jgigs’ AchillesBlog

I’m happy to report I’m virtually pain free right now, despite the fact this cast is tight around the ankle.  Since I don’t need to keep my leg elevated at all times (although I keep it up as much as possible just for comfort) I decided to give sleeping in the bed a chance.  I have to say the past three days have been the best sleep I’ve had since the surgery.  I hate my couch and think I might have to replace it when all of this is over!  Anyway I’m feeling better about things and am just keeping that next milestone in sight.  March 10th:  Move to the boot and 50% weight.

Today I found out the answer to that question.  Doctor pulled out the staples and everything looks good with the incision.  Back into a cast with a little more stretch in the tendon.  The cast is also about an inch lower than the previous one and wrapped very tight at the ankle.  They really don’t want me moving it right now.  I have to say I was not prepared for the amount of atrophy after two weeks.  While I’m quite aware atrophy is part of the game I some how thought is would take a little longer.  It appeared as is if my calf was already half it’s original size.

Doctor will move me to the boot in two weeks with 50% weight bearing.  Two weeks later no crutches and PT will start.

Well today I feel much better than last week.  I’m not really feeling any pain which I think is a good thing.  Nowhere as near as sore as last week.  Although the itching is starting to drive me crazy.  The only thing keeping me sane is I get the cast off for short time on Wednesday when the staples are taken out.  Then two more weeks in the cast.  Blech.

I think the incision is nearly healed because i’m starting to feel the need to scratch and scratch.  I will be so happy when the staples come out on Wednesday, although I will be right back in the cast.

I have since noticed something else and hope all is well.  As is to be expected, my legs are very stiff, especially my right leg.  I have been trying to stretch and extend them to help keep loose.  Last night my right calf contracted and I could actually feel the AT contract as well.   The Dr. said I should wiggle my toes but I don’t recall him saying anything about calf muscles and what I should feel in the leg at 10 days post op.

This is my first blog so go easy on me!  When I first injured myself, I began searching for others with similar symptoms and pains.  After confirmation of the rupture, I found the blogs of others who had gone before and found solace in the fact everything I was experiencing was “normal.”  This is my chance to repay the favor and find an outlet for my frustrations while work to regain my mobility over the next few months.