What can I expect from PT- Is it worth it?
Hey Gang- In less than 2 weeks I have appoitment with my doctor.
At that time I beleive the boot may be coming off and he will send me to PT.
My question to all of you is- What should I expect from PT and is it worth it?
I have heard pro/cons.
At this point I am walking FWB with boot. And religiously every day I do the exercises with the Theraband.
I am also back to working out with weights and riding stationary bike. Again all with boot on right now.
May 3rd, 2009 at 11:06 am
I have been going to PT twice a week for the last 4 weeks and it has really helped me. My limp is alot less severe than it was only a week ago and my range of motion is almost the same in both feet.
I no longer have any heel pain after walking or standing for long periods of time. I’m shooting for week 12 the latest to be limp free with the help of PT.
May 3rd, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Jim, I’ve been going to PT 3x wk for the past 2 wks, and I think its helping me. New ROM exercises, thera-band strengthening exercises, electro-stimulation for the calf muscle, and scar tissue massage. I suggest you call now to book the appointment - I called early and it took a couple of weeks to get an appointment around here. Book now - cancel later if you change your mind, but avoid any delays. Best of luck! - marianne(2)
May 3rd, 2009 at 4:17 pm
As someone who is going through a rather low-tech recovery, I have a question. How is electro-stimulation of the calf muscle any better than simply using the calf muscle ourselves? Did anyone’s therapist explain how it helps?
For what it’s worth, I only saw my therapist once after surgery, and I can’t say I got anything out of that visit. I think the key question is whether or not you feel confident in coming up with your own stretching, strength, and coordination exercises.
Thanks,
Doug
May 5th, 2009 at 5:50 pm
Do the PT and as much as they will let you do. They show you how to do excercises at home correctly, work on specific things in house that help get your strength and flexibility back. I’m doing 3x a week and am 15 weeks Post OP. PT has made a big difference in my recovery. I thought I was walking correctly but was unconsciously cheating and favoring one side or walking toe out down stair on the repaired tendon. Their expert eyes and analysis are worth the time and money. If they ask you if you want ultra sound say yes, if they ask if you want heat or ice after that say yes. I prefer the heat there shouldn’t be any extra charge. Usually I have a massage and streching, work the tendon/muscles, then balance and walking followed by ultra sound and heat. Takes about an hour. Also they can tell you how it looks from there vantage point. It helps to have them see your progress and it encourages you as well.