Anyone who’s dealing with this knows how painful this is, I’m here for you. I am sorry you’re dealing with this and I pray for your earliest healthiest recovery . I know the pain seems unimaginable. You’ll feel better each day including a new day tomorrow . Keep going! You got this.
Great video. I ruptured my Achilles about 7 months ago. I am not at 100% yet but have faith I will get there. It is a painful process. To anyone going through it best of wishes and prayers.
I did mine 4 months ago when i accidentally stepped on a glass framed picture. I was hoping I'd be back to normal in the next two or three months but then I read this comment
Hi Evan I ruptured mine last Friday and was feeling thoroughly miserable until I watched your journey. Thank you for such a calm and thoughtful account. I love the way I was trying to get my calf comfortable on the cushion when you mentioned the exact same thing! Wishing you all the best
I am more than grateful for getting this video. I had a fall from a height four days ago and went straight into ER.An x ray exam revealed a partial tendon rapture on the left leg.I was put on a simple bandage and some painkillers with an advice to be patient.Tomorrow ,after a second opinion,i will be going into the boot direct to aid in healing.This video has assured me of a non surgical recovery soon. Thanks.
This was great, thanks. I'm at 1.5 weeks, non surgical but with a plaster cast. So good to hear someone else talk about not being able to carry things!
I want to start by thanking you Evan.You have given me hope.I ruptured my achilles playing volleyball.I was in denial thinking i could self heal with out seeing a med. Professional.I went to a same day clinic. They gave me a boot but no wedges.I haven,t seen the orthopedic spcialist yet.This is my first week.You have been going through the same experiences as me.Good luck in your road to recovery. God bless.
Thanks for your video. I’m 6 months into recovery and I tell you being able to stand up in the shower was a wonderful accomplishment. I’m still not 100 percent but I’m optimistic. My therapist keeps reminding me that everyone recovery timeline is different and not to rush the process. Everyone let’s stay encouraged and we’ll be dancing again soon enough 👍
Thank you so much, just 3 days after I ruptured my Achilles and since 1 day been watching videos that help me see what's the best path, am not a good friend of ER just because like you said they don't know everything and had some bad experiences only if I feel like I can't really take care of it, I will defenely go, but I thanks all the folks like you that share you're experience and what to do, May the power of universe and the power of our soul and body help us heal soon.
Evan - Thanks for creating this video series and with it a community of commenters that are going thru the same process. It has been very helpful to get info from your videos and from the comments. The one thing I can add is that getting a leg scooter (Knee Rover) made this injury much more tolerable than crutches. It allowed me to go on a Las Vegas trip 4 days after my injury and also allows me to get around my condo and the city so I don't feel completely immobile. I am 2 weeks into my injury and look forward to watching your videos and I continue my recovery. Thanks again.
Thanks, Dave. I saw the leg scooter and considered it, but I live in Germany and shipping times can be long... and I'm cheap. :-) It seems that everyone who invested in one of those raves about it. I flew my family to the US just under two weeks after the injury and a scooter would have been hugely beneficial. Best of luck with your continued recovery!
Really, really appreciating these videos right now, Evan. I am in week 5 -- (non surgical), just out of cast and into boot. Your clear, thorough descriptions of your process give me hope and good guidance. I have a surgeon that is very into casts for the 1st 3 months -- total immobilization -- and I needed to get better guidance / advice. I deeply appreciate that you took the time to make these videos.
+Vanessa Kuran Thanks a bunch, Vanessa. I really appreciate the feedback, and I hope that your recovery goes smoothly. It is a long road, but you have a lot of satisfying milestones ahead. Some reading material, in case it might be useful: 1- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436906/ 2- achillesblog.com/normofthenorth/2010/03/08/a-more-complete-review-of-the-options-surgical-vs-non-operative/ 3- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509775/ 4- achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/ Good luck!!!
Hi Vanessa, I'm contacting a lot of people who posted some years ago to see how they got on, of that's OK. I was wondering how long it took to heal and are you back to full fitness, any issues with atrophy and strength? Many thanks, J.
Thank you so much Evan for your very informative videos. I ruptured my RIGHT AT in 2007 playing soccer. Went to my GP the next day who told me I had a nasty sprain. Two and a half weeks later, the foot swollen and sore, I got a second opinion and was referred to an OS right way. Surgery was the only opinion presented to me at the time and I went through it. The pain was terrible! Was in a cast for 4 weeks then moved into a boot with light weight bearing. It took a good year before I was back to normal activity. Nine years in, the surgically repaired AT is working just fine, but I have been very careful with it. 6 days ago, Monday May 30, I ruptured the my LEFT AT... playing soccer... GRRR!! Went to the ER that night, they triaged me and scheduled a scan the next morning which confirmed the AT rupture. Your video blogs inspired me and challenged me to advocate for myself when visiting the OS. Before seeing my OS, I bought an AirCast Boot and used wedges to get the 20 degree Plantar Flexion. At the appointment with the OS, he highly recommended the non-surgery approach but he really pushed for a cast at least for the first 4 weeks. (His approach, cast #1, four weeks with a 20 degree plantar flexion, then, cast #2/or boot for four weeks with 10 degree plantar flexion, then finally cast #3/or boot for four weeks of neutral 90 degree, with physio somewhere in there). I insisted on the boot from day one instead and he reluctantly accepted my request but made sure my wedges were high enough. He did warn me though, if my AT does not attach in 4 weeks, surgery would be the next step... we shall see. It's been 5 days since the injury, 4 days in the boot with no weigh bearing, elevated most of the day. Very little swelling but goes down on its own - haven't iced it at all, and the pain is a 2 out of 10 but only comes when I've been upright for a while. Next week I plan on looking for a sports doctor in my area who can guide me through the early weight bearing protocol. I will update my progress. All that to say, THANK YOU for your detailed video blog! Dude, you have inspired and encouraged me and others who are walking this road. I've been through the AT surgical option before, and I must say, non-surgical is way better... no wound to worry about, zero risk of infection, low pain.
Very sorry to hear about your new injury, Ezra. It sounds like you have armed yourself with information and are managing your recovery with your Doctor on board. That is the right answer. I remind folks regularly that I am not a doc and am just sharing information and my own experience. It sounds like you are taking a pro-active, but prudent approach. Physical therapy was hugely beneficial for helping me shape my exercise routine and pace my recovery. I hope you find a good therapist who can do the same for you. I posted some lessons learned yesterday in conjunction with my 1-year anniversary. For what they are worth: ua-cam.com/video/ikur856ALjE/v-deo.html Best of luck with your recovery!
Hey Evan, I just happened to experience an ATR 4 days ago and am currently on the cast. I chance upon your video while researching for more info on ATR recovery. I must say your video is very informative and it really helps prepare me for my recovery journey. Thank you so much for creating the video and providing the links. Cheers!
I have had both achillies rupture, both times playing squash. One surgical, one by natural healing. The first was in the mid 80's. I did not know what it was when it happened, just thought someone dropped something from the gallery and it hit the back of my leg. I went and saw the physio on the Monday, who then gave me a few days of ultrasound treatment! After not responding much she suggested I go to the AE department. 2 seconds in the doctors room and a hammer under the kneecap with no twitch, he said it was a rupture! So 6 days after it happened I went in for surgery. The tendon had turned to mush and the surgeon had a bit of difficulty in pulling the tendon and muscles down enough as he had to overlap the tendon so he could sew it together in good meat (not mush). I came out with a plaster cast from toe to thigh for 3 weeks and then a cast from toe to knee for about 6 weeks, I think. The surgery was necessary because I was using it for 6 days and the length of time before I went in for surgery. He reckoned it would never break again! which it didn't. The second one ruptured 10 years later, again playing squash. This time, straight to the after hours doctor who strapped it so it would move. And then to the AE the next day. This was a Thursday and although I wanted surgery, there were no surgeons available until after the weekend. I just thought that if they sewed it together it would be stronger. But having no choice, the doctor pointed the toe down as did Evans and put me in a toe to knee cast. Saw the orthopaedic surgeon the following week. He left it in the cast for a few weeks after which he then gave me the moon boot which was great as you can take it on and off, have showers etc. After the moon boot, he sent me to the orthotics department where they elevated the sole of one of my sneakers by about 20mm. So now I was in sneakers and walking around, one elevated and one normal. Another progression. They reduced this elevated sole to half after another 3-4 weeks. Rehab took a while for both although for the first one I was young and invincible and did no rehab. They have both stand-ed the test of time. No problem with either. I was playing squash again. In fact I won the club champs in my late 40's and played in masters tournaments, both regionally and nationally until I needed both hips replaced in my 60's. I am now in my 70's, playing tennis and pickleball and still the odd game of squash. All I can say is don't give up, do the rehab and you will be back to normal activities and doing whatever you want to do without any disadvantage.
Wow, having one rupture is bad enough but you had ruptures on both legs 10 years apart! Each time is at least 6 months of recovery! So, having both operative and the conservative approach, is there any difference in recovery time, side effects of one or the other, and the long term prognosis of each? Since you didn't re-rupture either of the tendons again, which type of medical procedure did you prefer? Thanks for sharing.
@@ladytee6440 That sucks! One leg is bad enough. I don't even want to imagine rupturing my tendon on the other leg. Getting an Achilles rupture is worst than breaking a bone anywhere on the leg IMHO. Like my words in another post here, take the time to enjoy some movies/music and be with family. Good luck with recovery. I'm at the end of 16-weeks now and I can start to walk normally. Still a ways to go but at least I can walk and drive (my stick shift car) - there's light at the end of that long tunnel!
Firstly a big thank you to Evan and everyone else who have provided some handy information. I'm 37 years old and semi active, the ruptured happened during a game of basketball. The ball was going out and I chased to try and save and felt a kick on my calf (OUCH). The same feeling when someone kicks you on the calf when doing Kickboxing. Still in denial for what has happened so for a week I researched on the net and found your UA-cam channel. When I went to the doctor and got Xray and Ultrasound. The Xray didn't show any tear it was only on the Ultrasound. On my ultrasound, the conclusion report was: Acute complete rupture proximal Achilles, with retraction of fibres by 14mm. Low grade tear of musculotendinous junction soleus. Got the doctors referral and off to the hospital today, got the cask. Told me to come back in 2 weeks. Anyways for everyone else out there I hope you are doing well and stay safe. On the first day that I got injured, there was some pain and here is the treatment that I did. - Get 2 buckets 1 Iced Water Bucket, & 1 Warm water bucket. - I start with the warm water and soak my injured feet for like 3-5 mins, wiggle your toes and ankle if you can. Put it in the Ice Cold bucket and do same thing. Rinse and repeat and do for 1 hour, and do it twice a day. This greatly reduce the swelling, bruising, and increased blood flow on the affected area. At the moment the bruising I had was similar to yours.
Thanks, John! I hope that you escape from the cast soon. Being able to take off the boot to let your leg and foot breathe, as well as move your foot a bit, etc, can lift the spirits considerably in those early days. Best of luck with your recovery!
Thanks Evan. BTW I also went the non-OP and I'm on the cam boots now, it does feel a lot better than the cast. They have put 3 wedges on my heel and I take 1 wedge off every 2 weeks.
@@emrahg4031 I am 10 days after a complete rupture and I’m still having intermittent pains, especially when I’m up on crutches and the blood rushes down. I chose no operation and I’m so worried and paranoid it’s not going to heal!!! It’s so hard being patient.
@@emrahg4031 Hi, how do you feel now? In my case it partially ruptured, no colour changes, some pain..after a week i could rise up on my toes again. I continiued my life normally, no doctor, no anything, but no sports. 2 months after i returned to playing football like normal, but i was ultra careful. Today its 1y 4m past and everything is as it was before the rupture. This is my case.
@@prezlamen7906 talk to me mate I’m in the same position you were in but my second week now on a cast break it down for me how you returned to playing and how long
Blew out my Achilles in 1993. Had a great ortho surgeon, did a full surgical repair. Had the boot, with a thigh attachment that locked my knee in place. No weight bearing for 4 weeks, then walking on the boot for 4 weeks plus started working with the sadists (rehab specialists). They pushed me hard. I was doing some light jogging at 3 months. Bottom line? Go to a reputable sports medicine surgeon, you'll be glad you did.
I could not agree more with getting the best Docs on one's case. The trick seems to be finding one who knows this injury specifically, and the latest developments in how to best treat it.
