Thank you so much, such valuable information for me going into week 3 of a full rupture. I'm so glad to realize my foot was cast in a hanging position and not forced down and that my non operative route has been so successful. You are truly a life inspiration I will never forget these videos and how they have brought so much light into my life at such a hard time. Thank you.
Hang in there, I'm week 2 of a full rupture...such a shitty time lol I'm going non op, and hopefully in a boot by Tuesday...then again, I've heard the boot is hot and at times painful. But I just wanna get closer to walking again.
I am so grateful for your vids. They’re the only non surgical treatment vids on Achilles rupture and I’m on my 2nd week. Can’t wait to get to the end! X
@@birdiebands Yeah sure, I sat in a plaster cast for 2 weeks after getting assesed that my achilles got ruptured. Entering week 6 soon and in a VACOped boot, I feel stiffness a lot (lost a lot of range in motion) and when I remove my boot I do notice my achilles tendon being regrown again, sometimes I do feel a gap but it’s closing!
I'm on week 4 in the cast and will be transitioning to the boot on Thursday. Really needed to see this. Man I'm scared about the healing process but this series gives me hope it'll be okay!
I'm switching to the boot this Tuesday...though was only in a cast for 2 weeks...heard the boot is hotter and more painful than the cast, I hope we have it easier!
@@alwaysreturnNurgirl the boot is actually better in my opinion, more breathable and at least I can move and stretch my foot. Also can put a little pressure on it now and at least stand without help! We're going to be back 100 soon!
@@jerrycool97 that's awesome bro! I'm in the boot, and it doesn't really bother me in bed too much. I'm moving to 50 percent weight bearing today, so I'm a try to stand on it (though the boot is super tall, especially with those damn 4 wedges in it) but I purchased the even up shoe level, which I'm sure that'll help when it arrives. I'm glad your able to stand again...definitely a "step" in the right direction man! Things should be coming along for thr both of us.
Thank you for your videos, I am home on almost week three of my Achilles tear. No surgery but being as careful as possible. The knee scooter is my most needed tool to help with my healing. Yesterday I added a knee scooter basket to the front of my scooter (Amazon for $24.00) This accessory to my scooter is extra helpful.
Dr. Twaddle was my doctor 5 years ago (2014) when I ruptured my Achilles (Twaddle was at the UW Hospital but I think he moved back to New Zealand shortly after my recovery). Did the non-surgical route and healed up well, I dont have as much strength or range of motion as I used to, but from my understanding my results were on par with the surgical route. I do have occasional Achilles tendinitis after sports activity which always makes me nervous.
SJ is a life saver! I appreciate you for taking the time, while going thru the pain, to make these videos. You helped so many people (as i read in the comments), and myself. I am in my 12 month recovery and i feel fine, just some stiffness, due to me going back to normal life around month 4, and i stopped stretching as much. thanks you so much, and for the newbies that just tore, FOLLOW HIS INSTRUCTIONS, Stay a couple weeks ahead (still follow week by week) of SJ videos, and YOU WILL BE FINE!
Hey SJ , so i am today in week two of my repture. Im finding these videos really useful and certainly helping me lift my spirits. Just got into my vacoped boot today and just wanted to say thanks for these , so useful. Cheers Steve
Thank you for the video, partially tore mine on my left leg, last week, went to the doc they recommended strongly recommended surgery ! Strong argument being quicker recovery but after listening to you I will go for the non surgical method , great info! Once again thanks
Hey man, cheers and thanks for the videos. I tore my achilles 36 h ago and I am currently deciding whether I should go for the non-operative or surgery. I'll talk with an orthopedist today. Cool tip about this airwalk, I'll look it up on internet, cheers! 🤜🤛
Thanks for the videos. I am currently on week 2. Just moved from cast to boot. Not going for operation route. I am very active and it’s killing me but need to just put the work in.
I am also on my 2nd week since i ruptured my achilles..i also took a non surgery route. Hope everything would be fine, the videos were very useful for me..
New procedure is to start Physical Therapy BEFORE the boot comes off (at 4w after injury), that might reduce the chances of re-rupture in the non-surgical case!
