👉 You can get some of the rehab equipment mentioned in my video here: - Aircast orthopaedic boot: geni.us/Go40Ehc - VACOped orthopaedic boot: geni.us/wX4HA - Elbow crutches: geni.us/yBbnh2U - Heel-raising wedges: geni.us/lA7G - Shoe leveller: geni.us/GkHh7e - Exercise bands: geni.us/wMtFm - Weights: geni.us/nMdmAJg - Balance cushion: geni.us/balance-cusion If you buy anything via these links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.
No words can express how grateful I am for yhis breakdown. I cried tears of frustration, joy, and grattitide throughout it. It's everthing a person who's torn their achilies and in post-op recovery could ask for. Thank you so much!
As a physical therapist I would like to say that this video is perfect! Not only you’re giving advice based on science, but also make it easy to understand for everyone. Excellent work!
THE BEST EXPLANATION EVER !!!!!!. ALL THE DETAILS, ALL THE SCOPE OF POSIBILITIES , THE HOLE SPECTRUM OF PEOPLE, EXPLAINED AT THE VERY LEAST DETAIL. EXCELLENT !!!!! THANKS !!!!!!!!.
I'm only one week past surgery, but I am already trying to figure out what my recovery is going to look like. This video is very informative and encouraging. Thank you so much for your time and generosity to share with others.
This is so helpful for my recovery, especially in preventing me from trying to get back asap. Yeah, I was a bit rushed, but now after your instruction, I decided to take my time.
Im back again for week 9! This video has been so helpful for my recovery! I check in every week! I just started walking in a sneaker last week. Very slowly of course but I’m happy with the progress. 💕
Thank you so much for this. I’m a physician who is 4 days out from repair and really always appreciate the level of expertise that you and other physical therapists bring to helping people heal.
This is the most comprehensive, detailed, versatile (based on each individual), scientific, and easy to understand video I’ve ever seen! Wish I came across sooner as I’m 8 weeks post complicated Achilles surgery. I’m in very good hands with surgeon, staff, and physio PT, but have learned a lot more here as well. Thank you 🙏🏼
I fully ruptured my right achilles at 54 and the left at 55. I’m a rock climber. I got surgery on the first rupture (right) and decided to not do surgery on the second (left). In both cases, I was in a half cast for two weeks, then into a boot. On the second, I started walking in my boot without crutches at two weeks from rupture. I started rock climbing in my boot at about three weeks in both cases. I came out of my boot at 5 weeks after surgery and start climbing at six weeks, very carefully. In both cases I was climbing hard again 4 - 5 months after rupture, including falling. Rock climbing, in conjunction with my regular physio therapy, was my therapy and the results were the same for both surgery and non surgery I’m now almost 61 and don’t even think about my achilles when climbing. I boulder primarily, and fall from the top of the wall multiple times per session. That’s my experience.
Mixmyster. I am a climber as well. Ruptured my right achilles 3 weeks ago. Did surgery. I’ve been so discouraged. No rockclkmbing this fall and definitely no ice climbing this winter.
Que bom saber que de recuperou bem, apesar de continuar a escalar 🤭😄 Espero que minha recuperação seja rápida pois ficar parado é muito triste... Obrigada pelo seu depoimento encorajador 🤗🤩🤩🤩🤩
You’re a lifesaver. I fully ruptured my Achilles a week ago. I’m living overseas in Korea as a PE teacher. The surgeon here wanted me to be in a cast for 8 WEEKS post surgery!! Furthermore, the surgeon hasn’t discussed ANY rehab plan or protocol with me yet, despite my asking. This guide will be a good starting point and bargaining chip with my surgeon to get me back to activity as soon as possible. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!
This video was the best help and support I've had in the whole duration of my achilles recovery! Thank you so much for the breakdown of the recovery process. MARYKE: baie baie dankie - mal oor jou aksent. Dit was so lekker om hier in Australia na n stunning video vanaf UK te kyk en lekker te voel oor ons Saffer roots!
Awesome, I finally found what I was looking for. I am almost three weeks post surgery for a rapture Achilles tendon. Thank you very much for the exect, professional and easy-to-understand explanation of this issue. Sincerely.
I’m almost 4 weeks post op and should be starting real rehab in 2 weeks ish. I’m glad I came across this video! I’ve been doing some small movement stuff (same stuff in this video) in my shower chair just to get the blood flowing and nerves firing, but can’t wait to get to rehab and be weight bearing. I’m 26 and this process has been killing me!!! I’m restless and antsy 😂. I definitely will be putting the basketball down for good at this point..maybe lol. I really just want to be able to fish again. I’m definitely healing well as everyday I get more feeling, control, and strength back, but this video was good to help me set realistic expectations and have a timeline so I don’t do anything too hardheaded lol. Already flipped off my porch over my scooter handle bars week 3!! That humbled me into staying my a** inside!!
@@Always_Never Pretty good! I’m walking with a cane and have started rehab mostly light stretching, strengthening the ankle & hips, some calf activation stuff, weight shifts, light resistance band work and toe grabs. It still hurts to try to walk barefoot though. I feel I’m mostly limited by the inflammation. After too much activity my ankle gets pretty big and leg even if I over do it a bit, but no pain except on the bottom of my foot. Just feels like a lot of pressure and inflammation is in there. I’m definitely avoiding doing anything painful or over stretching it just trying to take things slow. The PT said my Achilles was definitely anchored well and I have no risk of tearing it again unless another freak accident happens essentially. I was pretty explosive athlete and also 6’7 so the worse part is knowing I probably won’t be the quiet the same, but every dog has his day. I’m taking my rehab pretty serious though as I’m hoping to get as much range of motion and hypertrophy back. One of my old teammates tore his and he’s back to running and dunking at 6’2 so he’s definitely motivated me a bit!
I am just five days post surgery on my right Achilles tendon, and this is going to be so helpful and useful! I am a landscape/gardener, so I need my physical abilities for my livelihood. I also enjoy hiking, mushroom hunting, camping, snowboarding, etc. I hope and have faith I will be able to do these things again. Thanks so much for this encouraging video!❤
Thank you so much for this. I’ve watched videos on some people who began weight bearing at 4 weeks and sometimes even sooner. My doctor is conservative and has me in a cast for the first 6 weeks. I was pretty discouraged by this, thinking it was going to lead to a slower recovery but it seems from the studies you’ve mentioned, I have nothing to worry about. Patience is the most difficult thing to have during this process but this video gave me some piece of mind. 🙏
Thank you! I just had left heel surgery for Haglunds Deformity / Insertional Achilles Tendinosis. I am a 65 yr old athletic person. This gives me a solid understanding of what I should expect regarding PT and expectations moving forward. My mind wants to rush the process, but your explanation was VERY clear on why I need to “pump the brakes” and be patient for long term results. Thank you again!
