Just got my surgery this morning. I really appreciate your videos, extremely helpful,informative, detailed for some inexperienced of this challenging injury. God bless you for helping people. Hope you all injured outthere get well soon.
Glad my videos can help! Good luck with recovery and you'll definitely be back on your feet again. Just have some patience with the process and feel free to watch ahead to know what to expect.
Hi Chi, 48 y/o Achilles rupture kickboxing, just took a step back. Had surgery yesterday and I’m watching your videos. Thank you for taking the time to help, I appreciate it. Just wanted to reach out and say thanks! Be well my friend!
Hey man, you're very welcome! I'm glad my videos can help and let me know if you have any questions as you recover. Stay patient and consistent with your physio / exercises once you're out of the cast. For now, just focus on resting and taking it easy until the surgery heals.
I just wanted to say thank you once more. I tore my Achilles almost 2 years ago & watching these videos helped out in my journey back. I remember you replied to a concern I had & your insight helped me out tremendously. God bless brother!
Hi Chi, I just had surgery today on my left Achilles that I tore 10 days ago playing tennis. The nerve block is still in full force which is amazing and everything is still numb. Just wanted to give my sincerest thanks to you for making these videos. You are so informative and inspiring! I’ve already watched most of them a couple times each and know that I will continue to come back to them. Congratulations on your recovery, hope to join you there soon!
Thank you Ryan! Really appreciate your kind words. It definitely makes me happy and feel good that this info can help others. I'm sure you'll be joining me in no time, keep up the positive attitude and remember it's a marathon not a sprint so take your time, be patient and let nature do its thing and heal.
Thank you so very much. The technique you are describing is the one I wished that I had received: the mid substance bridge system. Holes are drilled into the Achille's bone to ensure that the part of the tendon that attaches to the calf stays beyond secure. I feel that it ensures that no re-rupture happens close to where the tendon attaches to the heel. To me, this technique should be standardized across the industry. There is no better support system than these people who have gone thru this and are kindly sharing their experience. I just got my hard cast removed and my surgeon has my food in the boot at 20% angle + 25% body weight allowed on the food with crutches support. Then after 2 weeks, I am supposed to move to 10% angle and 50% of body weight allowed on the injured foot still with crutches. Physical therapy has also been ordered and if things go well, I'm supposed to be dropping the crutches at the 2 months after surgery mark. I'm lucky enough to be able to work from home and I am using that time to pursue the things I putting off for years because I was "too busy running around" This is the ultimate test of patience and mental resilience. Foot in boot when sleeping and whenever working. Foot in boot when sleeping because some people accidentally re-rupture while sleeping. I move myself to a bunk bed and mounted a PC monitor to the roof of the bed so I can work and study with minimal movement. Worse possible scenario would be a re-rupture because I'm heavy and I can tear that joint again. Which would be a nightmare. There was really no pain that required that I take the Oxycodone or Gabapentin or even Ibuprofen because I’m truly anti medication (unless absolutely necessary). This is a Tylenol extra strength kind of injury for me. No ice either and I was not trying to prove anything to anyone.
Thanks for sharing and I hope that your recovery is coming along well! You're likely through the most difficult part and can resume daily activities again walking around. Keep going and you'll be back to 100% in no time!
Found your videos a week before my surgery, my operation was yesterday. Glad to have a guide through this process. Thanks for putting this info out there❤️
I'm glad you found it useful. Let me know if you ever have any questions as you recover. It's a tough injury but you can definitely get through it as so many others have already. Just remember to be patient as things will take time to heal but you got this!! Good luck with the recovery!
Thank you so much! I'm about 2 weeks out from my tendon repair. Your videos are so thorough and helpful! There's not a ton of info out there on this type of injury so I want to document my experience to help anyone else going through this. P.S. Glad to see you so close to your baseline activity level in your progression videos. Very encouraging!
You're welcome and I'm glad you found my videos useful. I definitely encourage you to document your own journey for posterity and also for others to follow along. We all have different bodies and its great to let others see different examples of recovery, it also forces you to be quite active and conscious of your recovery since you're sharing it with others
Really appreciate the videos. I tore my Achilles back in June 2022 and started back up men’s league basketball this month. I aimed to stay on your timeline if not challenge myself to beat it (safely) and your videos provided tangible guidance and made my recovery much easier for sure.
Thats great to hear! Sounds like you recovered very quickly to be starting back into a league again already. Make sure you warm up and stretch lots before you step into a game!
4 weeks post injury. 2 weeks nearly post surgery. I’ll be having a look at my stitches on Wednesday when the cast comes off. With NHS in England, we receive free health care, but not much say on what operation takes place, but I’m just grateful for everything NHS has done for me. The pain meds in recovery was Morphine and Tramadol. I now have 2 knee scooters (one is pink). 😂 I have brought a Cyro cuff which I’m using on my good foot to ease the over usage and stress of having one good leg for now. Thanks for all the tips. Glad to have your advice.
That sounds like you're coming along well Joni! Two knee scooters is a flex for sure. It saved me from going insane living by myself and doing groceries etc. Keep up the good spirits and I'm sure you'll be walking again soon in no time. Let me know if you ever have any questions! Goodluck!
I really wish I’d got a knee scooter too! I was going crazy bro stuck inside, but crutches would exhaust me when I went out (plus I already had achilles tendonitis in my good leg!). I’m 6 weeks post op now though, so not much point now haha
Glad I found your videos. I appreciate how detailed it is. I ruptured my Achilles Tendon while playing tennis. I am 4 days out from surgery. You are spot on with your recommendations. I look forward to checking out the rehab videos once I start the rehab.
You're very welcome! I hope your surgery and recovery is coming along well. I was also a little scared of being put under but it happened so quickly and was just like falling alseep...except in a brightly lit operating room while wearing a gown.. lol.
Complete tore my left Achilles’ tendon playing basketball. Surgically repaired, difficult operation since a lot of fraying of the tendon. The pain the first 8-10 days was excruciating. Just into week 3, still have some stitches left. Pain has subsided but cramps and nerve pains shooting up. Glad to have found a series to know what to expect.
Ah man sorry to hear that. Yeah I completely ruptured both tendons and was pretty frayed as well (I assumed from previous trauma and micro tears probably). Just know that the discomfort is going to just get easier as time goes on. You're through a lot of the worst part which is the week or two right after surgery. Then getting out of the cast is annoying too because all your ankle muscles and everything has atrophied and becomes swollen and weak. But you got this, lots of people have gone through this and it's definitely a mental challenge as much as it physical but you'll be stronger coming out of it.
I am also post op week one as of today. Thank you for the motivation and helpful information. So far my surgery went well and the site is becoming itchy now. I also injured it while playing basketball. I am really glad I came across to your journey. It helps me to be motivated and hoping for a fast recovery for me.
You're welcome Ardee! Yeah the surgical site will become itchy as it heals and when you get stitches removed and get placed into a boot. It's all part of the process including swelling and such, but let me know if you have any questions as you go through the recovery phase!
