I had a full Achilles Tendon rupture on May 11th this year. I was seen at Bassetlaw at 2.00 on a Sunday afternoon, I had a quick consultation where the rupture was instantly diagnosed, a scan, an X-ray and was put in a cast and I was home before 4.30. Because I'm 64 years old and not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination I was put on the conservative treatment route. Non-weightbearing for the first three weeks, after a week in the cast I was given an Aircast boot which holds the ankle pointing down at 30 degrees, I was in this 24 hours a day for two weeks. I was then given a Vacoped Boot, again for 24 hours a day, still at the same angle but I was allowed to walk in it with another sole fasted to my right foot to even up me up. The angle was gradually reduced until it was flat but not allowing the foot to be raised.
I'm sorry for the long winded boring aspect but I was signed off as "cured" after 13 weeks, at which time i could walk for an hour and a half.
I realise my mission is more suited the the General Chat thread but I wanted anyone else who has the same injury not to be too downhearted when it happens. I was initially informed I wouldn't be "back to normal" for at least six months, to be where I am now is pleasing.
The major difference is I'm retired, I didn't need to be as fit as an athlete and there was zero pressure for a quick recovery. Going down the operation route is fraught with issues regarding infections and general wound care.
I'd like to finish by thanking the NHS for there brilliant care and treatment at Bassetlaw and DRI.