This video is AMAZING. Thank you! My Achilles ruptured a month ago, I’m 2 weeks post-op, but still in a plaster cast, and will be until 6 weeks post-op. I will be coming back to this video repeatedly during my recovery. And I agree with other comments- the constant reminders to not go too fast are so important…
How are ypu dping woth ypur post op? I am on my 3rd week post op. But first week on cas, pretry much week 1 with cas and slight weight bearing with crutches.
Thank you very much for making this video so complete. I'm in my third week, the surgery stitches have already been removed and I have the boot on. I will return to the video every week to review each exercise and recommendation. Thank you very much for the video. very very complete. Excellent, really thanks.
I've been looking around for what to do after an Achilles Tendon rupture reconstruction. This is by far the best one yet. All in one video and not divided into too many videos. I understand some videos were more detailed about each week. But they're more specific for that patient's case. You explained for a multitude of cases 🤣 Which answered all I needed to know. I'm just about 2+ weeks post surgery. They'll put me in a Boot probably by week 3 or 4. Since my surgery was a bit complicated since mine was a Neglected Achilles Tendon rupture lol 🤣 I've already set that I won't be doing hard sports for 6 months and would probably be just doing light work for 4-9 months. Definitely set no dorsiflexion until month 6 then 🤣 But we'll see how things progress. Glad you included it at the 12+ week mark 🤣 Something to look forward to every week. Thanks again for the video. Saved this so I can look back at it 🤣
This video was super helpful! I had a complete rupture Jan 4th. I was getting weary on the slow progress but this explanation with excercises was incredibly helpful. I'm 11 weeks from surgey and looking forward to a full recovery in the coming weeks and months ahead. 🙏 Thank you.
I had a partial calf and Achilles tear which was told would heal, 8 weeks later in the boot, fully ruptured. Then surgery, then 8 WEEKS IN A CAST as my surgeon went on holiday, now back in a moonboot for the next 6 weeks with 4 weeks of wedges decreasing then two weeks full weight bearing no more crutches. Has been a long road that’s been overly conservative but am going to start with a specialist in the states on Monday and hopefully can play catch up, it’s been a long 4 months to be only at 9 weeks post op right now 😂
Thank you very much for this excellent video. Surgeons should just refer to this - way better compared to whatever info they try to convey in 10 minutes visit. In my case, I got put in a boot without a surgery. In ER, got immobilized using cast in front, for 5 days, then, waiting for surgeon appointment, and apparently, they don't do surgeries nowadays *shrug*. So they put me in a boot, and they told I can put as much load as I can tolerate pain. On day 8 or so, I was walking without crutches, because I didn't feel any pain, and now makes me wonder whether instructions I was given were correct. And they asked me to do 20 iterations of foot lift up to 90 degrees (to the neutral position), which was on day 5 after the Achilles got raptured, and considering that after surgery one stays in boot for 3 weeks at least, makes me wonder whether it was too soon to start doing those exercises.
If it was partially torn, then that advice may have been OK, but if it was a complete tear, then it may have been a bit aggressive. But it is worth noting that even complete tears managed by just using a boot often recover more quickly than after surgery but heel raises are still not used until at least 8 weeks. If you wanted help with your rehab and getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/treatment-packages
Wonderful video. I loved that you provided reference too. I must have watched it 4X. I even referenced your video and Maffulli's paper to my orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist. Each time I watched it, I wrote down notes for myself. I was very eager to "get back into form", but after reading your referenced articles and watching your video, I rather base my recovery on data and patience. I know the papers and your video refers to post surgery recommendations; however, non-surgical recovery should follow a similar trend. My surgeon and therapist allowed me to vary from the standard post 8 week regiment. An extra 4 weeks of heeling shouldn't hurt.
Thank you for sharing. Patience is definitely a good thing during the early stages of recovery from a tear. There is always time to start working hard later in the process.
Tore my Achilles 3 weeks ago roughly playing basketball, opted for non surgery with the dr due to location of tear/age/nutrition/activity level I’m 28 starting the Willits protocol for rehab next week.
Hello , I’m 15 weeks post-op. You said not to dorsiflex and stretch in 21:43. My physical therapist gave me this same stretch exercise since week 5 post op, now I’m scared that my tendon might heal long. What are your thoughts?
Every case is different and I can't advise what is right in your case. People can recover following various rehab plans - so, my advice would be to discuss your concerns with your physical therapist. They will be able to explain their reasoning for the exercises.
@@Always_Never I’m doing okay, my walking gait has improved greatly this past month. But I still can’t do a single calf raise, working with my therapist to accomplish this goal and maybe then I will be clear of PT.
@@Elopez1005 I hope you can clear that single calf raise, I watched an interview with a doctor here on youtube...and he said sometimes he likes to be patient with those, as some clients aren't able to do them until month 9 (which is very late) so he said it's not that bad, if you can't perform them early. So good luck and hope you heal strong!
thank you for this amazing video. I ruptured my achilles and got the surgery 3 weeks ago. Firstly i got a kind of plaster cast for two weeks in ballet position foot, then after two weeks i got a new plaster cast by 90 degree neutral position of the foot. And after 4 weeks i will be using boots. My process seems very different than many others, i could not understand that
It has been 3.5 months for me after the surgery, I am all okay except just a bit swelling. Remembering how i was at 6th week; I could walk with the boot slowly.
That can be a really good way to start when the calf-Achilles is still lacking strength - for anyone else reading this - just make sure you check with your physio that it is OK to do before starting it.
Thanks, super helpful! Two weeks post op - stitches came out today and I'm still learning how to rock and roll in my Vacoped boot, with sticks for now. Please would you suggest some other floor exercises for legs, core and glutes - I'm trying to remember all my Pilates exercises, but I NEED to move! Thanks again! Saffa in Switzerland.
Thank you so much for this very informative video. I am 3 weeks out of surgery and asking mysefl, what may happen if I take my foot out of the boot at night during sleep. I did that accidentaly once as it was itching so much, I took the boot off and as I was so comfortable out of the boot, I felt asleep rapidly and completely forgot the boot until the morning.
On 20/03/2023 I joined my work after 6 weeks post tendo Achilles surgery in the right leg on 04/02/2023, my tendon again got reruptured on 28/03/2023 and was undergone surgery on 30/03/2023. Currently under rest. Your suggestion is extremely important to me.
Thanks for your very informative video. I had a RT ACHILLES TENDON REPAIR, PARTIAL CALCANEAL EXOSTECTOMY - Right . I’m 3 wks post op now and wearing a boot with 1 wedge taken off yesterday. My doctor already advised me to do the dorsiflexion exercise or as far as I can go for 20 mins everyday but according to your video patient should avoid dorsiflexion until 12 weeks. Do you think in my type of surgery, I should need to do the dorsiflexion now or should I just do up to Neutral position dorsiflexion only just to be safe? Please let me know, thanks.
