Collaboration and all its faceshttp://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/en-usSat, 17 May 2008 09:12:57 AM -0400 Sat, 17 May 2008 09:12:57 AM -0400 Karolin Achilles Tendon - post surgery
You will get back to normal and you will get back to all of your activities!!]]>
You will get back to normal and you will get back to all of your activities!!]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05172008091257AMPHIHHN.htm Sat, 17 May 2008 09:08:00 AM -0400 Karolin Achilles Tendon - post surgery http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05172008090800AMPHIHEK.htm Sat, 17 May 2008 05:27:59 AM -0400 tracey Achilles Tendon - post surgery http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#17052008052759PHID52.htm Fri, 16 May 2008 10:37:59 PM -0400 Michael Achilles Tendon - post surgery
Feb 2nd Rupture playing Bball with my kids

Feb 8th Surgery

Feb 18th (my birthday) stitches out...cast on...BLOOD CLOT!

Feb 20th 3 days in hospital with blood thinner stomach injections (wooo hooo!)

2 doc appointments with a scalpel recutting my incision (NICE!)

Surgery last Friday (just got off crutches (in boot) two days before!) to redo incision!

BACK on TWO crutches NWB for 6 days

May 14th BACK in my KISS Rock Boot

Buttttttt......TODAY.....for the FIRST TIME in almost 4 months......I PLAYED THE DRUMS WITH NO BOOT!!!! I think Im at week 14 or 15 or 64 LOL (does it really matter??) I rocked to Daughtry and Nickelback and THATS WHAT COUNTS!!! and even better I actually feel like I have a foot that belongs BACK TO ME tonite!!!

SOOOOO HANG in there ALL!!! You WILL be BACK ...FIGHT THIS DAMN INJURY and WIN!!!

And if I look at it positively ...I already have ONE of the Gene Simmons boots I just need to buy another for the left leg and I'll be ALL SET for Halloween!!

My thoughts are with you ALL!!!]]>
Feb 2nd Rupture playing Bball with my kids

Feb 8th Surgery

Feb 18th (my birthday) stitches out...cast on...BLOOD CLOT!

Feb 20th 3 days in hospital with blood thinner stomach injections (wooo hooo!)

2 doc appointments with a scalpel recutting my incision (NICE!)

Surgery last Friday (just got off crutches (in boot) two days before!) to redo incision!

BACK on TWO crutches NWB for 6 days

May 14th BACK in my KISS Rock Boot

Buttttttt......TODAY.....for the FIRST TIME in almost 4 months......I PLAYED THE DRUMS WITH NO BOOT!!!! I think Im at week 14 or 15 or 64 LOL (does it really matter??) I rocked to Daughtry and Nickelback and THATS WHAT COUNTS!!! and even better I actually feel like I have a foot that belongs BACK TO ME tonite!!!

SOOOOO HANG in there ALL!!! You WILL be BACK ...FIGHT THIS DAMN INJURY and WIN!!!

And if I look at it positively ...I already have ONE of the Gene Simmons boots I just need to buy another for the left leg and I'll be ALL SET for Halloween!!

My thoughts are with you ALL!!!]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05162008103759PMPHI54S.htm Thu, 15 May 2008 05:40:46 PM -0400 Lourdes Morales Achilles Tendon - post surgery
I hope everyone is getting better, I'm 8 months PO and finally ,I'm back to my normal activities, Monica I'm so glad you are back to martial arts, I haven't really try to go back yet, My Dr. told me to wait 1 year. I have done some forms but not the real thing. Tracey I'm glad your back running and in good shoes. Have a great recovery everyone.

Lourdes.]]>
I hope everyone is getting better, I'm 8 months PO and finally ,I'm back to my normal activities, Monica I'm so glad you are back to martial arts, I haven't really try to go back yet, My Dr. told me to wait 1 year. I have done some forms but not the real thing. Tracey I'm glad your back running and in good shoes. Have a great recovery everyone.