Hi Evan, This video is an excellent resource, thank you for sharing. I ruptured my Achilles tendon two weeks ago (November 1st) and decided to go the non-surgical route as well. The orthopedic surgeon put me in a cast, and told me that I'd need to keep my foot immobilized for 6 to 8 weeks. After doing a ton of research online, I went back to the doc and asked about getting a boot instead and trying an early weight-bearing protocol. The doc resisted any changes to his protocol, but eventually suggested I could get a second opinion, and referred me to a different doctor in the same clinic. As it turns out, the second doctor agreed with me (and all of the recent literature) that a boot and early weight-bearing was the way to go. He cut off my cast and set me up with a boot, and referred me to see a physical therapist ASAP. That was about three days ago... and so far I'm loving the boot! My first physio session is tomorrow morning, and I can't wait. The lesson learned is, like you said, it's important to get educated and advocate for yourself. You can't always assume doctors will have the most up-to-date knowledge. Some "old-school" doctors are reluctant to get with the times. Anyway, I've still got a long road ahead, but at two weeks I'm already starting to bear partial weight, and feeling good. Your videos are an inspiration... thanks!
+yared mehzenta Thanks very much, Yared! I am glad to hear your story, and look forward to news of your continued progress. Early weight bearing and PT, along with a deliberate approach to your progress, will hopefully work as well for you as they have for me. I'm at 23 weeks now, and except for still needing more strength and muscle mass in my recovering calf I feel just about back to normal. I am running a few times a week now (slow, and only ~1.5 miles each time), which feels like light years beyond where I was not long ago. There are many opportunities to hurt yourself along the recovery path, so "expand the envelope" deliberately and carefully. Good luck!
I never had a cast. The ER put me into a splint for about 36 hours, and then on Monday the ortho put me straight into the walking boot (non weight bearing for the first couple weeks).
The foot is put in the equine position (tippy toes). This relaxes the calf muscle, which allows the two ends to re-attach. A cast is used for the first two weeks, immobilising the foot. The cast is then removed and replaced with a boot that has wedges in the heel. Over a course of 6 weeks the wedges are removed until the foot is once again flat.
Guys it gets better! I'm on week 6 and just went into my boot, still can't walk really but I can put some pressure on it without it hurting and at least I can stretch and move it since it's not in the cast anymore! Thoughts and prayers!
Evan, thanks for the info. I am in the second week of the injury but thought I'd share through you the fact that I have found a knee scooter far better than crutches for mobility. It takes away the fear of overbalancing etc and with a basket on the front gives you the opportunity to be useful in carrying things. Definitely worth considering. Incidently I am 75 and balance is probably more of a problem at my age.
I agree, Pete. Had I been in a place where I could have easily acquire one, I may have rationalized the purchase, even for the short two weeks I was non-weight bearing. I hated crutches! I hope your recovery is coming along well!
This video has been very encouraging. I am in a country where the doctors/surgeons are basically on a commission basis and I had surgery as the only option being thrust in my face. I am 64 years old and not in the best of health (blood pressure etc) and so was not keen on the surgical route. I first consulted a doctor on day 5 of the injury as I was only in a small amout of pain, but was unbalanced. I am now in week one and was NOT told anything, I have been avoiding putting weigh on the leg but have been resting the heel on the ground in the cast, so I hope it is ok. I an seeing a new doctor on Tuesday next week who hopefully will be a little more informative, but your eraly weight bearing(even a small amount) is most encouraging!
This was a really good video. My achilles has been ruptured for a month now (due to a reputure after a fall 2 weeks ago, how unlucky am i) and it was intially from a rugby injury. Let me say now for any of you starting out, this injury is going to drive you up the wall!! In my ignorance, i thought I'd be back to normal after a few weeks, so imagine my shock when i was told it could be 6 months before I am 100%. The worst part of this injury isn't the pain, that is surprisingly fleeting, It's very frustrating recovery, and because of the world we live in today, you're going to have to come up with novel ways to keep busy and combat loneliness (for want of a better word). You can't do an awful lot, carrying and complex tasks are out of the question, you can just about still cook and make your bed but it is certainly not without difficulty. Mainly you should get used to Netflix and PlayStation because thats where you're gonna be spending most of your recovery time. It is possibly to the crutches as a workout, but it is by no means fun like the gym. The hardest part for me is being out of the loop. Sure, we all have our smartphones, but you're not gonna be featuring in night out selfies or adventures for a quite some time, everybody you know is mostly working while you are at home, and the dependancy on others takes some coming to terms with. I wish everybody luck with this, because it is not a nice place to be.
My own injury was 3 1/2 years ago, but this brings back a lot of memories of those early weeks with crutches. I hope that you graduate to a walking boot soon, because that is a huge quality of life improvement. Best of luck with your recovery.
I totally appreciate what you're saying! I did mine playing rugby as well. Are you going back to playing later down the line? I'm really struggling with the idea that I might not be able to do all the things I used to do, being a pretty active person. Hope you're recovering well! Tom
@@tomwelsh4090 Yes mate I'll be going back just gonna take some time. Physio says theres no reason why i can't play again, the only drawback is all never be quite as fast when sprinting
i am so pleased to have found your video, you are so informative. i was in agony for 4 weeks and in and out of casualties for pain killing injections as they assumed it was my usual sciaatic problem no matter what i insisted. eventually a doctor decided to do an ultrasound for dvt and found i had been walking around with a ruptured achilles and in immense pain the whole time. even with my boot and crutches i am still in alot of pain but they tell me its due to have been walking on it. i have got more information from you than any doctor i have seen. thank you so much for making this video and i wish you and your family all the best x
I am Mike. Thank you for sharing your experience. Your video is very in details. I especially appreciate your suggestion to others to be patient, not to be too aggressive. I re-ruptured my right achellies tendonitis on the 11th week from its first rupture, thinking i had been an atlete in the past. Then the re-rupture proved I am just a motal human being.
Never experienced a pain like this. It happened to me while i was playing basketball ( left foot ). Had to drive myself to the hospital in a stick shift car using my foot with the ruptured achilles to press the clutch in to switch gears OUCH ! I had surgery a couple days after and was back on my feet 8 months after. I respect both options in my situation I didn't want to be off work along time and I wanted a quicker recovery. To those that have ruptured there achilles hang in there it's depressing and a long journey but you'll get through it.
Interesting that the ER/ED set your foot incorrectly. I did mine 5 days ago and I overheard them say that they were going to put an “equinus block” on to set the toes pointing down. Might be worth remembering if you read this before you get such an injury (hope you don’t ever need it though!!) (This was UK though)
ER set mine as well, they wrapped it too tight and didn't set my position well...my orthopedic doctor I saw 2 days later, said unfortunately he sees it way too often...as they rarely have to do it. When the orthopedics do it every single day. But least yours did well!
@@Always_NeverI hope all goes well. I am now three weeks in to wearing a vacoped boot. Brilliant bit of tech! Had a meet with the consultant last week and so far so good. I took the advice from the vid about icing (remembering to keep toes pointed away). Does help and soothes the skin from being in the boot 24/7. Also using cocoa butter on skin. It ‘s going to be a long old haul! Good luck!
I have surgery coming up on March 3rd so I've been scanning the UA-cams and your video is the best one I've seen for real world recovery tips. My doc is saying 6-8 weeks non-weight bearing for my reconstruction so I have quite a lot of "on my butt" time coming up!!Thank you!!!
I’m one week into non surgical recovery and found your video very encouraging. I’m stuck in a plaster for two weeks, non weight bearing before going down the boot route. Can’t wait to have a bit more freedom!
What’s good kingxkobe24, I tore mine a week ago. Are you walking yet? And if so, does having a lot of heavy grocery bags or whatever in your hands, does that hurt your leg?
@@brandonnorwood9414 sorry to hear that man, hopefully you have a speedy recovery. I’m at 12 weeks, I tore mine March 12th, going non op. I’m off the boot, I have been since May 24th. I’m limping a lot, still not walking all the way straight. I’ve been doing rehab 2 days a week with my PT, and also going to the gym. Just working upper body and a lot of bike to keep my cardio up and getting blood flowing through the leg. I do stretching recommend from my PT…. Im not up to speed like Evan is in week 12, he’s walking really well so but I also haven’t been up to speed with him as I been comparing every week to my personal recovery, I feel like im a week or two behind on everything he’s doing. Im visiting one of the best orthopedic in North Jersey, so hopefully everything catches up to Evan. I can drive as May 12th, my flexibility isn’t the problem it’s more so the weight on my foot and actually pushing off. So im eager to visit my orthopedic on the 21st of the month to talk about it, because again, I haven’t seen him since I took my boot off on May 21st. How are you feeling?
Im going through this same thing and taking the same procedures. This whole process sucks. Im active everyday and the gym is a lifestyle for me which is being taken away from me bevause ofnmy archilies
@@clancaster6634 likewise my man… a little update for you guys, so my Achilles didn’t heal properly, I tried going non-op we did a second MRI at the beginning of august. The MRI showed it was not fully connected. I told my doctor I’m going to enjoy the last 2 weeks of august before getting surgery. Long story short, I’ll be getting surgery on September 9th (back to 0)… sucks but it has to be done. I’m an athlete as well, I run a lot and lift weights, 6’2 204lbs… but anyways I hope you guys get to heal well ! All praises to the man above !
I had an Achilles Tendon rupture whilst on holiday with friends. Fell from a beach bike. Opted to go for non-surgical route(though ortho recommended surgical route)Currently on a vacoped boot with crutches for support. Bathing was stressful so I got a plastic stool for the bath and now, it's so much easier. Thanks for your thorough explanation.
Thank you so much boss this is my second achilles rupture and it's to my right leg this time. And watching your process and journey on letting it heal on it's own is very encouraging for me and it has been working for me so I thank you.
Great video, thanks for posting it. I ruptured my left achilles last year while playing soccer and had surgery, and then this year, while playing soccer again, ruptured the other one and the doctor suggested the non-surgical approach. Found the same information you mentioned all over the internet but now I was looking for a video of the actual healing process.
Excellent video. I have a tear in mine and am three weeks in a walking boot. The doctor sent me home with minimal instructions and no discussion of what’s next, except come back in 4 weeks. Your video gives me some context for the process and possible outcomes. Also your video has excellent production values both in the video and audio. At 76 I want to avoid surgery and get back to being able to walk at least four miles without re-injury.
I'm almost 50, and have found that strength in both the lower leg and foot don't come back without deliberate and sustained effort. Even after four years, my right calf is not a full match for my uninjured left calf, but I allowed myself to slack off once it become "good enough". I ride ~30 miles at a time and swim, and was running up until a year or so ago when I stopped due to hip joint aggravation. The AT itself should not prevent you from regaining you full activity level, but be careful not to let your limp while you are recovering to contribute to problems in other areas. I had some hip issues before the AT injury, but I think poor running technique during my recovery caused further trouble to my hip on that side.
I really appreciate this info. I just “popped “ it in the beginning of three day weekend. So my specialist appointment ended up a week away. This helps until I get the info from the doctor. Thank you.
This series of videos are great from Evan are great. I picked this one to comment on as it has the biggest number of views. I am a 62 year old man, fit and active and had an ATR from hitting a ramp at an assault course too hard. After 12 days in an equine cast following an early weight bearing protocol without surgery like Evan I have been in a boot for 10 weeks initially with 5* 10mm wedges removing one every 2 weeks I now have no wedges and started physical therapy. I still wear the boot 24/7 except when showering and doing strengthening and mobility exercises but next week can sleep without it and over 3 more weeks wean myself off it so I am boot free.Although I am almost twice his age everything he says has chimed with my experience and although it has taken me a little longer to recover he has provided me with good information and encouragement. Listen and learn.
Thanks for sharing your own experience, Simon. I'm glad that the early weight bearing path is working for you so far. I had a hard time modulating my return to fitness (wanting to return to my pre-injury activity level asap, but having to listen when my leg barked at me to slow down), and if you are accustomed to running assault courses I suspect you will have the same challenge. Best of luck as you navigate your recovery!
@@Genamel18 im walking and jogging fine now, still nervous about sudden movements, but im strong and controlled a year later, had to stop physio early, but if you can keep going then do.
Thank you Evan for this video, it explains a lot of the daily challenges on the road to recovery and tips. I am waiting to consult with the fracture clinic to see if I will have surgery/non-surgery and the pros/cons of each to get back to health. I'm 34 and quite active. Happened during a pickup soccer game, same thing as your experience, the classical pop when pushing off. In a temporary cast now, was in the ER day before yesterday after it happened.
Thank you very much sir 🙏, I am also on the road to recovery non-surgery and your videos helped me immensely with my recovery. It has been exactly 8 weeks since my injury and I can’t thank you enough for your videos!
Thank you for vid. Much appreciated. Mine happened yesterday. Since the start I want to be in an excellence mindset. Not super hero/dumb=leading to re-injury, just to see this as an opportunity to take the optimal steps to greater strength in ankles/legs for the rest of life.Your vid is a great find in this road. My inclination is towards non-surgery. Also, to be able to bypass the research time needed to know that early movement within reason is a preferred course is invaluable. My best to you and yours.