I can't safely provide specific advice if you're not my patient because I don't have the full picture, but usually my advice for my patients would be to just go to neutral for 12 weeks. Your doctor may have specific reasons for advising otherwise so it is best to discuss it with them. You can find the research I quote in the video in the description if you're interested.
Thank you for creating such an informative video, I am ~1 week post surgery with a rehab plan that looks to get me out of the aircast boot at the ~6-8 week mark and this is definitely making me want to consider a slower progression. Reading Maffulli's paper on slowed down rehabilitation, one thing I noticed is that the mean age for participants was ~39 years old. As someone in their mid-20s, is it possible to see similar outcomes on a traditional rehabilitation timeline?
Traditional rehab plans do work and may likely work for you, but like with all things medical, the results aren't perfect for everyone. It is worth noting that the results in Maffulli's study was also not perfect - some people also still did not recover all function. They just achieved a better success rate. If unsure, discuss it with your doctor or physio - they are often quite flexible to accommodate what the patient also wants.
Thanks your formative information 👍 i had full inserttional ruptured tendonitis with accents car 🚗 at after 22 days post operation surgery and had a plastic cast , so is it possible to walk again after 6 month with out physio
Thanks you so mich for this video! I’ve been looking for something like this all over. Being in the UK where my first (and seemingly only) Physio session I can get will be 4 month post op, this helps a ton! May I ask how you recommend regarding stairs once put of the boot? I’m scheduled to remove my last wedge tomorrow, and soon transition to shoes and hopefully away from crutches, but I don’t know if there is a good way to walk down the stairs, as that would surely go strongly into the dorsiflextion, which I as I understand probably do not yet want…
Glad you found it useful! You want to start by doing them one at a time and put your injured leg down first so the uninjured one controls the movement and the injured one does not go into much dorsiflexion. Wearing shoes with a heel on them also helps.
Hello, from Spain. Is it the same when you talk about Achilles rupture without surgery? I mean a conservative treatment because of a rupture between the muscle and the tendon. 20 years ago I undergo surgery (of the other leg) and I remember the pain of the first rehab days with a physiotherapist that didn't mind about over-streching..😅 . 1 week after a changed the physiotherapist and all went fine. 3 months and 2 weeks after surgery I was working but the stiffness that you explain was feels about all the first year after. Now I ask me if we could have do it better ... Thank's for your video. I like those that don't like the are in possession of the full truth but are open minded. And I like to talk about the last evidence and try to progress about our knowledge.
I'm glad you found it useful! The rehab after conservative treatment is slightly different, but you usually don't want to do strong dorsiflexion stretching past neutral for 8 weeks and then slowly ease into it. By 12 weeks it is usually OK but I always find the little and often approach is better than the forceful trying to get massive gains in one session approach. I will make a video about this but it will unfortunately not be quick to come out. Best wishes for your recovery!
Hi , Maryke!! I very glad about your answer. I yesterday went to a sports medicine doctor that underwent a ultrasonography and my tendon was starting to grow and heal properly so he allowed me to start putting my body wheigt at home with more confidence. Really in week 3 I started putting on wheight when walking with 2 crosses. No dorsiflexion!, I know. Now in week 6. In one week I'll start real rehab with a recomended phisiotherapyist. Thanks to your explanations I have more information of what I don't have to do and the progression criteria. Another good thing I learned this time, is that I have to follow rehab during and after work reincorporation. When I first have this tendon rupture was at 30 years of age and I returned to work at 3.5 months and discontinued rehab. They told me that the real life will be sufficient...
I'm 5 weeks after surgery. This is a great video..I need to keep in mind healing will take time.. Question how long until the pain goes away? I start PT next week.. nervous and not looking forward to the pain..but ready to heal
The pain usually improves a lot once you actually start moving it more. PT is not meant to cause a massive increase in pain - you should only really be working in the comfortably uncomfortable range - not super painful range.
@churahinaturalview4824 ..I just got the boot taken off in month 3..still using a brace and cane..This surgery was rough so give yourself grace..stopped using crutches when I was put in the boot
Extremely informative video, one I would highly recommend. Just wanted your thoughts - I’m at 8 weeks postop Achilles rupture repair, my surgeon said to get aggressive with active dorsiflexion even past neutral and it seems even mass general hospital (Harvard) has a Achilles rupture protocol to have no limits on DF at 7-8 weeks. Your presentation findings of withholding DF past neutral until at least 12 weeks is very interesting. Is this latest research? Is the idea just giving the Achilles more time to solidify it’s integrity with another month of healing? In your opinion how compelling is this research to you? Despite my surgeons recommendations, I’m highly considering postponing my DF past neutral exercises for another month, never hurts to be a little more conservative. Thank you for all you do!
The group of researchers that did this study are specialists in the field of Achilles injuries - they have brought out lots of studies on it and also treat these patients regularly so I value their opinions and this is the advice I would give my own patients. They think the reason why early DF stretching has a negative effect on the tendon is that it messes with the stitches and like you say, by delaying the stretching, it helps the tendon to better grow together and then when you stretch it it doesn't elongate too much.
I ruptured totally a few days ago. In a vacoped for conservative and keen to return to sport in 6-9 months. Does this apply to me or only surgical cases? Thank you 🙏🏽🙏🏽
hello, I got surgery for my Achilles ligament, but mine was not total rupture it was partial, I was able to run, jump, walk and a very little pain, but I developed a hunch back of my foot, over the Achilles ligament close to my foot heel. It was a partial tear off. I got a reinforcement using fibers anchored to my hell bone. Is the recovery procedure the same as the total rupture?
Not necessarily - it's best to check with the surgeon who did the procedure. They usually have specific protocols they want their patients to follow depending on their assessment of how the surgery went etc.
Thank you very much for your excellent video for my guidance. I am 7 weeks post operation. Last week cast uoto belie knee removed. Still on with cast. Rehabilitation starts after 9th week Ortho. told. I am retiree playing tennis 10 years. Can I play tennis again cautiously again doctor?
Yes but you have to do your rehab for at least 9 months first and regain full strength before you try - your physio will help you get strong enough to do it safely.
Hy 👋👋 i've just started week 8 post-op, your videos have been a tremendous help so far, so thank your for sharing it with us ❤️🙏 but I don't have a 'good' range for my plantar flexion still, maybe it's around 10⁰, is that normal? But my PT starts next week, so I hope that it's considered normal 😂 all the best & tnx once again 🥳
@@TreatMyAchillesthank you, I've been able to walk in my shoes for the whole day, thankfuly without any pain, ofc my leg is super small after 8 weeks, so it's kind of an adjustment 🥲 but my surgeon says everything looks really good, also I can move my foot to a plantar position to about 20⁰ now, I've been icing it and all that good stuff 😂 my PT starts on wednesday so all will be good in a couple of monhts I hope 🥳 I just wanted to say a huge, huge THANK YOU for these videos, probably the best guide on YT regarding achilles rupture recovery 🙏🙏❤❤ thank you very much & and all the best from Zagreb, Croatia, much appreciated 💪 and good luck to everyone who is going through this horrid injury
Thank you for the very informative information. I am at 4 weeks post op and on a very similar plan to what you have described, all going well. Can I expect to play golf at 6 months or earlier?? I realise I cannot walk a course for 4 hours. Injury is on right leg, right handed player.