A very informative video, Chi! I am in a bit of a different situation, though. I am a 64 year old female, used to jog and walk up to 4 miles a day. However have not done that in years. My Achilles potential rupture happened a week ago due to my knee scooter that I have been using due to 2 peroneal tendon tear surgeries within the past 8 months. My scooter got caught in the edge of an area rug and started to fall over. Acting on instinct, I put down my bad foot down with a lot of force so as not to fall with the scooter. I heard a loud pop immediately followed by extreme excruciating pain. The swelling was as if I had 2 golf balls in my ankle and heel. I am waiting the results of an MRI done yesterday. If ruptured as is suspected, I may be looking at a 3rd foot surgery in a year 😣 If you are using a knee scooter, BE CAREFUL!!
Oh no Mary, I'm sorry to hear that. Did you have a protective boot on when you were on the knee scooter? Yes, you definitely need to be careful with a knee scooter as it can feel so easy at times that you forget you're on wheels and they can get caught on things or fall into cracks or divot areas and get unstable. I hope everything turns out okay for you after your MRIs!
Thanks a lot for sharing your story. I got my surfers this morning. You are making me calm about this situation. I’ll follow your process, while I try to get through my own. I wish you all the best!
You're very welcome Oliver! I hope your recovery is coming along well. This recovery process is all about patience and going with the flow. Steady and consistent progress is the name of the game.
No problem man, glad you found the videos helpful. Hope your surgery went well and youre well on your way to recovery. Right now is the biggest mental game and just try and stay positive and let your body heal.
Just got my surgery done about two weeks ago, 2021/12/11, last day before my 30th bday. Found your videos, thanks for sharing and let me know what're ahead of me !
Thanks for all the info! I had the surgery two days ago with the nerve block. And yeah, I was cruising, thinking this was nothing for the first 24-30 hours. But damn, when the block starting wear off, things got real haha. Thanks again for the info and I am going to follow along your videos as I go through this!
Haha yeah once the nerve block wears off, the pain and throbbing under the cast definitely comes in hot! Hopefully you're far past the wound healing process and into physio now.
Yikes 4 months is a long time to wait. The pain after surgery will definitely be uncomfortable but they'll prescribe some painkillers and just make sure you elevate your leg and try and rest up as much as possible during the first two weeks post op.
@@ChiChen3 thanks for the response man. Your videos are so informative. I’m so glad I found your channel. How long were you in PT for? I start in two weeks and by the sound of it, It sounds rough.
Just had the same surgery done on my Achilles this past Wednesday. Ruptured mine playing in a men’s rec league. This video was extremely helpful bro and I will continue to watch your process as I go through my own! Sorry to hear about you having a second ruptured Achilles bro that sounds like an honest nightmare, any tips and tricks you recommended for me to help prevent my other Achilles rupturing in the future??? I notice it was a little sore when I was on my boot prior to surgery but now it’s been okay since post surgery, but I’m terrified of it happening.
Definitely a great question. I also felt my other achilles was sore or weak but didnt think too much of it. But looking back, I realized that years of sports and microtears probably had weakened both achilles. So it was just waiting for me to push it a little too much and it would tear. Which is what happened. My advice is to do all the exercises that you're going to do on your recovering achilles, with your other one as well. But most importantly, do calf raises at the gym or stair calf raises at home to gain strength and control through the full range of motion of your achilles to bulletproof them. Add weight for progression to make it harder as you get stronger.
Hey Chi, been watching your video series on your journey and found it very helpful.. I’m slowly recovering from playing football.. I’m currently 9 weeks post op and walking slowly without the boot.. I had a 2cm tear in my left Achilles.. I know I have to be patient because I can’t wait to play football again..
Hey Amir, yeah it's all about being patient and then putting in consistent small efforts of work during physio stages. 10min per day beats someone doing 60min one day a week. I've torn and recovered from both and playing competitive basketball again so you can definitely get back to playing football again. Just don't rush it and make sure you do all the stretches and workouts for your uninjured leg as well so that one doesn't ever give out on you. Don't tear both like I did lol.
Thanks for sharing your journey to recovery and this series has been super helpful! I have a few followup questions: 1. Did you have any symptoms before your incident? (maybe sore achilles, tight calfs, tendonitis) I'm just scared that an injury like just happens out of nowhere. 2. Looking back what are some things you could have done to prevent this? (maybe flexibility and mobility exercise + strengthening workout) 3. Going forward what do think you'll do to prevent this from happening again? Thanks in advance for the help and please continue to make these kind of videos
1. I didn't have any symptoms before my incident but there were times my achilles became sore after strenuous exercises like pushing the prowler with a lot of weight loaded onto it. I definitely had micro tears throughout the years from sports without realizing it which contributed to the injury. 2. Definitely a lot of things I could have done to prevent this. Everything you stated is right, flexibility and mobility work is important, stretching your calves and achilles but also strengthening it doing single leg calf raises, especially on stairs so you get the full range of motion. This really helps to bullet proof it. 3. Same things as #2, making sure you're strengthening it through the full range of motion and also making sure you warm up before exercises.
Hi. Great videos! Question concerning elevating the leg. Did you feel elevating the leg with the surgical site taking the pressure was a problem? Seems like it would be.
Yes most definitely, I had to usually use my good leg as the base and then throw my other leg over it and it kinda puts the pressure on the side of my leg and not directly at the heel where the surgical site was. Otherwise, I put it on a pillow and let it point outwards which also messed with my hips cause I was sitting like that for a while veryday.
Yeah if you can, try to sleep on your back and have your leg propped up on a pillow or two, it can help relieve some swelling and soreness in the achilles after a tear. Also after surgery this is recommended as well but if you're not experiencing much swelling etc it's not that important to elevate it at night, but it is important to make sure your foot is stuck in full plantar flexion so your achilles isn't being stretched at all. Some people get put in a boot or a cast to ensure that they don't kick their sheets or go sleep walking.
I'm 3 days post op and feel fine! There's discomfort now and then but in all honesty the pain isn't as bad as I expected considering I have a low pain threshold. One thing I must say though is is when I first woke up after the surgery, I was under the impression the spinal nerve block lasts 12 or so hours but boy was that a big lie. About 15 minutes after I woke up the pain was excruciating :( But all in all, it's not that bad, my advice would be just to trust the process!
That is strange. I didn’t feel any pain until about 24 hours after surgery. I wonder what the difference was. I’m 3 weeks post op. My doctor says I can’t bear weight until 6 weeks post op. I figure I’ll go by what he says, but I’ve been seeing a lot of videos that say earlier weight bearing is better. Idk. Anyway take care. 😊
I took a lot of notes . Thank you. Very complete. Great video. I should have surgery inn1-2 weeks. I will see ankle ortho 9 days after my complete tear. Surgery hopefully within a week? Should I be concerned about my Achilles that is basically in my calf now? Thank you.
Nothing to be concerned about, your doctor will do an ultrasound to see how far your achilles is up in your calf and in surgery they will just pull it back down if it's up there. Its usually only a 2-4cm gap between your tendons so its not like up in your calf per say but definitely feels that way.
Hi, after researching I wanted to go the surgical route as know it has bestnlong term results but my consultant wanted me to use the boot, he wouldn't even treat me with the best boot when I offered to pay for it. I am worried as I play sports a lot.
