The Zipperfoot Gimp Limp. This is how I would describe my style of walk. 10 long weeks, leaps and bounds in terms of physical transition. I’m hoping that within the next 10 weeks I will be much closer to my goal of walking without the Gimp Limp.
Weeks 1&2: Post surgery cast and immobilization. Pain, pain killers, lethargy and sleepless nights are what make up the first 2 weeks after my surgery. I have one appointment with the Orthopaedic Specialist post-surgery to change my cast in week 3.
Weeks 3-6: I’ve transitioned into a full hard cast. I get a brief visual of my foot before the second cast is applied. I hobbled around a little more during these weeks; however I was still totally dependent on my crutches. I was doing what I call the 5-10 meter marathons. I start twitching my toe slightly, giving me hope that the tendon was reconnected. I start to notice that my toe is starting to droop back down slightly which again is hopeful that I am on the right track. I have my second appointment with my Orthopaedic Specialist since the surgery. He gives the go ahead to transition to cast number 3 (The stabilizer boot) and requests that I proceed with Physiotherapy. The stabilizer boot will most likely be with me for an indefinite amount of time; it’s removable and makes life a bit easier. I start using a cane, which gives me a little more freedom than the crutches.
Weeks 7-10: Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation. It is the main focus all day, every day. I visit the Clinic at least 3 times a week. I’ve made huge amounts of progress. I dropped the crutches and the cane. We work constantly (and painfully) stretching out the EHL Tendon. I take a one day break once a week to heal the muscle pain in my legs and foot. Inclusive in all this is the electrode, heat and ice therapy.
I plan to return to work partially in the coming weeks, albeit I will be working from home, it will be a gentle integration back into mainstream civilization. Physically I don’t think it will be happening for a long time. I’ve had some candid and “real” conversations with my physiotherapist, I’m still going to be on a heavy physio schedule for November and December. Although we have made progress, the road is still long and winding ahead.
On a side note, a yearly work tradition that I will be missing this December due to my injury, is a Slap Shot competition at the Hockey Hall of Fame that I usually participate in (and win!). Ron Ellis gave me some sage advice about giving up my title last year.
Those who know me will understand. ;)
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