Hello. I am struggling significantly with nerve pain post surgery. It’s a burnings and at times an ice cold sensation on the achilles. Have anyone heard of these symptoms?
Yes, this is one of the side effects that surgery can cause. It usually calms down after a few months but speak to your doctor to better understand what is going on specifically with your case.
Maryke thank you for this very informative video! I'm 2,5 weeks post surgery,in a few days I get the stiches removed. I am a big boy (150kg) who was very active in lifestyle & workwise (construction) though. Given that my legs were very,very strong before, would it be safe to assume I can take up your plan?
You need to check with your doctor - every case should be managed according to what your clinical assessment shows and the surgeon is best placed to tell you what is right in your case.
Good day ma'am, I've been watching this video of yours as my guide for recovery. I am in my 11 week post op. Is this normal to still feel stiffness in my tendon? Hope you read this ma'am. Thank you.
Yes, you will still experience stiffness for quite a few months, but as long as it improves slowly (think how it is feeling compared to 4 weeks back) then it is OK.
Just hit 6 weeks yesterday and just got permission to walk with crutches and do the alphabet stretches. My ankle is extremely tight and I feel like I’m behind in rehab
In the study, what is the "slowed down" group, and what is the "traditional" group mean? I was assuming traditional was going slower with the weight bearing, etc., but slowed down sounds the same.
The traditional group started stretching into dorsiflexion early in rehab and the slowed down group only started after 12 weeks. Both groups started weightbearing at the same time.
I had surgery to repair my torn Achilles at the end of December. I approaching month 5 and still have pain in the tendon and swelling which is impacting my walking. I do believe I am overworking the tendon and perhaps have some tendonitis. How many rest days a week do you recommend from PT exercises. I go 2x a week but have been doing some sort of exercise everyday. what do you recommend to allow the tendon to heal between session and not irritate it more. thanks ahead of time!
You need to be asking your PT this question - there is no recipe to this. They have to assess your tendon's current state, what your rehab is looking like (with them + what you do at home + your daily tasks and everything that load the tendon) and then come up with a plan to allow it to recover while growing stronger.
We usually work in number of reps since it is more quantifiable e.g. 10 to 15 reps x3 sets but this obviously depends on your recovery status and the resistance of the band etc.
I’m 16 weeks post op and ran out of PT visits due to insurance limitations. I’ve since joined a gym for the last week to continue rehab but I’m starting to wonder if I’m doing the right things. Age 45 and am trying to get back to bowling. The surgeon said I can try but physio said no. Can almost do a single leg raise while holding something. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
There isn't really any specific recommendations we can safely make other than the general advice in this video. But it sounds like you're making good progress - slow and steady is the key with Achilles rehab and ramping things up a bit more slowly than if you were training just for fitness.
👉 You can get some of the rehab equipment mentioned in my video here:
- Aircast orthopaedic boot: geni.us/Go40Ehc
- VACOped orthopaedic boot: geni.us/wX4HA
- Elbow crutches: geni.us/yBbnh2U
- Heel-raising wedges: geni.us/lA7G
- Shoe leveller: geni.us/GkHh7e
- Exercise bands: geni.us/wMtFm
- Weights: geni.us/nMdmAJg
- Balance cushion: geni.us/balance-cusion
If you buy anything via these links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.
ydsaer 1:03
Thank you for the video.... roughly how long does it take for the injured leg to get back to how it looked before the injury in terms of muscle size
I’m 4 weeks post surgery and will be coming back to this video throughout my entire recovery. Thank you so much for making this!
How has your recovery been?
Curious to know too
No words can express how grateful I am for yhis breakdown. I cried tears of frustration, joy, and grattitide throughout it. It's everthing a person who's torn their achilies and in post-op recovery could ask for. Thank you so much!
You're very welcome, and good luck with your recovery!
@TreatMyAchilles 🙏🏽 bless you!
I’m at 6 weeks yet my recovery schedule plan from my doctor seems to follow your 3-6 week plan.
As a physical therapist I would like to say that this video is perfect! Not only you’re giving advice based on science, but also make it easy to understand for everyone. Excellent work!
Wow, thank you!
@@TreatMyAchilles Greetings from 🇨🇴😄
This has been more helpful than any of the PT sessions I’ve had thus far. I’m at 14 weeks post surgery. Thank you get much!
THE BEST EXPLANATION EVER !!!!!!. ALL THE DETAILS, ALL THE SCOPE OF POSIBILITIES , THE HOLE SPECTRUM OF PEOPLE, EXPLAINED AT THE VERY LEAST DETAIL. EXCELLENT !!!!! THANKS !!!!!!!!.
Wow, thanks!
I'm only one week past surgery, but I am already trying to figure out what my recovery is going to look like. This video is very informative and encouraging. Thank you so much for your time and generosity to share with others.
Thanks for watching!
How are you doing now. I think I might have the same timeline as you
You are the Gold Standard for Achilles rehab recovery. The amount of information you're giving out is phenomenal. Thank you!
You are so welcome!
This is so helpful for my recovery, especially in preventing me from trying to get back asap. Yeah, I was a bit rushed, but now after your instruction, I decided to take my time.
Glad you found it helpful!
Me too, I'm taking it light
Im back again for week 9! This video has been so helpful for my recovery! I check in every week! I just started walking in a sneaker last week. Very slowly of course but I’m happy with the progress. 💕
Great job!
Thank you so much for this. I’m a physician who is 4 days out from repair and really always appreciate the level of expertise that you and other physical therapists bring to helping people heal.
You are so welcome! All the best for your recovery.
This is the most comprehensive, detailed, versatile (based on each individual), scientific, and easy to understand video I’ve ever seen! Wish I came across sooner as I’m 8 weeks post complicated Achilles surgery. I’m in very good hands with surgeon, staff, and physio PT, but have learned a lot more here as well. Thank you 🙏🏼
This is by far the best video on Achilles tendon rupture. So much practical information and really helpful. Thanks a lot
Glad it was helpful!
I fully ruptured my right achilles at 54 and the left at 55. I’m a rock climber. I got surgery on the first rupture (right) and decided to not do surgery on the second (left). In both cases, I was in a half cast for two weeks, then into a boot. On the second, I started walking in my boot without crutches at two weeks from rupture. I started rock climbing in my boot at about three weeks in both cases. I came out of my boot at 5 weeks after surgery and start climbing at six weeks, very carefully. In both cases I was climbing hard again 4 - 5 months after rupture, including falling. Rock climbing, in conjunction with my regular physio therapy, was my therapy and the results were the same for both surgery and non surgery I’m now almost 61 and don’t even think about my achilles when climbing. I boulder primarily, and fall from the top of the wall multiple times per session. That’s my experience.
