a safe and full recovery, I am sure when we are back to full health and a few years down the road the period of time we have spent recovering will seem like a blib in time, this is based upon personal experience of a full ACL reconstruction back in 2001... it seems like the distant past and I can barely recall the recovery phase of 6 months. Look forward to hearing everybody's stories.

:eek:

[damian]

UPDATE: It's been 4 weeks post surgery, confidence is building, with more and more outings into the real world.
Still haven't returned to work yet, doing a little from home, waiting for my boss to find me a client who will have me onsite.
I felt very proud of myself 2 days ago, took myself out for a walk with crutches down the end of my street and got a hair cut, picked up some
lunch and went and bought a birthday card, then went around the block to my house.
Was the furthest I have been to date, got a real sweat up and worked my arms hard, also had a bit of swelling in my leg but that quickly settled down
once i had the leg elevated at home.
I currently live at home by myself and am lucking my sister goes and does the shopping for me once a week and does a few of the harder chores around the house.
I have a tip, if you want a snack you can have anytime without too much hassle, hard boil 12 eggs and leave them in the carton in the fridge.
You can then grab them anytime and have a quick healthy protein rich snack.
I want to talk a little about the mental aspect of what we are going through.
We are all very special, we are closely connected by our mutual experience because we are given a new chance for personal growth in our lives.
An injury like this forces us to have patience, it knocks us back a peg or two, makes us re-evaluate ourselves.
It is a gritty emotional and mental journey, suddenly we appreciate the simple things in life more than ever!
I truly believe that everyone who comes through this experience has a totally new view on life, the universe and everything.
I mean, how alive do you feel right now!
Be in the present moment as much as possible, delve into what it is just to be in the NOW.
It's a very powerful thing.
In life there will always be phases of success and failure, it's how we deal with the moments of adversity that makes us who we are.

SUMMARY SO FAR:
AT Injury on 10/FEB/07 (overuse - dancing)
At this stage it was thought just an AT or calf strain.
Discovery of full repture 28/FEB/07 using Ultrasound scan.
Surgery on 8/MAR/07. Put into back cast with bandages. (2 weeks 4 days)
Put into new (blue!) cast, toes pointing down on 26/MAR/07. (4 weeks)
Should go into walking air cast 23/APR/07 for another 6 weeks.

RESPONSES:

NOENOE - Thanks for your response. You describe the sensations in my foot exactly.
It has made me feel better about it knowing it is normal!
Hopefully it will go away sooner than later.

SAZZA - Sorry to hear you have been going through some tough times!
It's incredible to think you have torn your calf muscle with your cast on.
I have this secret fear of tearing my other good AT, as I do a lot of hopping around on one foot at the moment!
As I had a half cast with bandages on for 2 weeks and 4 days post surgery,
the swelling was manageable, as I could loosen the bandages and re-tighten them as required to allow for any pain from swelling.
It certainly pays to keep the leg elevated as much as possible but I'd say the main cause of your swelling was from your torn calf muscle!
Aspirin thins the blood and prevents blood clots, that's how I understand it.
It's an alternative preventative treatment as I refused the needle into my stomach for it in hospital.
So are you 10 weeks without weight bearing? When does the partial weight bearing start for you?
Does your physio start after the last cast comes off after 10 weeks?
The way it's going for me at the moment, I'll have something on my leg for a total of 12 weeks and 4 days!
But start walking with the air cast boot after 6 weeks and 4 days.
Well done on the X-factor auditions, best of luck and let us know how you go!

JAMAR - Hi Marla, welcome to the club! Interesting that your half cast was at the front, mine was full at the back and bottom. with a big split in the front,
room above my foot and toes, with lots of padding and bandages holding it all together.
sounds like you'll be in a cast for a longish time, they might surprise you and have you into the air cast boot sooner!
In regards to returning to work, I'd give it at least 2 to 3 weeks post surgery, then you should start back gradually, no point risking anything and
putting yourself back to square one.
I Use underarm crutches, find they are best for me.
The key is to use your fore-arms to hold you up and move aorund,
you should avoid resting very heavily with your arm pits on them as this can cause problems and injuires in some cases.
I have known some people to wrap lambs wool over the top of crutches to make it softer and help with the pain some poeple get in the arm pit area.

CJTURNEUK - Hi, sorry to hear about your re-rupture!
Glad you have finally had surgery though, it will give you the best outcome.
Suprised you weren't referred for surgery straight away your GP appraisal of an AT rupture the day after the incident.
I had my surgery 4 weeks after I did mine and my surgeon said it wasn't too late and all
my reasearch shows that it doesn't make that much difference to the final outcome.
Tell us more about your leg cast cover, do you have any website links with pictures? Could you post for us?
I use plastic bags that I was given in hospital and some extra tape they gave me.
I let the bags dry and re-use them again and again. They gave me 14 of them but I can
easily make them stretch right out for the entire 6 weeks and 4 days I need to use them.
I am told that once I get my air cast boot, I can take it off for showers, so won't need the bags anymore.
Looking forward to cleaning my leg properly!!! Can't imagine what it'll be like under there after 6 weeks and 4 days without a wash...LOL
Agree with your comments about not rushing things, it's very easy to fall into a trap of thinking things are going fast enough,
we just need to be very careful, especially in the early stages while things are healing.
But having said that there are a lot of positive articles that show that early mobilisation will be the best practice in years to come!

MEGS - Nice to get an update from you, look forward to your next one, especially which colour you choose! hehe
A summary of your treatment past and future would be great.

BEUNG- Lucky you, going to your physio, are you walking normally yet?
Good idea to tell them to take it easier on you, there is no harm in going at a pace you can be happy with while still buidling it up.
it is important to push yourself over time, as the tendon and muscle only really get better with exercise but you should let them know your concerns all the same.

[jamar]

Hi all, and thanks for the welcome Damian !

Just a quick one, I had typed out a whole heap of stuff and lost it .. grr...

4 days since forearm crutches, 3 1/2 days without shoulder pain !!!! YEAH !!!:D These are definately the better option for me ! I got the ones with the ergonomic handgrips and they are awesome. It's definately all about technique, I'm just useless with the underarms !

Am now getting pain in my lower calf mainly at night when I have had my leg elevated for awhile and then put it down. I likened it the other night to worse than the original injury ... we'll keep an eye on that one. (I don't normally whinge about anything and have a high pain tolerance, I just sound like a whinger on here .... really !!!:D )

I'll see the Dr on the 16th about going back to work, much more confident now with the forearms that I'll be able to make it to the ladies and the tea room without incident !

Cheers, Marla

[cjturneruk]

Just a quick link below as requested by Damian.

http://www.autonomed.co.uk/shop/dept.asp?dept_id=32

I do know there are other products available but this is the one I went for and I've been extremely happy thus far, out of interest I went for the full leg cast cover even though I've a shorty cast below the knee. :) Hope you are all progressing well and trying to keep positive.

[damian]

Hi Marla and everyone else,
Just a quick tip, if you plan to post a longish message on here, it is best to do it in notepad, or Word first then copy and paste it across!
I too have lost long messages in here, so I don't bother typing them directly in anymore!
Hope you all had a nice long holiday period depending on where you are in the world, in Australia we get Friday (6th APR) and Monday (9th APR) off as public holidays.
Only 2 weeks to go until my cast comes off and I move to the boot!
Take care everyone and talk soon.
Damian

PS: Thanks for the post of the website CJTURNERUK, looks like a great product and an excellent idea.
I certainly would have tried it, had I not been given so many plastic bags from the hospital I went to.

[Gary Warner]

Managed to rupture my achilles 1st week of feb 2007. Had surgery 5 days later - out to it for an hour and home 2 hours later. Had the strong panadol forte for a few days but no real pain. Back slab for two weeks and a fibreglass plaster for 4 weeks (bit of a nuisance as the foot angle is fixed downwards for the 4 weeks) - Now have ROM boot for 4 weeks. great to be able to shower (very carefully) without plastic bags etc.
Physio is a must to help get the scar tissue on the move.
My main concern is the strain the whole process puts on your good leg and good achilles especially if that has some chronic pain as well.
General stiffness and scar swelling diminishing each day.
Exercise bike has been recommended ( carefully at first)

Good luck

[Beung]

Taking it easy on my second session for the week really helped alot. My physio therapist was very understanding and support of me taking it easy for that session. Him and I both understand that there is always going to be some discomfort and even some pain but this was not an "improvement" pain, this was pain telling me that I had pushed it too far and to let myself heal and catch up.

I can now do the exercises that caused the pain in the first place with minimal discomfort. So I am 3 days behind, not a big deal. Just remember that it's your body and you know it best and you have the most to gain/lose. Set your timetable according to what your body tells you and tell your Dr or therapist in as much detail about pain or improvements. Even if the changes are small this will help them to diagnose the next step of action. They look for certain milestones and a good Dr or therapist will wait for them before advancing you onto the next step.

I have 2 milestones, a flexibility and a strength one.

For flexibility I use the touch your knee to a wall because it is a visual measurement to see how mush flexibility I have regained. For this exercise, start with your good leg, face a wall and move your foot against the wall. Now bend your knee and you should be able to touch your knee to the wall very easily. Now for reference move your foot away from the wall and try and touch you knee to the wall, keep moving your foot away from the wall until it gets hard for you to touch your knee to the wall and you feel the stretch in your AT, 2-3 inches should give you a good idea of how flexible a good AT is. Now to see how much flexibility you have lost because of the injury do the same for your injured leg. Be very careful as this exercise really isolates the AT and do not do this until you are doing physio and they tell you to lightly stretch the tendon. For me when I first started doing this exercise with my foot right up against the wall me knee wasn't even close to be able to touch the wall, I could barely move my lower leg beyond 90deg. Right now I can touch my knee to the wall with my foot about 1.5-2 inches from the wall.

As for strength, I am just starting trying to get the some of the strength back so my first milestone is to be able to do one footed heel lifts on my injured foot. That is, to be able to stand on only my injured leg and lift my heel off the ground and support my whole body weight onto my the ball of my foot.

[trent]

Realistically I could have gone back to work no more then a week after the surgery, just I didn't "HAVE" to go back and I wasn't able to drive so it would make getting to work very difficult.

The body is an amazing, to think of what actually happens with this injury and the ability to repair itself is quite amazing (with help from medical profession of course). I think you know yourself better then anyone when it comes to where the limit is when doing rehab either with the therapist or when doing at home exercises.

I do some form of stretching about once an hour, I know that mobility/flexibility is the most important part right now and the strength part will come later.
How fast and how fully you recovery really depends on you. Going to physio once or even twice a week for an hour isn't going to cut it. You have to do the exercises everyday, as much as possible. Not only to work on the flexibility but also to build confidence. I find that when doing the stretches the "pain" is more of an awareness that there is an injury there not that it actually hurt. I am not saying it doesn't hurt physically but there is a mental part to it and there is good pain and bad pain. You have to be willing to take your stretches to the point of discomfort and a little beyond that not too much though - we are in a state of recovery, then improvement, we are not just trying to maintain and ride out the injury.
Beung,
"I do some form of stretching about once an hour, I know that mobility/flexibility is the most important part right now and the strength part will come later. "

I'm 10week post-op and I read your comments on stretching. My question is when did you start stretching? and what kinda stretching?

[jamar]

Hi everyone,

Hi Gary, to be going home 2 hours after the op is incredible ... I think I was in recovery after the op for at least that long !!!

As I'm now only 3 weeks post op, I have a question about footwear for those who are well and truly on the mend. Once this is all said and done and we can start wearing footwear on both feet again, is there any particular type or features that we should be leaning towards, specifically with sports shoes, but also regular shoes ?

Oh ... and as a nice little side note ... I have no pain anymore ... anywhere ... awesome !

Thanks, Marla.

[Beung]

Trent:

Here are a few stretches I do and they can be done pretty much anywhere.

The first one is a pretty common one in which you stand pretty far from a wall or something and put your hands against the wall. With your injured foot a little behind your good foot push your hips towards the wall. Don't push against the wall with your hands and don't bend your upper body towards the wall - make sure to push with your hips. This is going to isolate the calf and AT so you don't cheat and it has more control so you don't over stretch. This is a good warm-up stretch since it stretches both the calf and a little of the AT.

The second one I do is the touching your knee to the wall exercise, again this is the best measure, as well as a good stretch, because visually you can actually see if you have made any improvements.

I also do a sitting stretch where you move your foot as close to yourself as possible, this is kind of like the knee to wall stretch but can be done while sitting. This also a good measuring stick for yourself. Try this while going to the bath room, while sitting on the "throne" chances are at first your foot probably will not be able to sit flat on the floor and have your knee at 90deg. As your flexibility improves your will see that your foot can move closer and closer to you toilet.

Have you started on any scare tissue removal exercises? I have just started this week and I although it is painful and unpleasant while doing them the rewards are very good. They can be done while sitting around watching TV or something. The jist of it is if you remove the scare tissue around the injured area there will be more room, less swelling and help in recovery. It will also make the ankle better long after you have recovered, help to prevent inflammation after activity.

Jamar:

For footwear, especially early you're going to want to get something that had no heel section. Your heel will be very swollen and tender. I still can't wear dress shoes because the heel part rubs and pushes on my AT...it could be part mental but I can't wear them right now. I find I walk the best when I don't wear any shoes or if I wear shoes with very little cushioning in the sole. The hard sole make the step more predictable where as the cushioned shoes gives me an uneasy feeling when they compress. I wear sport sandals at work, not the hiking kind or the flip-flops that go between your toes, some may know then as shower sandals. They keep my feet cool and also they have a hard sole so they feel more firm.

[Gary Warner]

Hi everyone,

Hi Gary, to be going home 2 hours after the op is incredible ... I think I was in recovery after the op for at least that long !!!

As I'm now only 3 weeks post op, I have a question about footwear for those who are well and truly on the mend. Once this is all said and done and we can start wearing footwear on both feet again, is there any particular type or features that we should be leaning towards, specifically with sports shoes, but also regular shoes ?

Oh ... and as a nice little side note ... I have no pain anymore ... anywhere ... awesome !

Thanks, Marla.
Thanks Jamar - Just a bit stuborn and don't really like hospitals. I think you have to be stuborn to get over this injury. My medical advice is a bit disjointed as I have jumped from surgeon to out-patients to physio etc. Hope to find out about footwear at next physio session next week. Will let you know. the one thing that is noticeable is that after having your foot i a cast for up to 10 weeks your heal becomes fairly sensitive and needs retrainng as well.
keep u the good work evryone
Cheers
gary

[trent]

Beung,
Thanks for the info. I will try it, but is it early 10week post-op to stretch?
I kinda scare to start stretching. Because here my story.

June 23, 2006 morning within 5min into playing basketball I heard a pop behind my lower calf when I jump to block a pass. At first it felt like someone had kick my back leg, but no one was even close to me. Later found out that I had rupture my AT.
At first, I chose the casting treatment for 2month and after I remove the cast, I was put into a walking boot for 2month. I was doing good after my physio rehab and than it happen again. On Dec 26, 2006 morning, I decided to walk around my neighborhood. I was happy until I slipped on a wet sidewalk. The pain was exactly the same as the first injury and I knew I re-repture my AT.
This time I had to consider surgery. After the MRI my doctor schedule my surgery on Jan 29. I’m now 10 week post-op and still on a walking boot. My doc said I need to be in it for another 6week.

Question to all member,,, Does anyone here has aching pain early in the morning? But the good thing is after you up and walking the pain goes away.

[damian]

Hi Trent,

I think you will find that some aches and pains is fairly normal, even 10 weeks post surgery. If you get worried, my advice is go see a professional straight away, at least it may put your mind at ease. The fact that the pain goes away is a good sign. Maybe you are sleeping funny in bed or stretching the AT while you sleep and don't realise it, it could also be recovering from the previous days exercise.

Are you wearing your walking boot to bed? My surgeon seems to think that I will need to, he said do you move around a lot while you sleep, I said yes, I have also been known to sleep walk a little! He said then it's too risky not to wear it to bed, in case you jump out of bed and put all your weight down on it in one go.

How has everyone else gone with this and the boot, did you take it off or keep it on during the night?

Damian
PS: Only 10 days to go until the cast comes off and the walking boot starts! Looking forward to the next milestone.

[Beung]

Trent I don't think I can answer your question as I am not a doctor and our situations are porbably very different. So I would ask your Dr when is a good time to start streching, personally I wouldn't start until I started physio. If you strectch too early you run the risk of undoing the sergury and not actually stretching.

Wow, a re-rupture 6 months after the intial inury then 10 weeks in a walking boot and another 6 more - I feel lucky in comparison. I would think the non-surgery route would be a longer recovery time but how was it feeling like 4+ months after the intial injury? Mine feels quite good, I am happy about the mobility I have regained so far but kind of disappointed in the pain I still get if I put too much weight on the ball of my foot. This is really hindering my ability to walk or go down stairs as I can not put my full weight on my one foot tip-toe.

As for the walking boot, I did wear it initially while sleeping. If you are a sleepwalker or proned to getting up without really being awake then I would keep it on until your Dr says you can put weight on your foot without the boot. I did wear it while sleeping even though I don't sleepwalk or get up without being really conscious but because you can flex your foot while dreaming and actually tear the stitching.

I actually used the boot to help with the stretching, near the end of when I didn't have to wear the boot all the time (while at home watching TV or something) I still had it on because it was passively stetching my AT/calf a small amount. I could definately feel the improved flexibily after removing the boot, this really helped first thing in the morning when it was the stiffest. It really helped with easing into daily movements.

Contrats Damian, not sure if you will be able to actually put any weight on the boot at first but it's one of the best feelings in life when they take the plaster cast off. Its nice to be able to take it off, readjust it, itch, shower and lossen it on those overly swollen days. One piece of advice, if you don't play soccer and don't have socks that go up to your knee I would go buy a couple of pairs. Try and get those ones that breathe well (the non cotton ones) it will help with skin irritations and prevent your boot from getting too funky.

[trent]

Beung,
Thanks for the advice. I will ask my doctor. Also my doc had mention swimming will improve my calf muscle or even walking in pool.
Yep, re-rupture it again suck. My first specialist doc perfer non-surgery, but after I did research and read many thread, I decided have surgery.

damain,
No, I'm not wearing the boot at night. Maybe I should and will ask my doc. thanks for the head up.

[Beung]

Walking in the pool will help in getting your strength and coordination back. Since your body is somewhat buoyant your AT will not have to support your full body weight while building your strength and coordination back. The more of your body is in the water the less weight is put on your foot.

Wearing the boot while sleeping could help in lightly stretching while you sleep, assuming your flexibility isn't beyond 90deg yet, if it is then there's not going to be much stretching going on.

[Tillymint]

Hi everyone,
sorry not been on for a while but life has been pretty hetic recently. We are soon to be moving house and trying to pack up.....well actually I am doing a lot of "put that there and put this here" sort of thing, as I daren't do a thing :eek: !!!
I have been doing some intensive hydrotherapy and physio the last 2 weeks or so and it has really helped. I am still not ready to go onto jut one crutch yet. Had my 5 week post cast removal appointment with my surgeon on Thursday. He is very happy with my progress but has told me not to rush onto one crutch. It is my decision when I do it, as I know my body better than anyone else and not let the physios rush me. I was glad to hear this as I felt they were trying to do just that. My operated leg is now incredibly skinny and I have little strength left in my good one. We are going to work on that when I am up on two feet and ready.

I managed to climb 2 flights of stairs last week... :D WOW ....I havent done this since december. I used my elbow crutches to get up placing injured foot down first and then good foot. Hubby was behind me with his hand in my lower back for support. Coming down was a completely different story...I went back to my childhood and went all the way down on my BUM :D with my operated leg stuck right out in front of me so as not to catch it.
I wouldnt really reccommend doing any part of climbing stairs but I had to, and there was no other way of getting into the building.

Hope everyone is well and not going stir crazy...get out as much as you can and enjoy what little you can do. I made the mistake the first time round of staying in and it was the worst thing I did. Just know your limits and abide by them. If you have the slightest doubt about something - DON'T DO IT !!
Take care and happy hobbling.
Tillymint
x

[damian]

Hi everyone,

I had my second slip on crutches yesterday at home, fell very slowly onto the ground (bum) and didn't put full weight onto my cast (but still some weight), no pain or anything, so feel OK about it all (a little scared, upset and shocked at the time) and another near miss I suppose.. Just shows how careful you have to be.

I start back at work next week, only gradual return with crutches and cast, no weght bearing, then on the 23/APR I get to start with my air cast boot (6 weeks) and hope that I can get away from the crutches pretty quickly.

Below is the website for my air cast boot, looks like it is especially designed for the achilles tendon so I feel better about that! Was orginally concerned it wasn't the right thing for it...

http://www.aircast.com/products/product.htm?pid=91&pgid=09EB3157-4575-4E67-8840-84BC8C4B957E&rnd=229921307

Take care everyone,
Damian

[jamar]

Hi everyone,

Well back to the hospital today for my 3 1/2 week post op appointment. I had the cast removed and my foot changed position (geez that hurts ....) and a new cast put on. So ... have more specific dates to work with now. Here goes:

Day 1 - 10 days - front cast
Week 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 - stitches out - full cast (blue) toes pointing down
week 3 1/2 to 5 1/2 - full cast (purple) about 70 degrees
weeks 5 1/2 to 7 1/2 - full cast (hmm... maybe blue again) 90+degrees
weeks 7 1/2 to 14 or 16 - air cast and start weight bearing gradually
Week 16+ gradually remove crutches.....

and that's that ... so week 16 will be ... 11 July 2007 :eek: .... it's like April already, July isn't that far away right !!!!

Damian, sorry to hear about your slip. I had a couple in the first couple of weeks and they're scary. Does make you quite upset though. Hope everything is still feeling O.K. At least you managed to land on your bott ... I always seem to land on my knee on my bad leg ... just manage to get the foot out of the way in time and land on knee instead.
Re: the aircast - awesome, that's a nice one. Hope mines like that. Will see physio next time I go in and see what they have in store for me ! It's very exciting, I never thought I'd get excited over something like an aircast lol !

Hope everyone is well, and catch you all later

Cheers, Marla.

[cjturneruk]

Hi All, hope you are all keeping positive, here in the UK the weather has been pretty damn good for the last 2 weeks so at least I've been able to sit out in the garden and play with my son outside which has cheered me up no end, still using 2 crutches and non weightbearing, 4 weeks post op. Tomorrow I go to hospital to have my cast removed, the ankle reset to a more neutral position and a new cast put on. During my initial conservative treatment I kept a black cast colour throughout but since the rerupture and the operation have chosen red, blue and tomorrow probably green, staying away from black as it brought me no luck. How stupid eh? I don't believe in any of that stuff but I am determined to stay away from black, even though it looked pretty cool, don't want any mishaps. The boot I'll be using for my rehab once I'm out of the cast will be the donjoy rom boot.... link below

http://www.dme-direct.com/donjoy-maxtrax-walker-p-606.html

I used this one for 4 weeks previously and it just feels great to be off the crutches and to have no cast on. Seems strange to be looking forward to "frankenboot" as my wife called it but it just gives so much more freedom.

