Limb Lengthening Forum
Limb Lengthening Surgery => Limb Lengthening Patients Experiences => Topic started by: BlueHen on July 22, 2019, 04:35:28 AM
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I guess I'll start with a little about me:
- 23 years old, male
- Starting height 176cm
- From a tall European country
- Goal is for 5.5-6cm
I had my operation on the 18th of July, it lasted around 4 hours, everything went well seemingly. I won't talk much about the operation itself, all I will say is when you're lying on that stretcher in the OT you need to be 100% sure this is for you, not 99%; it's an extreme surgery. Dr Pradip had a very good/relaxed manner before/during the operation which helped calm me down (I was shaking like a leaf beforehand).
I'm currently still in hospital, going to guesthouse tomorrow. Not much to report everything seems to be going alright. Harry comes twice a day to help work on the flexion of my feet which is currently not too bad (I was worried about this because I had tight calves even before the surgery with not much foot flexion)
In terms of pain it's been fairly mixed; obviously the first couple of days after surgery the pain was extremely bad but we managed it with constant painkillers. Since then the pain has been on and off but not too bad for the most part, I still need a painkiller to sleep. I had the most extreme pain of my life when the took me for the Xray, they had to move my body onto two different stretchers and my god I thought I was going to pass out :( - but it's better now
Biggest negative for me is that I haven't been able to poop since my surgery, I've taken two doses of some syrup they said might help but I hasn't worked so now I'm going to get an enema. I've been eating well - 3 meals a day and a snack. Annoyingly I have started to have trouble peeing also, I used to be able to pee very well into the bottles they provide but the last 3 times I felt strong sensation to pee only a small amount came out and I felt like I was blocked up, the nurse say it's because I'm bed-bound.
The hospital I'm staying at is really very good, honestly on a par with decent European hospitals. The majority of the nurses speak English and those that don't I am still able to communicate with eventually. Harry and Dr Pradip speak perfect English - I've found them both to be excellent so far. I saw my incisions when my Dr changed my bandages and they looked much better then I expected; they were very small - and that was only 2 days after surgery. I will upload pictures of my frames and Xrays when I'm back at the guesthouse.
Last night Harry helped my bend and straighten my legs while I was sat over the side of the bed. My legs had been straight pretty much constantly for 3 days and I felt sooooo good - a little painful and sore but I felt amazing to stretch them out a bit and it took my mind off the other pain.
For anyone who's been through the surgery before - what do you recommend for pain management when I'm back at the guesthouse?
Thanks.
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I guess I'll start with a little about me:
- 23 years old, male
- Starting height 176cm
- From a tall European country
- Goal is for 5.5-6cm
I had my operation on the 18th of July, it lasted around 4 hours, everything went well seemingly. I won't talk much about the operation itself, all I will say is when you're lying on that stretcher in the OT you need to be 100% sure this is for you, not 99%; it's an extreme surgery. Dr Pradip had a very good/relaxed manner before/during the operation which helped calm me down (I was shaking like a leaf beforehand).
I'm currently still in hospital, going to guesthouse tomorrow. Not much to report everything seems to be going alright. Harry comes twice a day to help work on the flexion of my feet which is currently not too bad (I was worried about this because I had tight calves even before the surgery with not much foot flexion)
In terms of pain it's been fairly mixed; obviously the first couple of days after surgery the pain was extremely bad but we managed it with constant painkillers. Since then the pain has been on and off but not too bad for the most part, I still need a painkiller to sleep. I had the most extreme pain of my life when the took me for the Xray, they had to move my body onto two different stretchers and my god I thought I was going to pass out :( - but it's better now
Biggest negative for me is that I haven't been able to poop since my surgery, I've taken two doses of some syrup they said might help but I hasn't worked so now I'm going to get an enema. I've been eating well - 3 meals a day and a snack. Annoyingly I have started to have trouble peeing also, I used to be able to pee very well into the bottles they provide but the last 3 times I felt strong sensation to pee only a small amount came out and I felt like I was blocked up, the nurse say it's because I'm bed-bound.
The hospital I'm staying at is really very good, honestly on a par with decent European hospitals. The majority of the nurses speak English and those that don't I am still able to communicate with eventually. Harry and Dr Pradip speak perfect English - I've found them both to be excellent so far. I saw my incisions when my Dr changed my bandages and they looked much better then I expected; they were very small - and that was only 2 days after surgery. I will upload pictures of my frames and Xrays when I'm back at the guesthouse.