Thanks for sharing!
Mixmyster. I am a climber as well. Ruptured my right achilles 3 weeks ago. Did surgery. I’ve been so discouraged. No rockclkmbing this fall and definitely no ice climbing this winter.
Que bom saber que de recuperou bem, apesar de continuar a escalar 🤭😄
Espero que minha recuperação seja rápida pois ficar parado é muito triste... Obrigada pelo seu depoimento encorajador 🤗🤩🤩🤩🤩
It’s significant that you were able to use the boot without crutches 2 weeks after your injury. What inspired you ..?
Thank you for this. I'm having surgery soon and I've got lots of anxiety about my recovery process. This gives me a clearer picture.
You're welcome!
You’re a lifesaver. I fully ruptured my Achilles a week ago. I’m living overseas in Korea as a PE teacher. The surgeon here wanted me to be in a cast for 8 WEEKS post surgery!! Furthermore, the surgeon hasn’t discussed ANY rehab plan or protocol with me yet, despite my asking. This guide will be a good starting point and bargaining chip with my surgeon to get me back to activity as soon as possible. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!
You're welcome, and good luck with your recovery!
Thank you very much! All the best to you and your family! My surgery was in November, 2022. Super useful and professional 👍
This video was the best help and support I've had in the whole duration of my achilles recovery! Thank you so much for the breakdown of the recovery process.
MARYKE: baie baie dankie - mal oor jou aksent. Dit was so lekker om hier in Australia na n stunning video vanaf UK te kyk en lekker te voel oor ons Saffer roots!
Awesome, I finally found what I was looking for. I am almost three weeks post surgery for a rapture Achilles tendon. Thank you very much for the exect, professional and easy-to-understand explanation of this issue. Sincerely.
You're very welcome, and good luck with your recovery.
I’m almost 4 weeks post op and should be starting real rehab in 2 weeks ish. I’m glad I came across this video! I’ve been doing some small movement stuff (same stuff in this video) in my shower chair just to get the blood flowing and nerves firing, but can’t wait to get to rehab and be weight bearing. I’m 26 and this process has been killing me!!! I’m restless and antsy 😂. I definitely will be putting the basketball down for good at this point..maybe lol. I really just want to be able to fish again. I’m definitely healing well as everyday I get more feeling, control, and strength back, but this video was good to help me set realistic expectations and have a timeline so I don’t do anything too hardheaded lol. Already flipped off my porch over my scooter handle bars week 3!! That humbled me into staying my a** inside!!
Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery!
How are you healing a month later?
@@Always_Never Pretty good! I’m walking with a cane and have started rehab mostly light stretching, strengthening the ankle & hips, some calf activation stuff, weight shifts, light resistance band work and toe grabs. It still hurts to try to walk barefoot though. I feel I’m mostly limited by the inflammation. After too much activity my ankle gets pretty big and leg even if I over do it a bit, but no pain except on the bottom of my foot. Just feels like a lot of pressure and inflammation is in there. I’m definitely avoiding doing anything painful or over stretching it just trying to take things slow. The PT said my Achilles was definitely anchored well and I have no risk of tearing it again unless another freak accident happens essentially. I was pretty explosive athlete and also 6’7 so the worse part is knowing I probably won’t be the quiet the same, but every dog has his day. I’m taking my rehab pretty serious though as I’m hoping to get as much range of motion and hypertrophy back. One of my old teammates tore his and he’s back to running and dunking at 6’2 so he’s definitely motivated me a bit!
I am just five days post surgery on my right Achilles tendon, and this is going to be so helpful and useful! I am a landscape/gardener, so I need my physical abilities for my livelihood. I also enjoy hiking, mushroom hunting, camping, snowboarding, etc. I hope and have faith I will be able to do these things again. Thanks so much for this encouraging video!❤
Thanks for watching, and good luck with your recovery!
@@TreatMyAchilles❤
Thank you so much for this. I’ve watched videos on some people who began weight bearing at 4 weeks and sometimes even sooner. My doctor is conservative and has me in a cast for the first 6 weeks. I was pretty discouraged by this, thinking it was going to lead to a slower recovery but it seems from the studies you’ve mentioned, I have nothing to worry about. Patience is the most difficult thing to have during this process but this video gave me some piece of mind. 🙏
Good luck with your recovery!
4 weeks post surgery and your videos have been so usrul to me
Thank you! I just had left heel surgery for Haglunds Deformity / Insertional Achilles Tendinosis. I am a 65 yr old athletic person. This gives me a solid understanding of what I should expect regarding PT and expectations moving forward. My mind wants to rush the process, but your explanation was VERY clear on why I need to “pump the brakes” and be patient for long term results. Thank you again!
Good luck with your recovery!
This video is AMAZING. Thank you! My Achilles ruptured a month ago, I’m 2 weeks post-op, but still in a plaster cast, and will be until 6 weeks post-op. I will be coming back to this video repeatedly during my recovery.
And I agree with other comments- the constant reminders to not go too fast are so important…
Best of luck!
How are ypu dping woth ypur post op?
I am on my 3rd week post op. But first week on cas, pretry much week 1 with cas and slight weight bearing with crutches.
How about your health now
Thank you for such a comprehensive guide as to how I can progress from my surgery. You videos are always insightful
Lovely explanation thank you. I’m just going in for surgery tomorrow for a complete rupture. This has helped. I appreciate it.
-after your surgery…How are you recovering at this moment?
Thank you very much for making this video so complete. I'm in my third week, the surgery stitches have already been removed and I have the boot on. I will return to the video every week to review each exercise and recommendation. Thank you very much for the video. very very complete. Excellent, really thanks.
You're welcome, and good luck with your recovery!
Extremely useful. Thanks a lot 👍
You're welcome!
Thank you for this insightful video.
I'm 6/7weeks post surgery and just got cleared to start Physiotherapy (Rom exercises).
I appreciate this so much.
You're welcome!
I needed to see this. Can you walk?
thank you so much for this very helpful video. Going through rehab now, wk3 post-surgery
Hello! 3 weeks post surgery here. How did your recovery go?
My surgery done yesterday,day before yesterday I tore mine while exercising in gym . Your video is useful. Thanks
You're welcome!
Very good and comprehensive video. It has helped me a lot.
Glad to hear that!
Thanks
Thank you very much for your support!
I've been looking around for what to do after an Achilles Tendon rupture reconstruction. This is by far the best one yet. All in one video and not divided into too many videos. I understand some videos were more detailed about each week. But they're more specific for that patient's case. You explained for a multitude of cases 🤣 Which answered all I needed to know. I'm just about 2+ weeks post surgery. They'll put me in a Boot probably by week 3 or 4. Since my surgery was a bit complicated since mine was a Neglected Achilles Tendon rupture lol 🤣 I've already set that I won't be doing hard sports for 6 months and would probably be just doing light work for 4-9 months. Definitely set no dorsiflexion until month 6 then 🤣 But we'll see how things progress. Glad you included it at the 12+ week mark 🤣 Something to look forward to every week.