Anyways, hope you are all doing well and trying to keep reasonably upbeat. I've now been off work since November, though working from home approx 30 pct of my scheduled hours. At least I'm managing to keep the desk and emails clear.

Regards
Chris

[cjturneruk]

Update, milestone, cast removed and reset to neutral, just about flat, heel is raised slightly off the floor, but can jam on a trainer and walk !! Consultant said I could weightbear as much as I could stand, managed to carry a cup of tea for the first time in ages - yesssss. My wife will be dead chuffed, no more can you carry this and that etc. Went for the green cast as mentioned yesterday, skin was very taught around the scar area and ankle bones, will have to work on that when out of the cast permanently. Thats all for now. Still using the crutches aswell, but at least I can weightbear. All the best

Chris

[deltron3030]

Hello all,

First I just wanted to express my hope that all of you recover fully and quickly.

I'm writing because I have been suffering from Achilles Tendinitis for years now, and I am concerned that I may rupture the tendon. Are there any warning signs to look out for? Any exercises or stretches that I should do before, after, during my work outs? I am a muay thai kickboxer and train about 8-12 hours a week, I run, bike, lift weights and spar.

I took up a pilates stretching regimen that seems to have helped significantly, my calfs, and leg muscles are very tight... but there are still many times that my achilles tendons feel very tight, or creak, or generally feel uncomfortable.

What would you do?

Thanks again.

Del

[dougdigital]

Deltron 3030,

I have that CD by the way, I luv it. First of all, I greatly applaud the fact that you're being proactive about your health. I only wish that I could've done what you're doing right now because I strongly believe that I wouldn't have torn my achilles if I was to take action earlier. 22 months ago I tore my achilles playing basketball, I'm a basketball player and I was only 25 when that happened. Prior to the injury I had felt some tightness and soreness in my achilles usually after I had played a game and was resting. I didn't think anything about it. I was also careless and I did not stretch before most activities. I'm all better now but man, if I could go back in time.

If you have tendonitis then you need to take some time off if possible or slow down some of you're workouts. 8-12 hours of working out puts a lot of pressure on your heels and your achilles. I only use two stretches for the achilles which are basically calf muscle stretches. Below is a link to a few good stretches. I use them for about 15 minutes before and after I play. That's not including the the stretches that I do for the rest of my body. I put more time into the achilles and calf muscles. If you don't do so already, you should do workouts that strengthen your calf muscles possibly using weight resistance. Most importantly I would check with a doctor that specializes in Sports medicine. I hope that this helps you out, I think that you'll be fine. You're taking the right steps already.

http://www.myfit.ca/exercisedatabase/viewanexercise.asp?exercise=Donkey+Calf+Raises&table=exercises&ID=67

http://tms.ecol.net/Fitness/calfstr.htm

[Beung]

Deltron, have you tried any active release or deep tissue message treatments?

Your tightness and stiffness and pain might be a result of built up scar tissue around the joints.

[jama73]

I live in Toronto, Canada and ruptured my Achilles playing basketball on February 26th. I am a 34 year old healthy active male. I had stretched, warmed up and had been playing for about 1.5 hours when my achilles snapped. My injury was worse than normal because it detached from my calf and also tore in the middle.

I was lucky to have surgery within 12 hours of the event. I know alot of people here weren't so lucky. I spent 4 weeks in bed (literally) and would recommend that everyone who can, stay in bed and don't do anything. Unfortunately, I have 2 kids, 4 and 6 years old and my wife in 8 months pregnant! I owe my wife big time for helping me and allowing me to get better. I didn't try to put pressure on the foot until week 5 and would recommend that you not try to put weight on it too soon. It will come with time.

I saw this site and wanted to share my story because it may give people hope. Today I had my first physiotherapy appointment and I am walking in my own shoes (very exciting) and without pain. My flexibility is good and I am allowed to drive. My doctors think I could be playing golf by June.

The reason I tell you this is 3 weeks ago I never would have thought I would be where I am today. 6 weeks ago, I felt like I would never walk again. You will get better. Be patient, rest (if you can) and listen to your doctor.

I would also recommend applying Polysporine 3 to 4 times a day on your incision and using ARNICA gel ( a natural anti-imflammatory) which helped reduce the swelling. This was a tip from an Australian stunt woman I know!

Rest, stay positive and you too will recover like I have.

[suzy757]

Hi, I ruptured my achilles tendon earlier this year due to a fall. The pain was excruciating and after a few days went to the hospital where they discovered a DVT. They concentrated on the DVT and told me to keep my leg elevated, after 3 weeks of unbearable pain I went to my doctor who diagnosed a ruptured achilles. I was admitted to hospital that day and operated on the following. By this time the achilles tendon had retracted somewhat and the surgeon did the best he could. I was in a cast for 4 weeks and then another for 6 weeks. I was in a wheelchair for 3 months have had three months off work and returned this week. I think I have experienced every emotion from anger to depression. It has definitely been a long haul and now I am trying to make my foot walk again. I would have to state that this injury was far worse then childbirth!! I don't think I will ever be the same again. Thanks for listening. Suzy.

[Elmoblue1964]

Hi all,....its been a while since my last post,...just a quick up date on my progress....its been 16 weeks post opp....been to many physio sessions (which you must keep up to recover to a decent fittness) he,s put me through it .....started doing silly things at first, which i,ve told you about in other post.......then he,s up it the last 3 weeks....it was my first day back 2 work today (DOH)..SEEMS A LONG TIME 2 RETURN ,BUT am a Postman, so need my legs as strong as poss. Still getting the swollon angle towards the end of the day. Not doing a full duty yet , just sorting in office for a couple of weeks then building it up to full duty. Had my ups and downs,....more ups nowadays as being able to walk around means alot. Anyway hope your all doing fine, and on the road to recovery,...those who have just been injured, be carefull and dont rush into anything. I no were not DOCTORS but taking notice of the posts in here, are very helpfull. keep your updates coming, ill still be reading them.......good luck all.... Take Care

[Beung]

Hey all, I am just venting a little here about how slow the progress has been lately.

The flexibilty is coming along really well and the strength is coming too but I still have alot of pain while doing the strength exercises, which I think is hindering my strength progress.

I am primarily doing eccentric contraction exercises (think of them as exercises that instead of you lifting your body onto your tiptoes, rather you start on your tiptoes and then slowly lower heel until it touches the ground) but the pain is so much that I have to support so much of my own weight when doing them. I told my therapist about the pain and he tells me that the pain is from the scar tissue coming appart when doing the exercises. So gavce me some message exercises to help break the scar tissue up. That seemed to have helped but still have alot of pain. If what my therapist says is true we are going to try and do some ultrasound treatments to see if that will help break up the scar tissue, we have been using electric wave therapy which to me seems to be doing nothing but I can really tell.

Can anyone who can lift their whole body onto your tiptoes on just their injured foot give me an idea of when you were able to do this? I want to see if I am progressing slower, faster or about the same.

Also can anyone comment on the use of ultrasound treatments?

Thanks you all for listening

[Matt B]

First I am a very active 31 year old male. Lots of running, cycling, basketball. I ruptured my Right achilles playing basketball 3 years ago. I opted for NON-OP approach with rehab movement in anterior brace / heeled shoe starting after 2 weeks. I had tremendous success and got to 95% strength in 9 months.

Fastforward 3 years, I rupture my Left achilles again playing basketball on March 18th. I should have recognized that it would happen at that activity level after a year of tendonitis in my left (supposedly good) achilles. I opted for the same NON-OP approach described above and previously successfull on my other leg. This rehab was going great, however on my first day without the use of crutches at week 5 I take a mis-step and totally pop the tendon as before. Total Re-Rupture. That was last night.

Any experience here on this or what my complications may be? I will be meeting my Therapist and hopefully Dr later today to discuss. I am very concerned that I may have trouble with the scar tissue to scar tissue bond that I may have by NON-OP now. Surgery is an option that will have to be discussed. Any experience either way on a re-rupture?

[damian]

Hi Matt B,
All I can say is go for surgery if it's an option for you!
If you use a top surgeon, you are very likely to get an excellent outcome and be back walking in 3 months, back to exercise in 6 months and back to normal in 1 year post surgery.
After many research papers I have read, surgery gives the best outcome by far!
The only risks to surgery are: infection and dying on the table from the anesthetic.
But they are very low if you are as healthy as you say you are!
Let me know if you need any other advice, otherwise read back over the previous posts on this forum and make up your own mind, heaps of stuff to read!
Good luck mate!
Damian

[damian]

Hi Beung,
Sorry to hear you are feeling so frustrated BUT I wish I was where you are now!!!
I've just moved to the walking air cast boot and another 6 weeks to go till it comes off.
By all accounts ultrasound is a very good form of treatment and is highly recommended. You can even buy your own machine!
I would get the ultrasound as much as possible, if offered.
Hope it improves soon.
Have you spoken to your surgeon, they seem to know a lot.
Cheers,
Damian

[Beung]

Thanks Damian, my frustration has passed.

I have discovered eccentric exercises, it has done wonders for my strength and the pain in just two days.

Check out this article or do a search on the web about eccentric contraction exercises.
http://www.sportsinjurybulletin.com/archive/achilles-tendonitis-1.html

I already talked to my physio therapist and we are going to do some ultrasound treatments starting today.

I also saw my surgeon today, he was plaeased with my progress and said the tendon felt really solid and he said there is no need for me to see him anymore. I told him of the pain and swelling and he also said that its normal and to be expected but will go away. He did say the swelling might take longer and he said to be on the look out for tendonitis, he said keep up the exercises the therapist gives as they will help to prevent this.

[damian]

UPDATE: I am now over 7 weeks post surgery!
My blue fixed cast came off and my new aircast walking boot was put on Monday 23/APR/07.

http://www.aircast.com/products/product.htm?pid=91&pgid=09EB3157-4575-4E67-8840-84BC8C4B957E&rnd=231133793

My surgeon thinks things are going really well and the repair looks good.
Hardly any scar tissue at the moment and the AT feels nice and tight.
Due to the angle of my leg coming out of the cast I was allowed to start with only 4 out of the normal 5 heel raisers in the aircast boot.
Certianly makes walking around in it a little easier.
I have to wear it to bed but I can take it off anytime I have full control and there is no chance of putting full weight onto it.
I have also been told that I can start some very gentle exercise of it, without pushing it.
So I have been doing ankle rotations and gentle foot pumps up and down until I can just start to feel the AT tightening up.
I also take the boot off for my showers which is just awesome.
I couldn't believe how dirty it was the first time I got to wash it properly, I swear it took a good couple of days to really get it clean again!
I'm not using my crutches at all anymore, gave them up only 2 to 3 days after I started in the boot.
I'd say the boot is slower getting around than crutches but so much more freedom!
I'm very lucky, as getting into and out of the shower is easy, as I have the toilet right next to the shower with a chair and rubber non slip mat in the shower itself.
All I can say is, when in doubt, if you are ever out of the boot, use your crutches if you have to and be super careful!
About 5 weeks to go now until I'm out of my walking boot and can start my physio, I'm going to do my physio at the hospital,
I am told I'll get the same physios that do the West Coast Eagles, only those who follow AFL and live in OZ may understand.
Take care everyone, keeping sending in your posts!


SUMMARY SO FAR:
AT Injury on 10/FEB/07 (overuse - dancing)
At this stage it was thought just an AT or calf strain.
Discovery of full repture 28/FEB/07 using Ultrasound scan.
Surgery on 8/MAR/07. Put into back cast with bandages. (2 weeks 4 days)
Put into new (blue!) cast, toes pointing down on 26/MAR/07. (4 weeks)
Cast taken off and into walking air cast 23/APR/07 for another 6 weeks (4 heel raisers).
1st heel raiser comes out 7/MAY/07 (2 weeks)
2nd heel raiser comes out 14/MAY/07 (3 weeks)
3rd heel raiser comes out 21/MAY/07 (4 weeks)
4th and final heel raiser comes out 28/MAY/07 (5 weeks)
Walking boot comes off 4/JUNE/07 and normal shoe with small lift goes in.
I should be able to drive now as well, yipeee!
Then physio can offically start!

[CraigM]

Hello everyone.
Its been good and very re-assuring to read your comments. I hope your all on the path to recovery.
Back on 27 Jan 07 I ruptured my Right AT in the process of running. It was like a gun shot at the time and as if someone had smacked me in the back of the leg with a big pole. I knew what had happened and eventually made it home that night to rest up before going into Hospital A&E. To cut a long story short, 7 hours after going in I came out with an old plaster (of Paris) to the knee. Two months later, 3 synthetic plasters in equine, intermediate and neutral positions I started on my rehab - the day after my cast came off.
I was lucky to go on a Rehab plan that runs for 6 weeks, 5 days a week and my Physio has been great. Last week I was getting quite tender and we eased off on the Achilles exercises but on Friday it was quite sore. Yesterday I turned up for Rehab and told my Physio that It didn't feel right and he did a few checks - re-ruptured ! So I'm a bit bummed out to say the least.
I wanted the surgical approach first time up as I'm very active (main sport is Volleyball) and wanted the best recovery and strength. My Doctor was old School conservative so thats what I got.
Now I'm waiting to go in for Ultrasound tests and then hopefully I'll be under the knife.
I'll post my progress.
Its a real pain having to go through all of this again.........:(

[sazza]

Hi Craig

Sorry to hear your news....what a bummer to say the least!!! Your scenario is my greatest concern, totally paranoid that i'll go down the same route:eek:

Do you think maybe you done too much physio (if there is such a thing). Have they told you how long you'll be in cast again etc? Until I actually did my own i never understood the enormity of the injury, so frustrating and damn well painful at times.

i myself am just over 6 weeks post op (having ruptured during a friendly game of netball)..yesturday had yet another cast fitted which places foot at 90 degrees. Hopefully comes of in two weeks then was expecting a boot - however doc has different ideas and doesn't agree in them - therefore will have no form of support afterwards:confused: Scary stuff.....i've come rather acquainted to some form of support, when they take the cast off to change it feels as though my leg belongs to another and that i've lost a limb:rolleyes: weird

Anyway take it easy, hope all goes well....chin up and all that

sazza

[CraigM]

Hi Sazza. Yes re-rupture was my greatest worry as well and really the tendon should of been operated on from the beginning. The fact that it tore again with little effort shows how weak the rejoining was. My Physio was very controlled and concentrated on building up my calf, foot and ankle muscles first. When your in plaster for a little while the muscles waste away (atrophy) and most of the work you need to do is building these back up before you work on stretching the Achilles. I couldn't believe the muscle tone I lost - my calf was soooo small when the cast came off and still isn't back to size.
The Doctors don't tell you much at all - you have to ask, ask, ask, question, question, question. You'll find that in your last two weeks in plaster (neutral position) that you can load bear and this causes the foot and skin to become active "again" - the skin moves, falls off and starts to smell. This normally happens to the human body but every day we wash the dead stuff off in the shower so no problem. Unfortunately a cast+bandage holds it all in and it becomes quite stinky. Very stinky in fact. I ended up sticking a pressure hose up mine and all sorts of other stuff like Liquid soap, Dettol, Methylated spirits to try and drive the smell away. Luckily I only had 3 or 4 unbearable smelly days at the end.

I had no boot or heel lifts at all. I started off in Physio on an exer-cycle riding on my heels to get my legs working again (20mins). Its also good to get your Cardio rate up as well. I had more exercises to do and was supervised all the way for about an hour each day.
The Physio really helps and you must do daily exercises at home as well. You will feel uncomfortable but you will also know how far to go. I just got unlucky - I think I felt mine re-rupture as I was walking after an hour warm up - just a sharp tingle :eek: and I didnt think much of it until it got a bit numb and tender. Nothing like the pain when I first did it !
Anyway, if you need some answers or more of my experiences, then sing out - it all helps.
Just be positive, keep busy and look forward to doing all of those simple things in life that you haven't been able to do with this injury.
May the force be with you !

[bdowdy]

Hi All.

Just found this forum and thought I might float a couple questions out there.

First, a little background. I ruptured my Left AT in near the end of Sept '05 playing basketball. I did the whole surgery/cast/rehab stint until Jan/Feb '06. Everything went well and my Orthoped Surgeon was happy with my recovery at the point my regular visits with him stopped (approx Mar/Apr '06).

Now, here I am 18 months or so from my surgery and I find that if I sit too long (I have a desk job) during the day my left foot/ankle will swell quite a bit. This started sometime prior, about 2-3 months ago. Before this started to happen, a couple of times I had some minor burning sensation around the repair/incision site, but nothing so terrible to warrant a doctor visit (or so I thought).

I've been doing more cardio lately on an elliptical cross trainer (trying to recover strength in my left calf and lower leg) and during a 45min workout, my feet (both right and left) often start to get numb. (I dont think this is necessarily related. but mention just in case). Generally that subsides somewhat with flexing my arches in both feet (rising to my tiptoes and so forth) for a bit. I just dont recall ever having a problem like that before the AT rupture.

Anyone else have symptoms like this many months after "recovery" from an AT rupture?

thanks

-BDowdy

[Beung]

I played my first round of golf this weekend since my injury, 14 weeks Post-Op, 7 weeks after I took my last step with the boot on.

No I didn't walk, I took a cart. I just had to becareful about where I stepped when I was walking to my ball. The uneven ground was a real workout for my ankle, my AT was a bit achy but I think that had more to do with my golf shoes then anything else. The back of them was was kind of pressing agains the sides of my AT.

I stretched really good and did some Eccentric exercises before hand and it helped with keeping my balance while walking to and from my ball. I have been to the range many times for a while now and it hasn't really effected my swing but the driving range is usually flat so that was a new challenge for my ankle and AT. I play again this weekend so we will have to see how it goes. The week after that is the big test, I play for 3 days straight, I should have a bit more strength and conifence in it by then.

[Phpreader]

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[NoeNoe]

Hello everyone hope all is well, its been a while! Well, just posting some updates..its been a lot quicker than I expected and I am feeling pretty good. A week and a half ago I was told by my doc that I didn’t have to wear my boot anymore if I didn’t want to and was free to start physical therapy! It was a lot faster than I expected. Today marks 7 weeks since I had surgery and 9 weeks since I ruptured my AT playing soccer. I still wear my boot when I’m going to do a lot of walking but for the first time I walked my dog today without the boot, and though I need to walk like a robot, it is such a great feeling! The therapy is a pain in the butt, 2-3 times a week, doing strength exercises and stretches..then at the end my PT “massages” the operated area with her fingers and it is HORRIBLE PAIN, but says the scar tissue needs to break away to make the are limber again, she also recommended I stop wearing my boot at all, though I don’t feel 100% ready to do that yet. Here is a brief summary of my trip to hell, as I like to call this injury.

Rupture on March 1st. Surgery March 14th and put into a half-cast for two weeks. After the two weeks, I was put into a full cast (black) for 2.5 weeks with foot pointed down. April 20th it came off and I was then instructed to wear my walking boot for another week and a half, however, my doctor said no wedges in the boot to keep my foot pointing down, as it was time for it to settle into a 90degree angle. This was a pain because I could not put my foot flat on the boot or floor and it was impossible to stretch it. That same weekend I suffered a slip while out ‘celebrating’ and came down with all my weight on the foot, forcing it to stretch flat and bounce back up..I could literally feel the fibers opening up in my tendon and rushed to the hospital, sure I had re-ruptured. MRI revealed I had gotten lucky. Afterward, I put two bundled up socks for a few days under my heel in boot for added support and on the 27th of April I went back to my doc for another follow up. He tested my flexibility and told me it was time to leave the boot behind and start therapy. I guess his approach of no wedges worked cuz I was able to put my foot flat on the floor and start bearing weight on it, boot-free. Its now been almost a week since then and I’m working on therapy and everyday more and more, getting some strength back, some flexibility, confidence, and HAPPY to be putting this hell behind me! Good luck to everyone and to those who have a recent tear, stay positive! There is light at the end of the tunnel!:) :rolleyes:

[jamar]

Hi all !!!

Well I thought it time for an update. Went back to the hospital 30th April, and have got the final cast on now with the foot at 90 degrees ! yeah. The first time it was stretched was so much more painful than this time, so it went into position nice and easily. I go back now on the 16th (Dr wants to keep it at this angle in the cast for just a little longer than the regular 2 weeks between casts to bring me up to 8 weeks post op precisely) and then first physio appointment and into the boot !!!!

The cast this time is a blue and white striped one.... so many people have so many football/rugby teams that they associate with this .. I call it my 'Where's Waldo' cast (you know, Where's Wally's evil twin brother ... ) Wally wears red and white, I'm sure Waldo wears blue and white !

No supposed to be doing any weight bearing just yet, but it's just SOOOO tempting. I maybe just put a 'little bit' when I have my confidence up !

BTW Damian, nice boot, and awesome about who you'll be doing physio with !

Sazza, no cast, no boot !!!!!!! OMG .... good luck with that. I'd have a little tantrum about that if they tried that on me, my leg feels SOOO weird when it's out of the cast that I can't wait to get something back on it ...

Back at work now for 2 weeks.... I really wanted to go back when I was at home, now can't wait to spend time at home ... it's always the way !

Good Luck to everyone with their progress !

Cheers, Marla

[tjmc11]

Can anyone please tell me how much pain I should be experiencing directly after the procedure. I was given a nerve block that wore off about 15 hours after the surgery and I began to feel severe pain. I took vicodin which seemed to eventually help relieve the pain throughout the day, but I have experienced some strong spike in the pain which the vicodin / motrin does not want to stop. My foot is feeling tingly and numb. I can move my toes fine and there is no discoloration. My foot feels like it is on fire....PLEASE HELP ME and let me know what I need to do. Thank you. - TJ

[Beung]

Are you keeping your foot elevated?

My foot only hurt when I couldn't keep it elevated, I remember the day after the surgery, even sitting on the edge of the bed to go to the bathroom was enough time for my foot start to throb. Then it took like 15-20 min before the throbbing stopped and that was when I was fully medicated....its safe to say I didn't go to the bathroom alot because of it. It's a good thing the painkillers make you constipated and they have bedpans.

[tjmc11]

I have been keeping it elevated. That does help. How long (How many days post op) until I can move around a bit and go a few places (be it on crutches etc.) BEFORE IT BEGINS TO SIGNIFICANTLY HURT? I just need to get around a bit........don't want to be stuck in the house any longer....