Lourdes.]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05152008054046PMPHITF2.htm Thu, 15 May 2008 11:42:52 AM -0400 Simon Barratt Microsoft RoundTable http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/microsoft-roundtable.htm?opendocument&comments#05152008114252AMPHILFC.htm Thu, 15 May 2008 03:34:48 AM -0400 Paul Achilles Tendon Rupture
I've been in the boot for a week and actually full weight bearing for over two. The boot the ortho's gave me was flat-soled and a bit clunky so I went to the local thrift store and put together a really nice fitting more rounded-sole set-up with all the best pads and straps that were there for the taking; must have been a dozen to choose from and I tried quite a few to get what felt best. A quick run through the washer/dryer and good to go. Cost all of $4.

While the boot is quite supportive and confidence building, and I use it if I'm really going to be banging around, (I went shrimping on a boat 3 times with it all wrapped in shrink wrap) now that I've got most of the feeling back into my foot I have begun spending most of my time in deck shoes with extra padded insoles. Exclusively around the house, and now more for daily travels about town too if I know I will just be limping around taking it slow.

They want to wait 12 weeks post surgery before starting physical therapy; just doing my own range of motion exercises in the meantime. I'd like to start now since the scar area and tendon are quite tight and cause a limp but figure it's best to let it heal well before cranking on it too hard. I have one of those U-shaped heated neck massage things (stupid xmas gift finally found a use for) that I rest it on in the evening as I exercise in front of the boob-tube.

My calf is even looking a bit better considering I haven't really flexed it or tried tip toe lifts at all yet, but the end is in sight (ok, bring on the pain of PT) and I'm happy with the way things are going now.

Life is good. Bless you all. Paul]]>
I've been in the boot for a week and actually full weight bearing for over two. The boot the ortho's gave me was flat-soled and a bit clunky so I went to the local thrift store and put together a really nice fitting more rounded-sole set-up with all the best pads and straps that were there for the taking; must have been a dozen to choose from and I tried quite a few to get what felt best. A quick run through the washer/dryer and good to go. Cost all of $4.

While the boot is quite supportive and confidence building, and I use it if I'm really going to be banging around, (I went shrimping on a boat 3 times with it all wrapped in shrink wrap) now that I've got most of the feeling back into my foot I have begun spending most of my time in deck shoes with extra padded insoles. Exclusively around the house, and now more for daily travels about town too if I know I will just be limping around taking it slow.

They want to wait 12 weeks post surgery before starting physical therapy; just doing my own range of motion exercises in the meantime. I'd like to start now since the scar area and tendon are quite tight and cause a limp but figure it's best to let it heal well before cranking on it too hard. I have one of those U-shaped heated neck massage things (stupid xmas gift finally found a use for) that I rest it on in the evening as I exercise in front of the boob-tube.

My calf is even looking a bit better considering I haven't really flexed it or tried tip toe lifts at all yet, but the end is in sight (ok, bring on the pain of PT) and I'm happy with the way things are going now.

Life is good. Bless you all. Paul]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05152008033448AMPHIAWB.htm Wed, 14 May 2008 08:45:41 PM -0400 Robert Achilles Tendon Rupture
I'd say you're doing all the right things. I kept mine almost constantly elevated for the first 6wks. I didn't leave the house, didn't leave the couch only to go to bed. I've always been a big water drinker but I did consume my share of beer during that six weeks....heh! Anyway, I never strayed from my doctors orders.

I was told that I looked really good but you're going to find there is more to it than looks. Steve is right, much depends on the tear (I had a 2cm tear, I'm told that was significant), and the location of the tear (mine was in the middle of the tendon). I'm into my 17th week and I still have discomfort and swelling if I'm too active.

I was told it would be 6mons till full recovery and I'm feeling like it's probably going to take that long. Be patient and expect it to take some time. I've read other posts where it took even longer so 6mons may not be so bad.