Thanks again for the video. Saved this so I can look back at it 🤣
Thanks for watching, and good luck with your recovery!
Mam i am from India I have watched this video really useful... From top bottom u explain very helpful... U r a mom of God
Great video I just had my surgery so 1 week in. This really is calming knowing that time really heals. No need to rush my healing ❤️🩹 🙏
Thanks !!!! I tore mine Last weak. Surgery Yesterday. So i am Week 1 from 52 ;-)
I Will come Back !
Thanks for all thé informations ❤
Good luck with your recovery!
Thank you so much for making this video, very helpful. 🙇🏽♂️ I’m 2 weeks post surgery. I hope Allah allows me to be able to walk notmally again 🙇🏽♂️
how are you to day ?
This has helped me so much, thank you!
I'm so glad!
Its a really helpful and professional video ,thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much for your very informative and well done video, really useful as I am going through my recovery
Best of luck!
Thank you for this information . I am passing it on to my friend who has just ruptured his achilles .
Please do!
This video was super helpful! I had a complete rupture Jan 4th. I was getting weary on the slow progress but this explanation with excercises was incredibly helpful. I'm 11 weeks from surgey and looking forward to a full recovery in the coming weeks and months ahead. 🙏 Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Me too, I had the rupture since Jan 2023. I just got my surgery on 4th June 2023.
How’s your recovery going? I ruptured my Achilles November 2. I had surgery on the 14th and I’m in a ton of pain… I’d this normal?
its so useful and professional explaination of recovery，thank you！
Glad to hear that!
Thanks Maryke! Week 3 ended for me today... Daunting process!
You're welcome, and good luck with your recovery!
@@TreatMyAchilles Thanks alot. I need some luck. It wasn't a routine rupture. The surgeons report as interesting reading ;(
I had a partial calf and Achilles tear which was told would heal, 8 weeks later in the boot, fully ruptured. Then surgery, then 8 WEEKS IN A CAST as my surgeon went on holiday, now back in a moonboot for the next 6 weeks with 4 weeks of wedges decreasing then two weeks full weight bearing no more crutches. Has been a long road that’s been overly conservative but am going to start with a specialist in the states on Monday and hopefully can play catch up, it’s been a long 4 months to be only at 9 weeks post op right now 😂
Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery!
Thank you very much for this excellent video. Surgeons should just refer to this - way better compared to whatever info they try to convey in 10 minutes visit.
In my case, I got put in a boot without a surgery. In ER, got immobilized using cast in front, for 5 days, then, waiting for surgeon appointment, and apparently, they don't do surgeries nowadays *shrug*. So they put me in a boot, and they told I can put as much load as I can tolerate pain. On day 8 or so, I was walking without crutches, because I didn't feel any pain, and now makes me wonder whether instructions I was given were correct. And they asked me to do 20 iterations of foot lift up to 90 degrees (to the neutral position), which was on day 5 after the Achilles got raptured, and considering that after surgery one stays in boot for 3 weeks at least, makes me wonder whether it was too soon to start doing those exercises.
If it was partially torn, then that advice may have been OK, but if it was a complete tear, then it may have been a bit aggressive. But it is worth noting that even complete tears managed by just using a boot often recover more quickly than after surgery but heel raises are still not used until at least 8 weeks.
If you wanted help with your rehab and getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/treatment-packages
Excellent video.
Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
great video. very informative. thank you!
My pleasure!
Wonderful video. I loved that you provided reference too. I must have watched it 4X. I even referenced your video and Maffulli's paper to my orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist. Each time I watched it, I wrote down notes for myself. I was very eager to "get back into form", but after reading your referenced articles and watching your video, I rather base my recovery on data and patience. I know the papers and your video refers to post surgery recommendations; however, non-surgical recovery should follow a similar trend. My surgeon and therapist allowed me to vary from the standard post 8 week regiment. An extra 4 weeks of heeling shouldn't hurt.
Thank you for sharing. Patience is definitely a good thing during the early stages of recovery from a tear. There is always time to start working hard later in the process.
Im 3 weeks post surgery and im looking forward to my achilles tendon rehab
Best wishes for your recovery!
Excellent video, thank you so much!
You're very welcome!
Tore my Achilles 3 weeks ago roughly playing basketball, opted for non surgery with the dr due to location of tear/age/nutrition/activity level I’m 28
starting the Willits protocol for rehab next week.
Best wishes for your recovery!
Excellent video!
Thank you very much!
Thank you so much for doing it helps a lot
You're welcome!
Thank you, this was so helpful
Glad it was helpful!
Veeeery good material, thank you very much! :)
You're welcome!
Great evidence-based rehab tips, thanks!
Our pleasure!
Awesome video. Thanks
My pleasure!
I had my Achilles tendon repair on July 14 of 2023
Excellent info!
Thanks for watching!
Hello , I’m 15 weeks post-op. You said not to dorsiflex and stretch in 21:43. My physical therapist gave me this same stretch exercise since week 5 post op, now I’m scared that my tendon might heal long. What are your thoughts?
Every case is different and I can't advise what is right in your case. People can recover following various rehab plans - so, my advice would be to discuss your concerns with your physical therapist. They will be able to explain their reasoning for the exercises.
@@TreatMyAchilles Thank you for your answer.
Same here, they PT has done the same to me rather early weeks 4-8.. now I'm scared too..I'm only week 9, how are you healing?
@@Always_Never I’m doing okay, my walking gait has improved greatly this past month. But I still can’t do a single calf raise, working with my therapist to accomplish this goal and maybe then I will be clear of PT.
@@Elopez1005 I hope you can clear that single calf raise, I watched an interview with a doctor here on youtube...and he said sometimes he likes to be patient with those, as some clients aren't able to do them until month 9 (which is very late) so he said it's not that bad, if you can't perform them early. So good luck and hope you heal strong!
thank you for this amazing video. I ruptured my achilles and got the surgery 3 weeks ago. Firstly i got a kind of plaster cast for two weeks in ballet position foot, then after two weeks i got a new plaster cast by 90 degree neutral position of the foot. And after 4 weeks i will be using boots. My process seems very different than many others, i could not understand that
That will be like mine 2. How is it going? Can you walk a bit after 6 weeks?
How was the pain after?
It has been 3.5 months for me after the surgery, I am all okay except just a bit swelling. Remembering how i was at 6th week; I could walk with the boot slowly.
That's a masterpiece ❤❤
Great job!!!! Thanks for your work man! I'm going to use it on my new AT-rehab patient :)
I try heel raises at the pool - standing chest deep and swimming pushing off from the pool end.
That can be a really good way to start when the calf-Achilles is still lacking strength - for anyone else reading this - just make sure you check with your physio that it is OK to do before starting it.
