Muscle tear

[gradyjackjacob]

I recently twisted my knee and was told by the nurse that i tore the muscle at the back of my calf,has anyone had the same problem and how long does t take to heal.

[AgedCrone]

If you mean the gastrocnemius muscle…I tore mine in the gym maybe 20 years ago & as I remember it took a couple of months to heal…but I had no problems afterwards.

But what is amazing ……I recently had some nerve conduction tests and part of the report actually mentioned that muscle had been damaged! These new machines sure go back a long way!

[gradyjackjacob in reply to AgedCrone]

That,s good to hear,many thanks for your quick reply.

[Stills]

in 2020 I ruptured my gastrocnemius and soleus, I didn’t realise the severity at the time and limped about for two weeks developing bursitis on my big toe joint which was taking all the weight. 3 months later with no improvement I paid to see a physio who says it was very bad and unhealed. Months passed as if was during lockdown but eventually got a scan showing huge tear in muscle. Started physio NHS a year after injury. Enthetitis developed, physio exercises helped but swimming was a breakthrough. Over 3 years later, I have a limp snd am limited on walking and all exercise. All footwear has to be flat and accommodate an ankle brace. Last week I was told they will fit me with orthotics next month. This is a worst case scenario and my fault for not going to hospital at the time.

[gradyjackjacob in reply to Stills]

What happened to me was i knocked my knee on the side of the bed and twisted it,i,ve never seen brusing like it it went down the front and back of my leg and right the way around my ankle,,i had an xray and was told that i tore the muscle.Thankfully i havent been through what you have,take care and thank you for replying.

[AgedCrone in reply to Stills]

I’m sorry you had such a bad experience, but It is a good example of how useful early physio really is…..proves the time taken is worth it.

I was lucky as I injured my leg at the gym & we had a physio on staff so what I had done was diagnosed straight away…& apart from it showing up on recent nerve tests I had completely forgotten about .

Looking back…the laugh of it was….I was a few years diagnosed with RA & going to the gym was supposed to help!

[Stills in reply to AgedCrone]

Looking back I’m cross with myself for not seeking medical attention immediately, but I didn’t realise the severity or consequence of trying to walk it off. It’s all my own fault really but it was early lockdown and hospital s were overwhelmed. The pandemic brought early retirement for us both in our early 60s and many of our plans have been abandoned because of my leg such as ball room dancing. I shouldn't complain really as my joints already hurt and dictate activities but it’s just one more thing to put up with, however I’m sure the orthotics will help when I get them next month. I’m hoping to be able to do Pilates but not sure if the leg will take it so will start later this month as a trial and see how it goes.

[AgedCrone in reply to Stills]

I think most people would have done the same…I only got immediate treatment because the instructor wheeled me off to the physio…..I also suspect because I was the oldest in the class by about 20 years..& that I might accuse her of crippling me🤩 I would probably have gone home and put an ice pack on it!

But you are making the best if it & getting on with enjoying your life so good on you! My retirement was scuppered by RA..but I’m still leading a good life….more in the summer though…I hate this cold weather.

Hope the orthotics work.

[Stills in reply to AgedCrone]

I’ll update you once I’ve walked to the pub and back in them a few times 🤣

[AgedCrone in reply to Stills]

Might hurt on the way there..but you’ll be fine as you lurch back🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[medway-lady]

I fell the other year and broke my leg just below the knee and ankle. The muscle was secondary but the bruises from knee to ankle and under my foot lasted for a couple of months. It may have been easier as I had a boot on to heal the breaks. My sympathy to you as it really hurt and I hope you mend quickly.

[gradyjackjacob in reply to medway-lady]

Thank you.

[oldtimer2]

It depends on how badly it's torn. Usually 6-8 weeks for even a fairly minor tear. Use the usual anti-inflammation techniques especially elevation to reduce any swelling. Gentle frequent exercise to heal it up in a good working condition. Physio from a sports physiotherapist would be ideal. There is good advice here: centerfororthosurgery.com/f...

[stbernhard]

No, but I wish you well and hope you'll heal quickly.

[gradyjackjacob in reply to stbernhard]

Thank you.