+gmh7773331 Sorry to hear about your injury. The non-op/early weight bearing experiment seems to have been a success. I am at 10 months now, and things are essentially back to normal aside from a slight strength and diameter disparity between the calf of my injured leg and the other one. I am not playing tennis or inducing any sudden shock to that AT, but I am running normally again and don't think about it much any more... which is remarkable considering where I was last summer. To help in your research, feeding into the conversation with your ortho: 1- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436906/ 2- achillesblog.com/normofthenorth/2010/03/08/a-more-complete-review-of-the-options-surgical-vs-non-operative/ 3- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509775/ 4- achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/ Good luck! -Evan
what a relief it was too find your videos on achilles rupture recovery, non operative. i thought it was uncommon as well until i dug deeper. I'm in the same boat, week 4 currently. I'll be using your videos to help me condition at home. congrats on your recovery.
Thanks, and I hope that your recovery goes smoothly as well! Don't forget to the memory foam. I do wish I had discovered that sooner than I did. It took months for my heel to forgive my error.
This is from 2015 and its the only videos that are helpful thank you so much I sub to you we need more people like you who just give proper information
Tore mine exactly 2 weeks ago playing soccer. Got the boot on, starting to put a little weight on it today which is really exciting. Been icing and taking it easy. Just have to keep a positive mind frame, as that definitely helps with recovery and of course follow correct protocol. Especially not rushing anything, as it will just be a problem in the long run. This injury isn't obviously fun to go thru but i'm taking it as an experience in life, you really start appreciating the things we do everyday and take for granted. There's a lot worse things out there that could happen, at least we will be 100% soon!! Good luck everyone with your recovery!
I definitely agree. You do tend to appreciate life more and exercise more patience. It's a long journey but have to look at the positives along the way and probably try new hobbies that you wouldn't normally have time or patience to do.
Hi Evan, Good evening. Happy thanksgiving man. I watched all your video blogs on your achillies tendon rupture because I too ruptured mines from playing football. I believe mines is not a complete tear but sure hell hurt when i initially ruptured it. But i must say, the information you have provided is impressive. You nailed all the A's,B's, and C's and gave helpful tips on how to go about living for the first trimester of this horrible injury. I'm 1 month in it right now, I was told sometime within 6-9 months I'd be back and healthy playing sports. Just like to say thank you because you are living proof that the Non-Surgical, early weight bearing exercise works in the road to recovery, patients is key is this process. Anyways man I hope all is well and that you stay healthy. -Homie from Cali
@crazyedgar123 Thanks for sharing your story. I also tore mine playing football (while making a quick direction change). Super pleased to hear you were back to playing sports in under a year. I am about to enter my final year of school and I really want to be able to play on my school's team. Do you recall how big your gap was? mine is about 3cm in length...
many thanks for making the video and helping others who have this injury. my tendon snapped one week ago and I got the 20 degree cast right from the start. first control should be in two weeks from the injury. I'm going to ask the doctors to give me one of those boots as soon as possible since as you said "walking" with crutches does suck :) many thanks again!
Hi Evan! Great video. I ruptured my Achilles 3 weeks ago playing basketball. I also chose non surgical treatment when proposed by both options. First 3 weeks i had a fiberglass cast with a 20 degree toes pointing down. Today the cast came off and i am on a walking boot with 4-5 cm height under my heel. According to surgeon i am supposed to start bearing weight on my foot via help of crutches. I am also supposed to decrease the height 1 cm every week for the next 4 weeks. For the first 3 weeks when my foot was in a cast and i was completely immobilized i used a special crutch called iwalk2.0. It is not the most comfortable thing but a great way to move around and free your hands to be able to carry things. My journey of weight bearing exercises just started today. Thanks for all the info
And here we go. I’m 48 hrs in and being immobile kinda sucks. I’ve got a boot and crutches. Can’t Cary anything. So thankful I have my wife taking care of me
Hey Even, Great video as someone who has re injured my Achilles 3 or 4 times and on both feet, I can say you are wise to take this very serious. My re injury is because of stupidity, I'm self employed no work no eat, so I was forced to get back on it early. I did use the walking boot, I had two one for work ad one for sporting around. I do mineral surveys and for the most part are hiking in the mountains. It was a real art in using the boot in the mountains. I think that my main problem is that I really didn't know how serious of an injury it is. I never did go to a doctor, I have always self treated my self and that for the most part has worked out for me. I wouldn't do the surgery but I wished I would have investigated more about it and was more serious about treating it. Thanks for taking the time to share with others.
Glad I came across your video. I also took the non surg route. Got very little direction from my surgeon with care. Your tips are very helpful and it gives me some hope for a quicker recovery.
My orthopedic reconstruction specialist actually did my recovery opposite of yours. He put me in the 90 degree walker boot during the day and a different one for night for 4 weeks with no heel lift. The night boot he wanted me to put as much toe lift as possible while still being comfortable to stretch the calf muscle. For the first 4 weeks I had scant weight bearing. I was supposed to be up and standing for no more than 20 minutes an hour during the day and elevating my foot the rest of the hour. He wanted me standing for sure at least 5-10 minutes every hour to increase circulation. I was not allowed any lifting more than a milk jug. From week 4-6 I was allowed to do the lifting exercises and then place the boot back on for any extended walking. He also gave me the heel lifts at this time to place in my shoe for around the house walking as normal. After the 6 week mark I was to remove 1 layer every 10 days. He told me the goal in the first 4-6 weeks was to allow the tendon to repair itself while the calf stretched. The only way for the tendon to repair was to not use it. The boot was to do what surgery does which is slice the calf muscle to lengthen it and sometimes hook the Achilles back together if the rupture was severe. He said there was no need for heel lift while the calf was being stretched as it contradicted the calf stretch. Once the Achilles was being used again you didn’t want strain on the tendon so shortening the calf was needed to prevent re-injury. I was still required to do the night splint and he still has me doing night splints when I sleep at least 3 times a week to keep the calves stretched and Achilles in a good healing position so I won’t have his injury again. He also recommended adding bone broth and turmeric root to my diet. I think it’s interesting to see how specialists have such different approaches. He repeated my MRI at 6 weeks which showed complete regeneration of my Achilles.
The variety of approaches can be a bit frustrating for folks trying to figure out which path to follow. It sounds like your doc is very engaged in your recovery, which is great to hear. I hope that things are going well. Best of luck!
Interesting and useful Evan. I’m 10 weeks in and the boot is coming off tomorrow, so a lot of rehab is ahead of me. Between week 2 and week 4, I’d started taking the boot off whilst sitting and putting my leg on a footstool. However my doctor, was against this as he felt there was more risk of re-injury. I did as he said for a further 4 weeks to week 8. Consultant suggested it was ok to remove the boot for short periods, so I’ve sort of gone along with that. Roll on tomorrow and freedom day, although I’m a little concerned about my current status and what I’ll be able to do and when. It’s my right foot, so I’ve not driven in over 2 months. Hopefully driving will be an option in the next few weeks, and then progress as per physio advice thereafter. Hopefully you are now 100%. I injured myself playing basketball at age 54…..I think i might be sticking to golf and cycling going forwards
I had my Achilles' tendon lengthened through surgery. So this is very similar. I never used ice, I pressed and pushed all my swelling up my leg to get rid of all that fluid. It hurt, and I'm walking on it after 3-5 weeks. So yeah you're doing excellent.
Thanks Evan. I ruptured my Achilles 3 weeks ago now. I was put into the moonboot at 2 weeks and told that I could weight bear as tolerated. However I had done some research before hand and found a lot of the protocols were quite different, suggesting no weight bearing for at least 6 weeks. However, now hearing this video I feel a bit more confident in my protocol. My doctor did mention that this is a relatively new protocol which is probably why there aren't many like this out there online (the only place I could really search). Thanks for this video, really helpful.
Emma Smith Thanks, Emma! I hope your recovery is going smoothly. I am just over two years now, and pleased to report that I don't think about the injury all that often these days. Best of luck to you!
Thanks very much for the video. Had a full rupture and consultant has gone with the non surgical route. Great to see someone come out the other side. I'm currently on week 6 and still in a cast and feeling pretty grim about it. As others have said it gives a lot of hope. All the best. Mark.
+Mark Brockwell I hope you are out of that cast soon, Mark. The sooner you get that foot moving again and get some weight on it, the better... unless your injury has some complexity beyond the AT rupture. Early weight bearing seems to be the key to recovering as much of your former flexibility and strength as possible. Best of luck with your recovery!!! If you need some data to back you up in negotiations with your consultant, let me know. Lots online, especially at Achillesblog.com.
@@ejbvmi I broke mine 4 days ago, i really didnt want surgery but doctors have been advising against it, saying it wont fully recover & will be weak, not allowing me to walk long durations & distances. Is this true? Thanks for this it has given me more encouragement @evanbrown how has it been since? Did u rereupture it? update: i've consulted 3 doctors from 3 diff hospitals. 2 govt. They advised against non surgical, saying it wont fully heal esp if the tear is 2cm or more. & the chance of rerupture is big.it will be weak the fibers wont grow back to stick togther w/o surgery. I am really confused now. Anybody pls share real insight on what i should do.
Hello I am Charlie : All I can tell you is that any claims that the non-operative route is a bad choice because it significantly increases the probability of a rerupture or that the tendon will never fully heal are coming from people who have not objectively read the research on the subject that has come to light over the past decade or so. Mine healed fine, and I am as active as I was before the injury. It is also worth noting that my range of motion and calf strength are better than a friend who had surgery for his rupture a decade before mine. I believe that difference had more to do with my early weight bearing protocol and the fact that he was in a cast for three months than the surgery/non-op choice, but the bottom line is that non-op is not a path that reduces the quality or confidence of your long term outcome. Going against your doc’s advice might be hard or inadvisable, though. I am neither a doctor nor familiar with your exact injury, so you may want to research and see if there are any ortho docs near you who are familiar with and supportive of the non-op protocols. I didn’t see your reply when you posted it two weeks ago. It is worth noting that putting your foot in the right plantar flexion position during the first few weeks is vitally important for the non-op path. If that was not done in your case, that may make choosing non-op more difficult. Good luck with the decision. I’m not against all surgery, but avoid having people cut on me when it does not need to happen. Either way, you can make a full recovery. Advocate for early weight bearing!
Salutations Evan! just found this first video and I wish I would have found it 6 weeks ago. I walked into a complicated, ankle and foot reconstruction which included an Achilles tendon release procedure. I did not properly prepare for this, and now I am double-timing my rehab info. The details of daily life in a cast/boot were real! The 2nd day I was home, high on pain pills, and afraid to mess up the surgical work, threw off my crutches and fell back and hurt my upper back and neck and hit my head and received a concussion and a nice scar. No pain pills after that. So anyway, I am 6 weeks out and mentally, I have to adjust my thoughts about the timeframe on when I am going to be able to do the things I want to do. Thank you for putting all your personal experience out here for us that need it so badly. I mistakenly thought I was a badass, and that this would be no biggie, but let me say this is incredibly hard, and I have to be patient to rehab properly, but seriously, this is a rough gig emotionally and has let me see how it is for disabled, and elderly folks and has me thinking a lot differently about mobility in the future.
Thank you for sharing this great information I rapture my Achilles’ tendon playing soccer two days ago and I decided to go non surgical and your information will help me a lot thank you again.
I had the most sorriest doctors after seeing a lot of your post. Had a rupture in 2014. They did splint, boot, or cast me at no time. Didn't actually find out that I had ruptured it for a month after a MRI. I was given physical therapy. Afterwards. They placed me on a permanent profile up until now. It is currently 2022, and they still have me on a permanent profile.
Great video. Mine popped 6k into a 10k race last week. My sports therapist recommended all the things you have spoken about. Seems like the way forward to me. Best of luck with the rest of your recovery.
this is a great video! i ruptured my achilles during jiu jitsu training a couple nights ago and didnt realize what happened until i completed the workout. just went to the ER, they put me in a splint and referred me to an orthopedic doctor. was kinda dreading the surgery but knowing that there are stories such as as yours really helps b/c i dont wanna go under the knife.
+C Masala I'm 10 months post-injury, and am glad that I went non-op/early weight bearing. There are exotic cases where surgery is warranted, but a run-of-the-mill full rupture can heal without surgical intervention. Going non-op is only half of the big decision: getting out of a cast, into a boot and walking within a few weeks after injury arrests a lot of the evils that set in over an extended period in a cast, so advocate for yourself and try to follow an early weight bearing protocol if you can. I logged my recovery, and would be glad to share the protocol my doc had me follow if you like: achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/
+Evan Brown thanks for the reply and the motivating video! seeing u being able to walk full weight bearing @ 4wks in a boot provides a lot of inspiration for me b/c it shows me it can be done despite the things i've been told over the past couple days that surgery is the only option yada yada yada. also, with my job i am on my feet so even though one would walk like an 'inchworm'...that is much better than crutches which they may not allow me to do or use on my job. Thanks again for the videos and the blog! all of us with ATR appreciate it!