Thanks, super helpful! Two weeks post op - stitches came out today and I'm still learning how to rock and roll in my Vacoped boot, with sticks for now. Please would you suggest some other floor exercises for legs, core and glutes - I'm trying to remember all my Pilates exercises, but I NEED to move! Thanks again! Saffa in Switzerland.
I think easiest may be to google Pilates mat workouts on TH-cam and just adjust the moves.
Thank you so much for this very informative video. I am 3 weeks out of surgery and asking mysefl, what may happen if I take my foot out of the boot at night during sleep. I did that accidentaly once as it was itching so much, I took the boot off and as I was so comfortable out of the boot, I felt asleep rapidly and completely forgot the boot until the morning.
Ask you doctor - they may say it is OK to do while sleeping or give a good reason why not to do it
On 20/03/2023 I joined my work after 6 weeks post tendo Achilles surgery in the right leg on 04/02/2023, my tendon again got reruptured on 28/03/2023 and was undergone surgery on 30/03/2023. Currently under rest. Your suggestion is extremely important to me.
Good luck with your recovery!
I am so sorry to hear your rerupturing
Thanks for your very informative video. I had a RT ACHILLES TENDON REPAIR, PARTIAL
CALCANEAL EXOSTECTOMY - Right . I’m 3 wks post op now and wearing a boot with 1 wedge taken off yesterday. My doctor already advised me to do the dorsiflexion exercise or as far as I can go for 20 mins everyday but according to your video patient should avoid dorsiflexion until 12 weeks. Do you think in my type of surgery, I should need to do the dorsiflexion now or should I just do up to Neutral position dorsiflexion only just to be safe? Please let me know, thanks.
I can't safely provide specific advice if you're not my patient because I don't have the full picture, but usually my advice for my patients would be to just go to neutral for 12 weeks. Your doctor may have specific reasons for advising otherwise so it is best to discuss it with them. You can find the research I quote in the video in the description if you're interested.
i got shot in my ankle with a .40 caliber it was long journey and it left me walking different after all the rehab
Thank you for creating such an informative video, I am ~1 week post surgery with a rehab plan that looks to get me out of the aircast boot at the ~6-8 week mark and this is definitely making me want to consider a slower progression. Reading Maffulli's paper on slowed down rehabilitation, one thing I noticed is that the mean age for participants was ~39 years old. As someone in their mid-20s, is it possible to see similar outcomes on a traditional rehabilitation timeline?
Traditional rehab plans do work and may likely work for you, but like with all things medical, the results aren't perfect for everyone. It is worth noting that the results in Maffulli's study was also not perfect - some people also still did not recover all function. They just achieved a better success rate. If unsure, discuss it with your doctor or physio - they are often quite flexible to accommodate what the patient also wants.
Thank You!
How many weeks, from start to finish are you in physical therapy, from Achilles tendon surgery
It varies depending on the person but it usually takes about 6 to 9 months to get back to full function. For some, it can take longer.
Você é muito boa, parabens! Otimo video. (You are very good, congratulations! Great Video)
Brasil
Thanks your formative information 👍 i had full inserttional ruptured tendonitis with accents car 🚗 at after 22 days post operation surgery and had a plastic cast , so is it possible to walk again after 6 month with out physio
If you want to regain full function, you will have to do rehab exercises.
YOU ARE GREAT !!!!!!! THANKS !!!!!!
Thanks you so mich for this video! I’ve been looking for something like this all over. Being in the UK where my first (and seemingly only) Physio session I can get will be 4 month post op, this helps a ton!
May I ask how you recommend regarding stairs once put of the boot? I’m scheduled to remove my last wedge tomorrow, and soon transition to shoes and hopefully away from crutches, but I don’t know if there is a good way to walk down the stairs, as that would surely go strongly into the dorsiflextion, which I as I understand probably do not yet want…
Glad you found it useful! You want to start by doing them one at a time and put your injured leg down first so the uninjured one controls the movement and the injured one does not go into much dorsiflexion. Wearing shoes with a heel on them also helps.
Thanks 3 weeks post.
You're welcome
Hello, from Spain.
Is it the same when you talk about Achilles rupture without surgery? I mean a conservative treatment because of a rupture between the muscle and the tendon.
20 years ago I undergo surgery (of the other leg) and I remember the pain of the first rehab days with a physiotherapist that didn't mind about over-streching..😅 . 1 week after a changed the physiotherapist and all went fine.
3 months and 2 weeks after surgery I was working but the stiffness that you explain was feels about all the first year after. Now I ask me if we could have do it better ...
Thank's for your video. I like those that don't like the are in possession of the full truth but are open minded. And I like to talk about the last evidence and try to progress about our knowledge.
I'm glad you found it useful! The rehab after conservative treatment is slightly different, but you usually don't want to do strong dorsiflexion stretching past neutral for 8 weeks and then slowly ease into it. By 12 weeks it is usually OK but I always find the little and often approach is better than the forceful trying to get massive gains in one session approach. I will make a video about this but it will unfortunately not be quick to come out. Best wishes for your recovery!
Hi , Maryke!!
I very glad about your answer.
I yesterday went to a sports medicine doctor that underwent a ultrasonography and my tendon was starting to grow and heal properly so he allowed me to start putting my body wheigt at home with more confidence. Really in week 3 I started putting on wheight when walking with 2 crosses. No dorsiflexion!, I know.
Now in week 6. In one week I'll start real rehab with a recomended phisiotherapyist.
Thanks to your explanations I have more information of what I don't have to do and the progression criteria. Another good thing I learned this time, is that I have to follow rehab during and after work reincorporation. When I first have this tendon rupture was at 30 years of age and I returned to work at 3.5 months and discontinued rehab. They told me that the real life will be sufficient...
I'm 5 weeks after surgery. This is a great video..I need to keep in mind healing will take time.. Question how long until the pain goes away? I start PT next week.. nervous and not looking forward to the pain..but ready to heal
The pain usually improves a lot once you actually start moving it more. PT is not meant to cause a massive increase in pain - you should only really be working in the comfortably uncomfortable range - not super painful range.
How long u start walking without Crutches
@churahinaturalview4824 ..I just got the boot taken off in month 3..still using a brace and cane..This surgery was rough so give yourself grace..stopped using crutches when I was put in the boot
@@TreatMyAchilles yes that's very true and meds for nerve pain helped a lot
Extremely informative video, one I would highly recommend. Just wanted your thoughts - I’m at 8 weeks postop Achilles rupture repair, my surgeon said to get aggressive with active dorsiflexion even past neutral and it seems even mass general hospital (Harvard) has a Achilles rupture protocol to have no limits on DF at 7-8 weeks. Your presentation findings of withholding DF past neutral until at least 12 weeks is very interesting. Is this latest research? Is the idea just giving the Achilles more time to solidify it’s integrity with another month of healing? In your opinion how compelling is this research to you? Despite my surgeons recommendations, I’m highly considering postponing my DF past neutral exercises for another month, never hurts to be a little more conservative. Thank you for all you do!
