1 Month Post-Op
Well, it’s been a month since surgery, and I am SO ready for this cast to come off. I keep having dreams that I’m walking!! Then I wake up kind of terrified that I just put weight on my left leg, then I realize, no, sadly, I can’t walk. It was just a dream. Then I open my eyes, and there to greet me are my two new best friends, crutch-1 and crutch-2. Oh you guys!
The cast is supposed to come off in a little under 2 weeks now, and I’m anxious to start PT and get back on the move! This time of year in NYC the weather is PERFECT for long slow runs (so sad!) and really adorable leather jackets, and jeans and heels… Cold enough for closed-toe, but warm enough so that your ankles don’t get cold. Needless to say, my outfit ability is limited by the goof-factor of the sticks. Vanity. One of the privileges that ruptures with the tendon. Oh well!
I’m hoping to be able to get back in the pool as soon as the cast comes off so I can do some non-crutch cardio. Has anyone had success with this? I was reading an article a few weeks ago that mentioned “pool running” for long distance runners who need to train while they recover from NWB injuries… I’m not a marathoner by any means, but I thought it sounded like a good way to stay in running shape. I’m hoping that I’ll be able to crutch to the pool’s edge… Maybe the Y has some handicapped services that’ll help out? Mostly feeling excited and anxious, hoping that the improvement skyrockets once the you know what is off! Oh, to scratch my shin… Trying so hard to remain patient. Have considered getting the cast wet just so they have to take it off. Not really going to, but did think about it. I hate surprises! I want to at least peak and see what’s going on under that fiberglass! It’s like the worst Christmas present ever.
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Alfia:
You will get there! In terms of the pool, it is likely going to depend on your incision. If it is still scabbed or not entirely closed, you will be told to stay out of the pool. If it is all cleaned up and closed completely, you have a shot - but watch out on the edge of the pool!!!
Hang in there!
Ed
Alfia - You’ll be walking around in a boot in no time. I was getting accustomed to the boot walking in Central Park on the UES this past spring.. somehow boot walking in the park and around the city has left an impression on me, and I’ll remember that for a long time to come.
To read about other’s pool exercises, go to the main site and use the Google search for “pool”, you’ll find some good info that way.
good luck!
Hi Alfia. About two weeks after I got my cast off, the doctor told me I could start swimming. I think that was about 6-7 weeks post op. My wound had completely closed and healed by then.
If you can swim at all, that is great cardio exercise - you get all the parts moving! I started out by just dragging my injured foot as I swam. I was very careful at the turns to just push off with the good foot. Gradually, I started to kick with my bad foot as it started to feel better.
My pool had wide, concrete steps into the pool. Alot of indoor pools have ladders, but many have added devices that help handicapped folks get in and out. I suggest you check it out prior to swimming.
Walking in the water is a good exercise - I personally found it less of a workout than swimming, so I more or less stuck to swimming.
Just be really careful of wet pavements - it is so easy to slip. To get myself started on my swimming regime, I sat by the side of the pool, took off my boot, slid in on my rear. After swimming, I went up the stairs on my rear, sat by the side of the pool, dried my leg, and put on my boot. I had my boot on prior to walking at all, and I was done with crutches. I was overcautious at first, but I was thrilled to be working out, and happily, did not slip, fall or cause any damage to the ATR.
Good luck if you do venture to the pool. It helped restore my sanity. Just be careful out there!
I have a couple comments on your latest post: 1) you should name your crutches, crutch-1 and crutch-2… also 2) i don’t think your “goof-factor” is increased by your sticks and for real 3) i don’t think you need to worry too much about the clothes and lack of autumn outfits — i still think you are beautiful in whatever, and you can always get some sympathy with the “goof sticks” hehe
I love you shi*loon
I am so happy you are so close to getting your cast off! Just think, by the holidays you will be as good as new. When will you be in SF next doll? Bailey and Logan miss you and so do their mommy and daddy. xoxoxxoxo
Alfia,
GOOD LUCK and let us know your progress.
I got in the pool at four weeks but it was in my backyard and outside (no wet surfaces):) It was the happiest day! I could do ANYTHING in the water! Deep water jogging is an excellent way to train. Put on a belt if you don’t swim. I also did the hottub before that so the heat and massage would loosen my tight incision up for the workout, but made sure that it was serviced with fresh CLEAN water beforehand and my incision was closed. I am now at the county pool and the instructor lost 35 lbs during “water aerobics” with no injury. It is toning my calf and getting me ready for harder land exercise. I may add that soon. Truth be told, I am lucky to come home and take a nap!
I give you so much credit for being able to go to school and I am sure it is very demanding! You GO Girl! I would have not been able to handle both rehab and school. I KNOW you are younger than me and will do just fine!
MarilynRD
p.s. Don’t go TOO fast…you don’t want a set back…take necessary breaks when needed…two steps forward and one back…keep moving….now I am FINALLY going to get moving myself! WAY TOO MUCH BLOGGING TODAY!
Marilyn,
Thanks for your encouraging note! I haven’t started the rehab yet, but I can’t wait. I’m so excited to get back in the pool, it’s good to know that you’ve had such success with it! I’ll keep you posted!