Oct 15 2008
Running can improve AT healing
Hi all,
I came across this post that may be of interest; it was a lab study that investigated exercise on lab rats and found that running can improve the strength of the AT: -
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1724906
I am officially cleared to start gentle jogging, although I cannot do a single leg toe raise but its improving.
2 weeks ago my PT cleared me to start toe raises, both feet and put as much weight as I can on the ATR leg. My ATR leg gets quite sore with this but I do see significant improvements. What I wasnt expecting was that my good AT has started mild aching since doing the toe raises. This fits in with what my surgeon said - a good AT doesnt rupture on its own, its a sign of injury, lack of exercise or degeneration (e.g. age). In which case I deduced that my good AT was likely to be weekened also.
I was keen to find out if my diet had contributed, I switched to high protein and low carbs after my injury. Lost 10lbs in weight but I wonder if the fat and carbs are needed to build the AT?
I also think my only hope is a gradual exercise plan that builds up my AT strength. A guy was told that it takes a lot longer to increase the AT strength compared to muscle strength; this can cause injury since the muscle can develop faster and so generate loads that the AT cant take. I will speak about this at my next PT session and possibly visit a local pro-sports clinic to get a food-exercise plan to restore my AT strength. I would love to know how pro-footballers (soccer) can be back playing after 6 months.
Im in 2 shoes and no wedges and I cant believe its over 3 months since my leg exploded. To anyone just starting this journey hang in there, it will gather pace and you will be up and about before you know it.