I just tore my Achilles Tendon 2 days ago. Went to ER. They put cast on and Rehab will contact me. I've been watching your journey. Hopefully I can heal up well like you did
can anyone share what sensations they experienced during the healing process? lately i've been getting some tingling, pins and needles in the heel and a feeling like an itchy scab (but I obviously don't have any scabs). Just curious if anyone else has had the same experience. I'm day 7 non op
Hi it's been good listening to your videos. I'm at week 12 post op and have gone through similarities to yourself during my rehab. I'm.still walking with a limp, and my double heel raises are still tight with some pain. But good to hear a recent video for comparison. 👍
Thanks SJ- great work. On day one on my cast for two weeks. No pain feel great despite two finger gap (complete tear). Playing hoops like you. Do you have a walking boot model recommendation? And How often did you keep your leg elevated in first two weeks?
Hi SJ. I am grateful seeing your video. It's a lot of help. I have a question about prevention blood clot medication. I get a Clexane injection from emergency department. I asked any medication for instead of injection, the doctor said that is very expensive and not sure the same preventable so I have 20 each of injection. If aspirin is fine, why they gave me injection? Have you heard about this injection? Please let me know if you have any know about this. Thank you.
My guy! Thank you for these videos! I'm just starting on week 2 for my ruptured achilles tendon and I also decided to go through it without surgery. My question to you is: did u ever consider using a TENS unit to increase the blood flow around the tendon? I have been using it frequently throughout the day. It feels good, but I also hope I'm not setting myself back! Though, I did some research and overall I found that using it does help with the healing process. Thanks so much!
@@jonikoskinen3856 my goal for using the TENS was not to gain pain relief, but to hopefully increase the blood flow in the injured area, speeding up the healing process. However, my doc said that using the TENs doesn't hurt my chances, and that it probably doesn't help speed up the process (lol). He continued on by saying that I am healing fast because I am still young (39). I CAN SAY THIS, I am on week 7 now, and I am shocked that I was out of the boot at the 6 and half week mark! I am not going through PT, hoping to regain my calf strength! Thanks!
@@chiefflash Great to hear ! That is a fast recovery, I hope you continue to improve! Do you remember at which week were you able to activate your calf muscle? I can lift my heel while doing the ROM exercises but having trouble activating the calf (meaning even though the heel is raised my calf is just not tensing up like in my good leg ). This is why I was interested in TENS if maybe it would help ”teach” the muscle to contract. Maybe I`m just impatient and time truly will be the key to healing…
@Joni Koskinen hey I was only able to do a successful Thompson test this past week! I could not get my foot to move at all previously. I was getting worried for sure, and the results definitely surprised me. Hang in there brother! It's only a matter of time!
Hey SJ, great and informative videos! I just partially ruptured my achilles playing tennis (80%) in Canada. While I am Canadian, I live in France and it's been interesting comparing the medical approaches. I saw two orthopedic surgeons in Canada who both recommended the non-surgical treatment based on the latest studies and evidence available. While in France, I saw one surgeon who was very strong about the benefits of surgery. I have choose non-surgical and already started small weight-bearing in the boot even in the first two weeks as suggested by the doctors in Canada. If you had to do it over, would you start weight bearing earlier? It seems like you had a cast for the first two weeks?
I would wait to partially weight bear until after 2 weeks. Want to make sure it definitely knits back up before weight bearing. In terms of sleeping, you kind of get used to it after a while, i found. Good luck!
SJ, any advice on nutrition to help facilitate the healing time/efficiency. I'm non-surgical (week 2) and came across collagen peptides 🤞🏼hoping that it'll heal and strengthen my tendon throughout the healing process. In your research, have you come across anything that suggests nutritional supplementation that helps with healing?
Hey. I ruptured my achilles earlier this week. I’m doing the non surgical route, I have a cast one as my Dr. gave me 8 weeks until I take the cast off. I seen yours is three weeks. I wonder why my Dr. would suggest 8 weeks healing
Hi Antoine, I don't agree with what your doctor is doing. 8 weeks of cast is the old school method. The latest research is all about getting into the boot after 2 weeks so you get physio while in the boot (from being able to take it off for exercises and eventually partial weight bear). I would get a second opinion because this is a very critical time and it needs to be done right in order to get the best possible recovery.