Evan, Thanks for the great information. I'm a 49 years of age male and just popped my Achilles playing tennis not that hard. Boy it surprised me with the noise and the pain. Thanks for giving heads up on what to expect. Larry P. S. After this recovery, I think I going to be sticking with golf from now on.
I'm with you... my tennis and racquetball days are probably a thing of the past. Fortunately, they were not my favorite activities anyway, and my running, cycling and swimming are unaffected. Good luck with the recovery, and use memory foam in your shoes when you exit the boot. It's easier to prevent a sore heel than recover from one!
I'm on my 2nd surgery because I have 50yrs walking on club feet. 1st surgery was cut bones and straighten toes with 9 metal brackets and 18+screws. 2nd surgery was re-enforcing the brackets, cutting the heel bone and straightening with 3 huge screws, but also has tendon lengthening.... that crap hurts! I've got chronic ongoing pain. The swelling and pain never ends.
Great information I just tore my tendon 1 week ago. They casted my leg have to keep on for 3 more weeks.My orthopedic surgeon told me absolutely no weight bearing.So sounds like a long road ahead but,their is light at the end of the tunnel.Great progress of your experience hope my goes as smooth as yours.You helped answer alot of questions I was wondering about.Thank you
I tore my tendon yesterday morning playing football - partial tear. I'm in a cast now and I'm now starting the long process of recovery. First time in a cast for me and I will never EVER take for granted the use of all limbs! Not being able to carry stuff while on crutches is something that just doesn't get talked about enough! Thanks for your informative video Evan - love the clarity and no-nonsense delivery and also the tips - hope you are fully recovered now!
Thankq so much sir, I was so scared, I got my injury 7 days ago and I went to doc and got x-rays it has shown normal but at the time I saw your video I new it,it is exactly the same as yours, I was about to get surgery I was so scared thankq so much for giving me new hope...I hope you are leaving a healthy life now,this clip makes me so motivational...GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LOVE FROM INDIA.. THANK Q Sir
Thanks for the video Evan. I completely agree with your comments about the emergency room. I ruptured mine a week ago and A&E diagnosed as torn calf and told me to walk on it! It wasn’t until 48 hours later that I was put into a boot and given clexane injections, and only then after a private physio took one look and sent me straight back to hospital. 72 hours later, I’m still battling the UK NHS referral system to get a private specialist appointment. I will probably go surgical route if offered as a) same recovery time and b) less chance of re-rupture. My I-walk 2.0 is arriving today. I will let you all know how I get on with it. Regards, Ian.
Thanks, @RaptorNate! I am happy to know that the info has been helpful. It seems that a broad spectrum of treatment approaches are out there. I hope that you find the best one for yourself. Though your Doc may have a strong case for surgery based upon your specific injury, I am a believer in non-op so far. It has been a much better experience than that of our surgical brothers and sisters who have varying degrees of challenges with nerve damage, wounds that don't heal properly, etc We'll have to see how the long term road test goes to determine if I become part of that small statistical difference between op- and non-op re-rupture rate. I plan to return to most of my previous activity level (cycling, running, swimming, hiking), though tennis is a question mark for now as I mitigate my chances of a re-rupture. One last note: early weight bearing works! I am at 14 weeks and almost back to normal walking and activities minus running. Crutches seem like forever ago. Good luck!
Thank you Evan for making the video. I am a beach runner because of arthritis in the knees. Two weeks ago, my right heel was bothering me quite a bit from the beginning of a 4-mile run. I toughed it out which was foolish. Right now I am experiencing pain where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel and an inflamed bursa. It took four days for the pain to subside after that aggravation. Walking was extremely painful and now is still painful but bearable. This morning I went to the beach and did three minutes of walking and tried some light running and ended up doing a 3-mile run. I am definitely babying the foot on each step. I needed to know if this was going to aggravate or perhaps strengthen the injury. Your video was encouraging.
Great video. I snapped my Achilles playing tennis too… I’m up to 5 weeks in recovery and have learned the same techniques to manage this as you. I’m not confident to get on my indoor bike yet.. I hope your full recovery was sooner than a year..
Great video. It just happened to me yesterday. Going to see the specialist tomorrow morning. I'm not going for surgery since they gave me the 2 options. Thank you for the info and this helps a lot.
Thnx for sharing Evan! i ruptured my achilles tendon a week ago and I also chose the non surgical route and I was a little bit worried so thnx for the upload!
Thank you for this video. I'm 11 weeks after achilles tendon rapture. A week after taking of vacoped boot. It feels amazing to be able to walk, but my muscles and tendon is still very stiff. I went thru everything you said. Good luck with your recovery👍😊
Great Video. Protocol in New Zealand a lot different, I ruptured my Achilles on the 20th Aug 2020, was put in a cast and on crutches for 4 weeks, then 2 weeks in a moonboot at 30 degrees, 2 weeks at 15 degrees and then 2 weeks at 0 degrees. Only at 0 degrees was I allowed to start putting weight on it. Now I have heel lifters in my shoes for 2 months and see a physio every 3 days to for rehab. Its November and I have only been cleared now to start riding a bike at the gym and gym upper body.
Hi Evan, I ruptured both my achilles at the same time in june. now 18weeks on post operations, recovery is going slowly but surely. Walking not to bad now and started back on mtb bike although mainly flat road stuff. I can concur with your video on recovery , its a long road.
+Barrie Kinnaird Oi vey! One was bad enough, but at least I had one good leg to use with the crutches for the first couple weeks! Glad to hear that you are back on the bike. Getting exercise is hugely beneficial for quality of life and morale. Keep up the great work!
Thanks Evan. This is helpful. I injured my Achilles tendon this morning (playing tennis) in almost the same way that you described your injury. I went to an urgent care center and got a temporary cast, and have an appointment on Monday with a surgeon to evaluate the injury. Until I saw your video, I hadn't thought about a non-surgical approach. I will consider that now along with my other options.
Alex Murfey Good luck with your recovery, Alex. It's a long road back to normal, but you will get there! It's easy to focus on the AT and atrophied calf, but the muscles and bones of your foot also need work to get back to the way things were pre-injury. Focus on that and flexibility as well. Good luck!
Thank you so much for a very relatable blog, I am in UK and day 9 post ATR following a taekwondo injury, I had a cast for a week set with toes pointing down and now have a walking boot with 5 heel wedges with crutches and am currently non weight bearing. I have opted for the non surgical route. Like you were, I have been wondering how my tendons will reconnect to heal as a recent ultrasound showed I have a 13mm gap but I guess in time they will. Moving towards partial weight bearing in a weeks time, every little thing is a milestone. Thanks for the video, tips and information, found it really helpful.
Hi Evan, Thanks for posting this. I have a torn Achilles Tendon. I am having an MRI done and then off to see the Ortho doc. I've been trying to study and learn as much as possible so I am informed when I go to see him. This vid was very helpful.
My cast has been on less than 24 hours...SO glad my Emerg room doctor knew to cast me foot downwards...First fracture clinic appointment in 2 days. The long road to recovery is looking pretty scary at this point. 🤕😢
Hi Evan, this video makes me very happy...just seeing other people talk about the hardships of not being able to carry a cup of coffee to the couch! I'm just about 3 weeks in with a similar weight bearing schedule from the Docs. All the best and thanks for sharing your experience. Tom
Hi Evan, I just found your videos. I ruptured my Achilles just 3 days ago, doing some fitness activities. In a boot, not a good candidate for surgery, currently in a boot with a bunch of lifts. As a fitness and martial arts enthusiast (an aging one), I was feeling really down and finding your videos has given me hope. My doctor said partial weight bearing is ok, so I guess this video is a good place to start.
While the first weeks seemed to pass very slowly, the milestones arrived with regularity... which was good for sanity maintenance. I think it is good that your doc has you PWB already. In addition to facilitating AT healing, it will help prevent the foot from getting out of whack (a technical, medical analysis). When I returned to running, my foot was more sore than the AT because bones and tendons were not how they were pre-injury. That improved with time. I'm at 18 months and don't think about the injury much at all any more... a good place to be. I haven't returned to tennis yet, although running normally (including trails) feels fine. Explosive activities like martial arts will have to be a judgement call. Probably best to wade in initially, but if you love it I hope that you are able to return to it full speed. Good luck!
Thanks Evan! :) I've decided to follow in your footsteps and make some of my own fitness videos. This way I can keep myself accountable, help keep me from getting sad and bored, and perhaps help some other people too. As for martial arts, although I'll miss it, I'll take it step by step and very slowly, focusing on getting back to waking and eventually cycling and running. Got to think of risk vs reward!
Leah Tom Greetings, noted we have similar fitness practices, I injured my Achilles 7 weeks ago teaching martial arts. I went non-surgical and things are going well so far. Have you been able to return to martial arts and if so, any restrictions? Thanks in advance.
How ya feeling today, Evan?😎 My injury was hours ago, and you just saved me countless hours (possibly weeks) of time & effort. Not to mention the peace of mind around what to anticipate for this 1st few days & month🙏 Thank you! Tony Scruggs '#TheEmpathyGuy' ("Together We Rise, Together We Fly")
It's a long road back to "normal", but totally do-able. Pace yourself, and be diligent with you strength recovery when you get to that phase. I allowed life to get busy and slacked off on rebuilding muscle. Though I am active with cycling and running, after three years my right calf is still not quite back to 100%. You can do better... but make sure the AT heals first! Best of luck with your own recovery!
Thanks Evan, this is excellent. I'm currently 4 weeks post-injury on the same path as you. I was also finding it difficult to get some solid answers on a lot of this stuff. Thanks for taking the time to share this.
Thanks, Chris. I hope that your recovery is going well. One lesson I learned later on: memory foam is man's best invention. ;-) I developed a very sore heel, and wearing memory foam insoles for a few months helped me fix that problem. Better to prevent than recover, so I recommend folks use memory foam insoles or shoes (Skechers has many models) as soon as they transition to two shoes. Good luck!
Anyone who’s dealing with this knows how painful this is, I’m here for you. I am sorry you’re dealing with this and I pray for your earliest healthiest recovery . I know the pain seems unimaginable. You’ll feel better each day including a new day tomorrow . Keep going! You got this.
Great video. I ruptured my Achilles about 7 months ago. I am not at 100% yet but have faith I will get there. It is a painful process. To anyone going through it best of wishes and prayers.
How are you doing now?
I am 100% now thanks for asking. Just know it will get better with time.
thanks for replying @@MrRight_1
I did mine 4 months ago when i accidentally stepped on a glass framed picture. I was hoping I'd be back to normal in the next two or three months but then I read this comment
@@MrRight_1
Was it non surgical?
Hi Evan I ruptured mine last Friday and was feeling thoroughly miserable until I watched your journey. Thank you for such a calm and thoughtful account. I love the way I was trying to get my calf comfortable on the cushion when you mentioned the exact same thing! Wishing you all the best
Rick Marsden Thanks, Rick! I am glad that at least some of the info is useful. Best of luck with your journey back to normal.
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Do you sleep with the brace on
@@hebrewhammer8571 was wondering the same
I am more than grateful for getting this video.
I had a fall from a height four days ago and went straight into ER.An x ray exam revealed a partial tendon rapture on the left leg.I was put on a simple bandage and some painkillers with an advice to be patient.Tomorrow ,after a second opinion,i will be going into the boot direct to aid in healing.This video has assured me of a non surgical recovery soon.
Thanks.
This was great, thanks. I'm at 1.5 weeks, non surgical but with a plaster cast. So good to hear someone else talk about not being able to carry things!
Elevate Your NOW How long did it take for you to walk completely normal?
I want to start by thanking you Evan.You have given me hope.I ruptured my achilles playing volleyball.I was in denial thinking i could self heal with out seeing a med. Professional.I went to a same day clinic. They gave me a boot but no wedges.I haven,t seen the orthopedic spcialist yet.This is my first week.You have been going through the same experiences as me.Good luck in your road to recovery. God bless.
Thanks for your video. I’m 6 months into recovery and I tell you being able to stand up in the shower was a wonderful accomplishment. I’m still not 100 percent but I’m optimistic. My therapist keeps reminding me that everyone recovery timeline is different and not to rush the process. Everyone let’s stay encouraged and we’ll be dancing again soon enough 👍
I’m 4 weeks post op, and it’s rough! Sad😢
Did you do the graston technique
Thank you so much, just 3 days after I ruptured my Achilles and since 1 day been watching videos that help me see what's the best path, am not a good friend of ER just because like you said they don't know everything and had some bad experiences only if I feel like I can't really take care of it, I will defenely go, but I thanks all the folks like you that share you're experience and what to do, May the power of universe and the power of our soul and body help us heal soon.