[Canuck007]

TJ,

Everyone is different, I was able to walk with my crutches only 2 days after the post op with not too much pain. Mind you I do have a high tolerance to pain, however. If you are in a lot of pain after 3-4 days and unable to walk around, I would check with your Dr. Can you wiggle your toes? Are your toes numb? You need to be careful not to get an infection, did your doctor give you antibiotics after the surgery? If you are not getting progressively better each day with less pain I would definitely call your doctor and get it checked.

Canuck007

[johnmolson]

I'm 36 and from the states. I ruptured my achillies 3/20/07 playing basketball. I had the percusionary? type surgery where they did it through six tiny holes in my calf. It really cut down the recovery time compared to an open incision. I whole-heartedly recommend this type of surgery. Currently I've already noticed increased mobility after two therapy sessions. I wore a cast for four weeks followed by a boot for another 4-5 weeks. Each week I manually adjust the heel inside the boot down until I'm touching my heel to the ground. THings are looking up. Just do what they tell you to do.

[daveclan08]

Has anyone out there heard of this new treatment for Chronic Achilles Tendinosis?
Researchers in Umea Sweden, have hypothesised that Neovessels in the tendon are what cause the pain. In a pilot study they Sclerosed (Closed using chemical/injection) these neo vessels under the guidance of Ultrasound scan. Initial results were promising and 2 years post-op the majority of those treated were pain-free.
Has anyone out there had this treatment?
I've heard there are some Sports Surgeons trying this in the UK on Professional Soccer players.
Thanks.
David:confused:

[ImranD1]

Hi all,

As you may have guessed I’m now apart of the “ruptured Achilles” club and have torn it in my right leg playing football or soccer for my friends across the ‘pond’. I knew what the injury was as soon as I had done it after (ironically) speaking to a victim of it earlier in the week. I sustained the injury on the 21st of April and was put in a cast on the 22nd. When told about treatments I was told about the conservative (non-surgical) and surgical approach and was told the doctor would be opting for the former.

I was more than happy not to have my leg cut open if it was an option, however after reading the stories of re-rupture I really don’t want to be stuck in limbo for another 4months while it heals.

My story so far…
21-04-07: Ruptured while on the way to score an awesome goal
22-04-07: Place in temporary cast running half way up my thigh with toes pointing down
23-04-07: Resin cast fitted below the knee, toes still pointing down
03-05-07: Aircast boot fitted with 4 inserts
17-05-07: Intention to take 1 insert out.

The dilemma I face now after finding this site and reading the stories of re-rupture (my worst nightmare!) is I want to play sport again and if I had the chance I would have opted for the surgical approach due to the higher probability of recovering to previous fitness. However, I’ve started the conservative approach to recovery and all seems well, I can put weight on the leg and all pain has gone. I will be starting a really good graduate job in August which will require me to move to Holland so I want to be able to walk without crutches…..the doctor said the 14weeks I have before I move will be enough to walk. I intend not to play football for 12months after the cast and intend to dedicate as much time to rehab as possible without pushing my AT too far.

If I didn’t have this job I would probably ask the doctor for surgery when I see him in two days as its only been a month since I injured it, however I do not have the luxury of time to heal so I will stick with the conservative approach and if IT happens again I will take the surgical approach. Those out there, who are religious, please pray nothing goes ping!

Its quiet therapeutic writing out my thoughts on here….people with their Achilles intact don’t seem to appreciate the severity of the injury and more specifically the sensitive recovery regime needed to recover.

[Giddyup69)98]

Greetings Everyone!
I am a 40 year old Male living in Toronto, Ontario Canada. Here is my situation to date:

April 10th - full rupture of right AT playing squash
April 13th - surgical repair, placed in plaster cast
April 18th - plaster cast removed, stitches removed, fiberglass cast put on with toes pointing downward.

tomorrow is May 15th and I go to see the ortho to have this cast taken off and move on to the next series of treatments. I am going to see if I can get into an aircast/walking boot at this point as I really want to be mobile. I will let you all know how it goes. I have been doing some reading and there is research out there that says that early mobilization and weight bearning are good things for AT ruptures (with surgical repair). One thing that is great about this forum.....I am not alone......this is the worst injury to have and the recovery is just so long...especially since I am going to be out of comission for most of the summer...I just hope to be walking on my own by the end of June. I'll keep you up to date on my progress.
Cheers,

[jamar]

Hi all,

<rant>I AM SO ANNOYED !!!!!!!

8 weeks today since rupturing my achilles, and had surgery to repair.

Have been through the battery of different casts and had the foot in all the different angles. Was looking forward to today getting the boot and being able to commence weight bearing. Now I just don't know if I got someone inexperienced today (I did question them comprehensively) as all along I was going into the boot from today.

No, instead they decide that I don't NEED the boot and in a couple of days of partial weight bearing I'll want to throw away the crutches and just walk again.

NOT likely !!! It feels so exposed and I have such a limited range of movement with it, and I don't want to re-rupture. So I've loaned a boot and got a referral to another physio of my choice and hopefully will get into see them in the next couple of days.....

GRRRRRRRRRRR</end rand>

Welcome Giddyup, Imran and johnmolson I hope you enjoy your stay even if it is unfortunate that we all have to meet like this !

Damian how's your boot going ?

Hope everyone else is well....

Cheers, Marla.

[LMT]

Reading your experiences definately struck a nerve, so to speak, with me.
I am one week post op after having achilles debridement & FHL tendon transfer. It all started following having my haglunds deformity removed last November, the pain in my ankle never got better following the original surgery infact it got worse. 4 months down the line I was still only able to mobilise for no more than 2 hours.
Following physio (which made things worse) & MRI scan my surgeon still thought it was a nerve problem. I had a constant battle with the surgeons for 6 months before they would do anything. I kept telling them it was my achilles!!
Anyhow, last week they operated again & said my achilles was like "mush", they then debrided it & grafted the FHL tendon & muscle. Im now in a backslab, non weight bearing & still in a considerable amount of pain. I have been told that it is going to be a long recovery!!
Would be most interested in hearing how people are recovering, what your mobility is & was post op & anything else that may help. Including recovery times as my job requires me to be on my feet for a minimum of 8 hours at a time! Also can I do damage to the graft when I inadvertently put my foot down or move the ankle , which I have done when I have been asleep. When I have done this I have woken up in severe pain.
Many thanks.

[Steved]

Hello All -

I had my fibreglass cast removed 3 and 1/2 weeks after surgical reattachment of total achilles rupture. Its very nice to get the cast off, have a bath and check out my foot. I can't say it looks great. My foot is still about as swollen as it was pre-surgery. I was fitted with an air cast (nice piece of equipment) that you can take off whenever you want. I like to have it off and let my incision dry and heal. The doc says says 2 weeks now of no weight bearing with all 3 wedges and then remove a wedge every 2 weeks and I should be able to ditch the cast in 8 weeks.

Has anyone experienced pain in your calf when the cast comes off? I am getting a bit.

Also - should my foot still be swollen after 3 1/2 weeks?

Cheers, Steve

[CraigM]

Hi all.
Good to see an active forum and lots of feedback.
STEVED: My foot was very swollen as well - especially around the ankle and the calf was also sore especially if I put pressure on it when laying down. This was with conservative treatment. I'll be going through the surgical approach soon after I re-ruptured. Pain is normal but see your Doctor it it gets much worse.
LMT: I feel for you. Its a long and frustrating path to recovery but hang in there. Ive had to write off at least half of this year with my injuries but I also look at it as a time to get all those things Ive always wanted to do but never had the time or opportunity to do them. It takes months of healing and then Rehab and then 3-6 months of taking it easy before you get back to even 90%. There is pain as well. This is a bad injury and a lot of people don't appreciate how bad it really is. Put your feet up, relax and look it as character building.:o
MARLA: Things could be worse - I think I got dealt that card. If you read my injury history you may feel better. All Doctors have different approaches to this injury. It depends on who you get and luck I suppose. Good on you for taking your approach and getting a second referral for a boot.
Giddyup69)98: Your soooo lucky to be progressing quickly. The recovery and Rehab are now the time consuming and frustrating part. Take it easy, its a long path. I was so thrilled to get back on my feet again and to be able to walk. (even tho it was only for a week).
My unfortunate story so far:
20 Jan 07 - Stingray attack to elbow of Right arm. Ulna Nerve damage. Loss of lower arm and hand function.
27 Jan 07 - Sudden right AT rupture when sprinting.
28 Jan 07 - Old plaster style cast fitted in equine position. Confined to wheelchair. (cant use crutches because of arm injury).
2 Feb 07 - Put into Synthetic cast in equine position.
23 Feb 07 - Synthetic cast # 1 removed, # 2 put on in intermediate position (about 45 degrees).
9 March 07 - Synthetic cast # 2 removed, #3 put on in Neutral position.
16 March 07 - Full load bearing - get rid of wheel chair - Hooray !!!!:p
23 March 07 - Synthetic cast # 3 removed. No boot, no heal lifts given.
26 March 07 - Start Rehab Physio ~ 1hr per day for 5 days a week.
20 April 07 - Doctor clears me for full work duties and no more Rehab needed.:confused:
27 April 07 - Re-rupture while walking out of Rehab:eek: (didn't realize this tho).
30 April 07 - See Doctor. Referred to specialist.
3 May 07 - Put in back (half) slab.
7 May 07 - Specialist appointment - put in Moon boot @ 35 degrees.
28 May 07 - Surgery day - Yippee.

After all of this I'm still in good spirits surprisingly. I hope you all are as well. May you all have speedy and good recoveries.

[Canuck007]

Well I finally removed my cast today, and walked with a shoe for the first time. It was very difficult to walk, I had a tough time walking without putting weight on my toes. My tendon is very stiff, and I have a hard time walking with pace. I hope that the tendon will stretch with time, and as my calf rebuilds muscle I will be able to walk easier? I am going to start Physio tomorrow (stationary bike).

Can I get some feedback from others on how their walking progressed after removing their casts, and also some good physio exercises that helped in recovery.

Thanks,

Canuck007

[Steved]

Thanks CraigM for the input - the pain isn't bad its just that I had none when the cast was on. After reading your story I am most humbled and wish you the best. As I read through these stories, I am getting increasingly paranoid about a re-rupture myself. It seems caution and conserativism are key.

Canuck 007 - Hey, I am in Salmon Arm - I see you are in Vancouver. How long were you in your cast? How is it that you get to go right to a shoe and walking? I was in a cast for 3 1/2 weeks and now an air cast. No walking for a few weeks. My doc is a tad vague about the prognosis but I guess that goes with this injury - it seems treatment and rehab are all over the map when I read through these threads. Anyhow, stay in touch - its good to have another BCer around!

Cheers, Steve

[Beung]

I am from Calgary....

I am 15 weeks post-opp and about 9 weeks since I have had any form of a cast on my foot and I still walk with a bit of a limp. My cast progression was quick, 2 weeks in plaster, then another 4 weeks in an air walking cast and gradually removing heel wedges. I have not worn a cast since mid March and my injury happened in late Jan.

I still can't lift my whole body weight with my bad foot, what I mean by that is I can't stand flat footed and raise my heel off the ground and put my whole body weight onto my toes and the ball of my foot on my bad foot. I am very close to be able to do it but still can't do it yet...I would say I could lift and support about 90% of my body weight (about 175 lbs).

If you can not do this heel lift you will have a limp when you walk. When you walk there is a point when you transition from your back foot to the front foot were you start flat footed and then have to raise your heel off the ground before your front foot hits the ground. This is were the strength and confidence has to be gained....this motion is also typically what casued the injury in the first place. You start off flat footed and then when you go to push off with your foot, the stress on the AT is what caused it to fail.

As for the swelling, it will be with you a long time. Mine is still swollen and my Physio said it will be long after I need to go to Physio. The pain isn't too bad it just puts some doubt into your head when you get some apin when you put some pressure on it. There is no pain while just sitting there or even when I stretch it but when I do strength exercises I still have to get used to the pain before I really start pushing it.

[Giddyup69)98]

Hello everyone, I promised an update, and here it is.
The story so far:

April 10th - full rupture of right AT playing squash
April 13th - surgical repair, placed in plaster cast
April 18th - plaster cast removed, stitches removed, fiberglass cast put on with toes pointing downward.
May 16th - fibreglass cast removed, put into an air cast with foot at 90 degrees.

Ok, so here is how it all went down. When I went to the Dr's yesterday they took the cast off right away. What a huge relief..I hated that thing...but since I had been immobilized for 4 weeks, the pain had gone away and everything was comfortable. My leg was so gross with dried skin, etc. I am sure you can all relate. Anyways.....the Dr comes into the office and checks my ankle out...looks at the incision and then quickly flexes my ankle to 90 degress......wow.......that hurt a lot, but I guess it made sense seeing as how its been 5 weeks since my operation. He wanted to put me into a walking cast but I refused saying I couldn't take another cast and requested an air cast that I can take off to shower, soak in our hot tub, etc. He relented but said he has seen so many re-ruptures because people push themselves too far too fast.....I promised I wouldn't do that seeing as how I don't want to end up at square one again. Ok, so now I am in the aircast...he didn't want any heel lifts but to keep my ankle at 90 degrees - I wasn't too comfortable with that so I asked the person fitting me for the aircast to put a heel lift in so I wasn't quite at 90 degrees.....I'll take the heel lift out in a week or so if I feel ready for it. The bottom line is this, my ankle hurts a lot right now....what has been others experiences with this. The Dr. says I should start weight bearing as soon as I can in the boot.......again, what has others experiences have been. Until the next update.........

[ImranD1]

Hi all,

Steved - You've really been through a bad spell but it shows how upbeat and courageous you are being so positive. End of the day there are always people who are worse of than us. Although we're lacking a healthy Achilles it’s really good to see everyone helping one another!

Steved my calf also began to hurt and was sore to touch. This was during the first 2/3 weeks. I'm now 4 weeks into my recovery and all pain is gone, although if I squeeze the lower part of my calf it does hurt but I’m putting that down to it pulling on the Achilles.

Giddyup69)98 I got fitted with an Aircast 2weeks ago and was told to start bearing weight which I did with the aid of crutches. I went back yesterday (almost 4week milestone) and the doc took out a step from the boot and told me to walk without crutches bearing full weight on the leg :eek:

Story so far...conservative approach
21st April - Achilles went pop
23rd April (2days) - Plaster cast fitted, toes pointing down
8th May ( 15days) - Aircast Fitted (4 steps in boot)
17th May (26days) - 1 step taken out, bearing weight

A concern that has been bugging me is the speed at which my doctor is treating me. I didn't have surgery so I assume initial recovery to be slightly quicker but it’s not even been a month and my doc has got me walking without crutches. I do feel confident walking in the aircast without crutches however with the stories of re-rupture (especially with the conservative approach (highlighted by CraigM)) I want to be sure I have the best possible chance to recover.

Any advice with recovery using the conservative approach?

[Giddyup69)98]

ImranD1

I have done away with the crutches and am now walking with a cane. I am not full weight bearing on the boot...that's going to take some time, but the cane gives me a lot more mobility. Since I had surgery my incision is still healing and "irritated".....but not much pain. I have a dull throbbing "down there" which I think is due to the fact that my tendon is being stretched...I imagine that will disappear in a few days. Whew, only 4 weeks to go and my Dr. says I'll be in shoes and doing physio. I guess its a quick recovery....and based on what I have been reading here...i am lucky.

Until the next update.

[mabvball]

I tore my achilles two weeks ago. I had surgery and have been in a cast for two weeks now. I have four more weeks to go until I get the special boot. I can't put any weight on my foot for six weeks, so does anyone have any good exercises that I could do. I'm pretty athletic and don't want to become obese in the next couple weeks from lack of exercise. Any advice would be great! Thanks!

[damian]

UPDATE: I have had my aircast walking boot on for over 4 weeks now.
I have already taken out three heel raisers (on 1 at the moment).
I have been sleeping with the aircast boot on in bed, as I'm prone for jumping out of bed in the middle
of the night and don't want to risk putting it straight down on the ground.
Be careful while taking sleeping tablets, as I took off my aircast boot without even realising it one night!
I am prone to sleep walking and night tremors at the moment, due to the stess of my life and separation from my wife.

I went and saw my surgeon last week, 3 weeks (half way) into wearing the air cast walking boot.
I took myself in cause I wanted him to check it and help build my confidence up, that everything was on track.
It also gave me an oppurtunity to discuss the situation about my physio.
Glad I went in when I did, as like anything medical, you have to book a long way ahead to get the best physio's.
I just went down there and said, who is the most senior person (at St John of God hospital) and booked myself in for them.
He is generally booked well out in advance so I was happy I did it more than 3 weeks ahead of schedule.
My surgeon did say that 'touch wood' he hasn't had one infection or re-rupture since he has been doing AT surgery repairs. He has done approx 300 so far.

Slowly but surely I can start to feel the calf muscle working again.
I stick my hand onto it while walking around and can feel the muscle start to bulge a little.
Gives me some confidence that the surgery has gone well and it's connected to my calf OK.

Just wanted you all to know that I stopped using my crutches after my air cast boot was on only a couple of days.
Since then I have been walking around on it quite a bit and only get occasional pain and swelling.
I always take my time and try not to overdo it too much.
It was been great being without the crutches and getting around a little more normally.
The aircast boot is a great talking point with people and at parties!

Less than 2 weeks to go now and I can wear normal shoes and start driving again.
Then the quality of life will really start to improve.

Hey Marla, hope things are going well, I think the air cast boot is definately worth it after the cast is taken off. It realyl helps build your confidence up and gets you ready for shoes again.

TIPS:
If you want the best physio, makes sure you book them at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance
and always ask for someone senior who has had lots of experience with AT injury repairs!


SUMMARY SO FAR:
AT Injury on 10/FEB/07 (overuse - 2 hours at gym and then 3 hours of dancing)
At this stage it was thought just an AT or calf strain.
Discovery of full repture 28/FEB/07 using Ultrasound scan.
Surgery on 8/MAR/07. Put into back cast with bandages. (2 weeks 4 days)
Put into new (blue!) cast, toes pointing down on 26/MAR/07. (4 weeks)
Cast taken off and into walking air cast 23/APR/07 for another 6 weeks (4 heel raisers).
1st heel raiser comes out 6/MAY/07 (2 weeks)
2nd heel raiser comes out 13/MAY/07 (3 weeks)
3rd heel raiser comes out 20/MAY/07 (4 weeks)
4th and final heel raiser comes out 27/MAY/07 (5 weeks)
Walking boot comes off 1/JUNE/07 and normal shoe with small lift goes in.
I should be able to drive now as well, yipeee!
Then physio can offically start on the 5th of June.

[sazza]

Hi Everyone

I word of warning.....i was making a fab recovery 8 weks post op, no cast , just at the stage of starting physio and doing a few token exercises:p . Felt like the light was in sight then BAM! Full rupture when walking up stairs, stitches split open same wonderful pain as before,:eek: - emergency surgery 3 hours later now back in cast for at least 12-14 weeks. Doc says i will only have 80% mobility from now and should be walking around xmas!!!! :confused: I have run out of tears - not only due to pain but frustration. It will mean leg has been in plaster for 5 and half months......wasn't much left there the last time i looked be bugger all left by september.
i was only just hanging in there last week.....at least i have morphine as my friend at the moment, numbs the brain as well as the leg.

So take heed all those who are just coming out of cast....if you don't trust it don't do it...i guess i got too carried away, Doc said i was just v unfortunate (to put it midly), just the after effects of what's happened, had to cancel holiday, inform work i need at least another six months off etc......just pray that one day i'll be able to just simply walk down the street:(

Take care
sazza

[Steved]

Sazza -

So sorry to hear of your re-rupture. I certainly am thinking of you as I am sure all of the others on this blog are as well. I know its not much, but just know that there are some people all over the world with the same injury that are pulling for you.

Hanging in there with you, Steve

[Steved]

Damien - good job on the progress. You are several weeks ahead of me and I have a few questions:

1. How did your doc decide on when to take out wedges? I have been in my aircast for almost a week now and I have 3 wedges. My doc's advice was take out one every 2 weeks, but like you said this guy is completely booked and now there is no hope of booking an appointment.

2. Does it hurt much when you go to one less wedge? Is some pain to be expected?

3. I would like to go to a cane when I start putting some weight on my foot - did this work for you?

By the way - my injury was to my right foot, but I am able to drive. I take off the brace part of my aircast (so I have just the soft airboot and toes sticking out) and I have no problem with the accelerator - I have an automatic and use my left foot for the brake.

All the best, Steve

[sazza]

Hi Everyone

I word of warning.....i was making a fab recovery 8 weks post op, no cast , just at the stage of starting physio and doing a few token exercises . Felt like the light was in sight then BAM! Full rupture when walking up stairs, stitches split open same wonderful pain as before, - emergency surgery 3 hours later now back in cast for at least 12-14 weeks. Doc says i will only have 80% mobility from now and should be walking around xmas!!!! I have run out of tears - not only due to pain but frustration. It will mean leg has been in plaster for 5 and half months......wasn't much left there the last time i looked be bugger all left by september.
i was only just hanging in there last week.....at least i have morphine as my friend at the moment, numbs the brain as well as the leg.

So take heed all those who are just coming out of cast....if you don't trust it don't do it...i guess i got too carried away, Doc said i was just v unfortunate (to put it midly), just the after effects of what's happened, had to cancel holiday, inform work i need at least another six months off etc......just pray that one day i'll be able to just simply walk down the street

Take care
sazza

[robind]

Hello everyone,

I'm a 45 year old unfit male and I ruptured my AT at the end of March playing football (as we call it in the UK !). Heard the pop, felt the pain, thought somebody had kicked me but there was nobody near me etc. Went straight up A&E and was told it was ruptured. I was given the choice of an operation or conservative and chose conservative. The doctor said that whilst there was more chance of a re-rupture in the first 6 months, after that period it should be just as good as if I had the operation. I told him that I was a keen golfer and he said that I should be playing again in 4 months even with the conservative method. I now realise from reading this forum that thats not going to happen.

I've had a cast on now for 9 weeks, I'm on my 4th cast. The foot is now back at 90 degrees and I'm hoping I will be cast-free next Tuesday (29th May). However, last week I slipped and put my full weight onto my bad leg and had a sharp pain in the back of the leg. Since then I've had more pain than usual in the leg and I'm worried that I may have re-ruptured it.

Has anybody out there had any positive experiences after choosing the conservative treatment ?. It seems that most people on the forum have had a re-rupture when going this route. Whats the quickest anybody has got back to light exercise, particularly playing golf but even walking un-aided?.