Peace

p.s. See my post#409 for a complete recap of my progress.]]>
I'd say you're doing all the right things. I kept mine almost constantly elevated for the first 6wks. I didn't leave the house, didn't leave the couch only to go to bed. I've always been a big water drinker but I did consume my share of beer during that six weeks....heh! Anyway, I never strayed from my doctors orders.

I was told that I looked really good but you're going to find there is more to it than looks. Steve is right, much depends on the tear (I had a 2cm tear, I'm told that was significant), and the location of the tear (mine was in the middle of the tendon). I'm into my 17th week and I still have discomfort and swelling if I'm too active.

I was told it would be 6mons till full recovery and I'm feeling like it's probably going to take that long. Be patient and expect it to take some time. I've read other posts where it took even longer so 6mons may not be so bad.

Peace

p.s. See my post#409 for a complete recap of my progress.]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05142008084541PMPHI2WL.htm Wed, 14 May 2008 04:58:24 PM -0400 Idris Achilles Tendon - post surgery
Thought I should send in an update. Here's the "lowdown on the achilles showdown":

39 yrs - Full rupture playing basketball Jan 27/08

Surgury Jan 29/08

2 weeks nwb in cast

8 weeks in aircast - immediately given permission to weight bear as pain allowed - lost crutches at week 4. Rode stationary and later mountain bike (on trails) in aircast. Also did light handweight routine. Intensity gradually increased throughtout.

week 9 - out of boot -begun stretching and strengthening (1st physio appt). Continued to ride mountain bike 3x week 1-2 hrs close to full speed in aircast along with weights routine.

week 12 - lost limp walking on flat ground (2nd physio appt - strength /range of motion better)

I am currently at week 15 and finding that my amount of mountain biking with aircast back on is probably taking away from my focus on rehabing my tendon (doing a 40 k fun race next weekend- wonder if they'll have an aircast category?). However it is feeling a tiny bit better each day and I attempted to do a little jogging last weekend - felt very week. Currently working towards unassisted standing single leg calf raise - still needs lots of help to go through range of motion.

Hope this info is helpful.

Idris]]>
Thought I should send in an update. Here's the "lowdown on the achilles showdown":

39 yrs - Full rupture playing basketball Jan 27/08

Surgury Jan 29/08

2 weeks nwb in cast

8 weeks in aircast - immediately given permission to weight bear as pain allowed - lost crutches at week 4. Rode stationary and later mountain bike (on trails) in aircast. Also did light handweight routine. Intensity gradually increased throughtout.

week 9 - out of boot -begun stretching and strengthening (1st physio appt). Continued to ride mountain bike 3x week 1-2 hrs close to full speed in aircast along with weights routine.

week 12 - lost limp walking on flat ground (2nd physio appt - strength /range of motion better)

I am currently at week 15 and finding that my amount of mountain biking with aircast back on is probably taking away from my focus on rehabing my tendon (doing a 40 k fun race next weekend- wonder if they'll have an aircast category?). However it is feeling a tiny bit better each day and I attempted to do a little jogging last weekend - felt very week. Currently working towards unassisted standing single leg calf raise - still needs lots of help to go through range of motion.

Hope this info is helpful.

Idris]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05142008045824PMPHISLK.htm Wed, 14 May 2008 04:30:21 PM -0400 tracey Achilles Tendon - post surgery
Saif, worrying about rerupture is normal - I think we've all worried about that at some point or other. But you'll get more confident over the coming weeks and months - just take it easy and you'll be fine.

Hi to Monica, Michael H, the other 'vets' and everyone else!]]>
Saif, worrying about rerupture is normal - I think we've all worried about that at some point or other. But you'll get more confident over the coming weeks and months - just take it easy and you'll be fine.