Hi. Very nice and motivating vids, thank you. I had one Question.. How long do you felt pain in the calf after injury? Iam 2 Weeks after my injury and when i try to stretch out my knee, i feel much of a pulling pain like a strong aching and i do not know if this is normal. My doctor said two days ago, i should stretch it a little bit. Do you know what i mean? BR Franz
Hi. I ruptured my achilles a little more than a week ago. As soon as it happen I went to the ER here in the US and they put me in a splinter with my toes facing down. One week later I was able to see a Orthopedic surgeon that really wanted to do surgery on me. But since he said it was a partial tear and before i went to see him i was able to move my ankle a little bet up and down, I pushed to go the non- surgical way. He then put me on a walking boot with the wedges and has asked me not to remove my boot for the next two weeks. After the two weeks im supposed to see him and he stated I am able to start putting some weight on it. I have two questions for anyone that would like to answer: 1: I have no pain in my ankle at all but lately Ive been having a lot of nerve pain on my foot. Is it normal to experience some nerve pain? Did anyone experience any pain in the ankle? 2: Is it normal to start adding some weight after three weeks non-weight bearing and if so how much weight is allowed? Great videos btw it gives me hope to continue going in this what seems to be long road to recovery.
Were you in a lot of pain during the 2nd week? I have had a pulling pain for the past 5 days (I am on a day 11 after the rupture), especially when I have my boot on and my leg vertically. My swelling and bruising is still there too.
Hi Warren, unfortunately I've found it really hard to find a good protocol in writing. My surgeon has just verbally told me what to do which is basically planter flexion in the boot with 3 wedges until week 5, then take a wedge out each week until week 8 when I'm meant to move into shoes. I also started partial weight bearing after 2.5 weeks. During that time period he wanted me to do the towel range of motion exercise which I show in my week 4 video. All the other ROMs I'm doing are just from my own research on what has worked on others. Another protocol I found which is similar and goes by the Twaddle method is here but note that I would also add early weight bearing to this protocol: - www.sportsmed.net.nz/foot_and_ankle
Hi SJ I was just curious when you went from your cast to the boot did you experience any pain on the top part of your foot I transferred over today and I’m having bad cramping on the top of my foot curious if you had the same thing and if so what did you do for it. Thank you
I didnt have insurance or $ to see ortho...i ruptured mine 12 days ago..did go to e.r...ct scan showed partial possibly full...i got the vacoped boot yesterday..my friend bought it for me..have it at 30degree angle...ivebeen puttin weight on it cause havent had a choice...amd my job wants me back next week..start of 3rd week...and will be walkin most of day with boot...do you think it will still heal??my insurance does kick in 60days...i hate bein in such a bad spot....thank you for your time
Hey, ruptured my right achilles two weeks ago. The boot was causing a lot of swelling, pain and discomfort from the heat. Found that removing the boot and resting the foot angled down and sideways on a pillow when working during the day eliminated all these issues. However, slightly unsure if this is okej or if it may affect the healing process, could not find anything on it online. So, my question is, based on your experience and accumulated knowledge, is this a sensible thing to do?. I'm still using the boot when sleeping and when moving around. Thanks
@@jterry414 It's now approx 1 year and 1 month after my Achilles rupture incident. The Achilles has completely reattached and was walking quite normal 6 months post-injury. Now 1 year post-injury I'm able to jog with only some minor pain. I have tho yet to regain full strength in the calf. I have however not been consistent with my physio due to other things in my personal life. Good luck with your recovery and do prioritize your physio if you are able to. Best of luck on your journey!
Hello there that’s right it was a full tear. The body is amazing how it can repair itself without surgery! Think of it like when you break your bone. You get put in a cast and six weeks later your body has healed. In this case the collagen and scar tissue form the new tendon. Through Physio we then remodel it so it functions like a tendon again. There is some great papers out there on this process. I posted for someone in one of my other videos which explains the whole process of healing.
SJ I do! Sorry I’m just really paranoid on properly healing. I’m 19 so that’s a great factor in hand but also I’m scared that I won’t be able to go back to playing basketball. What are tips that you can give me going on forward from 5 week- x. Can I sleep with my foot on the side or does my foot have to always point up? Thank you for taking your time to help out btw! You’re a great help to people who are facing this obstacle.
You can definitely sleep on the side. It doesn’t matter how you sleep as long as the boot is on. In terms of tips, just watch my videos. I’ve got plenty of tips throughout. Good luck and I’m sure you will return to basketball. Everyone eventually returns to sport!
SJ how long did you have your foot in a cast before you transitioned to the boot? My Ortho MD is telling me 6 weeks in a cast then boot. What do you think compared to your experience? Also did you move a lot or just layed in bed for the first 3 weeks. I had to go to my brother's wedding on week 2 and thought my foot was going to explode from swelling on the plane.