Its amazing how much you take for granted when you are reasonably fit, like having a shower/bath without wrapping plastic bags round your foot, being able to stand in the pub drinking a pint, carrying a cup of tea to the front room, driving a car, shopping etc. etc. I'll ceratinly appreciate the simple things in life if/when the leg heals.

Best wishes to everybody out there who is in the same situation.

Robin.

[jamar]

Hey everyone,

Sazza Take care and look after yourself. Hoping that the pain eases soon. I can't say I know how you feel, I just know how it feels the first time around. Get some good friends around you now and make the most of a bad situation (and get them to chase after you hand and foot !).

Damian Buddy ! Top stuff, sounds like everything is going really well for you ! Can't wait for the next 2 weeks to be over and start to feel human again I bet ! I can sympathise with the talking point the boot it ! Everywhere you go someone has a comment to make.

robind Like me, unfit, playing soccer (football) and whammo. I hope your recovery is a good one. I can't enlighten you at all on the conservative method of treatment, I went operation all the way.

As for me. Well, I went and saw the new physio for the first time yesterday. I don't know what it is with physio here, but they want me walking out of the boot and without the crutches ASAP to try and get strength back in.... so I'm still wearing the boot. I'm far more comfortable in it, find that I am starting to get confidence again and getting around a lot better. Once I feel like I can progress I will, but in the meantime doing the stretches they have suggested but with a great degree of caution. Physio again on Thursday. Most of the first physio was spent with the physio dude really rubbing hard on the scar to prevent "scar tissue growing on the tendon" - odd, but I guess it could happen. Now all I know is it's still sore and slightly bruised from that. Thinking about changing which physio I see again ...... maybe it's me ... dunno.

Until next time, take care all.

Cheers, Marla.

*waiting to be able to drive again !!!*

[ImranD1]

Robind - I'm recovering using the conservative approach and was out of my cast in 2 weeks and put in an Aircast - these are much safer in case you slip reducing the chance of re-rupture compared to the cast. If I re-rupture (God forbid) I will definitely go the surgical route due to the greater chance of recovery. I never looked into treatment methods as I thought they were both the same (:mad: )but as a 23yr old I would have definitely opted for the surgical approach if I had known the benefits from the outset. If you have no difficulty with going under the knife (heart condition, allergies to anaesthesia etc.) go for the surgical approach - I would!
Talk to the doc, I’ve heard surgery is more difficult on a re-rupture, see if they can scan it to determine the severity of the re-rupture.

I have 24 days before I’m out of the Aircast and I am counting down the days!! However, I’m required to travel with work so will wear the Aircast when I’m in the airport just in case I slip...better safe than sorry.

Damian Great to hear you're recovering on schedule....I can't wait to start driving - freedom!! You're 2 weeks ahead of me so please let me know how it feels to be out the Aircast. I have also taken the Aircast off while sleeping and have no recollection of doing it. I now sleep with it off but I am conscious of my leg every time I move it.

All the best!

[robind]

Thanks for that advice ImranD1. I'm very much hoping and praying that its not re-ruptured but would certainly opt for surgery if it is. Are you in the UK as well ?. It seems amazing how different everybodys treatment is. The aircast seems a much better way to go so why is it not used instead of a cast all the time?. Cost I suppose.

I'm meant to be going on holiday to Las vegas mid-July and I'm worried I'm not going to be able to make it. I hope I will be walking un-aided but don't feel optimistic at all.

Take care

Robin

[Gord]

Hi,
It is good to hear how others are coping with the same injury and to get some helpful tips from those of you who are recovering over a longer period.
I ruptured it during a basketball game 11 days ago (A 43 year old trying to do what I did when I was 20) and had surgery 4 days ago.
I stopped taking medication after 48 hours as the pain subsided and the leg is elevated all the time except when I go for a spin on crutches.
One thing that I have that has made life a lot easier is a wheelchair with a leg extension. I can go out on our pavement and play basketball, or have a catch with my son Gavin.(6 years old) It makes it a lot easier to get around the house as well. I used it for the first time yesterday when we actually had temperatures in the 20's.

Take care,
Thanks for the helful tips.
Gord

[damian]

1. How did your doc decide on when to take out wedges? I have been in my aircast for almost a week now and I have 3 wedges. My doc's advice was take out one every 2 weeks, but like you said this guy is completely booked and now there is no hope of booking an appointment.
Answer: The aircast boot is on for 6 weeks. There were originally 5 wedges or heal raisers that came with it. I figured the original plan would have been for me to take out 1 each week and then in the final week you have no heal raisers at all before migrating back to your normal shoes with a small heal raiser insert inside. When they took off my final blue cast, the orthotist said to my surgeon that with the angle of my foot coming out of the cast, I could probably look to start with 4 heal raisers instead of the normal 5. It just meant I had 4 heal raisers for two weeks, instead of taking the first one out (of 5) after 1 week. In my honest opinion, I would have been just as happy with 5 heal raisers, taking one out each week. As it all happens pretty quickly and I'd rather be safe than sorry.

2. Does it hurt much when you go to one less wedge? Is some pain to be expected?
Answer: For me it hasn't hurt that much at all taking out each wedge, I imagine that some pain might be expected to start with (for some people), depending on how your surgery went and how much weight you carry. I have also been quite lucky not to suffer much pain while the air cast boot has been on. I found the best plan was to get out of bed, go and have a shower, put the boot back on with the same heal raisers, move around a bit as normal at home, get the leg and AT warmed up a bit (30 mins to 1 hours maybe), then take the heal raiser out and take it easy for the first day or so while the AT adjusts to the new height. All in all, it should go pretty smootly.

3. I would like to go to a cane when I start putting some weight on my foot - did this work for you?
Answer: Not sure what you mean by putting weight on it, I did this almost straight away, gave up the crutches within a couple of days of going from my blue cast into the air cast boot. I too was going to buy a cane but in the end didn't need it.... each to there own I suppose and they are so cheap it may not hurt to have one. The day I wanted to get one, each place I tried to buy one didn't have any, so just stuck with my crutches long enough to build confidence then just stopped using them.

My doctor said strictly no driving, it was my right leg, I drive a manual Subaru WRX, highly modified, anyway, I know if I had an accident, my insurnace wouldn't cover me, so I didn't want to take any chances..been spending $60 per day in taxi's getting to and from work, can't wait to drive again and get some of my normal life back :-)

Cheers,
Damian

[Steved]

Damien - thanks for the information - it was very helpful. I have been in the aircast one week now with all 3 wedges still in. I actually started putting just a slight bit of weight on it today and will see if it swells much by day end.

Sounds like you are doing well - good on ya.

All the best, Steve

[Mark F]

Greetings from Warrington, UK - I am a 44 year old male trying to do things that I did 20 years ago !!

I had the misfortune to join this merry band yesterday (21-MAY-07). Playing touch rugby, I made an interception and was heading for the tryline and probable glory, when I felt as though the chasing defence used a cricket bat across my left ankle to slow me down. Luckily, the head physio of Warrington Wolves RLFC (pro Super League team - the one that Joey Johns played for in 2005) was in attendance and immediately diagnosed the problem.

Curretly in a back cast from above knee to toe and have surgery booked for Tuesday morning.

Will be back to update in due course.

[CraigM]

Hello everyone.
Good to see everyone reporting in.
Mark F: Welcome to the club. Ive just turned 45 and my surgery is booked for Monday so it will be interesting to keep track of each others progress. (mine is a re-rupture tho).
Sazza: Hang in there. We are both now sooooo very privileged to be in the Re-rupture club. I'll be keeping a close track on how your doing. Yes its another 3 or so months out of normal living but at least now we know what to expect - kind of. That is one bright side to this!!!

I hope everyone else is doing OK. Just keep on this blog and keep asking those questions. We have a great knowledge resource here. In some ways I wish Doctors that treated AT ruptures actually had done this injury to themselves to realize what thier patients have to go through. I don't mean this in a spiteful way tho.

Keep up the great feedback.

[Danny Boy]

Hi Damian

I was really interested to read your story and, indeed, all the othe stories on this forum about this injury. I am not looking for sympathy at all from anyone but I think you can only understand what we are going through if this has happened to you.

I am 34 and completely snapped my achilles tendon 5 weeks ago playing football. There was no impact but I heard that sickening BANG before falling in a heap on the floor - went straight to hospital and they operated within 12 hours of being admitted. I wore a half-cast for two weeks before they put me in a boot with heel supports which I have gradually removed so now I don't have any heel supprot now apart from the boot. The injury feels fine now to walk on a nd I don't use my crutches much. I had my first physio session yesterday which was very protective and involves bending the right foot backwards and forwards only wearing the boot so you can't over-do it.

My worry at the moment is my left achilles ( the uninjured one). A couple of months prior to my injury I had been experiencing soreness in both achilles, especially after exercise. I play 5 a- side footie a couple of times a week. My real worry at the moment is that the left one will go soon - does anyone have any advice for me.

Best wishes to all of you and I feel sick when I read what everyone else has been through. I am extremely lucky that I have an extremely supportive family helping me through this and I can work from home (although can't drive yet and want to know when I can!) - I know not everyone has this so I am relatively very lucky

[Beung]

I am glad to see that most are recovering rather well and I am sad to hear about those that have had re-ruptures.

As for me I am no longer seeing the surgeon nor my physio anymore. My AT is nowhere near 100% but there is nothing that either one of them can do for me now, the only thing left now is time. I have a good base in terms of flexibility and strength so it's all left to me to keep up with the stretching and strength exercises.

I still walk with a bit of a limp and the strength and pain while putting trying to pu full body weight type of pressure on it comes and goes depending on the day and time of day. The AT and my ankle get stronger each day and surprisingly I find that the day after I go play a round of golf (I still ride as I don't think I could walk a whole round of golf) it feels even more stable and stronger then the day I played.

As for prevention, the only things I have heard or read about would be to do Eccentric load exercises. These are basically resistance type exercises, where instead of contracting your muscle to say lift your body up using your calfs, you start on your toes and slowly lower yourself onto the floor. These exercises stretch while your muscles are contracting, something like this:

http://www.nismat.org/ptcor/eccentric_achilles/

[ImranD1]

Robind I'm in the UK in Manchester and after speaking to my doctor I was told he gets a couple ruptures a week and has a clinic dedicated to ruptures running on Thursdays. he treats all ruptures with the AirCast as he think it provides the best support during healing.

[Danny Boy]

Hi Imran - I am also in Manchester - can you let me know where this running clinic is?

Thanks pal and good luck with your recovery

Danny

[Mark F]

Danny Boy and Imran, I live in Warrington but work in Wythenshawe. How do we all find ourselves on an Aussie website ??!!:)

I feel that a comparison meeting should be held - although I am due to have surgery on Tuesday and cannot comment on rehab just yet.

[NickJW]

Hi all and please excuse me jumping in, I seem to be in the older age group at 53. Managed a full rupture playing squash - fed up with the number of "serves you right" comments!!! Anyway, it happened on 24 April, no warning and bang, had surgury within 24 hours. There was some reluctance because of my age but they did agree as I'm reasonably fit with squash, golf, running, etc. Since been 2 weeks in an open cast, then stitches out and further two weeks in a full cast.
Greatest problem so far happened this week on removal of the cast, local fracture clinic fitted an adjustable boot and tried to get my foot to 20 degrees. It would not go there, despite a hefty attempt which left me very sore and concerned about re-rupture! In the end they left it at 30 degrees and I'm to work it during the next week when they'll have another go! Problem seems to tightness around the heel, try to move but it's very limited and painfull if I push it too much, there's also still quite a bit of swelling still. Has anybody had similar problems bringing the foot angle up - it seems from most posts that this is not typical?

Cheers,
Nick

[Steved]

Hey Nick -

Welcome to the old boys club! I got you by a few years - I'm 56. I snapped my achilles on April 21 (total rupture) playing tennis. I had surgical repair 2 days later and into a fibreglass cast (foot down ~ 30 degrees) for 4 weeks. Now I am in an air cast with 3 wedges under the heel. So I am 5 weeks post-op today and I have not taken out any of the wedges, nor have I gotten much direction from the doc about what to do. I have just started to put a slight bit of weight on it when I walk on crutches, but after 4-6 hours of this i get swelling and have to put it up. The doc did mention I should remove one every 2 weeks so I should be at neutral angle in 6 weeks. However, the guy is so totally booked I can't get back in to see him (I am in the southern interior of British Columbia). I will soon be taking out my first wedge and will let you know it goes.

Good luck, Steve

[NickJW]

Hi and thanks Steve,

Yes similar experience with very little direction - so this forum has been a great help.
Good news is removing the boot and gently working the foot I am seeing improvement in ankle flexibility - up to the point that I can get to 20 degrees now - which in 2 days is pretty good. I'm being careful not to push it too much though! Clinic's view was I should be at neutral in two weeks time (6 weeks from surgury). Similar to you I am slowly putting some weight on it based on what I've read here but have to watch the swelling.
I'm back to the fracture clinic Thursday so will let you know how it goes - I've lots of questions for them!

Cheers and best of luck, Nick

[ImranD1]

[B]Danny Boy[/]
The clinic is at Wythenshaw hospital....all patients with ruptured Achilles have their appointments on Thursday, the hospital calls it a clinic - hope it helps.

[robind]

Hi all,

Just a quick update to let you know how things are coming along for me. I ruptured my achilles on March 22nd and had the conservative treatment (non-op).

10 weeks and 4 plaster casts later I am "cast-free". The foot feels really strange, finding it very hard to move it, but hoping thats down to the 10 weeks of inactivity. I've been given some wedges to put in my shoes and told to try and put weight on when wearing them but still to use the crutches around the house (if shoeless). Thats it, no Aircast which somebody else had told me I would get next !.

To be honest, I don't feel confident enough to try and put any weight on it yet, it just doesn't feel right. I may try and get a shoe on later today though, and take a few steps with the crutches. I was a bit concerned that I'm not due back at the hospital for another 4 weeks and won't have any physio until after that. The doctor said that it is still healing and its too early for physio. Seems strange that they want you to try and walk on it but deem it to early for physio. I may talk to a private physiotherapist and see what they say.

I hope everybody is coming along well, good to hear that some people are nearing the end, gives us all some hope !.

Take care

Robin

[christina]

Hi all,
52 achilles rupture playing softball last Saturday, going in for surgery on Monday. I have played sport all my life but I think it is time to stop with the running sports for me. Will stick to waterskiing and learn to play golf. It is so good to read how everyone has got on. Not looking forward to the pain after but then again I have had 4 kids all c sections so I am hoping not any worse then that. I had a hamstring tear last year and the pain of that was so bad I thought I would be sick. Will update my progress.

[Steved]

Hey Robin and Christina -

Robin - I am at 6 weeks post-op, 2 weeks out of the fibreglass cast and into an air cast. I hear you - I too, am concerned about putting too much weight on. Yesterday I pushed it and my ankle swelled up a bit. I think the key is the wedges under the heel - you will be ok whether in a shoe or aircast if you keep the wedges in. The trick is to not let your foot snap back and retear the achilles. I just keep walking on it and if it seems too much, it is. Stay in touch - I am interested in your progress.

Christina - Welcome to the (dubious) club! I snapped my achilles playing tennis and I have decided (at age 56) to give it up. I also play b-ball and softball but I will be happy to give it all up (except golf) as long as I will be able able to walk again - At night I actually dream about walking again some day. From what you have been through I doubt pain will be an issue (it never was for me - not that much pain for very long). Best of luck to you and stay in touch.

Steve

[CraigM]

Hi everyone,
Just a quick up date.
Have now had surgery (Mon 28) and was at home the next day. No need for pain killers or Morphine but they did pump me full of antibiotics overnight while on the drip. Now in a Plaster-of-Paris cast for 2 weeks then - its up to the Doc.
There was a blood clot behind my re-rupture so I'm pleased that the surgery found it. I hardly have any pain but if you find you do then just elevate the foot to above your Heart level - this will help heaps. Also sticking a couple of pillows under the end of your mattress will keep it elevated overnight.
Arrrr - on the road to normality again!.:p

[Mark F]

One day behind Craig M. Rupture on 21 May, surgery on Tuesday 29 May. Had the op around 10-30 am, had an overnight stay in hospital then got home around 11-00 am on Wednesday.

I have a cast up the front of my leg from toes to just below knee and nothing at the back or under my foot (apart from a soft bandage). No painkillers yet (in fact I have not taken any, even at the time of the injury !) but I am experiencing a sharp pain in my calf muscle - anyone else have this ??

I have an appointment with the surgeon for 2 weeks tomorrow to check the stitches - if they can come out I will be placed in a Domjoy boot ( http://www.donjoy.com/index.asp/fuseaction/products.detail/cat/6/id/3 ) .

Currently lying in bed working at the laptop - today is month end and I must get my figures completed today !!

More in a couple of weeks.

[Steved]

Mark - Congrats on the surgery - sounds like your pain management is very good - I had one bag of morpheine right after surgery and a couple of days of Tylenol 3s (codeine). Nothing after that. I did experience some pain in my calf, not really a sharp pain, but it did get my attention. The doc said to elevate above the heart, but if it persisted to contact him as it could mean a bloodclot. My pain slowly went away and its ok now (I am 6 weeks post-op).

The air cast you are getting looks identical to mine. They are wonderful - you can take them off, bathe and attend to the surgical wound. It very much lifted my spirits when I got the fibreglass cast off and got the aircast on. You can look forward to that!

Good luck, Steve

[CraigM]

Hi Mark and Steve.
Looks like we all have the same fashion accessory. The Boot is great and having the freedom to take it off to shower and get some air is a bonus.
We call them a "MOONBOOT" here. They are throw away items and apparently only cost about NZ $120 and are now made in Mexico (cheaper than in China).
I'm hoping to go back into mine 2 weeks post op tho I might have to wait 4 weeks.

[Mark F]

Can anyone post any info regarding driving ?? I have a manual car at present but I am seriously considering switching to an automatic so that I can get mobile quicker and get to work (office based). How long have people been unable to clutch gear change ?? I anticipate that it is at least 2 months away bearing in mind the clutch action puts a lot of stress on the achilles.

Comments most welcome.

[Steved]

Mark - I damaged my right achilles and I have been driving since the start. In the air cast I take off the brace and I can then easily use the accelerator - I brake with my left foot. I just drove 1000 km today with no problem. I have an automatic - I doubt I could drive a standard.

I think its a matter of getting pysched and just trying it. good luck.

Steve

[Mark F]

Thanks Steve, my problem is that I have a stick shift (clutch pedal), I can't imagine any issues with an auto box. Just off now to look at new (auto) cars !!

[Suu]

Hi all. My name's Suu, live in Newcastle (Aus) and 52 years young.

Thankyou Damian for this thread.

I had an achilles lengthening op last March but it went a tad wrong and now I look forward to a transfer which will take place in September and will experience all that you mob have been going through. Without this thread to read I wouldn't be so informed on what to expect and you all have had a great impact on how I'm gearing up to tackle this operation and the recovery. I just hope it's still here for me to read and re-read then.

I'll be reading and asking questions as I get closer to D day. Thanks again.

Suu

[gater]

I am glad this forum exists because it is a great outlet for the frustrations and uncertainties that accompany this injury. I am a 37 year old living in San Diego who unfortunately joined this esteem group by rupturing his right AT on May 29th playing basketball. I knew I had a torn AT but was hoping that I may have “just torn” my calf muscle (I was in denial for a few hours). I surprisingly was able to drive my manual car home and waited to go to the doctor until the next day. Needless to say it was confirmed that I had a torn right AT and I had an open repair on the 31st.

Had to really think about the pros and cons associated with the surgical versus conservative approaches. My Ortho said that traditionally a younger active person with no cardiovascular or diabetic histories have more often done better with surgical repair (lower rates of re-rupture). However, my Ortho said that recent research (without a control group) has shown that the conservative (non-surgical) approach with early rehab has been attaining results similar to those of surgical repair.

Overall, the disadvantages of the surgery (or any surgery for that matter) are the risks of infection. Since the back of your heal and lower leg have poor blood supply, smokers and those with heart disease and/or diabetes may encounter more difficulties with surgical site healing may do better with the non-surgical appraoch.

The bottom line here is that the choice of treatment should be made by you in concert with your Surgeon. Just make sure you ask the important questions such as what are your surgeon’s infection rates with this surgery and what are your surgeon’s rate of re-rupture. I decided to go with the surgery because my surgeon has done over 500 AT repairs with no cases of infection and only one re-rupture due to an over-zealous patient who pushed his rehab too quickly.

One other thing to think about is the choice of anesthesia. My anesthesiologist presented me with the choice of general anesthesia or a spinal block. I went with the spinal block because of the sore throat and grogginess associated with general anesthesia. I am glad that I did. I was awake during the procedure and was able to ask questions of my surgeon during the surgery. I found out that my rupture was a clean tear and that he was able to suture the ends together well. He also stressed to me that I should keep my leg elevated as much as possible during the first week after surgery to lessen the swelling and pain associated with the procedure. Further I had no pain that is until the block wore off totally which was about 8 hours after surgery which allowed me to get up the stairs without much difficulty.

The throbbing and pain was pretty bad the first night and the next morning which my vicodin did not help with at all. What ended up working for me was just a couple of advil. The pain is gone for the most part when I am just lying around with my foot up. But when I am up on my crutches it begins to throb if I am upright for too long which is only about 5-10 minutes right now.

[Tom-sportsinjuryclinic]

Hi there, the rupture of the achilles tendon is an extremely serious soft tissue injury as you all know. Its the strongest tendon in the body able to withstand a few tonnes of pressure so its no surprise that in the event of injury that it spells a long rehab process. The fact of the matter is that although surgery provides low incidence of re-injury it also means up to 12 weeks before normal function can be attained, hence conservative management is normally advocated in less severe injuries.

However the tendon is injured the most important factor will be in the integrity of the rehabilitation program you employ. If it is inadequate, intense exercise can result in severe re-injury. My advice is to adhere to post-op physio to the letter to make sure you get the right amount of movement and strenght in and around the tendon. An extremely comprehensive page on this injury and rehab following surgery is: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/back/achilles/achillestotal.htm

Good luck with the injury, Tom.

[Danny Boy]

Mark F

Sorry to hear about your injury pal. I live in Manchester and ruptured my achilles playing football 7 weeks ago to the minute (still close my eyes and hear the "bang"!). I was in a cast for two weeks and an airboot for the last five weeks with gradual heel blocks which I got rid of most within two weeks.

Anyway, I work in Preston (50 miles away) and am reliant on my car for work but they haven't let me drive until today. Went to the hospital this morning for routine check-up and he said I could start driving shortly. I tried it before in an automatic car and it seemed Ok, there was very little rocking of the ankle, it is more of a "step" on the accelerator and then on the brake. I only went local and it felt fine - the danger is how you would react slamming on at 80 mph -

I guess if you don't feel completely in control then it is too soon - I know needs must for work but please make sure you are in control before you drive.