Hi to Monica, Michael H, the other 'vets' and everyone else!]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#14052008163021PHIS32.htm Wed, 14 May 2008 08:36:18 AM -0400 Adam Zidek Microsoft RoundTable
I have the same problem with RoundTable and his periodic ringig every 15 minutes. How can I change of detect level of incoming AC power signals?

Thanx]]>
I have the same problem with RoundTable and his periodic ringig every 15 minutes. How can I change of detect level of incoming AC power signals?

Thanx]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/microsoft-roundtable.htm?opendocument&comments#14.05.2008083618PHIGSR.htm Wed, 14 May 2008 08:10:43 AM -0400 steve Achilles Tendon Rupture
Glad your doing well and moving it as much as possible. Be careful and follow the Dr's orders on the weight bearing portion of your comeback. You definitly dont want to have a setback and start over again.]]>
Glad your doing well and moving it as much as possible. Be careful and follow the Dr's orders on the weight bearing portion of your comeback. You definitly dont want to have a setback and start over again.]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05142008081043AMPHIGAR.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 11:49:47 PM -0400 glen Achilles Tendon Rupture
thanks

Glen]]>
thanks

Glen]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05132008114947PMPHI6HN.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 01:44:41 PM -0400 Robert Achilles Tendon Rupture
I'm happy to report that after laying low for the past two days it feels much better today. I spent the past 2days elevating as much as possible and icing. Apparently that did the trick.

When I feel any discomfort its usually in the area of the AT where the incision was made. I'm guessing its scar tissue? Regardless, it always raises my level of concern whenever I feel anything in that area.

I guess we still have a ways to go....unfortunately.

Peace]]>
I'm happy to report that after laying low for the past two days it feels much better today. I spent the past 2days elevating as much as possible and icing. Apparently that did the trick.

When I feel any discomfort its usually in the area of the AT where the incision was made. I'm guessing its scar tissue? Regardless, it always raises my level of concern whenever I feel anything in that area.

I guess we still have a ways to go....unfortunately.

Peace]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05132008014441PMPHINTG.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 12:54:37 PM -0400 Saif Achilles Tendon - post surgery
I had been weightbearing in plaster for 5 weeks. the wound looked OK, and I was expecting him to say a plaster for another few weeks. Instead I got a walking boot (no wedges, just flat heeled), was told to wear it for 4 weeks, then should be OK with normal shoes. I'm still using my crutches initially, will probably take a week or so to be able to walk without them.

I am starting physio tomorrow, just gentle stretches initially. I'm a bit nervous about re-re rupture (not sure if that's a word!), but am happy that I'm able to have a proper shower and wash all that dead skin away!!!!]]>
I had been weightbearing in plaster for 5 weeks. the wound looked OK, and I was expecting him to say a plaster for another few weeks. Instead I got a walking boot (no wedges, just flat heeled), was told to wear it for 4 weeks, then should be OK with normal shoes. I'm still using my crutches initially, will probably take a week or so to be able to walk without them.

I am starting physio tomorrow, just gentle stretches initially. I'm a bit nervous about re-re rupture (not sure if that's a word!), but am happy that I'm able to have a proper shower and wash all that dead skin away!!!!]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#13052008125437PHIMU7.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 12:44:21 PM -0400 Mark W. Achilles Tendon - post surgery
It's good to hear that many of the vets which brought me along are doing well. Monica, I'd gladly be your kicking dummy if I could advance at a similar pace. Hang in there Michael and behave. It's good to hear that the ghost of James Brown is groovin too. Oh, and Tracey! You're my hero-ette! Good job!

Me? Five months and six days. It's getting better, but the pace is slower than I'd like. It's tough seeing so many active now that Spring has sprung. I am able to walk big time, but when going up stadium steps for the first time, I did limp the next day. Some notice the limp, mainly after an active day of work. Of course, like many swelling is an issue at this stage. Muscle atrophy still freaks me out and I must admit, I miss my strong calfs and formerly in shape lower body. Long ways to go, but I will battle!