Evan - Thanks for creating this video series and with it a community of commenters that are going thru the same process. It has been very helpful to get info from your videos and from the comments. The one thing I can add is that getting a leg scooter (Knee Rover) made this injury much more tolerable than crutches. It allowed me to go on a Las Vegas trip 4 days after my injury and also allows me to get around my condo and the city so I don't feel completely immobile. I am 2 weeks into my injury and look forward to watching your videos and I continue my recovery. Thanks again.
Thanks, Dave. I saw the leg scooter and considered it, but I live in Germany and shipping times can be long... and I'm cheap. :-) It seems that everyone who invested in one of those raves about it. I flew my family to the US just under two weeks after the injury and a scooter would have been hugely beneficial. Best of luck with your continued recovery!
Hi. I would like to know, if anyone knows the lymphatic drainage as a recoveey therapy in this specific injuries. Thank you.
Really, really appreciating these videos right now, Evan. I am in week 5 -- (non surgical), just out of cast and into boot. Your clear, thorough descriptions of your process give me hope and good guidance. I have a surgeon that is very into casts for the 1st 3 months -- total immobilization -- and I needed to get better guidance / advice. I deeply appreciate that you took the time to make these videos.
+Vanessa Kuran Thanks a bunch, Vanessa. I really appreciate the feedback, and I hope that your recovery goes smoothly. It is a long road, but you have a lot of satisfying milestones ahead. Some reading material, in case it might be useful:
1- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436906/
2- achillesblog.com/normofthenorth/2010/03/08/a-more-complete-review-of-the-options-surgical-vs-non-operative/
3- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509775/
4- achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/
Good luck!!!
Hi Vanessa, I'm contacting a lot of people who posted some years ago to see how they got on, of that's OK. I was wondering how long it took to heal and are you back to full fitness, any issues with atrophy and strength? Many thanks, J.
Thank you so much Evan for your very informative videos. I ruptured my RIGHT AT in 2007 playing soccer. Went to my GP the next day who told me I had a nasty sprain. Two and a half weeks later, the foot swollen and sore, I got a second opinion and was referred to an OS right way. Surgery was the only opinion presented to me at the time and I went through it. The pain was terrible! Was in a cast for 4 weeks then moved into a boot with light weight bearing. It took a good year before I was back to normal activity. Nine years in, the surgically repaired AT is working just fine, but I have been very careful with it.
6 days ago, Monday May 30, I ruptured the my LEFT AT... playing soccer... GRRR!! Went to the ER that night, they triaged me and scheduled a scan the next morning which confirmed the AT rupture. Your video blogs inspired me and challenged me to advocate for myself when visiting the OS. Before seeing my OS, I bought an AirCast Boot and used wedges to get the 20 degree Plantar Flexion. At the appointment with the OS, he highly recommended the non-surgery approach but he really pushed for a cast at least for the first 4 weeks. (His approach, cast #1, four weeks with a 20 degree plantar flexion, then, cast #2/or boot for four weeks with 10 degree plantar flexion, then finally cast #3/or boot for four weeks of neutral 90 degree, with physio somewhere in there). I insisted on the boot from day one instead and he reluctantly accepted my request but made sure my wedges were high enough. He did warn me though, if my AT does not attach in 4 weeks, surgery would be the next step... we shall see.
It's been 5 days since the injury, 4 days in the boot with no weigh bearing, elevated most of the day. Very little swelling but goes down on its own - haven't iced it at all, and the pain is a 2 out of 10 but only comes when I've been upright for a while. Next week I plan on looking for a sports doctor in my area who can guide me through the early weight bearing protocol. I will update my progress. All that to say, THANK YOU for your detailed video blog! Dude, you have inspired and encouraged me and others who are walking this road. I've been through the AT surgical option before, and I must say, non-surgical is way better... no wound to worry about, zero risk of infection, low pain.
Very sorry to hear about your new injury, Ezra. It sounds like you have armed yourself with information and are managing your recovery with your Doctor on board. That is the right answer. I remind folks regularly that I am not a doc and am just sharing information and my own experience. It sounds like you are taking a pro-active, but prudent approach. Physical therapy was hugely beneficial for helping me shape my exercise routine and pace my recovery. I hope you find a good therapist who can do the same for you. I posted some lessons learned yesterday in conjunction with my 1-year anniversary. For what they are worth: ua-cam.com/video/ikur856ALjE/v-deo.html
Best of luck with your recovery!
Hey Evan, I just happened to experience an ATR 4 days ago and am currently on the cast. I chance upon your video while researching for more info on ATR recovery. I must say your video is very informative and it really helps prepare me for my recovery journey. Thank you so much for creating the video and providing the links. Cheers!
I have had both achillies rupture, both times playing squash. One surgical, one by natural healing. The first was in the mid 80's. I did not know what it was when it happened, just thought someone dropped something from the gallery and it hit the back of my leg. I went and saw the physio on the Monday, who then gave me a few days of ultrasound treatment! After not responding much she suggested I go to the AE department. 2 seconds in the doctors room and a hammer under the kneecap with no twitch, he said it was a rupture! So 6 days after it happened I went in for surgery. The tendon had turned to mush and the surgeon had a bit of difficulty in pulling the tendon and muscles down enough as he had to overlap the tendon so he could sew it together in good meat (not mush). I came out with a plaster cast from toe to thigh for 3 weeks and then a cast from toe to knee for about 6 weeks, I think. The surgery was necessary because I was using it for 6 days and the length of time before I went in for surgery. He reckoned it would never break again! which it didn't. The second one ruptured 10 years later, again playing squash. This time, straight to the after hours doctor who strapped it so it would move. And then to the AE the next day. This was a Thursday and although I wanted surgery, there were no surgeons available until after the weekend. I just thought that if they sewed it together it would be stronger. But having no choice, the doctor pointed the toe down as did Evans and put me in a toe to knee cast. Saw the orthopaedic surgeon the following week. He left it in the cast for a few weeks after which he then gave me the moon boot which was great as you can take it on and off, have showers etc. After the moon boot, he sent me to the orthotics department where they elevated the sole of one of my sneakers by about 20mm. So now I was in sneakers and walking around, one elevated and one normal. Another progression. They reduced this elevated sole to half after another 3-4 weeks. Rehab took a while for both although for the first one I was young and invincible and did no rehab. They have both stand-ed the test of time. No problem with either. I was playing squash again. In fact I won the club champs in my late 40's and played in masters tournaments, both regionally and nationally until I needed both hips replaced in my 60's. I am now in my 70's, playing tennis and pickleball and still the odd game of squash. All I can say is don't give up, do the rehab and you will be back to normal activities and doing whatever you want to do without any disadvantage.
Wow, having one rupture is bad enough but you had ruptures on both legs 10 years apart! Each time is at least 6 months of recovery! So, having both operative and the conservative approach, is there any difference in recovery time, side effects of one or the other, and the long term prognosis of each? Since you didn't re-rupture either of the tendons again, which type of medical procedure did you prefer? Thanks for sharing.
This made me cry. I ruptured both Achilles, once at the gym and the other at kickboxing. I feel defeated. 😢
@@ladytee6440 That sucks! One leg is bad enough. I don't even want to imagine rupturing my tendon on the other leg. Getting an Achilles rupture is worst than breaking a bone anywhere on the leg IMHO. Like my words in another post here, take the time to enjoy some movies/music and be with family. Good luck with recovery. I'm at the end of 16-weeks now and I can start to walk normally. Still a ways to go but at least I can walk and drive (my stick shift car) - there's light at the end of that long tunnel!
Firstly a big thank you to Evan and everyone else who have provided some handy information. I'm 37 years old and semi active, the ruptured happened during a game of basketball. The ball was going out and I chased to try and save and felt a kick on my calf (OUCH). The same feeling when someone kicks you on the calf when doing Kickboxing. Still in denial for what has happened so for a week I researched on the net and found your UA-cam channel. When I went to the doctor and got Xray and Ultrasound. The Xray didn't show any tear it was only on the Ultrasound.
On my ultrasound, the conclusion report was: Acute complete rupture proximal Achilles, with retraction of fibres by 14mm. Low grade tear of musculotendinous junction soleus. Got the doctors referral and off to the hospital today, got the cask. Told me to come back in 2 weeks. Anyways for everyone else out there I hope you are doing well and stay safe.
On the first day that I got injured, there was some pain and here is the treatment that I did.
- Get 2 buckets 1 Iced Water Bucket, & 1 Warm water bucket.
- I start with the warm water and soak my injured feet for like 3-5 mins, wiggle your toes and ankle if you can. Put it in the Ice Cold bucket and do same thing. Rinse and repeat and do for 1 hour, and do it twice a day.
This greatly reduce the swelling, bruising, and increased blood flow on the affected area. At the moment the bruising I had was similar to yours.
Thanks, John! I hope that you escape from the cast soon. Being able to take off the boot to let your leg and foot breathe, as well as move your foot a bit, etc, can lift the spirits considerably in those early days. Best of luck with your recovery!
Thanks Evan. BTW I also went the non-OP and I'm on the cam boots now, it does feel a lot better than the cast. They have put 3 wedges on my heel and I take 1 wedge off every 2 weeks.
Thanks for this. Tore my Achilles 3 weeks ago playing football, and am going through everything you describe.
Hi, im in day 5 in cast (non surgical) i have pains in the night, how long do you have pains?
@@emrahg4031 I am 10 days after a complete rupture and I’m still having intermittent pains, especially when I’m up on crutches and the blood rushes down. I chose no operation and I’m so worried and paranoid it’s not going to heal!!! It’s so hard being patient.
@@emrahg4031 Hi, how do you feel now?
In my case it partially ruptured, no colour changes, some pain..after a week i could rise up on my toes again. I continiued my life normally, no doctor, no anything, but no sports. 2 months after i returned to playing football like normal, but i was ultra careful. Today its 1y 4m past and everything is as it was before the rupture.
This is my case.
@@baileym7189 I'm in the same situation , Are you recovering ?what did you choose ? What are the important advices from you?
@@prezlamen7906 talk to me mate I’m in the same position you were in but my second week now on a cast break it down for me how you returned to playing and how long
Blew out my Achilles in 1993. Had a great ortho surgeon, did a full surgical repair. Had the boot, with a thigh attachment that locked my knee in place. No weight bearing for 4 weeks, then walking on the boot for 4 weeks plus started working with the sadists (rehab specialists). They pushed me hard. I was doing some light jogging at 3 months. Bottom line? Go to a reputable sports medicine surgeon, you'll be glad you did.
I could not agree more with getting the best Docs on one's case. The trick seems to be finding one who knows this injury specifically, and the latest developments in how to best treat it.
Hi Evan,
This video is an excellent resource, thank you for sharing. I ruptured my Achilles tendon two weeks ago (November 1st) and decided to go the non-surgical route as well. The orthopedic surgeon put me in a cast, and told me that I'd need to keep my foot immobilized for 6 to 8 weeks. After doing a ton of research online, I went back to the doc and asked about getting a boot instead and trying an early weight-bearing protocol. The doc resisted any changes to his protocol, but eventually suggested I could get a second opinion, and referred me to a different doctor in the same clinic. As it turns out, the second doctor agreed with me (and all of the recent literature) that a boot and early weight-bearing was the way to go. He cut off my cast and set me up with a boot, and referred me to see a physical therapist ASAP. That was about three days ago... and so far I'm loving the boot! My first physio session is tomorrow morning, and I can't wait. The lesson learned is, like you said, it's important to get educated and advocate for yourself. You can't always assume doctors will have the most up-to-date knowledge. Some "old-school" doctors are reluctant to get with the times. Anyway, I've still got a long road ahead, but at two weeks I'm already starting to bear partial weight, and feeling good. Your videos are an inspiration... thanks!
+yared mehzenta Thanks very much, Yared! I am glad to hear your story, and look forward to news of your continued progress. Early weight bearing and PT, along with a deliberate approach to your progress, will hopefully work as well for you as they have for me. I'm at 23 weeks now, and except for still needing more strength and muscle mass in my recovering calf I feel just about back to normal. I am running a few times a week now (slow, and only ~1.5 miles each time), which feels like light years beyond where I was not long ago. There are many opportunities to hurt yourself along the recovery path, so "expand the envelope" deliberately and carefully. Good luck!
how long were you in a cast then?
I never had a cast. The ER put me into a splint for about 36 hours, and then on Monday the ortho put me straight into the walking boot (non weight bearing for the first couple weeks).