Last night Harry helped my bend and straighten my legs while I was sat over the side of the bed. My legs had been straight pretty much constantly for 3 days and I felt sooooo good - a little painful and sore but I felt amazing to stretch them out a bit and it took my mind off the other pain.
For anyone who's been through the surgery before - what do you recommend for pain management when I'm back at the guesthouse?
Thanks.
Congratulations for the new beginning I wish you all the best . Keep us updated.
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I guess I'll start with a little about me:
- 23 years old, male
- Starting height 176cm
- From a tall European country
- Goal is for 5.5-6cm
I had my operation on the 18th of July, it lasted around 4 hours, everything went well seemingly. I won't talk much about the operation itself, all I will say is when you're lying on that stretcher in the OT you need to be 100% sure this is for you, not 99%; it's an extreme surgery. Dr Pradip had a very good/relaxed manner before/during the operation which helped calm me down (I was shaking like a leaf beforehand).
I'm currently still in hospital, going to guesthouse tomorrow. Not much to report everything seems to be going alright. Harry comes twice a day to help work on the flexion of my feet which is currently not too bad (I was worried about this because I had tight calves even before the surgery with not much foot flexion)
In terms of pain it's been fairly mixed; obviously the first couple of days after surgery the pain was extremely bad but we managed it with constant painkillers. Since then the pain has been on and off but not too bad for the most part, I still need a painkiller to sleep. I had the most extreme pain of my life when the took me for the Xray, they had to move my body onto two different stretchers and my god I thought I was going to pass out :( - but it's better now
Biggest negative for me is that I haven't been able to poop since my surgery, I've taken two doses of some syrup they said might help but I hasn't worked so now I'm going to get an enema. I've been eating well - 3 meals a day and a snack. Annoyingly I have started to have trouble peeing also, I used to be able to pee very well into the bottles they provide but the last 3 times I felt strong sensation to pee only a small amount came out and I felt like I was blocked up, the nurse say it's because I'm bed-bound.
The hospital I'm staying at is really very good, honestly on a par with decent European hospitals. The majority of the nurses speak English and those that don't I am still able to communicate with eventually. Harry and Dr Pradip speak perfect English - I've found them both to be excellent so far. I saw my incisions when my Dr changed my bandages and they looked much better then I expected; they were very small - and that was only 2 days after surgery. I will upload pictures of my frames and Xrays when I'm back at the guesthouse.
Last night Harry helped my bend and straighten my legs while I was sat over the side of the bed. My legs had been straight pretty much constantly for 3 days and I felt sooooo good - a little painful and sore but I felt amazing to stretch them out a bit and it took my mind off the other pain.
For anyone who's been through the surgery before - what do you recommend for pain management when I'm back at the guesthouse?
Thanks.
Good luck!
Be CAREFUL.
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Hi BlueHen,
First of all congratulations!!! Probably you are staying in the same room where i stayed, i can assure you that you are on safe place and with decent people.
Don't rush for anything, listen to what they say. They will provide medication for pain and if the pain becomes unbearable they even give the I.V. painkiller also.
Be shameless to ask anything you feel for, Harry is helpful.
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Thank you very much Akito,
I've heard a lot about you! Nurses at the hospital still talk about you - I hope your recovery is going well
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I moved to the guesthouse yesterday. I beats being the in the hospital. The feeling of wheeling myself to the bathroom and having a shave/washing my hair was amazing!
Unfortunately, today I woke up with really bad pain in my calves, but my right one in particular. I thought it was tightness but Harry says they are not that tight, it feels like a massive extra painful bruise on the back of leg and really hurts where the pins go in (not the skin level pin site but the pin inside the leg).
Harry has me doing some new exercises to develop some strength in my femurs which feel good, he helps me with them twice a day - he also gave me sandals to combat my foot dropping which I'm finding really good, they really reduce my pain when lying down.
I start lengthening very soon which I'm excited about. Only other issue is that I have only managed one poop since surgery, with the assistance of an enema, and that was the day before yesterday. I hope I can again soon - I am taking some kind of laxative syrup and pills.
I have some pictures to post can someone tell me how to post them here?