Are they suggesting you go the conservative route and let it heal on its own? What was the full diagnosis of the tear. It may be the better decision depending on the type of tear. Was it a complete tear or a partial rupture? And if it was a complete tear, how far apart are the tendons. These factors can all affect the proper method of treatment. At the end of the day if you don't agree with your consultant, can you go to another specialist and get another opinion?
I did mine today… just been sent home in a walking boot, got to get an ultrasound this week before I know how bad the tear is… I’m worried about the length of rehab recovery, if I can every be back too where I was before and how my life is going to be for the next few months! Scary stuff
You can definitely get back to where you were before. Ive torn both and basically fully recovered now. It is going to change your life for the first 3-5 months as you manage being able to walk again but afterwards, your life will be the same from Month 5-12 as most people, except for being able to play sports at the same level until after you heal. From year 1-2 that's when youre basically fully recovered and just regaining the extra bits of strength and explosiveness back.
@@ChiChen3 thank you so much for getting back to me, I love you videos they are the best I’ve found, super informative and gives you just the information you need! 👌🏻
Enjoying your videos so far! I am almost 1 week post op from a complete rupture of my left Achilles. I’m also very active and want to return to sport etc. I’m an Emergency RN in Australia so had already thought of all your tips in your first video but they are really practical. It’s been extra tricky as a have a 6, 2 and 1yo. Now that you are almost 1 year post injury, how would you compare your strength/recovery etc between the traditional Achilles repair and the less invasive technique? Thanks Shentelle
I'm at about Month 10 or 11 on my second repair and I'd have to say that I gained my strength and flexibility back much faster than the traditional technique. It also left a lot less scar tissue and my achilles is already thinner and closer to the look and feel before any kind of surgery. The traditional surgery has stood up to a lot of stress and played basketball again and had no problems. I haven't really tested the new surgery technique yet to see how strong it holds but so far so good. Good luck with your recovery and keep up the exercises and PT and you should be running around with your kids again in no time!
@@stixpower4837 hey mate, I’m also in Australia based in Melbourne. Had my surgery yesterday and discharged from the hospital today. A bit upset, Ruptured when playing futsal while no body contact at all. I’m always active, like running, soccer, gym training. I think will only play soccer on grass in future cos it’s soft ground.
@@speedalan Hey, I’m using my husband’s RUclips account haha. I did mine doing box jumps which I have been doing 2-3 times per week for 10 years, through 3 pregnancies...just one of those things 😓 I’m not in a hurry to get back to them. I will be 2 weeks post op tomorrow so I’ll get my sutures out, cast off and into the boot. I’ll be interested to see which rehab protocol my surgeon will follow... All the best with your recovery - keep your leg elevated as much as possible. Shentelle ☺️
I started driving at about Week 15-16 after I was able to stomp on the brakes with my right food (the one that was repaired most recently in these videos)
@@ChiChen3 it is getting better, but what I’m getting from my workers comp claim ain’t cutting it. Not trying to rush back to work and re injure myself. Reached out to a lawyer for some advice.
I just had surgery yesterday. They gave me a nerve block before the surgery so didn’t feel anything just numbness first night. This morning the block and anesthesia has gone away and I have immense pain in the Ankle all day. Feels like stabbing / throbbing pain.
Yup that sounds about right. The first week is going to be annoying, just take the painkillers when you feel like it's too painful. I stopped taking the painkillers after day 3 or 4 as I don't love morphine/codeine mostly due to the fact it's such a controlled / addictive substance. You got this! Just try and watch movies or things to distract you.
Hey Chi these videos have been so helpful man really appreciate them, i did my achilles last Wednesday and will have my surgery soon. I was wondering how you went about working during your recovery? did you take leave or work from home? and how did you go about elevating your ankle majority of the day while working ?
Hey Aaron, I was a co-founder in my own design studio so for the two weeks after surgery, I just worked from home on my couch. I had my leg propped up on my coffee table and stayed there pretty much all day. After about two weeks, I started going back into the studio but kept my leg elevated whenever I could to reduce swelling but ultimately I ended up moving around a lot on my knee scooter cause it was fun and I was restless.
Yes applying ice packs definitely helps with the inflammation and swelling. Raising the leg above your heart also helps with the same thing so blood isn't pumping down into it. Helps with the wound healing.
Hi mate, just wondering if this surgery is time critical? I had my injury 6 weeks ago, and only know rupture at week 5, hoping to get through public system in Australia but there might be a wait or I have to pay private fee which is about 10k.
The surgery isnt time critical necessarily but if you can, you do want to get it repaired faster than later. I had mine repaired during covid and got cancelled on a bunch so it took about 5 weeks till I got my surgery and they recommend within 30 days. But that said, at 6cm its not connecting on its own (but Im not a doctor), and youll likely have to just wait for surgery as your best option.
How long until you went to the ER did you get the surgery? I just busted my Achilles past Monday playing tennis and have been in an air booth since then. I am seeing the specialist this Friday. Also great tip in getting a knee scooter!
It took about a month to schedule my surgery from when I tore my achilles. They recommend getting it repaired as soon as possible but it was during COVID and surgeries were backed up.
Hi Chi, I had my surgery yesterday and discharged today. Felt few times of calf cramp during sleep and rest, worried about the wounds both on the tendon and skin. Also, I can feel the little “pumping” in the wound area like the heartbeat. did you also experience this ? Thanks bro
Haha yeah I did experience that heartbeat on the wound and thats totally normal. Happened with both achilles after surgery. It's normal and just your body circulating blood and oxygen to help with the healing but because its extra sensitive right now from the invasive surgery, you'll feel it. Don't worry about your calf cramping and such, it's just your muscles trying to make those connections again. It'll take a couple weeks to a month to heal the wound and then you'll be strengthening it as it conntinues to heal.
Hello bro, i’ve been following your journey on recovery with your achilles rupture operatuon. Just want to ask if your operation includes anchors? i will be having my surgery tomorrow. Just want to ask if the recovery process is same as yours? Thank you in advance. Jhay from Philippines. 👍
@@ChiChen3 i see. so this is a new method. i Just finish my operation this morning, and its kind of sore and im hurting, but im trying to endure the pain because i dont want to take pain killers. Is this normal? how long does is take?
@@jogradramirez6402 This will naturally get more pliable and thinner as you recover but will take time and it helps if you do some cross friction massage on your achilles whenever you can.
Day 3 post surgery. Leg elevated constantly but dealing with a lot of swelling. Did you take oxy? How long did you stay on it? It makes me feel nauseous.
@@HEAT4YOAZZ stopped taking it day 3 (surgery day 0). Messed with me too much. Basically just keeping it raised on ice today. Tylenol and meloxicam. No nerve block though post surgery. The throb is bad though.
I did get painkillers and stopped using it on Day 3 I believe. Try to only use it if the pain or discomfort is too much to bear. Otherwise I try to take my mind off of it by distracting myself with other things like work or TV etc.
