2 weeks post surgery

I had an exciting visit to the ortho today. They removed my splint and stitches and I passed a Thompson's test. The Thompson's test seems to the primary diagnostic for achilles function and seems to require little more than a squeeze on the calf when it is in a relaxed position. Passing this test, the healing of my stitches, and the general lack of swelling seemed to make the doctor (or nurse?) happy. We are a little frustrated with the lack of information about upcoming steps and appointments, but the surgery work seems to have top notch. We just would like better communication about the future so we can make our schedules work.

I have to admit that I was nervous about getting the stitches removed. They put a numbing spray on and it wasn't too bad. Teresa was there and that helped me through the process. Then I went to the connected rehab clinic to get a dynamic brace made. It is basically a custom molded plastic brace with an open back. Seeing my heel again is quite exciting. The picture below is what it looks like (sorry if you don't want to see the surgery area):

I am now allowed to step down on this but the angle it is fixed in doesn't make it very useful yet. And I can remove it to shower and even put a shoe on over this when I go out.

I don't know how much the herbs that I am taking have helped, but everyone seems to be impressed by how I am healing and they certainly haven't slowed me down.

I posted a review of my knee walker last week and here is the requested picture of it. Its interface with my new brace leaves a little to be desired but I think a little padding on the top where it hits my shin should make it manageable.

I decided to take not go to work today as I am adjusting to the new brace but am going to go out and watch some ultimate tonight. It is my 37th birthday on Tuesday and I guess we get to celebrate my excellent recovery so far. Teresa has a busy day at work but we are planning on going out for a fun dinner. For our anniversary last week, I wasn't ready to go out for dinner. I think we'll be double celebrating on Tuesday to make up for the last three weeks of stress and discomfort.