I had a cast for 3 days and the 4th day my doc put me in boots . My question is it okay and normal ? I decided to go with the non surgical after watching SJ recovery journey am now on my second week with my boot on my next appointment will be in week 4
Hi, I ruptured my Achilles 8x days ago now. My doctor put me straight into the boot with the wedges. One question, did the area where your tendon rupture feel painful when you got up and moved on your crutches? I’m sure it’s natural but mine feels a bit ‘sharp and tight’ just wondered how long it takes for that feeing to go? That’s if you had any pain at all?
@@johnk.7219 my rip was high up just below the calf, my ultrasonographer said the sharp pain was likely where I also damaged the calf rather than the tendon itself. The pain went away after a few weeks naturally, nothing to worry about. The worst pain was getting up in the morning and standing up for the first time, the blood rush coursed the pain I recon.
@@johnk.7219 I did mine in mid December and from memory I think I started walking again early to mid March. Obviously very slowly and carefully as it was still tender and tight. I’d recommend getting a level up to put on your other shoe whilst in the boot. I also recommend getting a pair of ASICS gel nimbus Nike Pegasus for when you do coke out the boot...they are neutral trainers meaning they give you loads of ankle support and are easy to push off on whilst your Achilles is still tight and weak.
Hi SJ, I recently ruptured my achilles. I am also taking the non surgical route. Had my cast for a day now. Doctor said that I should have the cast on for 8 weeks. Don’t know if that’s right. Been reading a lot on functional rehabilitation which is 2 weeks cast then transfer to walking boot or aircast. My friend has an aircast. Is that of instead of the walkig boot? Thanks!
I reckon 8 weeks in a cast is way too long and thats the old school way of doing it. You should really push for a boot so you have the ability to take it off and do ROMs.
ah scared me for a second because I thought I had the 8 week treatment. Instead I realized that the 8 i was thinking of is Oct 8th for cast removal. That would put me in cast for 3 weeks total... seems to fit the general video and comments here! I wonder if there is a time difference depending on if its a partial rupture or full rupture (apparently full ruptures can be fixed by cast only.. who knew) With regards to DVT, my Dr told me to get on 150mg Aspirin instead of the blood thinning syringes that another nurse hinted at.
Thank you so much, such valuable information for me going into week 3 of a full rupture. I'm so glad to realize my foot was cast in a hanging position and not forced down and that my non operative route has been so successful. You are truly a life inspiration I will never forget these videos and how they have brought so much light into my life at such a hard time. Thank you.
Hang in there, I'm week 2 of a full rupture...such a shitty time lol I'm going non op, and hopefully in a boot by Tuesday...then again, I've heard the boot is hot and at times painful. But I just wanna get closer to walking again.
I am so grateful for your vids. They’re the only non surgical treatment vids on Achilles rupture and I’m on my 2nd week.
Can’t wait to get to the end!
X
May I ask how your recovery went?
I tore mine on my almost 3 weeks ago
@@9ntice how is yours going
@@birdiebands Yeah sure, I sat in a plaster cast for 2 weeks after getting assesed that my achilles got ruptured.
Entering week 6 soon and in a VACOped boot, I feel stiffness a lot (lost a lot of range in motion) and when I remove my boot I do notice my achilles tendon being regrown again, sometimes I do feel a gap but it’s closing!
@@9ntice that's good news. Build that strength back up and regain the motion back. 100% recovery for you soon
How r u now Cristina 0:12
I'm on week 4 in the cast and will be transitioning to the boot on Thursday. Really needed to see this. Man I'm scared about the healing process but this series gives me hope it'll be okay!
I'm switching to the boot this Tuesday...though was only in a cast for 2 weeks...heard the boot is hotter and more painful than the cast, I hope we have it easier!
@@alwaysreturnNurgirl the boot is actually better in my opinion, more breathable and at least I can move and stretch my foot. Also can put a little pressure on it now and at least stand without help! We're going to be back 100 soon!
@@jerrycool97 that's awesome bro! I'm in the boot, and it doesn't really bother me in bed too much. I'm moving to 50 percent weight bearing today, so I'm a try to stand on it (though the boot is super tall, especially with those damn 4 wedges in it) but I purchased the even up shoe level, which I'm sure that'll help when it arrives. I'm glad your able to stand again...definitely a "step" in the right direction man! Things should be coming along for thr both of us.