I just had surgery on Thursday. I also tore my Achilles playing basketball. The nerve block was great, it wore off right around 24 hours. They had said it would last 18-24 hours. I have to say I’m not in any pain. I’m just taking an nsaid and Tylenol. I’m very surprised. Did you go back to basketball after the 2nd tear? I’m 40 and I’m not sure if I’ll play again. I’m just at the start of my recovery but I know it’s a long road and I don’t really want to go through it again.
Yeah I'm back to playing basketball 1-2 times per week and playing men's competitive with decent runs. Usually others who've played highschool at least or some have played collegiate level too but we're all between 25-40 now. It took about 1.5 years before I could play competitively again, I probably stepped on the court around 1 year to shoot, practice, dribble but not playing any games yet.
I just got Achilles repair surgery 4 days ago. It is normal to feel tingly in the foot? Also, did you even get muscle jerks at night? I get that just randomly.
Yeah its very normal to have your feet tingly right after the surgery especially if you're in a cast. I also did have some muscle jerks at night and those will dissipate as you recover. Your body is just getting use to the new connections formed and also healing the tissue and wound that occurs during surgery.
Hey Joshua, yeah its totally normal and sometimes it has to do with the cast youre in post surgery. The healing process will have some numbing and tingling associated with it as you go but once your wound is healed and youre in a boot, the feelings of numbness should start subsiding.
Do you ever have issues with having the appetite to eat enough to get all the nutrition necessary? I have not had surgery yet, but cooking is difficult and exhausting after going through the process of eating and cleaning up. I am nervous about the surgery and could be contributing to the limited appetite, but it has taken a lot of effort to get all the needed protein
Yeah being sedentary definitely leads to some appetite loss and its quite a mission to cook and clean up, not to mention having to get groceries. I'd try to think of easier meals to cook and I'll say that having a knee scooter helped me out a lot versus trying to cook with crutches.
Hey, I am not 6 days post Op. Had a really quick tun around for surgery here in Germany. Injured on the Saturday operated on the Thursday, Stayed in hospital for 2 days then it hit me when i got home. Mentally the first week has been a struggle. I am a fitness coach and so crutches totally annoy me so i bought the knee scooter which left hospital on. I trained at home yesterday doing mostly mobility and upper body which really has helped me mentally. I am only on brufen for the pain which is to be honest not to bad. I will have my stitches out next Tuesday and then the boot fitted after that. How long did it take you to be weight bearing as some research i have read suggests earlier the better. What stage are you at now?
I'm past a year already and basically back to normal, I can squat, deadlift and even do cleans etc now. The knee scooter is definitely the way to go .. and more fun. I also had a friend who would work out upper body with me while I was post-op in the boot. It really helped me stay somewhat sane knowing I could still push for goals on things like benchpress and seated exercises. You should start weight bearing as early as possible and follow a rehab protocol. It's usually like 25% weight post op week 4 and then 25% more weight per week after that till your full weight bearing around Week 7-8 post op.
Yeah I covered some vitamins and supplements that I used to reduce inflammation and encourage wound healing in this video. Tumeric is really good, and zinc as well as vitamins A C E.
Thanks for this video series, I'm post op day 3. Most of the numbness is gone, but half my foot is still pretty numb. Did you experience any post op numbness?
Thanks for the video bro. I will have my surgery in few hours or tomorrow. Nightmare for me, because my wife will give birth in 2-3 weeks. Do you think i am ready to at least walk a bit on that time?
I'm not sure what you mean by melts but yes there is usually pain in the lower leg and even in the calves right after surgery. It's going to last for a few weeks until your achilles starts to make new muscle connections again.
@@ChiChen3 in the early days I didn’t feel any pain in my calf, but it started yesterday. When the leg is lowered, then begins to hurt, if stretched - no problem. Somehow I'm afraid he's torn again ..
@@Ruselis10 You'll know if its torn again since you'll feel it tearing and it won't be a question whether that happened. I think your calves are just getting use to connecting to everything and just let pain be your guide. It should feel uncomfortable as you're strengthening everything and just don't let the pain reach higher than an 7/10 or 8/10+.
I’m having my surgery Monday and I’m not going to lie, I’m freaking out over the recovery process. I have a high pain tolerance but everyone makes it seem like the pain is brutal after surgery 😩😩😩
They gave me a nerve block before my surgery that lasted for a good 24 hours or so which really helped alleviate the post op pain but they do prescribe painkillers. I stopped using the painkillers after a day or so post op, just remember to keep it elevated and drink lots of water.
Hey that happens. Be a bit more patient and kind to yourself during these stages. But when you can, make sure you get some healthy groceries and keep a balanced diet to help with recovery!
Just got my surgery this morning. I really appreciate your videos, extremely helpful,informative, detailed for some inexperienced of this challenging injury. God bless you for helping people. Hope you all injured outthere get well soon.
Glad my videos can help! Good luck with recovery and you'll definitely be back on your feet again. Just have some patience with the process and feel free to watch ahead to know what to expect.
Does it hurt kinda bad ?? Or no cuz I’m having the sugrwy on the 12th . And I’m 15 years old almost 16.
How is your Achilles now?
Hi Chi, 48 y/o Achilles rupture kickboxing, just took a step back. Had surgery yesterday and I’m watching your videos. Thank you for taking the time to help, I appreciate it. Just wanted to reach out and say thanks! Be well my friend!
Hey man, you're very welcome! I'm glad my videos can help and let me know if you have any questions as you recover. Stay patient and consistent with your physio / exercises once you're out of the cast. For now, just focus on resting and taking it easy until the surgery heals.
I just wanted to say thank you once more. I tore my Achilles almost 2 years ago & watching these videos helped out in my journey back. I remember you replied to a concern I had & your insight helped me out tremendously. God bless brother!
You're very welcome! Glad to hear your recovery went smoothly!
Hi Chi, I just had surgery today on my left Achilles that I tore 10 days ago playing tennis. The nerve block is still in full force which is amazing and everything is still numb. Just wanted to give my sincerest thanks to you for making these videos. You are so informative and inspiring! I’ve already watched most of them a couple times each and know that I will continue to come back to them. Congratulations on your recovery, hope to join you there soon!
Thank you Ryan! Really appreciate your kind words. It definitely makes me happy and feel good that this info can help others. I'm sure you'll be joining me in no time, keep up the positive attitude and remember it's a marathon not a sprint so take your time, be patient and let nature do its thing and heal.
Thank you so very much. The technique you are describing is the one I wished that I had received: the mid substance bridge system. Holes are drilled into the Achille's bone to ensure that the part of the tendon that attaches to the calf stays beyond secure. I feel that it ensures that no re-rupture happens close to where the tendon attaches to the heel. To me, this technique should be standardized across the industry. There is no better support system than these people who have gone thru this and are kindly sharing their experience. I just got my hard cast removed and my surgeon has my food in the boot at 20% angle + 25% body weight allowed on the food with crutches support. Then after 2 weeks, I am supposed to move to 10% angle and 50% of body weight allowed on the injured foot still with crutches. Physical therapy has also been ordered and if things go well, I'm supposed to be dropping the crutches at the 2 months after surgery mark. I'm lucky enough to be able to work from home and I am using that time to pursue the things I putting off for years because I was "too busy running around" This is the ultimate test of patience and mental resilience. Foot in boot when sleeping and whenever working. Foot in boot when sleeping because some people accidentally re-rupture while sleeping. I move myself to a bunk bed and mounted a PC monitor to the roof of the bed so I can work and study with minimal movement. Worse possible scenario would be a re-rupture because I'm heavy and I can tear that joint again. Which would be a nightmare. There was really no pain that required that I take the Oxycodone or Gabapentin or even Ibuprofen because I’m truly anti medication (unless absolutely necessary). This is a Tylenol extra strength kind of injury for me. No ice either and I was not trying to prove anything to anyone.