The group of researchers that did this study are specialists in the field of Achilles injuries - they have brought out lots of studies on it and also treat these patients regularly so I value their opinions and this is the advice I would give my own patients. They think the reason why early DF stretching has a negative effect on the tendon is that it messes with the stitches and like you say, by delaying the stretching, it helps the tendon to better grow together and then when you stretch it it doesn't elongate too much.
Thank you for the thoughtful reply. Great channel and content!
I ruptured totally a few days ago. In a vacoped for conservative and keen to return to sport in 6-9 months. Does this apply to me or only surgical cases? Thank you 🙏🏽🙏🏽
This is only for surgical cases.
Hi! This video is amazing! Is there a similar one for those of us who have chosen a non-surgical route? Or is it pretty much the same?
Here's our video on exercise-based rehab for Achilles tendons: th-cam.com/video/Dp8gzq9zoy4/w-d-xo.html
@@TreatMyAchilles I meant for those of us treating a complete rupture non-surgically. Not just tendanitus
OK now I get it. It would involve an orthopaedic boot, but we don't have a video on that. I have put it on our to-do list.
hello, I got surgery for my Achilles ligament, but mine was not total rupture it was partial, I was able to run, jump, walk and a very little pain, but I developed a hunch back of my foot, over the Achilles ligament close to my foot heel. It was a partial tear off. I got a reinforcement using fibers anchored to my hell bone.
Is the recovery procedure the same as the total rupture?
Not necessarily - it's best to check with the surgeon who did the procedure. They usually have specific protocols they want their patients to follow depending on their assessment of how the surgery went etc.
Thank you very much for your excellent video for my guidance. I am 7 weeks post operation. Last week cast uoto belie knee removed. Still on with cast. Rehabilitation starts after 9th week Ortho. told.
I am retiree playing tennis 10 years. Can I play tennis again cautiously again doctor?
Yes but you have to do your rehab for at least 9 months first and regain full strength before you try - your physio will help you get strong enough to do it safely.
Hy 👋👋 i've just started week 8 post-op, your videos have been a tremendous help so far, so thank your for sharing it with us ❤️🙏 but I don't have a 'good' range for my plantar flexion still, maybe it's around 10⁰, is that normal? But my PT starts next week, so I hope that it's considered normal 😂 all the best & tnx once again 🥳
That is plenty for now - your physio will help you gain the rest.
@@TreatMyAchillesthank you, I've been able to walk in my shoes for the whole day, thankfuly without any pain, ofc my leg is super small after 8 weeks, so it's kind of an adjustment 🥲 but my surgeon says everything looks really good, also I can move my foot to a plantar position to about 20⁰ now, I've been icing it and all that good stuff 😂 my PT starts on wednesday so all will be good in a couple of monhts I hope 🥳 I just wanted to say a huge, huge THANK YOU for these videos, probably the best guide on YT regarding achilles rupture recovery 🙏🙏❤❤ thank you very much & and all the best from Zagreb, Croatia, much appreciated 💪 and good luck to everyone who is going through this horrid injury
Thank you for the very informative information. I am at 4 weeks post op and on a very similar plan to what you have described, all going well. Can I expect to play golf at 6 months or earlier?? I realise I cannot walk a course for 4 hours. Injury is on right leg, right handed player.
Time will tell - your physio will use your progress to gauge when you are ready.
Hello. I am struggling significantly with nerve pain post surgery. It’s a burnings and at times an ice cold sensation on the achilles. Have anyone heard of these symptoms?
Yes, this is one of the side effects that surgery can cause. It usually calms down after a few months but speak to your doctor to better understand what is going on specifically with your case.
Maryke thank you for this very informative video! I'm 2,5 weeks post surgery,in a few days I get the stiches removed.
I am a big boy (150kg) who was very active in lifestyle & workwise (construction) though.
Given that my legs were very,very strong before, would it be safe to assume I can take up your plan?
You need to check with your doctor - every case should be managed according to what your clinical assessment shows and the surgeon is best placed to tell you what is right in your case.
Can you recommend a balancing cushion like you showed in your video I’m 10 months post surgery
You can find various options on Amazon - here's one that looks good: geni.us/balance-cusion
I just got a gastrocnemius recession surgery. Shoul I wear a stretch sock? If so should I wait until I start dorsiflexion exercises?
As the doctor who is in charge of your recovery - they will know what is best for the procedure they just did.
Good day ma'am, I've been watching this video of yours as my guide for recovery. I am in my 11 week post op. Is this normal to still feel stiffness in my tendon? Hope you read this ma'am. Thank you.
Yes, you will still experience stiffness for quite a few months, but as long as it improves slowly (think how it is feeling compared to 4 weeks back) then it is OK.
@@TreatMyAchilles Thank you so much ☺️
Just hit 6 weeks yesterday and just got permission to walk with crutches and do the alphabet stretches. My ankle is extremely tight and I feel like I’m behind in rehab
Try to shake that feeling - it really is worth having a slow start to rehab to allow the tissue to properly heal and knit.
In the study, what is the "slowed down" group, and what is the "traditional" group mean? I was assuming traditional was going slower with the weight bearing, etc., but slowed down sounds the same.
The traditional group started stretching into dorsiflexion early in rehab and the slowed down group only started after 12 weeks. Both groups started weightbearing at the same time.
I had surgery to repair my torn Achilles at the end of December. I approaching month 5 and still have pain in the tendon and swelling which is impacting my walking. I do believe I am overworking the tendon and perhaps have some tendonitis. How many rest days a week do you recommend from PT exercises. I go 2x a week but have been doing some sort of exercise everyday. what do you recommend to allow the tendon to heal between session and not irritate it more. thanks ahead of time!
You need to be asking your PT this question - there is no recipe to this. They have to assess your tendon's current state, what your rehab is looking like (with them + what you do at home + your daily tasks and everything that load the tendon) and then come up with a plan to allow it to recover while growing stronger.
How long do you do each of the band exercises for? Minute wise?
We usually work in number of reps since it is more quantifiable e.g. 10 to 15 reps x3 sets but this obviously depends on your recovery status and the resistance of the band etc.
I’m 16 weeks post op and ran out of PT visits due to insurance limitations. I’ve since joined a gym for the last week to continue rehab but I’m starting to wonder if I’m doing the right things. Age 45 and am trying to get back to bowling. The surgeon said I can try but physio said no. Can almost do a single leg raise while holding something. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
There isn't really any specific recommendations we can safely make other than the general advice in this video. But it sounds like you're making good progress - slow and steady is the key with Achilles rehab and ramping things up a bit more slowly than if you were training just for fitness.
Are healing plans for torn/ruptured similar to that of a severed Achilles? Mine was not torn from use, it was cut in an accident.
Yes, the healing plan is similar regardless of how your tendon got separated.