Hi - just to say thanks for your vids, they are really helping me.
Thank you for your videos, I am home on almost week three of my Achilles tear. No surgery but being as careful as possible. The knee scooter is my most needed tool to help with my healing. Yesterday I added a knee scooter basket to the front of my scooter (Amazon for $24.00) This accessory to my scooter is extra helpful.
Thank you. Very useful information. But I’m 74 so not sure if mine w heal as fast
These videos are amazing--and how detailed you go... it's sooooooo good
Dr. Twaddle was my doctor 5 years ago (2014) when I ruptured my Achilles (Twaddle was at the UW Hospital but I think he moved back to New Zealand shortly after my recovery). Did the non-surgical route and healed up well, I dont have as much strength or range of motion as I used to, but from my understanding my results were on par with the surgical route. I do have occasional Achilles tendinitis after sports activity which always makes me nervous.
SJ is a life saver! I appreciate you for taking the time, while going thru the pain, to make these videos. You helped so many people (as i read in the comments), and myself. I am in my 12 month recovery and i feel fine, just some stiffness, due to me going back to normal life around month 4, and i stopped stretching as much. thanks you so much, and for the newbies that just tore, FOLLOW HIS INSTRUCTIONS, Stay a couple weeks ahead (still follow week by week) of SJ videos, and YOU WILL BE FINE!
or even follow your doctor's instructions?
Hey SJ , so i am today in week two of my repture. Im finding these videos really useful and certainly helping me lift my spirits. Just got into my vacoped boot today and just wanted to say thanks for these , so useful. Cheers
Steve
Thank you for the video, partially tore mine on my left leg, last week, went to the doc they recommended strongly recommended surgery ! Strong argument being quicker recovery but after listening to you I will go for the non surgical method , great info! Once again thanks
How'd you heal?
Thank you for posting these, they are very informative and give people hope that they can make it back without going under the knife.
Hey man, cheers and thanks for the videos. I tore my achilles 36 h ago and I am currently deciding whether I should go for the non-operative or surgery. I'll talk with an orthopedist today. Cool tip about this airwalk, I'll look it up on internet, cheers! 🤜🤛
Thanks for the videos. I am currently on week 2. Just moved from cast to boot. Not going for operation route. I am very active and it’s killing me but need to just put the work in.
I am also on my 2nd week since i ruptured my achilles..i also took a non surgery route. Hope everything would be fine, the videos were very useful for me..
@@jaybeeee6577hello, any update on your injury
Hey are you back active, was the non op good for you since your so active 😊
This is brilliant. Thanks so much
New procedure is to start Physical Therapy BEFORE the boot comes off (at 4w after injury), that might reduce the chances of re-rupture in the non-surgical case!
Can I read about the new procedure anywhere?
Great video, I ruptured my achilles 8 days ago and I have been given a course of injections to thin the blood which I have inject myself once a day.
Hey mate. How are you tracking along 6 months later?
I have a friend who is an Orthopedic surgeon and she said the same thing...She would have went the non surgery route as well
I just tore my Achilles Tendon 2 days ago. Went to ER. They put cast on and Rehab will contact me. I've been watching your journey. Hopefully I can heal up well like you did
How’s it going? I ruptured mine 5 days ago. Getting surgery tomorrow.
@@crystalm.178 i went non op. 7 weeks since injury. On a CAM boot but its tendon has reattached and im walkimg no crutches. Just stay positive
Joobkl that’s awesome that you are now walking without crutches. I’m really trying to be positive about what’s ahead
Crystal M. lol I tore mine three days ago. How did your recovery go?
Ruptured mine on June 6th 2022. Helping someone push their Jeep
Amazing videos, you're the man, God bless !
Very helpful my friend. Well done
Thank you again!
Thinking I tore my tendon today.
can anyone share what sensations they experienced during the healing process? lately i've been getting some tingling, pins and needles in the heel and a feeling like an itchy scab (but I obviously don't have any scabs). Just curious if anyone else has had the same experience. I'm day 7 non op
I'm on day 8 and I've had similar sensations as you describe, just maybe not the itchy scab thing yet. But for sure I've had the occasional tingles.
I am on day 11 and I have had tingling in my heel for the past 4 days.
@WandaBliss did it end up healing fine? I'm on day 5, and have them as well.