Thanks for sharing and I hope that your recovery is coming along well! You're likely through the most difficult part and can resume daily activities again walking around. Keep going and you'll be back to 100% in no time!
Found your videos a week before my surgery, my operation was yesterday. Glad to have a guide through this process. Thanks for putting this info out there❤️
I'm glad you found it useful. Let me know if you ever have any questions as you recover. It's a tough injury but you can definitely get through it as so many others have already. Just remember to be patient as things will take time to heal but you got this!! Good luck with the recovery!
Thank you so much! I'm about 2 weeks out from my tendon repair. Your videos are so thorough and helpful! There's not a ton of info out there on this type of injury so I want to document my experience to help anyone else going through this.
P.S. Glad to see you so close to your baseline activity level in your progression videos. Very encouraging!
You're welcome and I'm glad you found my videos useful. I definitely encourage you to document your own journey for posterity and also for others to follow along. We all have different bodies and its great to let others see different examples of recovery, it also forces you to be quite active and conscious of your recovery since you're sharing it with others
Really appreciate the videos. I tore my Achilles back in June 2022 and started back up men’s league basketball this month. I aimed to stay on your timeline if not challenge myself to beat it (safely) and your videos provided tangible guidance and made my recovery much easier for sure.
Thats great to hear! Sounds like you recovered very quickly to be starting back into a league again already. Make sure you warm up and stretch lots before you step into a game!
Day 1 since surgery and NUH UH . . Yesssss thank you for these
Goodluck with your recovery!! Let me know if you have any questions
4 weeks post injury. 2 weeks nearly post surgery. I’ll be having a look at my stitches on Wednesday when the cast comes off. With NHS in England, we receive free health care, but not much say on what operation takes place, but I’m just grateful for everything NHS has done for me. The pain meds in recovery was Morphine and Tramadol. I now have 2 knee scooters (one is pink). 😂 I have brought a Cyro cuff which I’m using on my good foot to ease the over usage and stress of having one good leg for now. Thanks for all the tips. Glad to have your advice.
That sounds like you're coming along well Joni! Two knee scooters is a flex for sure. It saved me from going insane living by myself and doing groceries etc. Keep up the good spirits and I'm sure you'll be walking again soon in no time. Let me know if you ever have any questions! Goodluck!
I really wish I’d got a knee scooter too! I was going crazy bro stuck inside, but crutches would exhaust me when I went out (plus I already had achilles tendonitis in my good leg!). I’m 6 weeks post op now though, so not much point now haha
Glad I found your videos. I appreciate how detailed it is. I ruptured my Achilles Tendon while playing tennis. I am 4 days out from surgery. You are spot on with your recommendations. I look forward to checking out the rehab videos once I start the rehab.
thanks and let me know if you ever have any questions.
From the time you rowe your Achilles, how many days until surgery. Thanks.
I have my surgery Wednesday. The biggest thing I’m stressing about is being put under. Your videos are great man. Thank you
You're very welcome! I hope your surgery and recovery is coming along well. I was also a little scared of being put under but it happened so quickly and was just like falling alseep...except in a brightly lit operating room while wearing a gown.. lol.
Complete tore my left Achilles’ tendon playing basketball. Surgically repaired, difficult operation since a lot of fraying of the tendon. The pain the first 8-10 days was excruciating. Just into week 3, still have some stitches left. Pain has subsided but cramps and nerve pains shooting up. Glad to have found a series to know what to expect.
Ah man sorry to hear that. Yeah I completely ruptured both tendons and was pretty frayed as well (I assumed from previous trauma and micro tears probably). Just know that the discomfort is going to just get easier as time goes on. You're through a lot of the worst part which is the week or two right after surgery. Then getting out of the cast is annoying too because all your ankle muscles and everything has atrophied and becomes swollen and weak. But you got this, lots of people have gone through this and it's definitely a mental challenge as much as it physical but you'll be stronger coming out of it.
Getting my surgery tomorrow. Glad i found your channel so i know what yo do after the surgery and all the practise. Thanks a lot
You're very welcome Thomas! Hope the surgery went well.
Thank you so much for this video series - I had a great surgeon but never got clear instruction post op. So useful!
Glad it was helpful!
I am also post op week one as of today. Thank you for the motivation and helpful information. So far my surgery went well and the site is becoming itchy now. I also injured it while playing basketball. I am really glad I came across to your journey. It helps me to be motivated and hoping for a fast recovery for me.
You're welcome Ardee! Yeah the surgical site will become itchy as it heals and when you get stitches removed and get placed into a boot. It's all part of the process including swelling and such, but let me know if you have any questions as you go through the recovery phase!
Thanks so much for this man... leaving the world a better place. 對了你壞壞帥帥的
Thanks for this video. I had my surgery exactly one month ago. I had the nerve blocked that lasted for 48 hours.
Wishing you a fast recovery!
A very informative video, Chi! I am in a bit of a different situation, though. I am a 64 year old female, used to jog and walk up to 4 miles a day. However have not done that in years. My Achilles potential rupture happened a week ago due to my knee scooter that I have been using due to 2 peroneal tendon tear surgeries within the past 8 months. My scooter got caught in the edge of an area rug and started to fall over. Acting on instinct, I put down my bad foot down with a lot of force so as not to fall with the scooter. I heard a loud pop immediately followed by extreme excruciating pain. The swelling was as if I had 2 golf balls in my ankle and heel. I am waiting the results of an MRI done yesterday. If ruptured as is suspected, I may be looking at a 3rd foot surgery in a year 😣 If you are using a knee scooter, BE CAREFUL!!
Oh no Mary, I'm sorry to hear that. Did you have a protective boot on when you were on the knee scooter? Yes, you definitely need to be careful with a knee scooter as it can feel so easy at times that you forget you're on wheels and they can get caught on things or fall into cracks or divot areas and get unstable. I hope everything turns out okay for you after your MRIs!
Appreciate your video. Ruptured Achilles playing basketball and I had surgery yesterday. Onto recovery!
Good luck on your recovery!
Thanks a lot for sharing your story. I got my surfers this morning. You are making me calm about this situation. I’ll follow your process, while I try to get through my own. I wish you all the best!
You're very welcome Oliver! I hope your recovery is coming along well. This recovery process is all about patience and going with the flow. Steady and consistent progress is the name of the game.
Appreciate all the info I have surgery in a week. Fully ruptured my left Achilles.. but hey at least I can drive. Very helpful videos
No problem man, glad you found the videos helpful. Hope your surgery went well and youre well on your way to recovery. Right now is the biggest mental game and just try and stay positive and let your body heal.