I cut my cast off got busy
At two weeks the tendon may not even connect though, how can you start putting weight on it while the fibers are trying to reconnect?
Ruptured my tendon 3 days ago and here I am. Thanks for the wonderful video :) !!!
I'm glad that it may help fill in some blanks. Best of luck with your recovery.
@@ejbvmi Getting there slowly :) thanks
How did the pain feel? I think I tore mine
Just did mine 45 minutes ago on my way to the hospital now --- I knew nothing about it , thanks for your info !
The foot is put in the equine position (tippy toes). This relaxes the calf muscle, which allows the two ends to re-attach. A cast is used for the first two weeks, immobilising the foot. The cast is then removed and replaced with a boot that has wedges in the heel. Over a course of 6 weeks the wedges are removed until the foot is once again flat.
Guys it gets better! I'm on week 6 and just went into my boot, still can't walk really but I can put some pressure on it without it hurting and at least I can stretch and move it since it's not in the cast anymore! Thoughts and prayers!
Evan, thanks for the info. I am in the second week of the injury but thought I'd share through you the fact that I have found a knee scooter far better than crutches for mobility. It takes away the fear of overbalancing etc and with a basket on the front gives you the opportunity to be useful in carrying things. Definitely worth considering. Incidently I am 75 and balance is probably more of a problem at my age.
I agree, Pete. Had I been in a place where I could have easily acquire one, I may have rationalized the purchase, even for the short two weeks I was non-weight bearing. I hated crutches! I hope your recovery is coming along well!
This video has been very encouraging. I am in a country where the doctors/surgeons are basically on a commission basis and I had surgery as the only option being thrust in my face. I am 64 years old and not in the best of health (blood pressure etc) and so was not keen on the surgical route. I first consulted a doctor on day 5 of the injury as I was only in a small amout of pain, but was unbalanced. I am now in week one and was NOT told anything, I have been avoiding putting weigh on the leg but have been resting the heel on the ground in the cast, so I hope it is ok. I an seeing a new doctor on Tuesday next week who hopefully will be a little more informative, but your eraly weight bearing(even a small amount) is most encouraging!
As a retired RN, you covered some great stuff here. Good job.
I am two weeks in, it’s my second rodeo after a first rupture in 2015! I am so glad i came across your videos, it’s nice to have this information!!
This was a really good video. My achilles has been ruptured for a month now (due to a reputure after a fall 2 weeks ago, how unlucky am i) and it was intially from a rugby injury. Let me say now for any of you starting out, this injury is going to drive you up the wall!! In my ignorance, i thought I'd be back to normal after a few weeks, so imagine my shock when i was told it could be 6 months before I am 100%. The worst part of this injury isn't the pain, that is surprisingly fleeting, It's very frustrating recovery, and because of the world we live in today, you're going to have to come up with novel ways to keep busy and combat loneliness (for want of a better word). You can't do an awful lot, carrying and complex tasks are out of the question, you can just about still cook and make your bed but it is certainly not without difficulty. Mainly you should get used to Netflix and PlayStation because thats where you're gonna be spending most of your recovery time. It is possibly to the crutches as a workout, but it is by no means fun like the gym. The hardest part for me is being out of the loop. Sure, we all have our smartphones, but you're not gonna be featuring in night out selfies or adventures for a quite some time, everybody you know is mostly working while you are at home, and the dependancy on others takes some coming to terms with. I wish everybody luck with this, because it is not a nice place to be.
My own injury was 3 1/2 years ago, but this brings back a lot of memories of those early weeks with crutches. I hope that you graduate to a walking boot soon, because that is a huge quality of life improvement. Best of luck with your recovery.
I can totally relate to this. Hope your recovery is going well
I totally appreciate what you're saying! I did mine playing rugby as well. Are you going back to playing later down the line? I'm really struggling with the idea that I might not be able to do all the things I used to do, being a pretty active person. Hope you're recovering well! Tom
@@tomwelsh4090 Yes mate I'll be going back just gonna take some time. Physio says theres no reason why i can't play again, the only drawback is all never be quite as fast when sprinting
Phoenix1664 nice one! I’ve not met my physio yet so haven’t had that conversation. Good news though!
All the best for a speedy recovery 👍
i am so pleased to have found your video, you are so informative. i was in agony for 4 weeks and in and out of casualties for pain killing injections as they assumed it was my usual sciaatic problem no matter what i insisted. eventually a doctor decided to do an ultrasound for dvt and found i had been walking around with a ruptured achilles and in immense pain the whole time. even with my boot and crutches i am still in alot of pain but they tell me its due to have been walking on it. i have got more information from you than any doctor i have seen. thank you so much for making this video and i wish you and your family all the best x
I am Mike. Thank you for sharing your experience. Your video is very in details. I especially appreciate your suggestion to others to be patient, not to be too aggressive. I re-ruptured my right achellies tendonitis on the 11th week from its first rupture, thinking i had been an atlete in the past. Then the re-rupture proved I am just a motal human being.
Never experienced a pain like this. It happened to me while i was playing basketball ( left foot ). Had to drive myself to the hospital in a stick shift car using my foot with the ruptured achilles to press the clutch in to switch gears OUCH ! I had surgery a couple days after and was back on my feet 8 months after.
I respect both options in my situation I didn't want to be off work along time and I wanted a quicker recovery.
To those that have ruptured there achilles hang in there it's depressing and a long journey but you'll get through it.
Worst pain I have ever had.
Interesting that the ER/ED set your foot incorrectly. I did mine 5 days ago and I overheard them say that they were going to put an “equinus block” on to set the toes pointing down. Might be worth remembering if you read this before you get such an injury (hope you don’t ever need it though!!)
(This was UK though)
ER set mine as well, they wrapped it too tight and didn't set my position well...my orthopedic doctor I saw 2 days later, said unfortunately he sees it way too often...as they rarely have to do it. When the orthopedics do it every single day. But least yours did well!
@@Always_NeverI hope all goes well. I am now three weeks in to wearing a vacoped boot. Brilliant bit of tech! Had a meet with the consultant last week and so far so good. I took the advice from the vid about icing (remembering to keep toes pointed away). Does help and soothes the skin from being in the boot 24/7. Also using cocoa butter on skin. It ‘s going to be a long old haul! Good luck!
Hi Evan, I just ruptured my Achilles tendon 2 days ago. Your video was very helpful to me, most if all it gave me hope. Thank you!
I'm glad that it helped. It's a long, patience-trying road, but you'll get there!
I have surgery coming up on March 3rd so I've been scanning the UA-cams and your video is the best one I've seen for real world recovery tips. My doc is saying 6-8 weeks non-weight bearing for my reconstruction so I have quite a lot of "on my butt" time coming up!!Thank you!!!
I hope that you are recovering well! Good luck!
Hì Evan
I’m one week into non surgical recovery and found your video very encouraging. I’m stuck in a plaster for two weeks, non weight bearing before going down the boot route. Can’t wait to have a bit more freedom!
This was great! Thank you! I tore mine 8 days ago, so the process is just starting for me
What’s good kingxkobe24, I tore mine a week ago. Are you walking yet? And if so, does having a lot of heavy grocery bags or whatever in your hands, does that hurt your leg?
@@brandonnorwood9414 sorry to hear that man, hopefully you have a speedy recovery. I’m at 12 weeks, I tore mine March 12th, going non op. I’m off the boot, I have been since May 24th. I’m limping a lot, still not walking all the way straight. I’ve been doing rehab 2 days a week with my PT, and also going to the gym. Just working upper body and a lot of bike to keep my cardio up and getting blood flowing through the leg. I do stretching recommend from my PT….
Im not up to speed like Evan is in week 12, he’s walking really well so but I also haven’t been up to speed with him as I been comparing every week to my personal recovery, I feel like im a week or two behind on everything he’s doing. Im visiting one of the best orthopedic in North Jersey, so hopefully everything catches up to Evan. I can drive as May 12th, my flexibility isn’t the problem it’s more so the weight on my foot and actually pushing off. So im eager to visit my orthopedic on the 21st of the month to talk about it, because again, I haven’t seen him since I took my boot off on May 21st. How are you feeling?
Im going through this same thing and taking the same procedures. This whole process sucks. Im active everyday and the gym is a lifestyle for me which is being taken away from me bevause ofnmy archilies
@@clancaster6634 likewise my man… a little update for you guys, so my Achilles didn’t heal properly, I tried going non-op we did a second MRI at the beginning of august. The MRI showed it was not fully connected. I told my doctor I’m going to enjoy the last 2 weeks of august before getting surgery. Long story short, I’ll be getting surgery on September 9th (back to 0)… sucks but it has to be done. I’m an athlete as well, I run a lot and lift weights, 6’2 204lbs… but anyways I hope you guys get to heal well ! All praises to the man above !
@@kingxkobe24 how are you doing now since the surgery?
I had an Achilles Tendon rupture whilst on holiday with friends. Fell from a beach bike. Opted to go for non-surgical route(though ortho recommended surgical route)Currently on a vacoped boot with crutches for support. Bathing was stressful so I got a plastic stool for the bath and now, it's so much easier. Thanks for your thorough explanation.
I just got out of the hospital, watching every video I can. Thanks for the tips!
I did the same. Between your doc, your physical therapist, and your research, I hope that you pull together an approach that leads to full recovery!
This is amazing, I’m currently going through a ruptured Achilles and am in the first stage of the healing process, Thank u so much for this 🙏🏾
Thank you so much boss this is my second achilles rupture and it's to my right leg this time. And watching your process and journey on letting it heal on it's own is very encouraging for me and it has been working for me so I thank you.
Great video, thanks for posting it. I ruptured my left achilles last year while playing soccer and had surgery, and then this year, while playing soccer again, ruptured the other one and the doctor suggested the non-surgical approach. Found the same information you mentioned all over the internet but now I was looking for a video of the actual healing process.
Excellent video. I have a tear in mine and am three weeks in a walking boot. The doctor sent me home with minimal instructions and no discussion of what’s next, except come back in 4 weeks. Your video gives me some context for the process and possible outcomes. Also your video has excellent production values both in the video and audio. At 76 I want to avoid surgery and get back to being able to walk at least four miles without re-injury.
I'm almost 50, and have found that strength in both the lower leg and foot don't come back without deliberate and sustained effort. Even after four years, my right calf is not a full match for my uninjured left calf, but I allowed myself to slack off once it become "good enough". I ride ~30 miles at a time and swim, and was running up until a year or so ago when I stopped due to hip joint aggravation. The AT itself should not prevent you from regaining you full activity level, but be careful not to let your limp while you are recovering to contribute to problems in other areas. I had some hip issues before the AT injury, but I think poor running technique during my recovery caused further trouble to my hip on that side.
I really appreciate this info. I just “popped “ it in the beginning of three day weekend. So my specialist appointment ended up a week away. This helps until I get the info from the doctor. Thank you.
This series of videos are great from Evan are great. I picked this one to comment on as it has the biggest number of views. I am a 62 year old man, fit and active and had an ATR from hitting a ramp at an assault course too hard. After 12 days in an equine cast following an early weight bearing protocol without surgery like Evan I have been in a boot for 10 weeks initially with 5* 10mm wedges removing one every 2 weeks I now have no wedges and started physical therapy. I still wear the boot 24/7 except when showering and doing strengthening and mobility exercises but next week can sleep without it and over 3 more weeks wean myself off it so I am boot free.Although I am almost twice his age everything he says has chimed with my experience and although it has taken me a little longer to recover he has provided me with good information and encouragement. Listen and learn.
Thanks for sharing your own experience, Simon. I'm glad that the early weight bearing path is working for you so far. I had a hard time modulating my return to fitness (wanting to return to my pre-injury activity level asap, but having to listen when my leg barked at me to slow down), and if you are accustomed to running assault courses I suspect you will have the same challenge. Best of luck as you navigate your recovery!
I ruptured mine 10 days ago, got my boot today, feels a little weird, but this video has made me feel better about it. Thanks.
Was it the first time seeing the doc? How did it end up?
@@Genamel18 im walking and jogging fine now, still nervous about sudden movements, but im strong and controlled a year later, had to stop physio early, but if you can keep going then do.
Good for you for making this video. I am ten weeks post Achilles rupture so I have living your video. Lol. God I miss golf!
Thanks, and good luck. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and it is not a train... but the tunnel is longer than we'd like. You'll get there.
Thank you Evan for this video, it explains a lot of the daily challenges on the road to recovery and tips. I am waiting to consult with the fracture clinic to see if I will have surgery/non-surgery and the pros/cons of each to get back to health. I'm 34 and quite active. Happened during a pickup soccer game, same thing as your experience, the classical pop when pushing off. In a temporary cast now, was in the ER day before yesterday after it happened.