Good luck with the recovery mate

[Mark F]

Hi DannyBoy. Luckily (!) it is my left leg that has gone, so driving an automatic would present no problem, just trying to sort finance and then I will be in for a purchase. I live in Warrington but work in Wythenshawe (near the airport), not a majorly long journey but it is a dreadful trip during rush hour !!

Fingers crossed that its not you coming the other way when we both have to hit those brakes :)

[Beung]

Mark - I damaged my right achilles and I have been driving since the start. In the air cast I take off the brace and I can then easily use the accelerator - I brake with my left foot. I just drove 1000 km today with no problem. I have an automatic - I doubt I could drive a standard.

I think its a matter of getting pysched and just trying it. good luck.

Steve

I asked my surgeon about driving and he told me not to drive because you can get a ticket, the equivalent to an impared driving charge, not DWI. Also when I was in my cast I don't think I could make any sudden movements incase of a accident situation.

[Gord]

Hi,

For those of you who enjoy swimming, you can get a waterproof XeroSox that covers the cast and creates a vacuum seal. I had my surgery on May 18 and after one week I used the pull bouys, which provides floatational support for the legs, and gives the upper body a good workout. I've been swimming just about everyday since. Furthermore, my foot is constantly elevated so there is no pain.

I go back on Monday, June 11 for another cast. My doctor wants me to use it for another 2 weeks. I've spoken to a couple of friends who had this surgery and they were put into the aircast boot a lot sooner and they feel their recovery was much quicker because of it. I've noticed that some of you are using or will be using the boot before me. I am going to ask him if he will let me go to the boot on Monday (24 days post-op). Any comments?

Gord

[Mark F]

Hi Craig, you mentioned that you were due to have the op on 28th May, mine was 29th May. How are you r progressing ?? Early days I know !!

I stayed in the hospital overnight and arrived home on the Wednesday lunchtime. I have a cast down the front of my leg, from below knee to toes. The doc has put me on an accelerated recovery protocol with a timetable of events (below). I have no pain in the leg, just aches in other parts of the body trying to protect the leg. Bandage supprting the cast is extremely lose, going to have a go at re-fitting later tonight.

Recovery protocol:

day 1 - op

week 2 - remove cast, inspect wound, remove sutures, straight to Donjoy MS Walking Boot set at 30deg, can remove boot for gentle dorsi flexion, sleep in boot, NWB on crutches

week 3 - check wound, boot to 20deg, NWB, leave boot off at night (!!)

week 4 - boot to 10deg, PWB with crutches, active stretching

week 5 - boot to 0deg, active stretching, heel raises, FWB with crutches

After that, I think we re-assess.

[CraigM]

Hi Mark
All is going well with my recovery. Had surgery on the Monday (28th) around 10.15am and was out and awake around 2pm. Had to stay in overnight on a saline drip and Antibiotics every 8 hours. Was cleared to go home on the Tuesday around 11am after I gave a demo to the Occupational Therapists that I could use my crutches and get around. Had to show I could go up and down stairs - Hell I'm an expert on crutches now and they weren't too impressed with me leaping up stairs 2 at a time . Foot was a bit "heavy" and a little pain doing that, but this was probably cause I had been lying down inactive for over 24hrs !
Haven't needed any pain relief at all. Foot and calf feel great, toes wiggle easy.

I see the Doc this Monday - plaster cast comes off, wound inspected, stitches out, bla bla bla. I'm going to take my Air/Donjoy/Moon BOOT in with me and push for going into that instead of another cast (which they have told me is most likely - the cast that is). So my powers of persuasion will come in handy.
I have a synthetic back/half cast as well which I got as a temporary when I re-ruptured and while waiting for surgery. I found this to be most useful as even when I got my boot (a week later), I would wear my half cast at evenings/nights which allowed me to relax on the sofa and sleep a lot easier.

It all comes down to Monday's visit and how well the healing is going. Ive usually been a fast healer (shattered both of my knee-caps at the same time 15 years ago and was active and working, pins and wires out, no crutches only 2 months later, playing rugby 4 months atfer that).
I'll get my recovery plan after Mondays visit but I would say it will be pretty much the same as yours. It all depends on how well you heal, how the the Docs fell on the day, and which way the wind is blowing. I'll update you on Monday.
How are you managing at home.
Are you doing any work?

[Mark F]

Sounds good Craig.

I am working from home on the laptop lying on my side on the bed !! Two days a week, my wife drives me to the office and I get to meet real people and interact !

Getting round the house is getting easier as I become more skilled on the crutches, I am also using a knee high stool to kneel the bad leg on when I have to stand in the same position for any length of time - ie cooking or washing.

Managed to have a shower wearing my newly purchased plastic bag / sealed at the top.

I too have damaged both knees playing soccer (not at the same time though) and like to think that I am a quick healer with regards to muscles and joints, never had stiches in my 44 years so no idea how the skin will heal.

Let me know after your visit on Monday and I will do the same on Thursday

By the way, which code of rugby do you play ?? I am a rugby league man, Warrington Wolves being my team - season ticket holder, follow the team home and away.

[sazza]

Hi Everyone

Reading individual's cases it amazes me how each proceedure differs. First time around (first rupture that is) i was told not to place any weight on foot for at least 8 weeks.....then as you now straight out of cast. Still can't help wondering if it was too much too soon as various sites i have visited insist that tendon repair such as ours takes at least 12 weeks. Now once again Doc is saying at least ten weeks - once again cut short from original 12! I know that i am not getting totally bored with the whole thing!!! feel like i've haven't been to work for 3 years let alone 3 months. Just wish this whole nightmare was near ending but i have a feeling it is only really just beginning.
Anyway bought myself a covering for cast which (according to the instructions) will allow me to swim for upto 20 mins - have to talk hubby into taking me at the weekend....nagging would be more like it. Although i'm probably going to get rather a few people staring i imagine..oh well who cares!

Glad to see everyone is managing reasonably well and coming along - as they say patience is a virtue (could throttle the person who came up with that!)

[Reza Taheri]

Hi Experts ;-)
I ruptured my Achilles tendon about 6 weeks ago during the indoor soccer. I am 35 years old,ex-pro football player,healthy active man,living in Sydney Australia. I had a Ultrasound a week ago which indicated that I Tear ( Ruptured ) almost 3/4 of my tendon! they put my leg in some kind of Back slap cast; they also offered me two methods of treatment!
1- Surgery / 8 weeks cast / walking boot / Physio
2-Non-Surgery ( Conservative treatment ) / 8 weeks cast / 2 weeks walking boot/ physio
finally they came a cross with the second treatment according to my situation & age!
Would you please advice me. I need your expert opinion on this matter please.

Many Thanx Reza

[ImranD1]

Hi Reza,

Since you're a healthy person i would suggest surgical treatment as it provides the better success %s compared to the conservative approach. If you look into treatment methods you will see the majority of articles argue the surgical approach offers reduced rates of re-rupture and allow you the gain up to 95% of ur original strength back.

I ruptured my achilles and was started on the conservative approach. I am 23 and didn't do my research into the different treatments but if i had my chance again i would have opted for surgery....if professional football players have surgery on ruptured Achilles i assume that to be the best treatment. 2 weeks into my recovery i was tempted to ask for surgery but never did...some days when i read of re-rupture stories i think i made a wrong choice....D'oh!!

However, on the bright i hear that early rehab (with conservative treatment) produces results similar to those of surgical repair :)...this was pointed out by my doc and GATER on his earlier post. I am 7 weeks and 4days into my treatment and my AirCast comes off in 3days so i am looking forward to starting rehab - i discovered last week i can ride a bike with my cast on :)...freedom never tasted so good!!!

All the best everyone!

P.s Where has Damian gone?

[Reza Taheri]

Dear Imran D1,
Thanx for your comment on this nasty injury! I have an appointment tomorrow with Sport specialist & whatever he ig going to diagnose, Its going to be my final decision.I am very eager to find out what the result of your treatment is.Its good to hear that you can ride your bike again.fantastic! even with the conservative treatment.
wish me luck & I'll keep you guys posted.

Many Thanx again.
Reza

[CraigM]

Hi Mark
Well the big day has come and gone and even tho I really, really tried, I'm back in a cast. That was always going to be the case anyway but there's no harm in trying.
I wore my MOONBOOT over the cast so they got the idea. The thing is with a re-rupture they want to ensure that you don't get a 3rd rupture as the tendon starts getting a bit messy by then and repeated surgery can reduce the level of recovery and strength. My incision is about 6 inches long and has healed very well. The 14 stitches came out yesterday as well. I have 4 weeks in a synthetic cast (colour - White with Dinosaurs :rolleyes: I wanted something "different" ) in a nearly neutral position then that comes off and Im into my Boot and Physio.
It means a longer time in a cast but the repair will be the strongest possible as I wont strain everything before its healed properly.
Your situation is probably different as your a "first timer" - BUT do take it easy in your first couple of weeks with no cast. Build it up slowly and don't rush. Going easy will give you better long term recovery.
So Ive got another 4 weeks to kill. Might have to get some more PC games.

You sound like an active sporty guy just like myself. I started playing Rugby (Union) from age 5 (the main sport in NZ) and have played around 30 seasons. I played League for 1 year when I was young but I follow both sports. These days I don't play as black eyes, dislocated fingers, strained muscles etc are not a good look at work and the body I think had had enough. My main sport now is Volleyball - indoor and beach so a full AT recovery to me is very important.

How are you doing?
RE. Cooking and Washing - I thought your Wife might of let you off those duties !!

Hope everyone else is recovering well. How is Damian ?

[Mark F]

Craig - not sure if going to the cast for 4 weeks is good news or not !! I suppose that the docs are looking after your best interest and getting the tendon to heal properly before you start your rehab / physio.

I am due at the hospital on Thursday to remove the cast and see what lies underneath - hopefully a perfectly healed wound and no smells or dead skin - fingers crossed. After that, the doc will decide on cast or boot. I take your advice fully on board and will not be pushing this too hard - a Re-R is not in my long term plans !!

An ex RU star playing beach volleyball ?? I bet you look good in your bikini :D ;)

Reza - ex pro footballer ?? I have done some googling and can see your name coming up against the Iran national side. Is this you ?? Tell us some more about your career.

On the subject of pro sportsmen:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_league/super_league/st_helens/6744021.stm

Former Great Britain rugby league captain, Paul Sculthorpe, has joined the merry band of ATR sufferers. He is currently the captain St Helens who top the Super League and has struggled with knee and back injuries for the past 12 months.

It was thought that he needed an op, but has opted for conservative treatment and hopes to be back in action this season. The season ends in mid October (4 months left to play)

I don't have enough knowledge of the rehab (being injury +22d / Op +15d), what do others think of his timeline ??

Damien - have you given up on us ??

[gater]

Got my plaster splint off yesterday as well as my staples removed. Glad to have the plaster splint off because it seemed to be so heavy. I am now in a blue fiber glass cast for two more weeks. This cast seems soooo much lighter. After these two weeks I will hopefully move into a walking boot since I had a clean rupture (which supposedly allowed my surgeon to better approximate the ends of my tendon during the surgical repair).

For those of you who have started rehab and moved to the walking boot. What was it like? When they removed my plaster splint, my foot looked and felt so foriegn to me. I wanted to try and move it and flex my calf muscles but I was too afraid to do it. What does it feel like when you have to start streching the tendon out again?

The thing that is frustrating me the most right now is getting on the toilet. I am 6'7" which makes the drop down to the toilet very interesting. I am too proud to get a raised toilet seat and will tough it out for another few weeks (I never thought I would need one for at least another 35-40 years). I am also going to owe my wife big time for all the extra stuff she has had to take on during this time.

Everyone hang in there and remember whatever doesn't kill us will make us stronger,
Mike

[gater]

Mark F,

I think the captain of St Helen's team is being a bit optomistic trying to come back this season. From all I have read and found about the rehab and recovery process, it takes a minimum of 6 months to get back to your sport of choice. And even then you are not truly 100%. In addition, he will not just be returning to his sport he will be returning to a very competitive level in his sport of choice. This just seems to be a recipe for a re-rupture. But I hope he pulls it off.

Here is a site with a typical rehab protocol: www.worksafebc.com/health_care_providers/Assets/PDF/achilles_tendon_repair_protocol.pdf

Mike

[christina]

Hi All

Well I had my achilles surgery last week my doctor told me I had a total tear which he was pretty sure I had anyway. I have 5 days to go before I get my stitches out and full cast. Feeling pretty good so far. Does anyone know if your foot is at a normal 90 degree rather then the pointed toe like I have now? I was told I will have the next cast on for 4 weeks. Then start physio.

Regards to all who are going through or have been through this injury.

chris.

[christina]

Hi Steve,

thanks for the reply. All going well so far. Go back to the docs next monday to get stitches and this cast off. Hope all looks good in there. I feel pretty good didn't need any meds when I came home just found it hard to sleep the first few nights. I had decided to give up softball this year anyway I did a scoring course only a couple of months ago so I will stay with the team just on the bench. I waterski so as Long as I can continue that I will be happy. I have always wanted to learn to play golf and walking can't hurt me so I guess that will be my first challenge after learning to walk again.

Regards... Chris..

[Mark F]

Sounds like you are doing just fine Christina, keep up the good work.

It sounds as though a good number of us on here will still be enjoying our sports but from a different perspective !! It must be similar to the transition from player to coach, you will miss the day to day 100% involvement but you will still be a major part of the team.

It also sounds like a good number of us will be taking up, or concentrating on, golf !! I had taken up the sport again last November after a 10 year gap, my handicap was just starting to show signs of improvement then the dreaded 'POP' !! My main aim now is get the handicap below 20, but I have given myself until mid 2008 to achieve this.

[gater]

Chris,

They point the toe down to take the tension off the sutured tendon.

Sounds like we are in for the same treatment plan. I just got my sutures out on Monday and will be in a cast until 4 weeks post-op. Once the cast comes off it will be a walking boot with wedges for another 4 weeks inorder to get the foot back to 90 degrees.

Can't wait to get back kayaking though, I hate sitting around with my foot up.

Mike

[CraigM]

Hi Gater, Christina, Mark F and all other recovering ATR.

Its interesting to hear and compare the different recovery plans that we are on.
It seems like the "norm" is have stitches out 2 weeks post Op then 4 weeks in another cast - then the boot and some form of Rehab.
I'm in my 4 week cast now and my foot is in-between pointed and neutral. Once the cast comes off then I'm 90 degrees in a boot (no wedges) and can start full Rehab.
Mark F - is your Doc still skipping the 4 week cast.

[christina]

Hey Mark Craig and Gater,
I understood about the pointed toe wasn't too sure if we changed positions in next cast, glad to hear we do my foot really would like to move in a different direction. I am counting the days. I am also scared at what I will feel with the front slab off. But from what some of you have said to get rid of the weight of this thing is a relief in itself. I was starting to think I was getting a bit dipping thinking it was heavy. I am not one to sit around either so to get around the house faster I have taken the back of a desk chair and roll around the house. I have a lazy family my fault spoil them so I am still cleaning up after them. Fool am I... (timber floor) so i can get around quick on the desk chair.. I do use my crutches a lot too I know I have to make sure I get enough movement to prevent blood clots. So where are you all from? I am here in Sydney.

Regards to you all my fellow ATR

[christina]

Sorry about the comment where is everyone from I should be blonde just realised it tells us along with our names....I will blame it on the fact I am going crazy confined to the house......!!!!!

Chris...

[Reza Taheri]

Mark F

Thanx for you concern & message! Yes I played for Iranian team but not for the National team. I used to play for the Club named "ESTEGHLAL" three times Asian champion & 12 times national champ. & 4 times regional champ.! quiet champion. haha ;-) anyway I recently moved to Australia from The Netherlands " Amsterdam " I also played two years for the ducth national club called " Zilver Meeuwen" which trained 6 months by the dutch legend GUUS HEDINK " Australian Coach WC 2006!!!but I retired three years ago. now I am in Sydney Australia & starting a new life with the late injury :( which made my life a little bit difficult! anyhow tomorrow I am going to see some foot & ankle specialist in sport field. let see what they would offer to me.
Ok I'll keep you posted.

Thanx again
Reza

[damian]

Hello everyone,
Just to let you know I have been reading ALL of your posts with interest.
I haven't given up on the forum.
I plan to write a big update shortly.
As far as my AT rehab is going, I am very happy so far with my progress, it's going well!
Just have had some stressful stuff going on in my life lately.

In summary:
1) For those of you who don't already know, I am gong through a separation from my wife. Very sad indeed.
2) I didn't mention this earlier but since coming out of surgery, I have had some weird stuff happening with my health, firstly a lump in my mouth (inside of cheek) appeared and had to be removed surgically (twice) both times the patholgy came back as non cancer. Second, I had this very weird large white rash appear behind the lump on my cheek, luckily it went away after around 3 to 4 days. Around the same time, I stated having an on and off again sore throat, it has now been 6 weeks and I'm now waiting to see an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist on the 25th June. Anyway, I'm pretty scared at the moment... hopefully it will turn out to be something that will eventually go away or can be treated.
Not sure what has lead to this moment in my life, is it a super bug picked up while in hospital, something related to stress or being run down from my AT surgery.

So to cut a long story short, I have been so busy with visiting Dr's, getting back to work, dealing with my separation and going forward with my AT rehab, including sleep and trying to live a normal life, I haven't been able to sit down and write my usual update!
BUT I plan to change that this weekend, so a big update from me on my AT recovery.

Take care everyone,
Cheers,
Damian
PS: Just for the record, I am fit, healthy, don't smoke, hardly drink and vegetarian.

[Mark F]

Hi all, I am now at Op + 16 days, today I had an appointment with the doc. I had the cast removed, as well as all of the fluffy white padding and general surgery debris and eventually saw my leg, foot and stitches for the first time in just over 2 weeks !! If I am honest, I thought that it looked a bit of a mess but once the very pleasant nurse had cleaned everything up (even used warm saline !!) it didn't look too bad apart from a little puffiness - which I put down to me not elevating my leg enough over the past few days - spent 3 days in the office this week !

The wound had healed sufficiently to have the stitches removed - no pain at all during this procedure, despite my fears. The doc had a look at the wound and the leg and decided that I should get back on my crutches and take my Donjoy MS walking boot to the physio department and let them take over - no cast required :) Not sure if any of you have a Donjoy boot, it has no heel lifts but instead has a hinge at each side of the ankle which is set in place at the required angle (angles are shown alongside the hinge). Once the angle is set, it is locked in place with 2 pins per side and secured by tightening with an allen key. A series of velcro straps then secure the boot to the foot and leg. Each week, the angle is re-set by the physio chaps.

Before I got the boot fitted, I had to perform 2 simple movements.
1. move the toes - this will assist with removing the swelling in the leg/foot
2. try to move the foot / stretch the tendon - nothing happened but I must repeat this 4 times a day with the boot off

So, my next step is to continue with the simple exercises until next Friday when I return to physio to receive my next set of orders. It is very nice to be able to lie on my bed with the boot off and leave my leg exposed to the air.

Christina - I live in Warrington, UK - midway between Manchester and Liverpool
Reza - so you are a footballer with a much decorated past !
Craig - the doc is following his accelerated recovery protocol, he is quite a pioneering surgeon in these parts and I trust him so far
Gator - totally agree on the Paul Sculthorpe response - he will not play again this season
Damien - Oh my god, you are really going through the wringer at the minute, I sincerely hope that it all comes good for you very soon

[gater]

Mark F,

Sure wish I had the Donjoy boot option. This two more weeks in the fiber glass cast is going to drive me absolutely nuts. I had the same experience when they took off the paster cast. I tried to move my foot but nothing happened. I can wiggle my toes fine though. Glad things are going well for you.

My shoulders are now starting to hurt. Most likely from lugging around my 6'7" 250 pound frame on the crutches.

Oh well hope everyone is doing well. By the way I live in La Jolla, CA and I am professor at the nursing school at the University of San Diego. I am glad I did this right after I graded all my finals.

take care everyone,
Mike

[christina]

Dear Damian so sorry you are going through so much at the moment. I will say a pray for you that all goes well with the doctors. Hopefully you have just got some stress related thing happening you certainly have a lot of that at this time. I hope you have other family or friends that give you support during this time.
Mark - Wow no cast after stitches that is so different to here. I get my stitches off Monday so I will update on what my leg looks and feels like then. I know I get a cast for 4 weeks not sure what comes next i gather the airboot and then physio but will ask all these questions on Monday. They certainly have you working on your achilles quick. Let us know what your physio gets you to do and what is the recovery time with this method.
Hey Gator. You should try the desk chair to get around sometimes gives the shoulder a rest 1. it is quicker and the other change is fun. Also you can carry a lot a stuff if you are in a chair wheeling around.

Regard to you all keep safe. Chris....

[Reza Taheri]

Hi guys,
Me again! I just informed from the specialist today that not doing surgery is out of question! it is almost 5 cm gap between them!so next week on Wed, I am in the opp.room!
Mark F! ya buddy now its all past!
Damien- I am really sorry to hear that! I know you are very strong man & i hope that it all comes good for you.

Cheers
Reza the final decision! l;-)

[christina]

Good luck next week Reza. Sleeping is the hardest thing about all of this finding a comfortable position in bed. Once you can do that all is so much better. Having the op is the better choice as so many that decide for no surgery more then half end up in hospital in the end.
Take care Chris.

[Steved]

I am now 8 weeks post-op and I am down to one wedge in my air boot. Things are going well, but I have developed pain in my right knee ( severed my right achilles) - probably caused by walking like a wounded duck. I ditched the crutches for a cane and I can put full weight on the right leg.

I had my first session in physio yesterday but I warned the doc to be gentle. I am a bit paranoid after reading some folks' experience re: rerupture during physio. So he gave me a few benign exercises to do and I feel I am on my way. I can walk without without a cane, but prefer to have it just in case. The doc says if I continue to progress I can ditch the airboot in 2 more weeks.

I have to say to all of you that things really started looking up at 6-7 weeks post-op. I know everyone is different, but to those of you still in the bloody cast and on crutches - have hope!

Cheers, Steve

[Reza Taheri]

Dear friends,
Thank you for your support. I think also the same but I just wished to not having knife on my leg!
Steved- Sounds great !you are doing well! I try to imagine what my situation going to be after 6-7 week post opp.!
Christina- oh sleeping! I think i might need some sleeping tablet for the first days after the opp.

God help me!