Hi it's been good listening to your videos. I'm at week 12 post op and have gone through similarities to yourself during my rehab. I'm.still walking with a limp, and my double heel raises are still tight with some pain. But good to hear a recent video for comparison. 👍
Meant to add, what's the tape you've been wearing on your leg? Would you recommend it, does it help support? Thanks
Thanks SJ- great work. On day one on my cast for two weeks. No pain feel great despite two finger gap (complete tear). Playing hoops like you. Do you have a walking boot model recommendation? And How often did you keep your leg elevated in first two weeks?
Hello, ani update on your injury
Hi SJ. I am grateful seeing your video. It's a lot of help. I have a question about prevention blood clot medication. I get a Clexane injection from emergency department. I asked any medication for instead of injection, the doctor said that is very expensive and not sure the same preventable so I have 20 each of injection. If aspirin is fine, why they gave me injection? Have you heard about this injection? Please let me know if you have any know about this. Thank you.
My guy! Thank you for these videos! I'm just starting on week 2 for my ruptured achilles tendon and I also decided to go through it without surgery. My question to you is: did u ever consider using a TENS unit to increase the blood flow around the tendon? I have been using it frequently throughout the day. It feels good, but I also hope I'm not setting myself back! Though, I did some research and overall I found that using it does help with the healing process. Thanks so much!
Week 3 started for me yesterday. Did you get any relief or benefits from TENS?
@@jonikoskinen3856 my goal for using the TENS was not to gain pain relief, but to hopefully increase the blood flow in the injured area, speeding up the healing process. However, my doc said that using the TENs doesn't hurt my chances, and that it probably doesn't help speed up the process (lol). He continued on by saying that I am healing fast because I am still young (39). I CAN SAY THIS, I am on week 7 now, and I am shocked that I was out of the boot at the 6 and half week mark! I am not going through PT, hoping to regain my calf strength! Thanks!
@@chiefflash Great to hear ! That is a fast recovery, I hope you continue to improve! Do you remember at which week were you able to activate your calf muscle? I can lift my heel while doing the ROM exercises but having trouble activating the calf (meaning even though the heel is raised my calf is just not tensing up like in my good leg ). This is why I was interested in TENS if maybe it would help ”teach” the muscle to contract. Maybe I`m just impatient and time truly will be the key to healing…
@Joni Koskinen hey I was only able to do a successful Thompson test this past week! I could not get my foot to move at all previously. I was getting worried for sure, and the results definitely surprised me. Hang in there brother! It's only a matter of time!
@@chiefflash you too brother💪🏼 thanks for taking the time to reply, I truly appreciate it man. Happy New Year and all the best to you and yours!
Hey SJ, great and informative videos! I just partially ruptured my achilles playing tennis (80%) in Canada. While I am Canadian, I live in France and it's been interesting comparing the medical approaches. I saw two orthopedic surgeons in Canada who both recommended the non-surgical treatment based on the latest studies and evidence available. While in France, I saw one surgeon who was very strong about the benefits of surgery. I have choose non-surgical and already started small weight-bearing in the boot even in the first two weeks as suggested by the doctors in Canada. If you had to do it over, would you start weight bearing earlier? It seems like you had a cast for the first two weeks?
Also, any strategies about getting a better sleep with the boot? I find it quite uncomfortable sometimes
I would wait to partially weight bear until after 2 weeks. Want to make sure it definitely knits back up before weight bearing. In terms of sleeping, you kind of get used to it after a while, i found. Good luck!
SJ, any advice on nutrition to help facilitate the healing time/efficiency. I'm non-surgical (week 2) and came across collagen peptides 🤞🏼hoping that it'll heal and strengthen my tendon throughout the healing process. In your research, have you come across anything that suggests nutritional supplementation that helps with healing?
Hey. I ruptured my achilles earlier this week. I’m doing the non surgical route, I have a cast one as my Dr. gave me 8 weeks until I take the cast off. I seen yours is three weeks. I wonder why my Dr. would suggest 8 weeks healing
Hi Antoine, I don't agree with what your doctor is doing. 8 weeks of cast is the old school method. The latest research is all about getting into the boot after 2 weeks so you get physio while in the boot (from being able to take it off for exercises and eventually partial weight bear). I would get a second opinion because this is a very critical time and it needs to be done right in order to get the best possible recovery.
Hi.
Very nice and motivating vids, thank you.
I had one Question..