Thank you very much sir 🙏, I am also on the road to recovery non-surgery and your videos helped me immensely with my recovery. It has been exactly 8 weeks since my injury and I can’t thank you enough for your videos!
Thank you for vid. Much appreciated. Mine happened yesterday. Since the start I want to be in an excellence mindset. Not super hero/dumb=leading to re-injury, just to see this as an opportunity to take the optimal steps to greater strength in ankles/legs for the rest of life.Your vid is a great find in this road. My inclination is towards non-surgery. Also, to be able to bypass the research time needed to know that early movement within reason is a preferred course is invaluable. My best to you and yours.
+gmh7773331 Sorry to hear about your injury. The non-op/early weight bearing experiment seems to have been a success. I am at 10 months now, and things are essentially back to normal aside from a slight strength and diameter disparity between the calf of my injured leg and the other one. I am not playing tennis or inducing any sudden shock to that AT, but I am running normally again and don't think about it much any more... which is remarkable considering where I was last summer. To help in your research, feeding into the conversation with your ortho:
1- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436906/
2- achillesblog.com/normofthenorth/2010/03/08/a-more-complete-review-of-the-options-surgical-vs-non-operative/
3- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509775/
4- achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/
Good luck! -Evan
Thanks for this video. 3 weeks since the injury here. Went with the surgery route. This is a morale booster.
what a relief it was too find your videos on achilles rupture recovery, non operative. i thought it was uncommon as well until i dug deeper. I'm in the same boat, week 4 currently. I'll be using your videos to help me condition at home. congrats on your recovery.
Thanks, and I hope that your recovery goes smoothly as well! Don't forget to the memory foam. I do wish I had discovered that sooner than I did. It took months for my heel to forgive my error.
This is from 2015 and its the only videos that are helpful thank you so much I sub to you we need more people like you who just give proper information
much respect to you again.. a blessing x1000...surely speaking for all those who normally never respond to these posts..my first reply ever.
Tore mine exactly 2 weeks ago playing soccer. Got the boot on, starting to put a little weight on it today which is really exciting. Been icing and taking it easy. Just have to keep a positive mind frame, as that definitely helps with recovery and of course follow correct protocol. Especially not rushing anything, as it will just be a problem in the long run.
This injury isn't obviously fun to go thru but i'm taking it as an experience in life, you really start appreciating the things we do everyday and take for granted. There's a lot worse things out there that could happen, at least we will be 100% soon!!
Good luck everyone with your recovery!
I definitely agree. You do tend to appreciate life more and exercise more patience. It's a long journey but have to look at the positives along the way and probably try new hobbies that you wouldn't normally have time or patience to do.
Hi Evan,
Good evening. Happy thanksgiving man. I watched all your video blogs on your achillies tendon rupture because I too ruptured mines from playing football. I believe mines is not a complete tear but sure hell hurt when i initially ruptured it. But i must say, the information you have provided is impressive. You nailed all the A's,B's, and C's and gave helpful tips on how to go about living for the first trimester of this horrible injury. I'm 1 month in it right now, I was told sometime within 6-9 months I'd be back and healthy playing sports. Just like to say thank you because you are living proof that the Non-Surgical, early weight bearing exercise works in the road to recovery, patients is key is this process. Anyways man I hope all is well and that you stay healthy.
-Homie from Cali
@crazyedgar123 Thanks for sharing your story. I also tore mine playing football (while making a quick direction change). Super pleased to hear you were back to playing sports in under a year. I am about to enter my final year of school and I really want to be able to play on my school's team.
Do you recall how big your gap was? mine is about 3cm in length...
Thanks Evan, two and a half weeks into my injury and just found your videos. Brilliant! Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks, Claud! I hope that you have a smooth recovery.
many thanks for making the video and helping others who have this injury. my tendon snapped one week ago and I got the 20 degree cast right from the start. first control should be in two weeks from the injury. I'm going to ask the doctors to give me one of those boots as soon as possible since as you said "walking" with crutches does suck :) many thanks again!
+mymala108 Good luck! I hope that by now you are mobile and on the road back to 'normal'!
Hi Evan! Great video. I ruptured my Achilles 3 weeks ago playing basketball. I also chose non surgical treatment when proposed by both options. First 3 weeks i had a fiberglass cast with a 20 degree toes pointing down. Today the cast came off and i am on a walking boot with 4-5 cm height under my heel. According to surgeon i am supposed to start bearing weight on my foot via help of crutches. I am also supposed to decrease the height 1 cm every week for the next 4 weeks. For the first 3 weeks when my foot was in a cast and i was completely immobilized i used a special crutch called iwalk2.0. It is not the most comfortable thing but a great way to move around and free your hands to be able to carry things. My journey of weight bearing exercises just started today. Thanks for all the info
Congrats on the milestone, and good luck with the rest of your recovery!
How many weeks before you can normally walk again?
And here we go. I’m 48 hrs in and being immobile kinda sucks. I’ve got a boot and crutches. Can’t Cary anything. So thankful I have my wife taking care of me
A boot wasn’t a rupture?
Hey Even,
Great video as someone who has re injured my Achilles 3 or 4 times and on both feet, I can say you are wise to take this very serious. My re injury is because of stupidity, I'm self employed no work no eat, so I was forced to get back on it early. I did use the walking boot, I had two one for work ad one for sporting around. I do mineral surveys and for the most part are hiking in the mountains. It was a real art in using the boot in the mountains. I think that my main problem is that I really didn't know how serious of an injury it is. I never did go to a doctor, I have always self treated my self and that for the most part has worked out for me. I wouldn't do the surgery but I wished I would have investigated more about it and was more serious about treating it. Thanks for taking the time to share with others.
Wow! I'm sorry to hear about your struggle, but I am glad that you have done. I hope that your last recovery was the last one you have to endure!
Glad I came across your video. I also took the non surg route. Got very little direction from my surgeon with care. Your tips are very helpful and it gives me some hope for a quicker recovery.
My orthopedic reconstruction specialist actually did my recovery opposite of yours. He put me in the 90 degree walker boot during the day and a different one for night for 4 weeks with no heel lift. The night boot he wanted me to put as much toe lift as possible while still being comfortable to stretch the calf muscle. For the first 4 weeks I had scant weight bearing. I was supposed to be up and standing for no more than 20 minutes an hour during the day and elevating my foot the rest of the hour. He wanted me standing for sure at least 5-10 minutes every hour to increase circulation. I was not allowed any lifting more than a milk jug. From week 4-6 I was allowed to do the lifting exercises and then place the boot back on for any extended walking. He also gave me the heel lifts at this time to place in my shoe for around the house walking as normal. After the 6 week mark I was to remove 1 layer every 10 days. He told me the goal in the first 4-6 weeks was to allow the tendon to repair itself while the calf stretched. The only way for the tendon to repair was to not use it. The boot was to do what surgery does which is slice the calf muscle to lengthen it and sometimes hook the Achilles back together if the rupture was severe. He said there was no need for heel lift while the calf was being stretched as it contradicted the calf stretch. Once the Achilles was being used again you didn’t want strain on the tendon so shortening the calf was needed to prevent re-injury. I was still required to do the night splint and he still has me doing night splints when I sleep at least 3 times a week to keep the calves stretched and Achilles in a good healing position so I won’t have his injury again. He also recommended adding bone broth and turmeric root to my diet.
I think it’s interesting to see how specialists have such different approaches. He repeated my MRI at 6 weeks which showed complete regeneration of my Achilles.
The variety of approaches can be a bit frustrating for folks trying to figure out which path to follow. It sounds like your doc is very engaged in your recovery, which is great to hear. I hope that things are going well. Best of luck!
Interesting and useful Evan. I’m 10 weeks in and the boot is coming off tomorrow, so a lot of rehab is ahead of me. Between week 2 and week 4, I’d started taking the boot off whilst sitting and putting my leg on a footstool. However my doctor, was against this as he felt there was more risk of re-injury. I did as he said for a further 4 weeks to week 8. Consultant suggested it was ok to remove the boot for short periods, so I’ve sort of gone along with that. Roll on tomorrow and freedom day, although I’m a little concerned about my current status and what I’ll be able to do and when. It’s my right foot, so I’ve not driven in over 2 months. Hopefully driving will be an option in the next few weeks, and then progress as per physio advice thereafter. Hopefully you are now 100%. I injured myself playing basketball at age 54…..I think i might be sticking to golf and cycling going forwards
I had my Achilles' tendon lengthened through surgery. So this is very similar. I never used ice, I pressed and pushed all my swelling up my leg to get rid of all that fluid. It hurt, and I'm walking on it after 3-5 weeks. So yeah you're doing excellent.
I hope that your recovery is still going great. Good luck!
Thanks Evan. I ruptured my Achilles 3 weeks ago now. I was put into the moonboot at 2 weeks and told that I could weight bear as tolerated. However I had done some research before hand and found a lot of the protocols were quite different, suggesting no weight bearing for at least 6 weeks. However, now hearing this video I feel a bit more confident in my protocol. My doctor did mention that this is a relatively new protocol which is probably why there aren't many like this out there online (the only place I could really search). Thanks for this video, really helpful.
Emma Smith Thanks, Emma! I hope your recovery is going smoothly. I am just over two years now, and pleased to report that I don't think about the injury all that often these days. Best of luck to you!
Your Protocol worked for me with my first Achilles injury. Now I have one on my opposite leg!! Just hurt it a week ago. Thanks again Evan.
omg this sounds like hell, good luck
Respect to u man. Thanks for sharing and hope u doing well years later!
Thanks very much for the video. Had a full rupture and consultant has gone with the non surgical route. Great to see someone come out the other side. I'm currently on week 6 and still in a cast and feeling pretty grim about it. As others have said it gives a lot of hope.
All the best. Mark.
+Mark Brockwell I hope you are out of that cast soon, Mark. The sooner you get that foot moving again and get some weight on it, the better... unless your injury has some complexity beyond the AT rupture. Early weight bearing seems to be the key to recovering as much of your former flexibility and strength as possible. Best of luck with your recovery!!! If you need some data to back you up in negotiations with your consultant, let me know. Lots online, especially at Achillesblog.com.
@@ejbvmi I broke mine 4 days ago, i really didnt want surgery but doctors have been advising against it, saying it wont fully recover & will be weak, not allowing me to walk long durations & distances. Is this true?
Thanks for this it has given me more encouragement
@evanbrown how has it been since? Did u rereupture it?
update: i've consulted 3 doctors from 3 diff hospitals. 2 govt. They advised against non surgical, saying it wont fully heal esp if the tear is 2cm or more. & the chance of rerupture is big.it will be weak the fibers wont grow back to stick togther w/o surgery. I am really confused now. Anybody pls share real insight on what i should do.
Hello I am Charlie : All I can tell you is that any claims that the non-operative route is a bad choice because it significantly increases the probability of a rerupture or that the tendon will never fully heal are coming from people who have not objectively read the research on the subject that has come to light over the past decade or so.
Mine healed fine, and I am as active as I was before the injury. It is also worth noting that my range of motion and calf strength are better than a friend who had surgery for his rupture a decade before mine. I believe that difference had more to do with my early weight bearing protocol and the fact that he was in a cast for three months than the surgery/non-op choice, but the bottom line is that non-op is not a path that reduces the quality or confidence of your long term outcome.
Going against your doc’s advice might be hard or inadvisable, though. I am neither a doctor nor familiar with your exact injury, so you may want to research and see if there are any ortho docs near you who are familiar with and supportive of the non-op protocols.
I didn’t see your reply when you posted it two weeks ago. It is worth noting that putting your foot in the right plantar flexion position during the first few weeks is vitally important for the non-op path. If that was not done in your case, that may make choosing non-op more difficult.
Good luck with the decision. I’m not against all surgery, but avoid having people cut on me when it does not need to happen. Either way, you can make a full recovery. Advocate for early weight bearing!
Salutations Evan! just found this first video and I wish I would have found it 6 weeks ago. I walked into a complicated, ankle and foot reconstruction which included an Achilles tendon release procedure. I did not properly prepare for this, and now I am double-timing my rehab info. The details of daily life in a cast/boot were real! The 2nd day I was home, high on pain pills, and afraid to mess up the surgical work, threw off my crutches and fell back and hurt my upper back and neck and hit my head and received a concussion and a nice scar. No pain pills after that. So anyway, I am 6 weeks out and mentally, I have to adjust my thoughts about the timeframe on when I am going to be able to do the things I want to do. Thank you for putting all your personal experience out here for us that need it so badly. I mistakenly thought I was a badass, and that this would be no biggie, but let me say this is incredibly hard, and I have to be patient to rehab properly, but seriously, this is a rough gig emotionally and has let me see how it is for disabled, and elderly folks and has me thinking a lot differently about mobility in the future.