Cheers
Reza

[christina]

Hey Reza,
dont worry about pain I was just on some strong pain killers for two days then nothing it is just getting the leg into a position that is comfortable. This front slab cast feels heavy you feel as if there is so much weight on your leg not painful just uncomfortable. I am so looking forward to the next cast. As you are just a couple of weeks behind me I will let you know how I get on after I get the stitches and new cast on Monday.
hearing how everyone is getting on is so helpful. Keep the info coming everyone. Take care all

Chris.....

[Mark F]

Reza - you seem to be having a similar anticipation reaction to myself (and probably many others). I thought that the operation / recovery would be painful - never having been cut open before or had stitches.

Al fears were in my head !! From the initial scratch to insert the anaesthetic lines to having the stitches out I have had 2 paracetemol and that was due to a calf pain because I didn't keep my leg elevated correctly in the first few days. In fact since suffering the injury that was the only pain relief I have needed - I had a morphine clicker pain relief but didn't use it. You wil be just fine.

I have also found another website forum - based here the UK - http://www.marfell.me.uk/nuke/modules.php?name=Forums - that is similar to this site, lots of experiences, going back 5 years. I always come here first though !!

[cbjonice]

Hi all. I was playing soccer yesterday for the first time in a long time when I felt someone kick me from behind. Unfortunatly as I was falling, I noticed there was not anyone within 10 ft of me. Obviously you can guess what happened (I knew instantly what it was).

My spirits are good so far, but I do not think it has hit me what has happened and what I will go through. One of my initial concerns is how much time off should I expect from work. I have a lot of projects I have been working on for a while that are getting a pivotal points where I want to make sure I can follow through. I am not naive enough to think that there will be no time off, but are we talking days or weeks?

I will be checking back here regularly and letting know of progress. Hope all is well for everyone and thank you for the information.

[cavalpi]

Hi Everyone,
This is the only site that had very good information!! So, I live in New York City and I wanted to post my progress during the next couple of months since I completely tore my Achilles tendon on my right leg playing Squash on June 13, 2007. It felt like my friend fell on my heel but unfortunately he was a good 5 feet away. I was lucky to have the Doctor who performed my ACL surgery on my left knee on Sept. 2006 available the next day to check the injury. Luckily it was his day in the hospital for surgeries. I went to the hospital, saw the doctor and he performed a test by making me sit on a chair on my knees with my feet sticking out and my torso holding on to the back rest. He then squeezed my left calf muscle and you could see the foot move, he then did it to the right calf muscle and there was no movement (sign of torn achilles). He stated that the achilles tendon extends into the bottom of the foot and that's why the foot moves when the tendon is intact.
After the diagnosis, we proceed in having the surgery done. Anesthetia was a remote block which numbed my leg below the knee with a mild sedative. OP took about 50 minutes, they fitted me with a boot with straps at it's highest angle so the tendon does not get stretched out. Doctor told me that when he saw my tendon, it was like a taught rope that snapped. Fibers everywhere. He cut a little bit off each torn tendon, then stitched together the ends.
After surgery on the 14th, at 1am on the 15th the anesthetia wore off and the pain began. Took a bunch of Oxycodone (pain killers) and also antibiotics (in case of infection) and managed through the night. Ended up on the couch so I could prop my leg up to reduce the swelling and pain. The night of the 16th, same problems but now it's 8pm on the 16th and the swelling in residing and so is the pain.
I've been instructed to do no weight baring for at least 2 weeks, then after that begin putting weight. Therapy will begin in 3 weeks and that should last 4 to 6 months. From talking to a friend who had this surgery already, he said most of the time is spent stretching the tendon out since it was cut shorter, then build up calf muscle strength.
I'll keep you guys posted, my mood is a little better but still very aggravated since I just finished ACL rehad 3 months ago and that was a 6 month job. One recommendation, the more tollerable to pain you are the faster you are going to heal. When you do an exercise, the initial pain is strong, but it will subside, just breathe and concentrate on something else.

Talk to you soon,
Pietro

[Reza Taheri]

Oh my god! its great to hear your experiences! it's a relief... I feel better & better when I read your comments.
Christina- I'll thinking of you during the opp & your spirit . Thanx
Mark F- You are a great help.I just wish if I need only 2 paracetamol :)
Cbjonice- I want to be very honest to you! You need at least 8 weeks! I have a same problem! I have to start my new Project in August! the Dr. yesterday said omm! Maybe if being lucky & help myself for exercises & do the right things!maybe we can reduce the recovery time to 6 weeks! still six weeks :( but in most of the times & cases recovery time is different from one to another. I hope we get back to our normal life very soon.have faith!
Piertro- Hoo man!it seems you suffered for a long time! I wish you well buddy & thanx for your advices I keep it in my mind.

Cheers
Reza

[cavalpi]

Reza, just keep positive. Now that I'm a veteran at this..lol.... From reading your post your surgery is inevitable and has to be done. In the long run you'll recover well but don't freak yourself out. Remember the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). It is a little hard to ice your tendon with the brace on since I'm instructed to keep it on 24/7 until I see the Dr. in 2 weeks, but I am able to ice the bottom and top of my foot. That part swells up also but it seemed to work well. Evelation is the key to reducing the pain the swelling will do if you were to keep your foot not elevated. Most of the pain comes from the swelling liquid that tries to move around underneath your skin. Every person is different in the recovery stage so keep up your spirit, good luck in surgery and I'll keep you guys posted on my progression.

[christina]

hi all.
Back from the doctors have my full very pretty..... lol blue cast on. It was a great to see my foot. Scar is very neat and was very clean. None or very little swelling around my ankle. Doctor was very please. My leg is in an almost flat position boy was it hard to move so tight. Not painful Reza just hard to more. It feels a little strange but better then before same thing keep leg elevated as much as you can until your leg adjusts to the new cast and leg settles in new position.

Take care all Chris....

[chickendonut]

Hi,

This is my first post on here and I'm so glad to have found some great info.

I ruptured my Achilles playing Tennis here in Dallas last Thursday. Pretty much the same experience as many on here. I thought I had whacked myself on the leg with my own racket and couldn't quite understand what happened. It gradually dawned on me that it had to be more than that and after a visit to my neigbour (an ER doc) I realized I had ruptured my Achilles.

I saw a specialist last Friday who recommended surgery due to my age (35) and have it scheduled for tomorrow. I was planning to take the whole family to Hawaii on vacation in 4 weeks time. We had it planned for 8 months and now that I've had to cancel it, we are devastated. I feel very guility that I messed up all the plans. The good news is that I've rebooked the vacation for December - just under 6 months from now.

Question - do you think I'll be OK in 6 months to snorkel, take short hikes etc or is that still too early?

I'm really hoping the doc doesn't want to put me in a cast for 8 weeks - based on some of the feedback here that sounds very conservative and likely to slow down my recovery.

[cavalpi]

As long as you keep to your PT (physical therapy) you should be able to walk in about 1-2 months. Running could take longer as you have to build up your calf strength and stretch out the repaired tendon. My Doc predicts that from surgery to full rehab can take from 4 to 6 months. For the cast, I did not get a plaster cast which everyone can sign (that's old school), I got a boot with straps with different heel angles. This will be your friend for 5-8 weeks but it helps you to walk around without crutches towards the end as you leg gets stronger.
At least you have a goal to reach and that's Hawaii. I'm going to Thailand in September and just want to be able to walk fine by then (that's 2.5 months away).
Don't think about it too much and get your surgery this week or next. The sooner you do it, the sooner you'll be able to snorkel.

[Reza Taheri]

Hi Guys,
It's my last day before my surgery! I am in good spirit lol.... Cava I just informed I'll get my boot on 29th of jun.its probably my first Dr. visit post opp. & they'll get rid of the Slabs & stitches as they plan! & then I have to buy the boot for $250 ( My new friend ) with straps & with different heel angles.exactly like yours which means I have the plaster cast only for two weeks!.50% of the boot cost will be cover by my insurance! haha. you can walk easier & you heal faster with the boot... as they said! I try to concentrate on my surgery first.Ok that all for now.thanx guys. I'll keep my faith & try to think about the Hawaii ! haha... maybe I join you chickendonut!
please do your surgery as fast as you can... dont wait like me! if I did it 6 weeks ago probably I could walk right now!!
Good Luck.
Cheers
Reza

[Mark F]

Reza - good luck for the op
Chickendonut - comiserations and welcome to the club !!

When I suffered my ATR (21-MAY-07) a lot of thoughts went through my mind as I was sat waiting for my first back slab: will I be able to work ?? Will I be able to make my family holiday ? (Paris on 22-AUG-07), Will I be able to go on the lads rugby trip to Perpignan ? (29-JUN-07), will I get to the Velvet Revolver gig ? (11-JUN-07).

I have fingers crossed for the family holiday, I am able to work from home, I missed Velvet Revolver, I have had to cancel the Perpignan trip.

My main concern is to get back to full fitness and just be able to walk again, if I have to miss out on a few treats here and there, then so be it - although a missed holiday in Hawaii would be devastating !!

I have had my Donjoy MC walking boot for 5 days now set at 30degrees - it is great to be ab le to remove it a few times a day and get some air to the leg - I have read horror stories of skin shedding and can honestly say that I am not suffering any skin based issues.

[Steved]

Hey chickendonut - welcome to the club! I did a full tear of the right achilles 8 weeks ago playing tennis like you. I was in a plaster (fibreglass actually) cast for 4 weeks and then in an airboot. I now only use the boot outside and I wear shoes with one lift inside. I can walk without even a cane now, so you should definitely be good to go in 6 months but I would think sooner.

Good luck, Steve

[lilzoo]

Hi All,

Another newbie to this great and informative forum.. it's really great to hear about everyone's experiences and know that there are others going through the same thing (especially as I lay here with my foot up). It's interesting though to see what a range of treatment is happening. Anyways... here's my story...

Wed. July 13th (same day as Pietro)... ruptured my left achilles tendon while playing soccer. Same experience... felt like someone kicked/stepped on my achilles area.. I kept asking people if someone stepped on me, I really was hoping that someone had because, unfortunately, I knew what the alternative was. Unlucky for me, it was the alternative. Went that night to the Emerg where I work and by the next morning was able to see the surgeon and lucky enough had surgery Friday am. Lots of pain on Saturday (should have taken drugs sooner).

I've got a front and back slab on for 2 weeks, NWB, and then am going to be switched over to a walking boot (Bledsoe) for another 5 weeks. I was hoping I could go back to work in 2-3 weeks with the walking boot... doc said I should be able to but from reading some of your posts, does this seem totally unrealistic??

This really SUCKS cuz it's summer and I've got 2 young kids (2 and 5) which I was hoping to do lots of fun summer and wet activities. Anyone have any suggestions of 'waterproof covers' for walking boots??

[christina]

Good luck with the op tomorrow Reza. Hey Steve 8 weeks walking without a cane you give us all so much hope.... YEAHHHHHH Did you do any exercise to keep muscle tone I have been doing some for my thighs but not sure if there is anything I can do the help my calf muscle other then moving my toes up as much as I can and down as much as possible.

I was told yesterday that I going straight to wedges in my shoe after my 4 weeks in this cast. Has anyone else done it this way. Just interested in how they went. All these doctors have so many various ways of getting us back to normal mobility.

Take care all Chris

[tonyb]

Hi guys.

I have read this thread with great interest however did not intially get around to posting. I was 12 weeks post achilles rupture and could see light at the end of the tunnel. I did my 10 weeks in plaster as I did not have surgery.

All was going well. I had started physio, had returned to work and was driving again. Then disaster last Saturday Night I was at a wedding reception when I started to walk off to go outside and PING. Yep you guessed it my achilles had re-ruptured and I crumbled to the floor. I was distraught and in despair and frustration at how this happened. I could not bear to go through this ordeal again.

Went to A&E and as it was very swollen they could not tell the extent of the damage on the XRAY. So went to the Fracture Clinic yesterday where a consultant said it appeared the tendon has re-ruptured. He had none of my notes and left a message for my consultant stating that I wished for surgery.

I have been booked in for a MRI scan and my consultant (one with my notes) is calling me today to discuss how we move on from here. My leg is in a full plaster cast again with my toes pointing down. I am worried my consultant will say he wants me to stay on plaster again for 10-12 weeks. I just can't mentally go through that again. My sick leave has run out and I have a family holiday in 3 weeks. Its a total disaster. I am prepared for the phone call where I will state that I want surgery.

My advice to you guys is to take it easy for the first 8 weeks when you come out of your plaster or air boot. It can happen to you! I thought I'm young, fit, strong a re-rupture won't happen to me. Well it can. DONT DRIVE, DONT OVER DO IT, TAKE IT EASY. After all it's only a soft tissue. Don't put yourself in my situation and under any uneccessary pressure. It is completely demoralising to be back at square one again after 12 weeks.

I'm sure you can all relate to this. So please all be sensible and look after your achilles.

Tony

[Mark F]

Tony, that must be absolutely devastating. I have extreme sympathy for all ATR sufferers (I am 29 days post injury) but for those who re-rupture - I just cannot comprehend what you must be going through. Knowing that you have to endure the whole recovery process all over again must be an absolute killer, mentally it must be difficult to cope with. Best of luck with the outcome of your MRI and possible (probable ??) surgery. Keep us updated.

On the subject of surgery - having had the op myself - I cannot see any differences in recovery times compared with the non-surgical route. Had I been given the choice (and I wasn't !!) I would have opted for surgery. 16 days after the op, my stitches were out and I have the comfort that my surgeon has seen the damage first hand and has made the repair based on what he saw rather than a scanned image.

On the subject of not over doing things - I was due to change my car at the end of this month and have actually opted for an auto gearbox, because I am not going to be putting any unnecessary stress on the tendon. I will now also be avoiding weddings - surprising how many people suffer the injury whilst at weddings !!

[tonyb]

Well surgery is booked for this Thursday. Quite a relief to know I'm not going down the conservative route again. Wish I did this route first time.

Mark F: With recovery times I think the surgical route is slightly quicker from what I've read. People seem to be walking after 4 weeks ableit in a boot but with the conservative method I wasn't walking for 8 weeks. Between weeks 8 and 10 I was able to walk on my plaster cast. Plus physio can begin quicker. My physio didn't start until Week 11. People in the airboot seem to start physio after Week 4. I'm no expert but this is just from what I've read on here and other forums. However us guys in the UK seem to be treated very differently from our US and AUS counterparts. I would be v.interested to see a breakdown of your timings and what you've been through to date so I know what to expect.

Re: Driving. I would no way drive a manual again until I had some serious physio under my belt. It's got to be Automatic transmission. I drove a week and a half in my manual car and in hindsight the uneccessary pressure I put on my new tendon must of been a contributing factor in the re-rupture.

[ImranD1]

TonyB, i'm sorry to hear about the re-rupture especially as i've been treated conservatively too :(
Its been on the news in manchester about the rugby player for St Helens who tore his achilles and surprisingly is being treated conservatively...this does give me hope however the chances of re-rupture are always there as was pointed out to you at the wedding :mad:

Since you and I have both been treated conservatively i was expecting your treatment regime to be similar to mine, however its looks a little different. I was in an cast, toes down, non weight bearing for 2 weeks before being given an Aircast and told to bear weight but with crutch support for 2 weeks. The next four weeks were with no crutches. This treatment seems similar to those who have had surgery so i queried this with my GP and doctor and they both said that AT treatment is moving away from surgery as similar results can be seen through conservative treatment with early rehab....i do feel like a Ginipig

My 8 weeks of treatment finished on saturday and i have an appointment with the physio today at 4:30....i'll be asking her again about the treatment i've received and asking her to save me from the re-rupture monster!

All the best for surgery to those who are going in. If given the option between treatments go for surgery!!

I'll let you know how my experimental, conservative treatment goes :confused:

[tonyb]

Hi ImranD1,

I too am surprised that a pro athlete is being treated conservatively although Im sure he will be looked after all the way through the process.

Yes we have been treated differently. Here's a breakdown:

Weeks 0 - 4: Leg in plaster cast with toes pointing down.
Weeks 4 - 6: Leg in plaster cast with foot at 20 degress. NWB
Weeks 6 - 8: Leg in plaster cast with foot at 45 degress. NWB
Weeks 8 - 10: Leg in plaster cast with foot at 90 degress. Am allowed to walk in this plaster cast using a soft shoe.
Week 10: Plaster off and am set free. Drive home from hospital (DONT DO THIS). Am walking unaided after a couple of hours. Return to work next day
Week 11: Start physio
Week 12: PING

Your treatment is not something I have seen before but I would welcome this as I could not walk for 8 weeks. Your walking after 4 which is a big deal to me as those extra 4 weeks are very tiresome and demoralising. I wish you all the best and seriously just take it easy. Start physio gradually and don't overstretch the exercises etc. Good luck and let us all know how you continue to get on.

[Mark F]

The St Helens player is Paul Sculthorpe – former GB captain – 28 years old and a massive player in the game who has had more than his fair share of injuries. I have actually had an email from him (after I sent him one !) in which he said that he was relieved that he wasn’t having surgery and hopes to be back playing in 4-6 months. His tendon has snapped high up in the leg and he has been advised that conservative treatment is best - I am sure that he would have been advised by leading sports medics, I just wonder whether they have his best interests at heart !! He will no doubt receive the very best rehab treatment available and I will be following his recovery very closely.

I have seen figures relating to RR rates – there are no patterns to the rates. It can RR if you have surgery or conservative, whether you are young or old, whether you are in UK, US, AUS, CA, whether you are male or female – this monster has no conscience, it does not care where it strikes !!

[sazza]

Hi Tony

I can sympathise with you as i also have suffered a second re-rupture just over 5 weeks ago. I orginially injured myself playing netball back in march (16th) went throught various casts and it was taken off at 8 weeks - told to go home await physio and to walk as much as poss on it, flex foot etc...i also thought i was doing well...but less then 36 hours later BANG full re - rupture attemping the stairs. As i'd had surgery the stitches also split open....nice!
i have been passed to consultant to consultant and told totally conflicting things. Anyhow still in cast and will be for at least the next 5-7 weeks. i didn't even get to the physio stage last time. I know what you mean about brain numbing, i only live down the road from you in Hertfordshire. I also cannot work (money due to run out v soon) and am due to go away in 4 weeks- luckily i did book to go away in this country (caravan) so i don't have to stress about flights etc. i have still not been given a clear picture of where i go from here on in....one consultant has insisted i be none weight bearing for at least 10 weeks (which suits me fine if it means no re-rupture).
I'll give you some hope though i have spoken to a couple of people who have suffered twice and they now lead semi-active lives e.g. no strenuous running or high impact sports but continue to swim, hike - i'll settle with just walking for now!!!! So just to let you know you're not alone - i too am enduring the same crap every day which is always topped up with a nice bit of pain to keep me going.


Take it easy
sarah

[christina]

Hi all
Tonyb - so sorry to hear you are starting again. I have had the surgery 3 weeks ago am on day 16 since op had stitches out day 14 and now new cast which I will have for 4 weeks no weight on injured leg. I have been told after the 4 weeks i have wedges placed in my shoe and start physio. I spoke to my physio today to ask about thigh exercises to stop anymore lose of tone and he said to do leg lifts so I suggest that for all if not already doing them to keep at least some of your leg from wasting away. Will update more once I get to my next stage but I will certainly be taking it easy and thank goodness I have no weddings in the near future.

Take care all ATR Chris.

[LMT]

I hope that you are all ok & that things are settling down for you. It is so good to hear (if you know what I mean, don't want it to sound nasty) that others are going through the same thing/same experiences & that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I went through 5 months of the surgeons telling me that I was imagining the pain before they operated a second time. It is so disheartening.
Following my last (second) operation 6 weeks ago today (achilles debridement & FHL tendon transfer), I was in a backslab for 2 weeks then a full hard cast for 4 weeks. I went back to see the surgeons yesterday & was put back in another hard cast, this time for a minimum of 2 weeks. Then they say they may start rehab. I have no movement in my ankle at all at the moment.
Work is being a bit of a nightmare - I have been off since November following my first operation. I have now been told that it could be 9 months before I return!! Which if it is will mean that I will have been off work for 14 months. Also that it could take more than a year to recover fully. I am probably going down to half pay this month. I am also probably going to have to think about changing my career. I really can't see myself going back (to the job I love) to being on my feet for 8 hours constantly at a time.
I also fidget a lot at night. Even though I am in a well fitting cast I can still feel sudden jolts to my ankle. When this happens the pain is excruciating.
I am sure that like me you are all finding it so frustrating not being able to do the simplest of things. I have cried many a tear & I am sure that there will be plenty more to come. It is very difficult to see a light at the end of the tunnel as yet.
Take care & hope that you are all feeling better. One day we will ALL be able to walk down the street.

LMT

[gater]

LMT, tonyb, and sarah,

I feel for you all having to go through a second round of this. I am only 3 weeks in and can't imagine how frustrating things msut be not only for you but your friends and family that are helping you through this. I think all on this site are rooting for your successfull and quick recoveries.

I just celebrated (or more appropriately cursed) my third week with the injury and have only have about 9-10 days left to be in this pretty blue fiberglass cast. I am expecting to move into a walking boot with wedges for an additional 4 weeks. The only thing that I am worried about is causing or developing an additional injury once I can start weight bearing. I have had a few friends tear their Achilles tendons and they both aggravated their bad backs once they were cleared to walk with the walking boot. They said their gaits were so lopsided that it caused back pain and eventually went back to using crutches.

So my question is to all of you that have made it to the weight bearing and walking boot/cast stage how easy is it to get to the point where you are walking somewhat normal with the boot/cast? Do you need a cane for stability? Should you have your crutches near by? At this point I have not had a history of back problems so I think my buddies issues may not be a problem for me.

I am just so looking forward to being able to move about somewhat normally again and being of more help around the house. I can't stand being sooooooooo dependent on others. Plus I can't wait to give my wife at least a little break for all she has had to do.

What I have learned from those of you have re-ruptured is that the rehab process is not a sprint. Take things slow and be especially cautious with stairs. Unfortunately I have a wedding to go to in mid-July but since I will still be in the walking boot I am not too worried about attending.