Just got my surgery done about two weeks ago, 2021/12/11, last day before my 30th bday. Found your videos, thanks for sharing and let me know what're ahead of me !
Glad you found them useful! Let me know if you have any questions and good luck with your recovery.
Thanks for all the info! I had the surgery two days ago with the nerve block. And yeah, I was cruising, thinking this was nothing for the first 24-30 hours. But damn, when the block starting wear off, things got real haha. Thanks again for the info and I am going to follow along your videos as I go through this!
Haha yeah once the nerve block wears off, the pain and throbbing under the cast definitely comes in hot! Hopefully you're far past the wound healing process and into physio now.
Finally going to have surgery on Monday after 4 months of waiting! I’m just worried for the pain after surgery.
Yikes 4 months is a long time to wait. The pain after surgery will definitely be uncomfortable but they'll prescribe some painkillers and just make sure you elevate your leg and try and rest up as much as possible during the first two weeks post op.
14 days from surgery…great video
How you feeling? I’m one week post op. Doc recommended no weight bearing for at least three weeks.
@@TheChicag0an Makes sense, you should wait until you take off the cast and have the stitches removed before any weight bearing.
@@ChiChen3 thanks for the response man. Your videos are so informative. I’m so glad I found your channel. How long were you in PT for? I start in two weeks and by the sound of it, It sounds rough.
Just had the same surgery done on my Achilles this past Wednesday. Ruptured mine playing in a men’s rec league. This video was extremely helpful bro and I will continue to watch your process as I go through my own! Sorry to hear about you having a second ruptured Achilles bro that sounds like an honest nightmare, any tips and tricks you recommended for me to help prevent my other Achilles rupturing in the future??? I notice it was a little sore when I was on my boot prior to surgery but now it’s been okay since post surgery, but I’m terrified of it happening.
Definitely a great question. I also felt my other achilles was sore or weak but didnt think too much of it. But looking back, I realized that years of sports and microtears probably had weakened both achilles. So it was just waiting for me to push it a little too much and it would tear. Which is what happened.
My advice is to do all the exercises that you're going to do on your recovering achilles, with your other one as well. But most importantly, do calf raises at the gym or stair calf raises at home to gain strength and control through the full range of motion of your achilles to bulletproof them. Add weight for progression to make it harder as you get stronger.
Super helpful, thank youuu!!
You're very welcome!
Good info.
Thanks man!
Hey Chi, been watching your video series on your journey and found it very helpful.. I’m slowly recovering from playing football.. I’m currently 9 weeks post op and walking slowly without the boot.. I had a 2cm tear in my left Achilles.. I know I have to be patient because I can’t wait to play football again..
Hey Amir, yeah it's all about being patient and then putting in consistent small efforts of work during physio stages. 10min per day beats someone doing 60min one day a week. I've torn and recovered from both and playing competitive basketball again so you can definitely get back to playing football again. Just don't rush it and make sure you do all the stretches and workouts for your uninjured leg as well so that one doesn't ever give out on you. Don't tear both like I did lol.
Thanks for sharing your journey to recovery and this series has been super helpful!
I have a few followup questions:
1. Did you have any symptoms before your incident? (maybe sore achilles, tight calfs, tendonitis) I'm just scared that an injury like just happens out of nowhere.
2. Looking back what are some things you could have done to prevent this? (maybe flexibility and mobility exercise + strengthening workout)
3. Going forward what do think you'll do to prevent this from happening again?
Thanks in advance for the help and please continue to make these kind of videos
1. I didn't have any symptoms before my incident but there were times my achilles became sore after strenuous exercises like pushing the prowler with a lot of weight loaded onto it. I definitely had micro tears throughout the years from sports without realizing it which contributed to the injury.
2. Definitely a lot of things I could have done to prevent this. Everything you stated is right, flexibility and mobility work is important, stretching your calves and achilles but also strengthening it doing single leg calf raises, especially on stairs so you get the full range of motion. This really helps to bullet proof it.
3. Same things as #2, making sure you're strengthening it through the full range of motion and also making sure you warm up before exercises.
@@ChiChen3 Ty! Hope you have a healthy journey ahead :)
Hi. Great videos! Question concerning elevating the leg. Did you feel elevating the leg with the surgical site taking the pressure was a problem? Seems like it would be.
Yes most definitely, I had to usually use my good leg as the base and then throw my other leg over it and it kinda puts the pressure on the side of my leg and not directly at the heel where the surgical site was. Otherwise, I put it on a pillow and let it point outwards which also messed with my hips cause I was sitting like that for a while veryday.
What kind of collagen were you adding to your shakes ? Link ?
I used Collagen Type I and II together which was suppose to help with tendons and joints.
I couldn't find anyone that talks about sleeping right after the injury. Is your leg elevated the entire night?
Yeah if you can, try to sleep on your back and have your leg propped up on a pillow or two, it can help relieve some swelling and soreness in the achilles after a tear. Also after surgery this is recommended as well but if you're not experiencing much swelling etc it's not that important to elevate it at night, but it is important to make sure your foot is stuck in full plantar flexion so your achilles isn't being stretched at all. Some people get put in a boot or a cast to ensure that they don't kick their sheets or go sleep walking.
@@ChiChen3 This really helps thank you!
I'm 3 days post op and feel fine! There's discomfort now and then but in all honesty the pain isn't as bad as I expected considering I have a low pain threshold. One thing I must say though is is when I first woke up after the surgery, I was under the impression the spinal nerve block lasts 12 or so hours but boy was that a big lie. About 15 minutes after I woke up the pain was excruciating :( But all in all, it's not that bad, my advice would be just to trust the process!
Haha yeah I was the same way when I woke up from my first surgery. Im pretty sure the pain woke me up.
That is strange. I didn’t feel any pain until about 24 hours after surgery. I wonder what the difference was. I’m 3 weeks post op. My doctor says I can’t bear weight until 6 weeks post op. I figure I’ll go by what he says, but I’ve been seeing a lot of videos that say earlier weight bearing is better. Idk. Anyway take care. 😊
I took a lot of notes . Thank you. Very complete. Great video. I should have surgery inn1-2 weeks. I will see ankle ortho 9 days after my complete tear. Surgery hopefully within a week? Should I be concerned about my Achilles that is basically in my calf now? Thank you.
Nothing to be concerned about, your doctor will do an ultrasound to see how far your achilles is up in your calf and in surgery they will just pull it back down if it's up there. Its usually only a 2-4cm gap between your tendons so its not like up in your calf per say but definitely feels that way.
Hi, after researching I wanted to go the surgical route as know it has bestnlong term results but my consultant wanted me to use the boot, he wouldn't even treat me with the best boot when I offered to pay for it. I am worried as I play sports a lot.
Are they suggesting you go the conservative route and let it heal on its own? What was the full diagnosis of the tear. It may be the better decision depending on the type of tear. Was it a complete tear or a partial rupture? And if it was a complete tear, how far apart are the tendons. These factors can all affect the proper method of treatment. At the end of the day if you don't agree with your consultant, can you go to another specialist and get another opinion?