How long do you felt pain in the calf after injury? Iam 2 Weeks after my injury and when i try to stretch out my knee, i feel much of a pulling pain like a strong aching and i do not know if this is normal. My doctor said two days ago, i should stretch it a little bit. Do you know what i mean? BR Franz
I feel the same way right now on week 2 ??? When I get up and walk with my crutches I feel calf pain ???? Is this normal ???
Hi. I ruptured my achilles a little more than a week ago. As soon as it happen I went to the ER here in the US and they put me in a splinter with my toes facing down. One week later I was able to see a Orthopedic surgeon that really wanted to do surgery on me. But since he said it was a partial tear and before i went to see him i was able to move my ankle a little bet up and down, I pushed to go the non- surgical way. He then put me on a walking boot with the wedges and has asked me not to remove my boot for the next two weeks. After the two weeks im supposed to see him and he stated I am able to start putting some weight on it. I have two questions for anyone that would like to answer:
1: I have no pain in my ankle at all but lately Ive been having a lot of nerve pain on my foot. Is it normal to experience some nerve pain? Did anyone experience any pain in the ankle?
2: Is it normal to start adding some weight after three weeks non-weight bearing and if so how much weight is allowed?
Great videos btw it gives me hope to continue going in this what seems to be long road to recovery.
SJ, how long until your doctor can do the the Thompson test again and tell if your Achilles tendon has reaatached?
I can't recall but i definitely documented it in my videos on when the thompson test started working again.
When was you able to get back to work.
Were you in a lot of pain during the 2nd week? I have had a pulling pain for the past 5 days (I am on a day 11 after the rupture), especially when I have my boot on and my leg vertically. My swelling and bruising is still there too.
How you feeling nowadays?
Hi SJ, fellow aussie here in the same situation. Care to put up your protocol just to compare?
Hi Warren, unfortunately I've found it really hard to find a good protocol in writing. My surgeon has just verbally told me what to do which is basically planter flexion in the boot with 3 wedges until week 5, then take a wedge out each week until week 8 when I'm meant to move into shoes. I also started partial weight bearing after 2.5 weeks. During that time period he wanted me to do the towel range of motion exercise which I show in my week 4 video. All the other ROMs I'm doing are just from my own research on what has worked on others. Another protocol I found which is similar and goes by the Twaddle method is here but note that I would also add early weight bearing to this protocol: - www.sportsmed.net.nz/foot_and_ankle
How old were you when this injury occurred?
What early mobilization did you do?
How long are you in a cast for?
Hi SJ I was just curious when you went from your cast to the boot did you experience any pain on the top part of your foot I transferred over today and I’m having bad cramping on the top of my foot curious if you had the same thing and if so what did you do for it. Thank you
I did. I just used my hand to massage the top of my foot. Really seemed to help.
I didnt have insurance or $ to see ortho...i ruptured mine 12 days ago..did go to e.r...ct scan showed partial possibly full...i got the vacoped boot yesterday..my friend bought it for me..have it at 30degree angle...ivebeen puttin weight on it cause havent had a choice...amd my job wants me back next week..start of 3rd week...and will be walkin most of day with boot...do you think it will still heal??my insurance does kick in 60days...i hate bein in such a bad spot....thank you for your time
How did things turn out for you?
Hey how did your recovery go? In the same position, torn Achilles no insurance
Hey, ruptured my right achilles two weeks ago. The boot was causing a lot of swelling, pain and discomfort from the heat. Found that removing the boot and resting the foot angled down and sideways on a pillow when working during the day eliminated all these issues. However, slightly unsure if this is okej or if it may affect the healing process, could not find anything on it online. So, my question is, based on your experience and accumulated knowledge, is this a sensible thing to do?. I'm still using the boot when sleeping and when moving around. Thanks
Hello, any update on your injury
@@jterry414 It's now approx 1 year and 1 month after my Achilles rupture incident. The Achilles has completely reattached and was walking quite normal 6 months post-injury. Now 1 year post-injury I'm able to jog with only some minor pain. I have tho yet to regain full strength in the calf. I have however not been consistent with my physio due to other things in my personal life. Good luck with your recovery and do prioritize your physio if you are able to. Best of luck on your journey!
@@shadhenderson6000 thank you, god bless
when you say rupture do you mean that you fully tore your achilles? If so, then how is it possible to heal a full tear without surgery?
Hello there that’s right it was a full tear. The body is amazing how it can repair itself without surgery! Think of it like when you break your bone. You get put in a cast and six weeks later your body has healed. In this case the collagen and scar tissue form the new tendon. Through Physio we then remodel it so it functions like a tendon again. There is some great papers out there on this process. I posted for someone in one of my other videos which explains the whole process of healing.