Hope all is well and happy healing,
Mike

[thom]

hi all,

thanks for sharing your stories -- very comforting to hear from others going through the same thing. i wish everyone a full and speed reovery.

i ruptured my left AT on 6/15/07, playing basketball on an outside court (asphalt, uneven surface) in NYC. standard reaction: i was going up for a shot, and i thought someone from off the court had thrown a large rock or glass bottle at the back of my calf. turned around, and nothing there. i couldn't put weight on it or walk, so i took a cab back to my apt and iced/elevated it all night. i'm 38, and used to play hoops all the time, but not very much in the last 2 years.

went to the emergency room the next day (sat, 6/16), where the attending DR diagnosed it as an acute AT rupture, surgery recommended, installed a large splint cast, and gave me some crutches. at this point, i became very worried, b/c i love playing hoops, skiing, and running outside.

i was referred to an orthopedic surgeon, who saw me monday morning (6/18). he was great. after examining my injury, he recommended full reconstructive surgery, plus (due to my age and level of physical activity) an FHL transfer to strengthen the repaired tendon and prevent rerupture. he was very positve, and said that i would likely be able to play basketball again (and would be skiing this winter). he even mentioned that he sometimes does a preventative procedure to strengthen the non-ruptured AT, which is something i might consider down the road.

surgery is scheduled for first thing tomorrow morning (6/21). then, the general schedule (as i understand it) is full cast for 2 weeks (NWB), some type of boot for 4 weeks (NWB), another type of boot (WB) for 6 weeks, and then lots of PT.

questions: has anyone had any experience with or heard anything about the FHL transfer procedure? also, what is the first week post-op like? thanks.

get well soon everyone,

t

[gater]

Thom,

The FHL transfer is most often used when there is 2 to 5 cm defect after your injury.

The following site has a pretty good explanation of the different surgical procedures and when they are used.

http://www.mdmercy.com/footandankle/research_pubs/pressItem59.html

It all comes down to how well they can approximate the ends of your tendon.

If you shred your tendon and your defect is large you may need an FHL transfer.

I hope this helps and sorry that you joined our little club. I also did mine playing basketball and I am just shy of 38 as well.

Since I had a local my surgeon told me during my surgery that my rupture was clean so he was able to approximate the ends fairly easily.

Mike

[gater]

Thom,

I am a bit confused why the surgeon would recommend that you think about having a strengthening/reinforcement surgery on your other AT. That is unless you have been having serious trouble prior to your injury with both your achilles tendons.

Tell us a little more about your situation prior to your injury because there is no way in hell I would get that reinforcement procedure done if I did not have to. It sounds like a doctor saying why don't we take out your appendix because there is a chance it may burst some time in the future.

However, I have a friend who has such severe tendinitis in both of his Achilles that his Orthopedist thinks that he may rupture both of his achilles at any time if he does not take some serious time off from running. So if you have seriously weakened your other achilles tendon I can see the strengthening procedure being an interesting option.


Mike


One more thing the longer you wait or the longer it takes your physicians to diagnosis your AT rupture the more difficult it will be to repair surgically (because your defect will be larger necessitating a more advanced procedure).

[gater]

Thom,

Forgot to answer your question about what to expect after surgery (I am assuming you will be going home immediately after surgery).

First of all if you have the choice of anesthesia go with the spinal block. You will have to be prone for the surgery so if you go the general anesthesia route you will most likely have to be intubated. Plus the risks associated with general anesthesia are greater (most importantly you will not have a sore throat).

The first night after surgery you will most likley have some pain and finding a comfortable position to sleep may be difficult. My best piece of advice is to elevate that leg and make sure that your foot is higher than your heart for at least a few days post-op. This will help with the pain and swelling. You can also place ice directly under your knee which will cool the blood going to your lower leg which should help with the swelling as well. Also make sure you have a urinal or a bucket to pee into because it really sucks having to get up in the middle of night and go to the bathroom (especially since you will have to use crutches, you will have a heavy plaster half cast on, and most likely be drowsy from pain killers).

Good luck and keep us informed how things are going,
Mike

[thom]

Mike,

thx 4 the replies. as for the FHL, all the DRs seem to think it's a really big tear (e.g., "you really got it good"). my surgeon said he's had very good results with the FHL procedure, especially with active males in the 30 to 40 range.

as for the preventative treatment on the other AT, i believe it was one of his assistants who first brought it up after viewing my x-rays. the doc did say my ankle tendons were "non-virginal," and everybody was amazed to hear that i had had no prior injuries or significant problems w/ my ankles/ATs. anyway, my current focus is on fixing the ruptured one as best as possible, and developing a lifestyle that includes proper warm-up, stretching ad nutrition, all of which were lacking from my prior regime.

where are you in the recovery process? as a fellow hoopster, i would be interested in what your Dr told you about potentially returning to the court.

thx, again,

thom

[CraigM]

Hi Gater,
When I went through my first ATR (I'm into my re-rupture recovery now) and rehab, my Physio noticed that my walking action wasn't right and this wasn't entirely due to the AT injury. He did some soft tissue work on my back - hobbling, limping wearing a boot etc cause quite a bit of twisting action on the back and so YES you can end up with back problems.
A simple test for this is to sit on a bench top with legs over the side, lift and tuck one a foot as far into your Groin area as possible (without crushing anything!), then try to bring your forehead down to the knee of the other leg. Do this for each side - you should have similar movement for each forehead to knee action (obviously you cant have a cast or boot on for this).
When I first tried it, I could hardly move at all on my bad side.
My Physio gave me a soft solid rubber ball (tennis ball size) to exercise with. Stand back against wall, with the ball between and move side to side and up and down to massage the back muscles yourself.
Of course if you have a loving partner then you might get lucky and get them to massage as well.
Craig

[gater]

Thanks for the info craig.

Thom,

I am 22 days post injury and 20 days post surigical repair.

1. I started in plaster cast with the top half gone so that my foot could swell if it needed with my toes pointing down.

2. Got my stiches out day 11 post op and was put into a pretty blue fiberglass cast (NWB) with my toes still pointed down. I will be in this cast until 28 days post op.

3. Then I will be in walking boot with heel lifts for an additional 4 weeks which will bring me back to 90 degrees at which time I will start physical therapy.

4. Physical therapy and strengthening from weeks 8-?. My surgeon stated by 6 months I should be back to 90% strength and flexibility and doesn't see why I couldn't be playing basketball again at that time. But he said realistically it may take up to a year before I am comfortable playing competitively.


I think I may still play some basketball just not sure if I will be joining any competitive leagues ever again. Think about this Patrick Ewing, Dominque Wilkins, and Danny Manning all tore theirs and played again in the NBA within a year.


The sad thing is the team I was playing for was jinxed. We had 3 guys tear their achilles, 3 guys tear their ACL, and one seriously dislocate his shoulder during the season (just in the first 2 weeks). Oh well the joys of getting older.

The funny thing is I have played basketball my whole life and never seriously turned my ankle or even sprained my knee. However I did have pretty bad tendonititis in my Right achilles while palying in Ball in College but I never missed a game because of it my four years. I considered myself lucky to get out of college unscarred but all that pounding must have taken its toll.

Mike

[Reza Taheri]

Hi guys, I am back!
Oneday post opp. my opp.took 1 hour & 20 min. the surgeon was very pleased with the result!I was 30min. in the recovery room & 2 hours in my room & finally after my surgeon visited me he gave me a green card to leave hospital. I feel ok right now & no pain at all.I have some kind of front Slab & bandage for back side!!on 29th of june I have to see my surgeon to get rid of the stitches.& put my leg in Walking boot!after that he said ,I can walk without my crotches! I may also go to my holiday with that boot!hopefuly.I have to take Prexige Tablet.for the pain & Inflammation before I go to sleep.I slept very well last night & from the time that I left hospital I tried to elevated my leg.I think is a key to not having pain.;-)Ok friends I hope you guys get well soon.I'll keep you guys posted.
Cheers
Reza

[LMT]

hi all,

thanks for sharing your stories -- very comforting to hear from others going through the same thing. i wish everyone a full and speed reovery.

i ruptured my left AT on 6/15/07, playing basketball on an outside court (asphalt, uneven surface) in NYC. standard reaction: i was going up for a shot, and i thought someone from off the court had thrown a large rock or glass bottle at the back of my calf. turned around, and nothing there. i couldn't put weight on it or walk, so i took a cab back to my apt and iced/elevated it all night. i'm 38, and used to play hoops all the time, but not very much in the last 2 years.

went to the emergency room the next day (sat, 6/16), where the attending DR diagnosed it as an acute AT rupture, surgery recommended, installed a large splint cast, and gave me some crutches. at this point, i became very worried, b/c i love playing hoops, skiing, and running outside.

i was referred to an orthopedic surgeon, who saw me monday morning (6/18). he was great. after examining my injury, he recommended full reconstructive surgery, plus (due to my age and level of physical activity) an FHL transfer to strengthen the repaired tendon and prevent rerupture. he was very positve, and said that i would likely be able to play basketball again (and would be skiing this winter). he even mentioned that he sometimes does a preventative procedure to strengthen the non-ruptured AT, which is something i might consider down the road.

surgery is scheduled for first thing tomorrow morning (6/21). then, the general schedule (as i understand it) is full cast for 2 weeks (NWB), some type of boot for 4 weeks (NWB), another type of boot (WB) for 6 weeks, and then lots of PT.

questions: has anyone had any experience with or heard anything about the FHL transfer procedure? also, what is the first week post-op like? thanks.

get well soon everyone,

t
Hi thom
I had a achilles tendon debridement/reconstruction & FHL tendon transfer on 9th May this year.
My story starts when I had a haglunds deformity (bone spur) removed from my ankle last November. Following that I had severe pain on walking for more than 2 hours at a time, & couldn't tolerate anything touching the back of my foot.
After 5 longs months of further xrays & an MRI scan the surgeon decided to operate again.
I was told that my achilles was like "mush". They also took some muscle from the inside of my shin to strengthen the reconstruction. Having the FHL transfer means that I can't bend my big toe now, but I have been told that in time scar tissue will build up & compensate for that & the movement will eventually come back.
The first week for me post op wasn't too bad. I was advised to keep the leg elevated at all times. When it swells up when you have it down you certainly feel the pain then. I was also in a backslab & non weight bearing for 12 days. Sutures were removed 12 days post op & I had a hard full below knee cast applied. Have 2 large scars - a 4 inch one along the inside of the foot where they harvested the FHL tendon from & also a 6 inch scar (L shaped) down the back of the keg & across the bottom of the ankle. I asked for a nerve block, which they did during the op & that helped with the pain relief afterwards. One of the hardest things is being so dependent on others & not being able to do the simplest of things :( .
I went back to clinic this week - original cast was removed. No movement in my ankle as yet :( I then had another full cast applied for another 2 weeks minimum, as he said that he wanted my ankle to be 90 degrees to my leg. I am however allowed to weight bear in the cast but still have to use crutches when I go out.
My surgeon has advised me that I will be in cast for 6-8 weeks minimum & then they will start rehabilitation. That I will be able to return to work between 3-9 months & that it could take over a year to fully recover :eek: .
It is very debilitating & a very painful procedure. My advise would be do nothing for a couple of weeks & take plenty of analgesia & keep the foot up on pillows. Even when you have a cast on, if they allow you to weight bear, keep the foot elevated. As as soon as it swells the pain will get far worse & your toes will swell up.
Oh, another thing - my big toe is also now numb & hypersensitive to touch. I have been told that this is normal. I also go terrible spasms in my toes. It might sound strange but what helped me with the spasms was obviously analgesia & also pulling the toes forward. It is very important that you move your toes. It will feel tight at first but it does get better. Also moisturise them as the skin gets dry & that doesn't help either. 5 weeks down the line, the spasms are getting less & the feeling in my toe is improving.
I hope my story hasn't been too gloomy & that it has given you some information that you wanted. If you need anything else just ask.
Wish you all the best & hope that your op went ok & welcome to the club!!!
LMT

[Mark F]

Reza - glad to hear that all went well. You seem to be on a similar recovery protocol to mine - ie from stitches removed straight to walking boot. I am now 23 days post op and have been in the boot for 6 days, it is nice to be able to remove the boot and start some very gentle stretching exercises - also re-assuring to see the wound site and keep an eye on its progress !

I have second physio session on Friday, maybe even a change in angle of the boot, but there is no way that I am rushing this recovery, so we will see !!

From reading the past few days - the major contributing factor appears to be the game of basketball, should come with a government health warning !!

Finally, I seem to have developed an involuntary spasm in my left index finger. I have put this down to the fact that I work from home 2 days per week, propped up on my left side (elbow) and work away on the laptop - anyone else got any ATR afflictions ??

[cavalpi]

Reza, welcome to the club!! Glad everything went well. I'm getting my stitches out Monday and then I'll begin Physical Therapy for soft tissue work (Massaging the area to move the swelling and residual blood out). I am better able to stand now for 20 min or so from 2-3 min on Monday so definetely my swelling is subsiding. Going back to work Monday so let's see what will happen. I shoud be off crutches by end of next week and i'll probably invest in a cane to relieve some pressure off the AT. Let us know how you are progressing and wiggle your toes around, helps move that swelling around.

[AmiS]

Thom - when discussing the FHL possibility, one of the side effects is that you may lose power in that leg afterwards. I guess if you are not an olympian, that won't matter. I understand that rehab may take longer. There is also the possibility of nerve damage whilst operating - to a nerve which goes down your leg into your foot. I don't know if it will recover or not.

I'm not a medic - but I did ask one or two questions. Luckily I didn't need FHL in my op.

[thom]

Reza – happy 2 hear the surgery went well. Let the healing begin!
LMT – thx 4 the extensive FHL info. Very informative. And don’t worry about being too “gloomy”; sometimes the truth hurts.
Gator-Mike – excellent point about the NBA players who returned to the game after an AT rupture. I believe amare stoudemire is in that camp too. Any others?
AmiS – my dr did go over some of these risks. We decided to go forward w/ FHL given the size of the tear, my age/activity level, and risk of re-rupture.

I am now about 10 hours post-op. surgeon tells me it went very well. One question: he instructed me to keep my leg “level,” rather than elevated as many of you have suggested. maybe it has something 2 do with the FHL transfer; I forgot to ask the reason, as I was a bit out of it at the time (but coherent enough to confirm level, not elevated). Anyone heard of a similar instruction (or any thoughts on level vs. elevated)? He also told me to start wiggling the toes as soon as it was comfortable to do so (which I have already started to do). Any thoughts?

Thx again all for your helpful responses. Happy healing, all.

thom

[Reza Taheri]

Hi all,

Second day!post op. I have had a little pain on my lower leg ! but when I elevated it again it seems to be gone!I am doing the wiggling the toes & I don't have problem with it & I think I can also do some movement with my ankle! but no rushing.I just want to let you guys know I can move every part of the leg without pain! the only issue with my leg at this stage is when I stand up after long laying down to go to the toilet! then I feel a little bit soreness at the AT.
which I think, it is normal! Da! we have a surgery, C'mon lets accept this pain :-)
lol
Thom- thanx pal.about on level vs. elevated , to be honest with you my surgeon did not point out any method to support anything else . he simply said NWB & what ever to makes your leg comfortable ! He said it wasn't that messy & we fixed it.;-) cool surgeon .sounds promising! we hope so!
Caval pi- thanx for your support; let me know after your get back to your work.very exciting!
I still have 5 weeks before I start to work again!I think if I being lucky during this period,I might work without any prob. it's a matter of time & RISE! haha (Rest,Ice,Stretch,Elevated)... Thanx again.
I'll let you know for any up to date.
Cheers
Reza

[LMT]

Hi thom
Glad to hear you are ok after your op. I don't know about keeping your leg level, seems a bit strange to me. I'm also a nurse (for my sins) & throughout training we were always told to keep limbs elevated to reduce swelling, pressure & also it helps pain. I know when I was in hospital with mine as soon as my leg was level they were all rushing round me shouting "pillows"!!! Also when my pain was bad sometimes I wished I had a pully system to put my leg on to keep it up. Keeping it elevated certainly helped with the pain & swelling for me.
Certainly start wiggling your toes as soon as you can. It will feel very tight at first, especially under the toes. But it does help stretch them & prevent too much scar tissue build up. Also as I say moisturise them, I know it sounds strange but the skin gets very tight & sore.
Anyhow, hope things are ok. Take care & let us know how you are going.

[christina]

Hi all fellow ATR,

The list keeps growing. Welcome back Reza glad all went well with the op. for me another week is nearly over. It is awful counting down the time.
I have been using a desk chair to walk around (have taken the back off) so I am putting weight on my right thigh (op leg) this has been helpful as walking around not placing any weight on my right leg the thigh will waste away.also doing leg lifts which my physio advised. I have adjusted the seat so when I am standing I am level I think this will also help prevent other problems like back etc as using crutches all the time when we aren't really use to them can cause other problems during the healing of one injury gaining another.

Take care all
Chris

[Mark F]

Like Christina, I too have a small stool in the kitchen that is just the right height for me to bend my knee and kneel on the left leg and stand on the right - sadly it means that I can now cook meals for the family - although it does give my wife a break !!

Anyway, just got back from my 2nd physio visit. Now at Op + 24 days. I have a little flex in the foot now, angle of the boot is now set at 20degrees (was 30 for the last 7 days). I can now sleep without the boot and - most importantly - I can shower without the boot and without a dressing on the wound. I must keep the dressing on for 2 or 3 more days then dressing free. Next physio in 7 days where I should lose another 10 degrees and be allowed PWB.

While I am pleased with the progress, I am ever mindful of the possibility of too much too soon !!

[AmiS]

Time sure does pass slowly. I'm now three weeks to the day, just waiting until Monday to change my cast. What intrigues me when reading posts on this website is the diversity in treatment. The two week cast then special boot I think is a treatment developed by someone called Dr Myerson. Then there is the six/eight week cast followed by special boot treatment. There are others too from reading the various posts.

I feel a bit lucky. Thom- how big was the 'gap' between the tendons in your foot? Mine was 5cm, but he managed to reattach without doing FHL.

[tonyb]

Well hi guys. Just returned home. Surgery went well and took 1hrs 30mins. In a cast with toes pointing down and stitches come out in 13 days time. My doc said that I will be staying in plaster for 8 weeks (maybe 10). No walking boot for me. Reason being as my AT was a re-rupture he wants to take things easy which Im happy with. No way want to re-rupture again. Got 12 weeks post rupture last time before it ruptured again and Ive promised myself to take things very easy. Someone above said its not a sprint rehab and that is so true. Told I can return to work in 2 weeks time and not to fly for 3 months (holiday in 2 weeks time out the window).

Can anyone in the UK advise on driving an automatic car whilst in plaster. Is it legal? Tesco Car Insurance said I would be covered if I had my docs consent but I want to make double sure

[robind]

Wow, theres been about 10 pages of posts since my last one, lots of people suffering with this injury.

Just a quick update on my progress since rupturing my left AT on March 22nd in the UK. I had the conservative treatment (mine was a high rupture similar to the Rugby League player mentioned in an earlier post). I had the cast on for a total of 10 weeks and was sent away from the hospital when it came off with a couple of wedges for my shoe and told to try and walk on it.

I found this very difficult at first and was really worried about doing too much too soon and re-rupturing. My wife knows a physiotherapist so I decided to see her privately and it has really helped. The first couple of sessions were just stretching and massage but the last couple I have been in the pool, and I can sort of manage to walk in the water, well hobble really, but it feels great. I still have to use the crutches out of the pool but its getting easier and I can just about put my full weight onto the foot. Its still painful and a bit swollen especially around the ankle and the tendon is still tight but think I will be able to ditch the crutches soon (with shoes on anyway). I'm having physio twice a week and its costing me a fortune but I'm going to Las Vegas in 4 weeks and need to be walking ok by then. I got an appointment through for the NHS physio a couple of weeks after coming out of plaster, had 1 session and decided she wasn't for me !

One thing I'm not sure about is driving again. I don't feel comfortable driving whilst I'm still on crutches, not sure what the insurance implications are to be honest. When I can walk without cructhes I think I'll give it a go though.

Take care all

Robin

[Steved]

9 weeks post-op now and I wear shoes with one wedge inside (FWB) and still usually put on the airboot when outside. I use a cane most of the time, but I don't really need it. Crutches are gone. When I am walking too much in a day my ankle is sore and still swells - thats when I know to take it easier the next day and then it is fine.

Christina - you asked about leg strength: my right leg has as the strength and appearance of a cooked noodle. I did start physio last week and he got me doing a few strengthening exercises, but truth be told, I haven't really been doing them because I am too paranoid about over-doing it and re-rupturing. The big day for me will be when I take out the last wedge and get my foot to 90 degrees. I may try next week.

Cheers All, Steve

[christina]

Hi All

thanks Steve, I thought as much. I intend to wear long pants till my leg recovers. Lucky for me we are in winter so hopefully by summer which will be six months after op I will be able to have my leg looking like it use to. But I will do as you after reading so many re ruptures I have no intention of over doing anything. Slow and steady.

Take care all.
Chris..

[thom]

Hi all,

I am now 2 days post op (left Achilles reconstruction and FHL transfer) – one day behind Reza. The first 24 hours was pretty rough – especially the first night. Dehydrated, intense headaches, groggy, sore throat -- not to mention the intense fiery pain in my lower leg (despite loading up on painkillers). Starting the first morning after (yesterday), I got clearance from the Dr’s office to elevate my leg, rather than keep it level. You guys were so right – this immediately and immensely reduced the pain. By last night, the pain had pretty much subsided (as long as a stayed on the couch/bed with my leg elevated), and I even had a good night of sleep (didn’t sleep a wink the first night). As of today, the pain has pretty much subsided, except when I get up to go to the can. (of course, i am still taking painkillers, but at a much lower rate.) I have been wiggling my toes to the extent possible (the big toe is somewhat immobile due to the FHL transfer), and lifting my leg every now and then to keep the blood flowing.

Post-op questions:

1. on average, how long before it is no longer painful to take a quick trip to the can? I’m assuming in the next day or two. I realize that most of you did not have FHL transfers, but I still would like to hear the general consensus on this timeframe.
2. besides wiggling my toes and raising my leg every now and then, any other physical things one can do at this stage to help with recovery? Also, I can wiggle the toes back (towards me) fairly easily, but forward (away from me) is difficult and a little painful.
3. are there any particular foods recommended to help with the healing process? I have had very little appetite since the surgery (other than severe thirst), but I expect that to change soon.

Also, I arranged for the woman who cuts my hair to visit my apt yesterday and shave my head (I had rather thick, wavy-ish, longish hair that I would slick back for work, but that quickly became a bedraggled mess). She cropped it real short and shampooed my scalp in the sink (so I wouldn’t get hair crumbs all over the couch/bed). I highly recommend the head shave to anyone who is starting out this process. First, it feels amazingly refreshing to lose the tangly nest of hair, and it is one less hygiene/appearance item to worry about. Second, while I am by no means a militaristic person (nor a Brittany spears fan), I found something symbolically uplifting about the process, like preparing for a long physical battle.

Thanks again for all the advice, guys. The elevation has worked wonders, and I am having someone pick up some moisturizer for me (as per LMT’s advice). AmiS – don’t know how big the tear was – my doc just said it was a complete tear and rather large. I will follow up when I see him again.