I did mine today… just been sent home in a walking boot, got to get an ultrasound this week before I know how bad the tear is…
I’m worried about the length of rehab recovery, if I can every be back too where I was before and how my life is going to be for the next few months! Scary stuff
You can definitely get back to where you were before. Ive torn both and basically fully recovered now. It is going to change your life for the first 3-5 months as you manage being able to walk again but afterwards, your life will be the same from Month 5-12 as most people, except for being able to play sports at the same level until after you heal. From year 1-2 that's when youre basically fully recovered and just regaining the extra bits of strength and explosiveness back.
@@ChiChen3 thank you so much for getting back to me, I love you videos they are the best I’ve found, super informative and gives you just the information you need! 👌🏻
@@Smithy316 Thank you, I really appreciate the positive feedback!
Enjoying your videos so far!
I am almost 1 week post op from a complete rupture of my left Achilles. I’m also very active and want to return to sport etc. I’m an Emergency RN in Australia so had already thought of all your tips in your first video but they are really practical. It’s been extra tricky as a have a 6, 2 and 1yo.
Now that you are almost 1 year post injury, how would you compare your strength/recovery etc between the traditional Achilles repair and the less invasive technique?
Thanks Shentelle
I'm at about Month 10 or 11 on my second repair and I'd have to say that I gained my strength and flexibility back much faster than the traditional technique. It also left a lot less scar tissue and my achilles is already thinner and closer to the look and feel before any kind of surgery. The traditional surgery has stood up to a lot of stress and played basketball again and had no problems. I haven't really tested the new surgery technique yet to see how strong it holds but so far so good. Good luck with your recovery and keep up the exercises and PT and you should be running around with your kids again in no time!
That’s good! Thanks for documenting your journey. I think it’s really helped a lot of people ☺️
@@stixpower4837 hey mate, I’m also in Australia based in Melbourne. Had my surgery yesterday and discharged from the hospital today. A bit upset, Ruptured when playing futsal while no body contact at all. I’m always active, like running, soccer, gym training. I think will only play soccer on grass in future cos it’s soft ground.
@@speedalan Hey, I’m using my husband’s RUclips account haha. I did mine doing box jumps which I have been doing 2-3 times per week for 10 years, through 3 pregnancies...just one of those things 😓 I’m not in a hurry to get back to them. I will be 2 weeks post op tomorrow so I’ll get my sutures out, cast off and into the boot. I’ll be interested to see which rehab protocol my surgeon will follow...
All the best with your recovery - keep your leg elevated as much as possible.
Shentelle ☺️
Thanks for the info, i'm on day 2 post op and it really2 hurts after the nerve block comes off. Haha. Keep fighting!!
I hope this didn't last too long but the beginning of the healing process right after surgery was the most painful.
Hey man thanks for the video, not sure if you spoke on it, but after the surgery when was you able to drive? Stay strong!
I started driving at about Week 15-16 after I was able to stomp on the brakes with my right food (the one that was repaired most recently in these videos)
Had my left Achilles ruptured 2 weeks ago. I just had my surgery yesterday.
Hope you're doing well post surgery. The first month or so is the hardest with the pain and healing but it gets easier from here.
@@ChiChen3 it is getting better, but what I’m getting from my workers comp claim ain’t cutting it. Not trying to rush back to work and re injure myself. Reached out to a lawyer for some advice.
@@christophergordon9701 Yes, definitely take the time needed to rest and heal. Physically and mentally. Best of luck!
I just had surgery yesterday. They gave me a nerve block before the surgery so didn’t feel anything just numbness first night. This morning the block and anesthesia has gone away and I have immense pain in the Ankle all day. Feels like stabbing / throbbing pain.
Yup that sounds about right. The first week is going to be annoying, just take the painkillers when you feel like it's too painful. I stopped taking the painkillers after day 3 or 4 as I don't love morphine/codeine mostly due to the fact it's such a controlled / addictive substance. You got this! Just try and watch movies or things to distract you.
About how long was pain? I got surgery and pain killers but I’d rather use regular Tylenol or over counter meds
My pain lasted only a couple of weeks but I got off painkillers around Week 1.
Hey Chi these videos have been so helpful man really appreciate them, i did my achilles last Wednesday and will have my surgery soon. I was wondering how you went about working during your recovery? did you take leave or work from home? and how did you go about elevating your ankle majority of the day while working ?
Hey Aaron, I was a co-founder in my own design studio so for the two weeks after surgery, I just worked from home on my couch. I had my leg propped up on my coffee table and stayed there pretty much all day. After about two weeks, I started going back into the studio but kept my leg elevated whenever I could to reduce swelling but ultimately I ended up moving around a lot on my knee scooter cause it was fun and I was restless.
Question: the nurse told me to raise my leg above my heart and also apply ice behind my knee. Did you apply ice on yours?
Yes applying ice packs definitely helps with the inflammation and swelling. Raising the leg above your heart also helps with the same thing so blood isn't pumping down into it. Helps with the wound healing.
Hi mate, just wondering if this surgery is time critical? I had my injury 6 weeks ago, and only know rupture at week 5, hoping to get through public system in Australia but there might be a wait or I have to pay private fee which is about 10k.
The surgery isnt time critical necessarily but if you can, you do want to get it repaired faster than later. I had mine repaired during covid and got cancelled on a bunch so it took about 5 weeks till I got my surgery and they recommend within 30 days. But that said, at 6cm its not connecting on its own (but Im not a doctor), and youll likely have to just wait for surgery as your best option.
Thanks mate, surgery is now done, in the cast recoverying now
How long until you went to the ER did you get the surgery? I just busted my Achilles past Monday playing tennis and have been in an air booth since then. I am seeing the specialist this Friday. Also great tip in getting a knee scooter!
It took about a month to schedule my surgery from when I tore my achilles. They recommend getting it repaired as soon as possible but it was during COVID and surgeries were backed up.
Hi Chi, I had my surgery yesterday and discharged today. Felt few times of calf cramp during sleep and rest, worried about the wounds both on the tendon and skin. Also, I can feel the little “pumping” in the wound area like the heartbeat.
did you also experience this ? Thanks bro
Haha yeah I did experience that heartbeat on the wound and thats totally normal. Happened with both achilles after surgery. It's normal and just your body circulating blood and oxygen to help with the healing but because its extra sensitive right now from the invasive surgery, you'll feel it. Don't worry about your calf cramping and such, it's just your muscles trying to make those connections again. It'll take a couple weeks to a month to heal the wound and then you'll be strengthening it as it conntinues to heal.
How the achilles now
Its recovering really well, the lockdown made it harder to stay consistent with physio and exercises but trying the best I can.
I’m dealing with the same
Wishing you a fast recovery!
@@ChiChen3 thank you!
Hello bro, i’ve been following your journey on recovery with your achilles rupture operatuon. Just want to ask if your operation includes anchors? i will be having my surgery tomorrow. Just want to ask if the recovery process is same as yours? Thank you in advance. Jhay from Philippines. 👍
Yes for this newer surgery method, they created two small anchors at the bottom of my heel.
@@ChiChen3 i see. so this is a new method. i Just finish my operation this morning, and its kind of sore and im hurting, but im trying to endure the pain because i dont want to take pain killers. Is this normal? how long does is take?