Thank you for sharing this great information I rapture my Achilles’ tendon playing soccer two days ago and I decided to go non surgical and your information will help me a lot thank you again.
Great video, I’m in week 4, just got my boot. I’m frustrated and feel useless. I’m non surgical recovery so just waiting, day by day!! 👍🏾
Me since 7 Jan. Iam in the boots
I had the most sorriest doctors after seeing a lot of your post. Had a rupture in 2014. They did splint, boot, or cast me at no time. Didn't actually find out that I had ruptured it for a month after a MRI. I was given physical therapy. Afterwards. They placed me on a permanent profile up until now. It is currently 2022, and they still have me on a permanent profile.
Great video. Mine popped 6k into a 10k race last week. My sports therapist recommended all the things you have spoken about. Seems like the way forward to me. Best of luck with the rest of your recovery.
this is a great video! i ruptured my achilles during jiu jitsu training a couple nights ago and didnt realize what happened until i completed the workout. just went to the ER, they put me in a splint and referred me to an orthopedic doctor. was kinda dreading the surgery but knowing that there are stories such as as yours really helps b/c i dont wanna go under the knife.
+C Masala I'm 10 months post-injury, and am glad that I went non-op/early weight bearing. There are exotic cases where surgery is warranted, but a run-of-the-mill full rupture can heal without surgical intervention. Going non-op is only half of the big decision: getting out of a cast, into a boot and walking within a few weeks after injury arrests a lot of the evils that set in over an extended period in a cast, so advocate for yourself and try to follow an early weight bearing protocol if you can. I logged my recovery, and would be glad to share the protocol my doc had me follow if you like: achillesblog.com/ejbvmi/
+Evan Brown thanks for the reply and the motivating video! seeing u being able to walk full weight bearing @ 4wks in a boot provides a lot of inspiration for me b/c it shows me it can be done despite the things i've been told over the past couple days that surgery is the only option yada yada yada. also, with my job i am on my feet so even though one would walk like an 'inchworm'...that is much better than crutches which they may not allow me to do or use on my job. Thanks again for the videos and the blog! all of us with ATR appreciate it!
Evan, Thanks for the great information. I'm a 49 years of age male and just popped my Achilles playing tennis not that hard.
Boy it surprised me with the noise and the pain. Thanks for giving heads up on what to expect.
Larry
P. S. After this recovery, I think I going to be sticking with golf from now on.
I'm with you... my tennis and racquetball days are probably a thing of the past. Fortunately, they were not my favorite activities anyway, and my running, cycling and swimming are unaffected. Good luck with the recovery, and use memory foam in your shoes when you exit the boot. It's easier to prevent a sore heel than recover from one!
Just raptured my Achilles 4days ago. Thanks for making this vid, I feel that I'm not alone.
I'm on my 2nd surgery because I have 50yrs walking on club feet.
1st surgery was cut bones and straighten toes with 9 metal brackets and 18+screws.
2nd surgery was re-enforcing the brackets, cutting the heel bone and straightening with 3 huge screws, but also has tendon lengthening.... that crap hurts! I've got chronic ongoing pain. The swelling and pain never ends.
Great information I just tore my tendon 1 week ago. They casted my leg have to keep on for 3 more weeks.My orthopedic surgeon told me absolutely no weight bearing.So sounds like a long road ahead but,their is light at the end of the tunnel.Great progress of your experience hope my goes as smooth as yours.You helped answer alot of questions I was wondering about.Thank you
I tore my tendon yesterday morning playing football - partial tear. I'm in a cast now and I'm now starting the long process of recovery.
First time in a cast for me and I will never EVER take for granted the use of all limbs! Not being able to carry stuff while on crutches is something that just doesn't get talked about enough!
Thanks for your informative video Evan - love the clarity and no-nonsense delivery and also the tips - hope you are fully recovered now!
Thankq so much sir, I was so scared, I got my injury 7 days ago and I went to doc and got x-rays it has shown normal but at the time I saw your video I new it,it is exactly the same as yours, I was about to get surgery I was so scared thankq so much for giving me new hope...I hope you are leaving a healthy life now,this clip makes me so motivational...GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LOVE FROM INDIA.. THANK Q Sir
Thanks for the video Evan. I completely agree with your comments about the emergency room. I ruptured mine a week ago and A&E diagnosed as torn calf and told me to walk on it! It wasn’t until 48 hours later that I was put into a boot and given clexane injections, and only then after a private physio took one look and sent me straight back to hospital. 72 hours later, I’m still battling the UK NHS referral system to get a private specialist appointment. I will probably go surgical route if offered as a) same recovery time and b) less chance of re-rupture. My I-walk 2.0 is arriving today. I will let you all know how I get on with it. Regards, Ian.
Thanks for the video! Ruptured mine yesterday playing softball. I'm 41 years old and going in tomorrow to meet with the orthopedic surgeon.
Thanks, @RaptorNate! I am happy to know that the info has been helpful. It seems that a broad spectrum of treatment approaches are out there. I hope that you find the best one for yourself. Though your Doc may have a strong case for surgery based upon your specific injury, I am a believer in non-op so far. It has been a much better experience than that of our surgical brothers and sisters who have varying degrees of challenges with nerve damage, wounds that don't heal properly, etc We'll have to see how the long term road test goes to determine if I become part of that small statistical difference between op- and non-op re-rupture rate. I plan to return to most of my previous activity level (cycling, running, swimming, hiking), though tennis is a question mark for now as I mitigate my chances of a re-rupture. One last note: early weight bearing works! I am at 14 weeks and almost back to normal walking and activities minus running. Crutches seem like forever ago. Good luck!
Thank you Evan for making the video. I am a beach runner because of arthritis in the knees. Two weeks ago, my right heel was bothering me quite a bit from the beginning of a 4-mile run. I toughed it out which was foolish. Right now I am experiencing pain where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel and an inflamed bursa. It took four days for the pain to subside after that aggravation. Walking was extremely painful and now is still painful but bearable. This morning I went to the beach and did three minutes of walking and tried some light running and ended up doing a 3-mile run. I am definitely babying the foot on each step. I needed to know if this was going to aggravate or perhaps strengthen the injury. Your video was encouraging.
Great video. I snapped my Achilles playing tennis too… I’m up to 5 weeks in recovery and have learned the same techniques to manage this as you. I’m not confident to get on my indoor bike yet.. I hope your full recovery was sooner than a year..
THANK YOU SO MUCH Sir Evan... God Bless You More and continue being a blessing to others.
Great video. It just happened to me yesterday. Going to see the specialist tomorrow morning. I'm not going for surgery since they gave me the 2 options. Thank you for the info and this helps a lot.
this was very helpful. one of my worst fears is going under the knife and this information just gave me hope, thank you.
Thnx for sharing Evan! i ruptured my achilles tendon a week ago and I also chose the non surgical route and I was a little bit worried so thnx for the upload!
Thank you for this video. I'm 11 weeks after achilles tendon rapture. A week after taking of vacoped boot. It feels amazing to be able to walk, but my muscles and tendon is still very stiff. I went thru everything you said. Good luck with your recovery👍😊
How are you doing now?
Great Video. Protocol in New Zealand a lot different, I ruptured my Achilles on the 20th Aug 2020, was put in a cast and on crutches for 4 weeks, then 2 weeks in a moonboot at 30 degrees, 2 weeks at 15 degrees and then 2 weeks at 0 degrees. Only at 0 degrees was I allowed to start putting weight on it. Now I have heel lifters in my shoes for 2 months and see a physio every 3 days to for rehab. Its November and I have only been cleared now to start riding a bike at the gym and gym upper body.
Hi Evan,
I ruptured both my achilles at the same time in june. now 18weeks on post operations, recovery is going slowly but surely. Walking not to bad now and started back on mtb bike although mainly flat road stuff. I can concur with your video on recovery , its a long road.
+Barrie Kinnaird Oi vey! One was bad enough, but at least I had one good leg to use with the crutches for the first couple weeks! Glad to hear that you are back on the bike. Getting exercise is hugely beneficial for quality of life and morale. Keep up the great work!
Thanks Evan. This is helpful. I injured my Achilles tendon this morning (playing tennis) in almost the same way that you described your injury. I went to an urgent care center and got a temporary cast, and have an appointment on Monday with a surgeon to evaluate the injury. Until I saw your video, I hadn't thought about a non-surgical approach. I will consider that now along with my other options.
Alex Murfey Good luck with your recovery, Alex. It's a long road back to normal, but you will get there! It's easy to focus on the AT and atrophied calf, but the muscles and bones of your foot also need work to get back to the way things were pre-injury. Focus on that and flexibility as well. Good luck!
Thank you so much for a very relatable blog, I am in UK and day 9 post ATR following a taekwondo injury, I had a cast for a week set with toes pointing down and now have a walking boot with 5 heel wedges with crutches and am currently non weight bearing. I have opted for the non surgical route. Like you were, I have been wondering how my tendons will reconnect to heal as a recent ultrasound showed I have a 13mm gap but I guess in time they will. Moving towards partial weight bearing in a weeks time, every little thing is a milestone. Thanks for the video, tips and information, found it really helpful.
I'm 6 weeks in. 70% rupture. 1 week in a cast and 5th week in a boot feeling good. Two wedges left to go. Started to shuffle walk today.
Hi Evan,
Thanks for posting this. I have a torn Achilles Tendon. I am having an MRI done and then off to see the Ortho doc. I've been trying to study and learn as much as possible so I am informed when I go to see him. This vid was very helpful.
If a complete rupture how does the tendon re-attach if it’s up by the calf?
My cast has been on less than 24 hours...SO glad my Emerg room doctor knew to cast me foot downwards...First fracture clinic appointment in 2 days. The long road to recovery is looking pretty scary at this point. 🤕😢
Hi Evan, this video makes me very happy...just seeing other people talk about the hardships of not being able to carry a cup of coffee to the couch! I'm just about 3 weeks in with a similar weight bearing schedule from the Docs.
All the best and thanks for sharing your experience. Tom
Hi Evan, I just found your videos. I ruptured my Achilles just 3 days ago, doing some fitness activities. In a boot, not a good candidate for surgery, currently in a boot with a bunch of lifts. As a fitness and martial arts enthusiast (an aging one), I was feeling really down and finding your videos has given me hope. My doctor said partial weight bearing is ok, so I guess this video is a good place to start.
While the first weeks seemed to pass very slowly, the milestones arrived with regularity... which was good for sanity maintenance. I think it is good that your doc has you PWB already. In addition to facilitating AT healing, it will help prevent the foot from getting out of whack (a technical, medical analysis). When I returned to running, my foot was more sore than the AT because bones and tendons were not how they were pre-injury. That improved with time. I'm at 18 months and don't think about the injury much at all any more... a good place to be. I haven't returned to tennis yet, although running normally (including trails) feels fine. Explosive activities like martial arts will have to be a judgement call. Probably best to wade in initially, but if you love it I hope that you are able to return to it full speed. Good luck!
Thanks Evan! :) I've decided to follow in your footsteps and make some of my own fitness videos. This way I can keep myself accountable, help keep me from getting sad and bored, and perhaps help some other people too. As for martial arts, although I'll miss it, I'll take it step by step and very slowly, focusing on getting back to waking and eventually cycling and running. Got to think of risk vs reward!
Leah Tom Greetings, noted we have similar fitness practices, I injured my Achilles 7 weeks ago teaching martial arts. I went non-surgical and things are going well so far. Have you been able to return to martial arts and if so, any restrictions? Thanks in advance.
How ya feeling today, Evan?😎
My injury was hours ago, and you just saved me countless hours (possibly weeks) of time & effort. Not to mention the peace of mind around what to anticipate for this 1st few days & month🙏
Thank you!
Tony Scruggs '#TheEmpathyGuy' ("Together We Rise, Together We Fly")
It's a long road back to "normal", but totally do-able. Pace yourself, and be diligent with you strength recovery when you get to that phase. I allowed life to get busy and slacked off on rebuilding muscle. Though I am active with cycling and running, after three years my right calf is still not quite back to 100%. You can do better... but make sure the AT heals first! Best of luck with your own recovery!
Partially tore mine 5 days ago. Pretty much everything you said was exactly how my situation was. Thank you!
after a week did you feel any popping near your ankle?
Thanks Evan, this is excellent. I'm currently 4 weeks post-injury on the same path as you. I was also finding it difficult to get some solid answers on a lot of this stuff. Thanks for taking the time to share this.
Thanks, Chris. I hope that your recovery is going well. One lesson I learned later on: memory foam is man's best invention. ;-) I developed a very sore heel, and wearing memory foam insoles for a few months helped me fix that problem. Better to prevent than recover, so I recommend folks use memory foam insoles or shoes (Skechers has many models) as soon as they transition to two shoes. Good luck!