Keep up the good healing all,

thom

[jamar]

Hi all,

It's been awhils since I've been in here so I thought I would pop in and say G'day. I'm now 14 weeks post-op ! yeah ! How time went so slowly and so quickly all at the same time. I have a complete rupture of my right AT. I noticed Thom's questions below and thought I would give an answer:



1. on average, how long before it is no longer painful to take a quick trip to the can? I’m assuming in the next day or two. I realize that most of you did not have FHL transfers, but I still would like to hear the general consensus on this timeframe.
2. besides wiggling my toes and raising my leg every now and then, any other physical things one can do at this stage to help with recovery? Also, I can wiggle the toes back (towards me) fairly easily, but forward (away from me) is difficult and a little painful.
3. are there any particular foods recommended to help with the healing process? I have had very little appetite since the surgery (other than severe thirst), but I expect that to change soon.


1. I had the full reconstructive surgery and I reckon it took me about 1 1/2 - 2 weeks before I could comfortably put my leg down long enough to get on crutches and back to wherever it was that I was without being excruciating.
2. I know you'll hear this over and over again but there is nothing more important than keeping your leg elevated as much as possible. I didn't take it all that seriously and am now as a result still in a situation where I have excessive swelling all around my ankle, and have to wear a compression stocking (blurgh !). And just wiggle your toes back, forth and side to side as much as you can. I also used to pretend like cycling with my leg keeping it elevated but just to keep all the muscles moving.
3. Food for healing, lots of fruit and vegies. And lots of water, although this makes creates other problems like going to the loo ! I think your body tends to crave the foods it needs to promote healing so just listen to your body and it will tell you what it needs.

Other than that, I've been WB for 6 weeks now, and am off crutches completely for a week now which is awesome. Have a limp and probably will have for another couple of months until I get complete confidence to be able to WB evenly between my two feet. Physio is getting me to gradually stand on toes etc and standing back from the wall and getting your knee to the wall. At the moment confidence seems to be the only thing stopping me.

And remember as soon as you get your cast off, moisturise and massage your scar as much as you can and as often as you can to promote healing and blood circulation through the area. Another thing I didn't take seriously ... but now I am as this has everything to do with the swelling as well.

Not driving yet, but that's also confidence in having the strength to stop the car suddenly if I need to. I think Damian who started the thread was driving before now in his recovery.

That's about it from me.

Hope you are all healing well !

Cheers, Marla.

[Suu]

Hi all. Thom - can you please write as much as you possibly can on how you're coping with day to day things? I'm having the transfer done in October and have been gearing up for it as best I can.
I won't go so far as to shave my head (it might scare the grandkids) but that's a good thing to think about - might be wise to have a shorter hairstyle.
I'm on the crutches every other day (I've still got the ones when they tried to do the lengthening op last year) so I can build up muscles in places where women don't need them.
Cheers and best wishes everyone.

Suu

[NickJW]

Hi All,

Fully agree with Marla on the diet but would add that I've been recommended Glucosamine/Chondriotin complex at an optimum dosage of 1000mg/day. It's something that I have taken in the past to help with my joints - they've had quite a hammering over the years through Soccer, Squash, etc.
I'm currently just over 8 weeks post op, have just been given to OK to full WB whilst wearing the "adjustable boot" set at neutral. I can manage this in the house without crutches which is great - can actually carry a cup of tea around now!!! Outside still taking the crutches for security rather than weight support. Over the next two weeks I'm hopefully progressing on to 3/4" raised heel shoes. But confidence is also my big problem at present, really concerned about stretching and how far to push it, also avoiding at all cost any possibility of sudden movements. The advise so far from the NHS "professionals" has been very contradictory to say the least!

One question I have, has anbody experience of getting back to playing golf - how long did it take and any special precuations?

Cheers, Nick

[Steved]

Nick - congrats on carrying the tea! I recall my first time also. Sounds like you and I are about the same time post-op. I have now ditched the crutches and use a cane with FWB on the air boot. I wear a shoe with a lift in the house. I am also anxious to get back to playing golf (I have now given away all of my tennis rackets lest I ever think about getting on the court again!).

Note to All - I ran into an old friend yesterday who, get this, completely tore BOTH achilles at the same time while doing some outrageous skiing (he is a mountain guide here in northern BC). He said he spent the first 2 months crawling. This was a year ago and he is completely recovered and back to guiding. It really was inspirational talking to him. His advice: don't put on weight as it will put more pressure on your achilles (easy for him to say), find a great physio and follow advice, stay on a healthy diet and most important: stay positive.

Cheers, Steve

[Mark F]

Re Golf - I had just taken up the game again after about 15 years off. Re-started in Dec 06 and had got my handicap down to 26 and was starting to hit more good shots than bad pre-POP !! I am anxious to get playing ASAP (now Op + 26 days) and I have a holiday booked for 22AUG at a golf hotel in Paris.

I imagine that it depends which leg is affected. Being right handed, it is the right that does most of the twisting and the left seems to roll over, so I remain hopeful for August. I intend to work on the putting and the short game as soon as recovery allows.

Maybe we should hold the ATR Open towards the end of this year ;)

[Reza Taheri]

Post op day 5! hight 5 haha.
Hi guys, I feel good, sometimes down ,but stay as long as I can positive! I'm totally agree with the BC ski guide! we are all eventually going back to our business.... trust me. two things: 1- stay positive 2- keep your diet! I lost 3 kg after the op. which is good.I can't cut my hair! Damn it. its my sister wedding within a 2 weeks! not enough time! I wish I did it 7 weeks ago!right after the injury! sounds good to walk with FWB!!! going to swimming pool! golf court. Tennis court! ski resort! driving a car not automatic one !!! BUT NO INDOOR SOCCER !:-) & smell wimbeldom gross!oh i missed all of that.but on the other hand we listen to the good music,eating good food! reading new books, seeing too much movie! spending time with the family :-) honestly less stress than the real world! try to be positive! everything get back to normal within a no time! just a memory of it.I'm very happy to being in here & reading other people experiences! totally agree with Damian & Steved about the life.we can see our life after this more appreciatively . I hope all of you get better soon...thank you for the sharing.
Cheers
Reza

[thom]

Dear Suu,

as requested, here is more info about how i am coping after FHL transfer surgery:

the first 24 hours were rough. i think i fasted too much before the surgery, and was severely dehydrated afterwards. i would recommend, at a minimum, drinking fluids up until the point they tell you not to (midnight in my case), and maybe cheat and have a sip or two of water in the morning. you also aren’t supposed to take any aspirin and the like for several days prior to the surgery (i think it speeds up the blood flow or something). so i ended up going into surgery early in the morning with a migraine-caliber headache -- probably a combination of dehydration, caffeine deprivation, and nerves. i had general anesthetic -- i was not given any other option. i was wheeled in to the operating room, put on the table, the resident (who was super nice) put an IV in and -- nothing -- woke up two hours later being wheeled down the hall towards the first post op room. as i began to regain my senses, i become aware of the following: i was freezing cold, my throat was sore, i felt like i was dying of thirst, still had a headache, and, finally, my lower left leg felt like it was on fire.

once i got to the post-op room, they gave blankets, pain relief -- drip and percoset, i believe. they kept asking me to rate the pain on a level of 10 to 1, 10 being the worst pain ever. i don’t really care for this rating system -- i don’t know what the “worst pain ever” is -- plus i’m really not a very demonstrative person, apparently even when my lower left leg is on fire. so i would tell the post-op person “um, 7 or 8,’ which she rated as 7. after about 20 minutes or so, the pain had been reduced but was still pretty intense. this time i said, “um, i don’t know, about a 5 maybe,” which she recorded as a 2-3. my advice, just say 10 every time, so you get as much pain medicine as you can. you are in no position 2 minutes after waking up to be making analytical assessments, and you will need all the meds you can for the first 24 hours. so they wheeled me to the final post-op area, where i was placed in one of the big hospital/barber chairs, and given apple juice and water. i drank about 20 bottles of both. i tried to get more pain meds, but the nurse said ‘well, your chart says you are in the 2-3 range, which isn’t really that bad.” i attempted to explain my problems with the rating system, but i wasn’t really capable of any clarity at that point -- she looked at me somewhat confused, then she pulled out what i guess is a child’s version of the rating system that had little cartoon faces corresponding to the numbers -- the cartoon face next to 10 was supposed to be in the “worst pain ever,” but looked more like he was taking a really intense dump. anyway, i think she finally just assumed i was mentally challenged and gave me some more meds. they let me go around 2.

like i said, the first 24 hours was rough -- especially the first night. i took about twice as many painkillers as prescribed, but it didn’t seem to help that much. luckily, i had about four days prior to the surgery to set up a “sickbay” in my apartment. i have a really low, lightweight, armless couch that flattens into a guestbed. we flattened it out, turned it vertically towards the tv, and got a whole bunch of large pillows for both ends. we used household objects to make little tables on both sides -- my toolbox, a stepladder, some desk trays. filled the tables with everything i might need for the first week -- books, magazines, crossword puzzles, pens, phone, charger, various toiletries, bacterial handwash, papertowels, painkillers, eyeglasses, cash, delivery menus, laptop computer, work, tv remotes, day planner, etc. i’m a bit OCD, so i organized everything into containers, shelves, etc. i also was able to go to work for 2 of the 3 days prior to my surgery, and was able to finish/delegate as much work as possible, and obtain as many extensions/adjournments as I could. so, thankfully, i really didn’t move much the first 24 hours, other than piss breaks, which were necessary b/c i was drinking so much water due to the dehydration. these bathroom trips were very difficult (i considered the old jug by the bed, but my apt is really small, and i didn’t want to scare off any visitors). also, my doctor told me to keep my leg level, rather than elevated, which appears to be contrary to the standard instruction of elevate, elevate, elevate. so, bottom line, lots of pain on day 1, zero sleep on night one. i also had no appetite. i forced down a few graham crackers to help my stomach with the pain meds, but that’s it.

the good news is, things have been much, much better starting with day 2. i also got the go ahead to elevate, which also helped. my advice, if you are told to keep your leg level following AT surgery, ignore this advice and elevate it anyway. since day 2, the pain has subsided as long as i am on the couch/bed with my leg elevated. I am taking prescription pain meds only as needed -- about one a day -- supplemented by extra-strength tylenol (still have headache issues). also, each day is better with regards to standing up and moving around. I am now 4 days post-op. in addition to bathroom breaks, i am able to stay in the bathroom long enough to wash my face and brush my teeth, i made it to the kitchen yesterday (and managed to chuck a box of grahams and some OJ back on my couch/bed -- this gives you an idea of the size of my apt), i can buzz people in and accept deliveries, and i plan to take a bath this evening. i ordered a special waterproof cast device (xerosox, i think) which i was able to test prior to the surgery. oh, and i wiggle my toes a lot. was able to start wiggling the big toe recently, which hadn’t moved before (presumably due to FHL transfer). i experience occasional darts of nerve tingling in various parts of my foot/lower leg or little spasms here and there, which i think is normal for the FHL transfer.

well, suu, that’s my story so far -- hope it helps. the main thing i have tried to do is stay positive the whole time, and view this as a challenge. what would life be without any challenges?

anyway, thanks everyone for your replies.

nick, does one need a prescription to obtain Glucosamine/Chondriotin?
marla, many thx for the excellent advice. is there any particular type of cream or oil you recommend for moisturizing the scar and foot once you get the cast off? i seem to recall seeing a post about lemongrass oil on one of these posts.
steved - fantastic story about the skier. can’t imagine rebuilding 2 ATs at once, but i loved his advice! and very inspirational that he returned to skiing a year later.
reza - i just like reading your posts, man. keep on healing.

happy healing all,

thom

[gater]

Thom,

The first few days after surgery kind of suck but be careful with taking too many pain pills. The reason being that both vicodin and percocet contain tylenol. Your liver can only process 4 grams of tylenol a day. If you go over this you could damage your liver.

Note:
each vicodin tab contains 500 mg of tylenol and 5 mg of hydrocodone so you can take 8 in a 24 period

each percocet tab contains 325 mg of tylenol and 5 mg of oxycodone so you can take 10-11 per 24 period


My only advice concerning your diet question is to eat a well balanced diet. Plus if you continue to use the percocet for more than a couple of days make sure you start using a stool softener like colace (docusate sodium) which you can get over the counter. Because those pain pills can really stop you up.

Another thing glucosamine and chondrotin are believed to support cartilage growth and repair. They have also has been shown to relieve pain associated with arthritis. So I am not sure that this product is really going to be any use for you with your present injury. If you do decide to use these do some research first because the supplement industry is not regulated very well and consult your Doc to make sure you are taking the correct dose.

Hope all is well and by the end of the week your tolerance for standing up with crutches should be much better (making taking a piss much easier),

Mike

[christina]

Hi all.
The list just keeps growing. Thom I can't anderstand any doctor telling you to leave it level. Every and I mean every limb operation I have ever heard of - my mum who just had her hand done are told here in Oz keep elevated as much as possible. One it promotes better circulation which in turn prevents blood clots and reduces swelling, besides all this it feels so much better.
Week 2 of second cast. Mark or Steve your first step on ATR leg how was it? I am scared to death of my first day. From what my doctor has said I am not having a boot he said I am strong and co ordinate enough to just have wedges which to be honest not too happy with would like the boot as you all seem to prefer it when going out or even wearing to bed which is another thing I am concerned about not having anything on my leg to protect it in the early stages of WB. I don't know if he is going to put a bandage on as support with the wedges this is something I am scared and will find out soon enough, I haven't noticed any posts with this treatment. My physio's rooms are next door to my doctor I am going to see him straight after if I am still not happy and see what he thinks.
Like Reza I keep thinking down the track all will be good we our building a home up the coast which should be finished Dec 07 where we intend to do plenty of waterskiing fishing lazing on the beach etc. I keep thinking by then I should be almost back to normal walking around driving not sure if I will waterski this coming season all depends if I get the all clear from my physio. But just thinking ahead by Xmas which going by every year before comes around so quickly it won't be long.

Steve thanks for your post about the skier and 2 ATR makes me feel pretty lucky if he can recover so well from 2 we are laughing with one.....

Hey Mark I would love to join you for golf never been the British Columbia and I need to learn to play golf no more softball tennis for me - golf, lawn bowls.....LOL Or you should come over to Australia.

Well time to elevate leg again been at the puter long enough.

Take care all. Chris....

[cavalpi]

It's now 12 days post-op and I feel pretty good. Saw my Doc today and he took out the stitches. Taking the stitches out made a big difference since I felt them pulling my skin. He gave me the go ahead to start putting FWB and he said I should be off the crutches by the end of the week! I'll see how that goes. Also, he predicts by the end of July I should be off the boot. My calf muscle developed atrophy because of the lack of use and that's why this recovery takes so long because you have to build up the muscle again. It's a long journey but at least we have each other to motivate us. I'm eating a high protein diet as to help with the healing process (protein helps with the regeneration of cells, muscle, etc.), which seems to be helping out also.
It was my first day back at work and the leg felt good. Had to prop it up a few times and we'll see by the end of the week if I improve more. Good luck to all and I'll let you know my progress.
Ciao, Pietro

[sazza]

Well hi guys. Just returned home. Surgery went well and took 1hrs 30mins. In a cast with toes pointing down and stitches come out in 13 days time. My doc said that I will be staying in plaster for 8 weeks (maybe 10). No walking boot for me. Reason being as my AT was a re-rupture he wants to take things easy which Im happy with. No way want to re-rupture again. Got 12 weeks post rupture last time before it ruptured again and Ive promised myself to take things very easy. Someone above said its not a sprint rehab and that is so true. Told I can return to work in 2 weeks time and not to fly for 3 months (holiday in 2 weeks time out the window).

Can anyone in the UK advise on driving an automatic car whilst in plaster. Is it legal? Tesco Car Insurance said I would be covered if I had my docs consent but I want to make double sure


Glad your surgery went well it appears you are going through the exact same treatment as me only i'm 6 weeks post op tomorrow. They've decided to pass me onto another consultant.....(typical) so will find out more then. I do know he doesn't want me place any weight on for at least 10 weeks!!! so 4 left and counting - however am sooooo nervous at the prospect of placing any weight on it due to the fact it snapped 30 hours after first out of cast last time. i assume you managed to do your left leg if you're talking about an automatic car. i managed to do my right so big buggered really. However a mechanic said i could buy a right side automatic and get the accelerator changed to a left foot drive...just have to see how recovery pans out first.
Sorry to hear you're missing your holiday mate, are you covered by insurance? if so it might be an idea to have a mini break in this country, i think i mentioned we're off to cornwall for a week - at the very least it's a change of scene!!!!

The muscle has now totally disappeared in my leg......so i'm trying to tense what is left on and off during the day..although this pulls the tendon slightly i'm determined to have something left.

Some good news to share a guy in the village ruptured his ach around 15 years ago and like yourself re-ruptured around 3 months later. He originially managed it playing football and it went again as he went to collect a football award at a presentation night walking across the floor (how ironic is that?)
Anyway he is fit and well, driving, walking etc so there's hope still..

Take care
Sarah

[Mark F]

Op + 28 days -
Last night I slept without the walking boot and also without a cover on my scar – another 2milestones !! Happy to report, no issues. I actually had the boot off for a total of 14 hours yesterday and the foot seems a good deal more flexible (relatively speaking). I have also been running water over the scar and have been massaging with E45 cream, finally overcame the ‘I am not touching that’ phobia and it actually felt quite good.

Had my first slip on he crutches yesterday, luckily the walking boot took all of the strain.

Next physio on Friday, when the boot should be set at 10 degrees and hopefully PWB.

Glad to hear that everyone is doing well, any sign of our leader – Damien ??

[Megs]

It has been a while since i was here. I am now 16 1/2 weeks into injury. All is going well am now walking in normal shoes no crutches and limp just about gone. Looking back now it seems to have gone fairly fast. I do my excersises every day but only go to physio every 1-2 weeks. Now i am walking I don't need to go as often. I don't seem to have any pain only the occasional twinge now and then and swelling is minimal.

PROGRESS SO FAR
3/3/07 full ruture of left tendon while dancing the nutbush at a wedding.
put in back slab
21/3/07 surgury to reattach tendon another black slab put on leg
7/4/07 back slab off, put in cast
17/5/07 cast taken off and put in half leg brace at 15% can now weight bare start physio
14/6/07 brace taken off and put in a normal shoe no wedges only slight otho lift.

I gave up my crutches after my 1st physio about 2 weeks after my brace was put on. I was a little scared about that first step but glad i took it, such freedom after giving them up. All is going well.

[tonyb]

Sazza,

Is interesting to read Im on the same treatment course as you. Sure you are counting the days till you hit the 10 week mark. Me, Im looking at it in chunks. 10 weeks is too far off and depressing to consider so my first target is to have my stitches out. Am v.interested to see my scar.

I can totally relate to the calf muscle wastage. It is very disheartening and as I have big calfs I am very worried about building that muscle back and paranoid about people looking at my legs etc. We both are dealing with approx. 20 weeks in plaster overall. That is a hell of a long time with no muscle usage but I will do my damnest to work as hard as its needed to get that muscle back.

Am re-scheduling my hols to September so all is not lost. Kids would be devestated if we weren't going anywhere at all. Im sure your looking forward to Cornwall and teh change of scenery.

Is very good to hear about your village pal and taht people do recover from this injury to
lead normal lifes.

I return to work in 8 working days which I am looking forward to as it gives me some sort of normality. last time I spent 10 weeks at home. No way can I do that again. Would drive me insane.

[ImranD1]

Howdy all!!

Its been 9weeks and 4days since my achilles went pop. I had my second physio session today and she is happy with my progress (which means i'm happy too). After the AirCast came off at the 8wk mark i have begun to walk around my home with my shoes (1 wedge inside). At first i was using crutches but once i gained confidence and wasn't losing my balance i ditched them and now walk unaided.

I've been doing flexibility stretches for a week and i have full movement of my ankle in all directions however I am 5 degrees short of full flex when compared to my healthy foot in both directions (toes pointing down and up), pretty physio lady says this is normal.

I've been watching myself walking in a mirror to see how bad my limp is and i'm happy to say its not that bad...physio lady watched me walk and noticed i was not limping but that was because i was walking at snail pace. She said i was walking fine but said i was not placing my heel before my toes when i placed my injured foot on the floor (i.e. i was flat footed as i put weight onto it)....she said that this was normal and the 'heel-toe' technique to walking is one of the last things to get back after the injury as this is when the achilles is at full stretch.

If i go outside i have to wear the Aircast however, from Thursday i have to all clear to take 5mins walks without it....first stop is the fish n' chip shop :)

[LMT]

Hi all
Hope that you are all recovering well. Well I am 7 weeks post op today after my achilles reconstruction & FHL transfer. I have 1 week left in a cast & hopefully next week I will progress to a boot & then start the long process of rehab.
My question to you all is how you manage to sleep without any support on your ankle when you go into the boot? Maybe I am being premature. But I am worried about this. It has been such a long journey for me (7 months from my first op). That I am just worried that I will do it damage in the night, as I tend to fidget loads.
Any ideas would be appreciated.
Many thanks.

[Michael Poyntz]

I completely ruptured my AH 17 days ago, had surgery within 3 days and expect to have half cast replaced with full lowerfoot cast in next 5 days. I have been prewarned to expect therapy etc and various boot cast/brace over next 12 months. I am very healthy and physically active 57 year old Canadian retired to French countryside and live on a large property that heretofore required 30hours per week of physical management - everything from cutting trees, building fencelines to 65000sg ft of grass cutting per week. Muscle tone and strength in lower body excellent! Despite decades of competitive sports, lots of physical activity per this is first injury to speak of - oh yeah i got it trying to outsprint a water jet from a sprinkler (idiot or what?).

Questions to anyone with experience of dealing with commencing the rehab process at home!

What works? When to start and for how long? I am amazed at muscle degeneration that has occurred and want to start rebuilding ASAP! I elected wheelchair vs crutches as I am more concerned with a re-injury from falling on crutches than banging paint off of my door frames!

Pain administration: While initally extremely painful this was subdued quickly! But now in week three- I am taking zero meds (by my request) During day have no prob but at night immediately after lieing down the entire calf feels as if it was flesh laid bare! Very sensitive to touch of any kind! Elevated or not! Any suggestions? Surgical incision is clean and swelling appears nominal!

Anti coagulant injections! I was put on daily anti blood coagulant injection which is very expensive for 60 days. Is this normal and are there any exercises that I can do to be able to stop taking the injection and replace with some type of body movement?

Enjoyed reading all comments! Find it very helpful-much moreso than just absorbing Doctors comments/suggestions etc.

Michael B.