@@ChiChen3 same with my operation. it just felt thick when i touch my achilles tendon.
@@jogradramirez6402 This will naturally get more pliable and thinner as you recover but will take time and it helps if you do some cross friction massage on your achilles whenever you can.
omg thank you for this
You're welcome! I hope you find it useful and let me know if you have any questions.
Day 3 post surgery. Leg elevated constantly but dealing with a lot of swelling. Did you take oxy? How long did you stay on it? It makes me feel nauseous.
Damn u got oxy they only gave me norco and my shit is throbbing. Day 2
@@HEAT4YOAZZ stopped taking it day 3 (surgery day 0). Messed with me too much. Basically just keeping it raised on ice today. Tylenol and meloxicam. No nerve block though post surgery. The throb is bad though.
I did get painkillers and stopped using it on Day 3 I believe. Try to only use it if the pain or discomfort is too much to bear. Otherwise I try to take my mind off of it by distracting myself with other things like work or TV etc.
I just had surgery on Thursday. I also tore my Achilles playing basketball. The nerve block was great, it wore off right around 24 hours. They had said it would last 18-24 hours. I have to say I’m not in any pain. I’m just taking an nsaid and Tylenol. I’m very surprised.
Did you go back to basketball after the 2nd tear? I’m 40 and I’m not sure if I’ll play again. I’m just at the start of my recovery but I know it’s a long road and I don’t really want to go through it again.
Yeah I'm back to playing basketball 1-2 times per week and playing men's competitive with decent runs. Usually others who've played highschool at least or some have played collegiate level too but we're all between 25-40 now. It took about 1.5 years before I could play competitively again, I probably stepped on the court around 1 year to shoot, practice, dribble but not playing any games yet.
I just got Achilles repair surgery 4 days ago. It is normal to feel tingly in the foot? Also, did you even get muscle jerks at night? I get that just randomly.
Yeah its very normal to have your feet tingly right after the surgery especially if you're in a cast. I also did have some muscle jerks at night and those will dissipate as you recover. Your body is just getting use to the new connections formed and also healing the tissue and wound that occurs during surgery.
I had surgery a couple days ago and got the nerve block that day. Is it regular to still have numbness feeling in your foot and toes 3 days after ?
Hey Joshua, yeah its totally normal and sometimes it has to do with the cast youre in post surgery. The healing process will have some numbing and tingling associated with it as you go but once your wound is healed and youre in a boot, the feelings of numbness should start subsiding.
Do you ever have issues with having the appetite to eat enough to get all the nutrition necessary? I have not had surgery yet, but cooking is difficult and exhausting after going through the process of eating and cleaning up. I am nervous about the surgery and could be contributing to the limited appetite, but it has taken a lot of effort to get all the needed protein
Yeah being sedentary definitely leads to some appetite loss and its quite a mission to cook and clean up, not to mention having to get groceries. I'd try to think of easier meals to cook and I'll say that having a knee scooter helped me out a lot versus trying to cook with crutches.
Hey, I am not 6 days post Op. Had a really quick tun around for surgery here in Germany. Injured on the Saturday operated on the Thursday, Stayed in hospital for 2 days then it hit me when i got home. Mentally the first week has been a struggle. I am a fitness coach and so crutches totally annoy me so i bought the knee scooter which left hospital on. I trained at home yesterday doing mostly mobility and upper body which really has helped me mentally. I am only on brufen for the pain which is to be honest not to bad. I will have my stitches out next Tuesday and then the boot fitted after that.
How long did it take you to be weight bearing as some research i have read suggests earlier the better. What stage are you at now?
I'm past a year already and basically back to normal, I can squat, deadlift and even do cleans etc now. The knee scooter is definitely the way to go .. and more fun. I also had a friend who would work out upper body with me while I was post-op in the boot. It really helped me stay somewhat sane knowing I could still push for goals on things like benchpress and seated exercises. You should start weight bearing as early as possible and follow a rehab protocol. It's usually like 25% weight post op week 4 and then 25% more weight per week after that till your full weight bearing around Week 7-8 post op.
Hi, I was just wondering if you received local or general anesthesia???
I received general anesthesia as well as a nerve block in my leg before I went into surgery.
Chi, do you have any experience taking Wound Vite or vitamins that heal the wound?
Yeah I covered some vitamins and supplements that I used to reduce inflammation and encourage wound healing in this video. Tumeric is really good, and zinc as well as vitamins A C E.
How would I go about ordering the pre packaged capsules of vitamins?
@@marciabond7537 You can contact him here drjamesyoon.com/
Thanks for this video series, I'm post op day 3. Most of the numbness is gone, but half my foot is still pretty numb. Did you experience any post op numbness?
yeah I had lots of post op numbness, sometimes it depends on how tight they wrapped the cast after the surgery.
How long did it last
@@itshuge19 maybe a week or two until the cast was taken off and I went into the boot.
Thanks for the video bro. I will have my surgery in few hours or tomorrow. Nightmare for me, because my wife will give birth in 2-3 weeks. Do you think i am ready to at least walk a bit on that time?
No unfortunately you probably wont be able to walk but you could stand on a knee scooter and be fine. I was rolling around right after surgery.
@@ChiChen3 what is a knee scooter?
@@kkk324. www.amazon.ca/KneeRover-Economy-Walker-Matte-Black/dp/B01H0S9AXM one of these things. I used it instead of crutches and it was glorious.
is it normal, that the foot often melts, and sometimes feels a bit pain in the lower leg (week1-2)
I'm not sure what you mean by melts but yes there is usually pain in the lower leg and even in the calves right after surgery. It's going to last for a few weeks until your achilles starts to make new muscle connections again.
@@ChiChen3 in the early days I didn’t feel any pain in my calf, but it started yesterday. When the leg is lowered, then begins to hurt, if stretched - no problem. Somehow I'm afraid he's torn again ..
@@Ruselis10 You'll know if its torn again since you'll feel it tearing and it won't be a question whether that happened. I think your calves are just getting use to connecting to everything and just let pain be your guide. It should feel uncomfortable as you're strengthening everything and just don't let the pain reach higher than an 7/10 or 8/10+.
@@ChiChen3 Thank you very much!
I’m having my surgery Monday and I’m not going to lie, I’m freaking out over the recovery process. I have a high pain tolerance but everyone makes it seem like the pain is brutal after surgery 😩😩😩
They gave me a nerve block before my surgery that lasted for a good 24 hours or so which really helped alleviate the post op pain but they do prescribe painkillers. I stopped using the painkillers after a day or so post op, just remember to keep it elevated and drink lots of water.
@@ChiChen3 asked for the nerve block! At home recovering right now. They told me to take my pain meds tonight so I won’t be in too much pain in the AM
My apartment is a mess and I'm eating a lot of fatty cold cuts!!
Hey that happens. Be a bit more patient and kind to yourself during these stages. But when you can, make sure you get some healthy groceries and keep a balanced diet to help with recovery!
Having surgery on my Achilles’ tendon rupture today 12/08/21. Day zer0 starts today. Here we go again smh 🤦🏾♂️
Good luck Brad! Let us know if you have any questions. Keep your head up and you got this.
😊😊😊