Oct 12 2010
OS Appointment & Decisions
At my OS appointment four days post-injury, a Thompson test was performed confirming I had a complete AT rupture. The OS said it could be treated surgically or non-surgically and it seemed that the choice depended on what level of activity I expected in the future. That if I wanted to resume sports at the pre-injury level (which is recreational tennis and skiing, and occasional hiking), and not a sedentary lifestyle (sitting on the couch) surgery was the better option. So, I said "fine" and surgery was scheduled for Wednesday, October 13.
When I returned home, I started to read Norm’s blog, then a few others (Gerry, Gunnar, Johanna) who elected (or were recommending) the non-surgery route & read the recent studies and protocols. I asked my husband to take a look, too, to have an extra set of eyes on what I was seeing, and we both agreed that this solution made sense. The studies were compelling and I trusted Norm’s considerable first hand knowledge and experience, backed by others who were also "trailblazers" to a new and improved recovery protocol.
I went to my doctor’s office on Monday morning 10/11 & saw his PA & nurse (the OS was in surgery) and they were both very supportive of this non-surgical decision. The PA–who originally did my Thompson test–said my tear was further up the leg and not at the ankle and was an ideal candidate for non-surgical repair, although he expected it would take longer. My boot was adjusted downward at 30 degrees (maybe 30 instead of 20, because of the location of the tear I suspect) and I will be NWB until my appointment in two weeks. At that time, they’ll check to see how I’m doing.
I asked about PT, and was told the leg needs a couple more weeks of healing in this new position first, which sounded reasonable. I did mention the studies & VacoCast and they weren’t aware, but said they will pass it on to the OS. I really felt supported, even though the PA said he has never had a patient opt for non-surgery!
Next appointment: October 20th
2 responses so far
Welcome to the club. I have to say my dr was the one who really was keen on the non surgical route. I think it’s the future!!! Good luck and keep on healing
liverpoollass, thanks for the warm welcome! Although I’m not so happy to be a member of the club, if you know what I mean ;), I am happy to have landed here. Great that your doctor recommended the NS approach–I’m guessing you are not in the US… Do you have any advice to share–something you wish you had known when you started on recovery?