Hamstring Avulsion (complete tear from pelvis)

[LadyM]

Yes Rob it does seem we're in the same boat here. I am supposed to have the brace on for 6 weeks, toe touch weight now, then ball of foot for two weeks then whole foot for two. I am supposed to start PT the week of April 11. Good luck ~ let me know how it goes for you.

[LadyM]

Question for those post surgery ~ How long did you find it comfortable to return to work/drive/sit for a few hours at a time? I work as a psychologist and spend the majority if not 100% of my work day sitting. I'm trying to decide and understand what I might be able to expect in recovery time. I am just under 2 weeks out of surgery and had to drive a rental car away from the rental plaza yesterday (someone hit my car) sister had been driving me around. Just that 2 blocks of driving was excruciating. I am supposed to start PT in a week and am unsure how I am supposed to get around if I can't drive either to PT or work. I was hoping driving would be less painful than I experienced yesterday and I may be able to get to PT/work. Both are about a 20 min drive away. It is my right leg (driving leg) that I injured. Or any hints for making yourself more comfortable at work?

Thanks - M.

[Rob w]

M, how on earth did you drive with the brace on?. That must have been tough.

[LadyM]

Yeah it was not pleasant. I used my left leg in the corner to essentially "lift" my body so that I was not weighted on my right leg and it happened to be a large car that I was given for rental and just drove a few blocks till Sis could take over. I don't suggest trying it. I did get out for a bit last night and stood around at a friend art gallery opening and it was nice to get out and I don't feel like I overdid it. Sitting either in a car or in a chair is by far the worst and most uncomfortable. How are you doing?

[Rob w]

Pretty good. Left house today to play music for four hours. Sat on a somewhat elevated stool, which worked well because i could stretch legs out .
First time out since surgery except for my brief post op check. Really enjoyed getting out, but sad because I won't be running for a long time.
Weather here is magnificent now and it makes me miss my usual activities. Just need to take things slowly and focus on long term goals.

[LadyM]

Rob ~ It feels good to leave and get out doesn't it! I see you live in Fla and I live in New Orleans and I empathize with missing our best season for outdoor activities. Out of curiosity - when do you plan to return to work? In the meantime enjoying music and books under open windows.

Best,
Mikal

[Rob w]

I'm starting back in the office in limited amounts on April 11. I think a gradual transition to full time will take several weeks. I have to be capable of standing for extended periods to "do my thing". Enjoy your day.

[Rob w]

There are two companies that make gel cushions for kayaking and other applications. yakpads.com and skwoosh.com are the web addresses. I just ordered a gel cushion for myself-hopefully it will enable longer, more comfortable periods of sitting

[LadyM]

I went to the dr yesterday and was told I could take off the protecting padding over the incision and shower w/ out having the incision wrapped for protection. Next week can start a bathing and physical therapy. Good news. The incision is much more sensitive without the padding and harder to get comfortable. Wondering if you're on a similar progression. Are you still using crutches for walking? I do for more than just scooting around house. I am on ball touch on injured leg or just keep it loose and pull it along with me. Hope you're well.

[Rob w]

Hi. Brace is off. Walking with crutches-partial weigh bearing. Have not walked at all without crutches. Went to physical therapy- didn't really do much. Just some ultrasound and some instruction on what I can't do, which is pretty much anything that could stress the repair. No loading the hamstring until 12 weeks to allow healing.