Can you possibly send me that guideline
me too!
Hey maybe you can answer i have a partial rupture or tare and i only have one wedge should i start with 2?
It depends on how high the one wedge is. It seems a little low to me.
Hi Sj, I have as well ruptured my Achilles post op 4 weeks. Is there a way of positioning your foot when you sleep to maximize rapid recovery?
98 Noir I’m assuming you have a boot on that has your foot in planter flexion so that’s all you need for the best recovery!
SJ I do! Sorry I’m just really paranoid on properly healing. I’m 19 so that’s a great factor in hand but also I’m scared that I won’t be able to go back to playing basketball. What are tips that you can give me going on forward from 5 week- x. Can I sleep with my foot on the side or does my foot have to always point up? Thank you for taking your time to help out btw! You’re a great help to people who are facing this obstacle.
You can definitely sleep on the side. It doesn’t matter how you sleep as long as the boot is on. In terms of tips, just watch my videos. I’ve got plenty of tips throughout. Good luck and I’m sure you will return to basketball. Everyone eventually returns to sport!
SJ how long did you have your foot in a cast before you transitioned to the boot? My Ortho MD is telling me 6 weeks in a cast then boot. What do you think compared to your experience? Also did you move a lot or just layed in bed for the first 3 weeks. I had to go to my brother's wedding on week 2 and thought my foot was going to explode from swelling on the plane.
I was in a cast for ~2 weeks. 6 weeks in a cast seems too long because by then you should be comfortably weight bearing with a boot.
I had a cast for 3 days and the 4th day my doc put me in boots . My question is it okay and normal ? I decided to go with the non surgical after watching SJ recovery journey am now on my second week with my boot on my next appointment will be in week 4
Hi, I ruptured my Achilles 8x days ago now. My doctor put me straight into the boot with the wedges. One question, did the area where your tendon rupture feel painful when you got up and moved on your crutches? I’m sure it’s natural but mine feels a bit ‘sharp and tight’ just wondered how long it takes for that feeing to go? That’s if you had any pain at all?
Hi mate im currently finished week 1 and im expierancing the same thing. How did it go for u
@@johnk.7219 my rip was high up just below the calf, my ultrasonographer said the sharp pain was likely where I also damaged the calf rather than the tendon itself. The pain went away after a few weeks naturally, nothing to worry about. The worst pain was getting up in the morning and standing up for the first time, the blood rush coursed the pain I recon.
@@JamesDaviesPhotography thanks for the reply. I find that too. How long before you walked properly. Im in the wedged boot for 6weeks 1 week done
@@johnk.7219 I did mine in mid December and from memory I think I started walking again early to mid March. Obviously very slowly and carefully as it was still tender and tight. I’d recommend getting a level up to put on your other shoe whilst in the boot. I also recommend getting a pair of ASICS gel nimbus Nike Pegasus for when you do coke out the boot...they are neutral trainers meaning they give you loads of ankle support and are easy to push off on whilst your Achilles is still tight and weak.
@@JamesDaviesPhotography i have a pair of asics 👍were u on crutches after you came out of the boot or could u walk right away?
Hi SJ, I recently ruptured my achilles. I am also taking the non surgical route. Had my cast for a day now. Doctor said that I should have the cast on for 8 weeks. Don’t know if that’s right. Been reading a lot on functional rehabilitation which is 2 weeks cast then transfer to walking boot or aircast. My friend has an aircast. Is that of instead of the walkig boot? Thanks!
I reckon 8 weeks in a cast is way too long and thats the old school way of doing it. You should really push for a boot so you have the ability to take it off and do ROMs.
Yup I think my ortho is old school. Anyways, I will talk to my doctor about this. Thank you so much!
ah scared me for a second because I thought I had the 8 week treatment. Instead I realized that the 8 i was thinking of is Oct 8th for cast removal. That would put me in cast for 3 weeks total... seems to fit the general video and comments here!
I wonder if there is a time difference depending on if its a partial rupture or full rupture (apparently full ruptures can be fixed by cast only.. who knew)
With regards to DVT, my Dr told me to get on 150mg Aspirin instead of the blood thinning syringes that another nurse hinted at.
Please update us about your situation. Did you heal completely ? I also got achilles rupture yesterday(