Newbies, it really does get better and as the old guard will tell you, it's a marathon. Good health to all.]]>
It's good to hear that many of the vets which brought me along are doing well. Monica, I'd gladly be your kicking dummy if I could advance at a similar pace. Hang in there Michael and behave. It's good to hear that the ghost of James Brown is groovin too. Oh, and Tracey! You're my hero-ette! Good job!

Me? Five months and six days. It's getting better, but the pace is slower than I'd like. It's tough seeing so many active now that Spring has sprung. I am able to walk big time, but when going up stadium steps for the first time, I did limp the next day. Some notice the limp, mainly after an active day of work. Of course, like many swelling is an issue at this stage. Muscle atrophy still freaks me out and I must admit, I miss my strong calfs and formerly in shape lower body. Long ways to go, but I will battle!

Newbies, it really does get better and as the old guard will tell you, it's a marathon. Good health to all.]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05132008124421PMPHIMMS.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 10:59:32 AM -0400 Steph Achilles Tendon - post surgery http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon-post-surgery.htm?opendocument&comments#05132008105932AMPHIKL9.htm Tue, 13 May 2008 07:13:51 AM -0400 Steven M Achilles Tendon Rupture
I have been doing stationary bike and cross trainer in the gym. I still have a lot of swelling at times when i have been up and about. Last few days i have had a dull ache under my heel and at the back of my foot (not the achilles).

Keep drumming, i bet its good for range of movement (as is driving my car again!).]]>
I have been doing stationary bike and cross trainer in the gym. I still have a lot of swelling at times when i have been up and about. Last few days i have had a dull ache under my heel and at the back of my foot (not the achilles).

Keep drumming, i bet its good for range of movement (as is driving my car again!).]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#13052008071351PHIF78.htm Mon, 12 May 2008 04:39:28 PM -0400 Robert Achilles Tendon Rupture
Played a gig (drums) over the weekend, friday and saturday night. I was feeling great until yesterday, now I feel like I've taken a step back in my progress :( Lots of swelling, some discomfort and loss of range probably due to the swelling? Anybody else do anything this late (16wks) in the recovery process to irritate your AT?

I see my PT Weds but I'm a little nervous right now. I don't see how kicking on a bass drum could be that bad considering all the things I do in therapy. I'm seated and it doesn't take much force to pedal the drum. Perhaps the repetitive nature of it? I hope nothing serious here.

I guess the lesson here is still the same, easy does it.

Peace]]>
Played a gig (drums) over the weekend, friday and saturday night. I was feeling great until yesterday, now I feel like I've taken a step back in my progress :( Lots of swelling, some discomfort and loss of range probably due to the swelling? Anybody else do anything this late (16wks) in the recovery process to irritate your AT?

I see my PT Weds but I'm a little nervous right now. I don't see how kicking on a bass drum could be that bad considering all the things I do in therapy. I'm seated and it doesn't take much force to pedal the drum. Perhaps the repetitive nature of it? I hope nothing serious here.

I guess the lesson here is still the same, easy does it.

Peace]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05122008043928PMPHIS8Q.htm Mon, 12 May 2008 12:13:37 PM -0400 Blue Achilles Tendon Rupture
I see me dr again next week. I haven't started PT yet. We'll see if the dr wants me to start when I see him this time.

I'm walking w/ boot & 1 crutch these days, but if I happen to walk w/o the boot (several steps around the house), I can't bend the knee of my injured foot at all since my ankle won't flex while I'm walking.

Blue]]>
I see me dr again next week. I haven't started PT yet. We'll see if the dr wants me to start when I see him this time.

I'm walking w/ boot & 1 crutch these days, but if I happen to walk w/o the boot (several steps around the house), I can't bend the knee of my injured foot at all since my ankle won't flex while I'm walking.

Blue]]> http://apps.fmc.com/blog.nsf/dx/achilles-tendon.htm?opendocument&comments#05122008121337PMPHIM2K.htm