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I have some pictures to post can someone tell me how to post them here?
to upload pic follow this link - http://www.limblengtheningforum.com/index.php?topic=2183.0
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Congratulations! May God give you strength and hope to see your journey with quick updates.
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I started lengthening a few days ago. After today I should be at 7mm total (including the small gap set during operation). Everything still seems to be going OK. I work hard with physiotherapy: twice a day with Harry, twice a day on my own doing exercises Harry has shown me. So far there is no sign of ballerina, but my feet are slowly kind of starting to face in - like the soles of my feet are turning towards each other, it's not bad yet but I'm a bit worried because I find it harder to combat than ballerina. Harry has given me some tips on preventing it.
Pain has been mostly low which is good. I did have one day of bad nerve pain in my left leg - it went from my lower back to my foot and was pretty bad, whenever I tried to lift my leg 1cm it was extremely painful. As I was doing a stretch with my band where I stretch my calf by pulling the upper part of my foot in I heard a massive click and had a very bad shooting pain in my back, but then after about 5 seconds it went away and I was totally pain free! I've had the nerve pain once since and I did the same thing and it cured it again.
As far as lengthening goes, I've had no pain during lengthening. The only thing I have noticed is a swelling on my skin where the gap in the bone is which is apparently slightly unusual but not a bad sign (I'm not worried about it). I do feel some pain in the gap only when I am wheeling myself around my room on my chair with my legs gently - I suppose it's the feeling of the gap pushing against the nail - I'm not worried about it damaging anything/interfering with my LL but I do worry that it is a sign that using my legs will be painful even long after I remove my fixator, but I'll have to wait and see.
But for the most part I am happy with how smooth my journey has started, I just hope it stays this way with no complications.
You find with this surgery that there is a 'baseline' level of pain and discomfort associated with wearing the fixators and having 2 broken legs which, after you get used to it, isn't that bad. All the little (and not so little) pains on top of that tough - like nerve pain, pain from physio, e.c.t which come and go are what you worry about. It's funny how good you feel to be at the 'baseline' level and how you long to get back there when you are experiencing an extra pain. I am extremely grateful for every day of 'basline' pain! After a while you don't notice it, you have no problem sleeping with it.
I will try and embed some images of my Xrays and a couple of images of my hospital room.
<blockquote class="imgur-embed-pub" lang="en" data-id="a/5SVzrUs"><a href="//imgur.com/a/5SVzrUs"></a></blockquote><script async src="//s.imgur.com/min/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="imgur-embed-pub" lang="en" data-id="a/8X36JNs"><a href="//imgur.com/a/8X36JNs"></a></blockquote><script async src="//s.imgur.com/min/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="imgur-embed-pub" lang="en" data-id="nYDVXxG"><a href="//imgur.com/nYDVXxG"></a></blockquote><script async src="//s.imgur.com/min/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Let's try that again..
https://imgur.com/a/5SVzrUs (https://imgur.com/a/5SVzrUs)
https://imgur.com/a/8X36JNs (https://imgur.com/a/8X36JNs)
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Let's try that again..
https://imgur.com/a/5SVzrUs (https://imgur.com/a/5SVzrUs)
https://imgur.com/a/8X36JNs (https://imgur.com/a/8X36JNs)
This looks good. Keep update.
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Had my second set of Xrays today. On paper I should have been at exactly 10.25mm on both legs. My Xrays showed 9.7mm on my right and 12.8mm on my left. The funny thing is, yesterday during physio Harry was feeling around my bone gently to inspect it and he said he thought there was a small discrepancy 'about 1.2cm on your left and just under 1 cm on your right'. - he was spot on. I'm happy with the Xrays; there is even a little bit of callous already which is good for this stage apparently. The only thing I notice about the Xrays is that my left leg (the 12.8mm one) seems slightly misaligned, although looking back at my Xrays immediately after surgery it was similar so hopefully if I increase the gap to about 5-5.5cm it will be OK. I will attach my Xrays below
I'm still lengthening at 1mm/day on both legs for now. Looking at my timeline - I really want to have my frames removed by 1st of October. That leaves 60 days after today for a further 4-4.5cm of lengthening. Doesn't leave me much slack considering I want to slow down to 0.66-0.75mm/day at some point, but it's doable if I don't encounter any complications, or if I am able to lengthen at 1mm/day until around 4cm. But I'll have to wait and see how my body reacts.
Not much else to report. Pain is still OK, but I'm finding it hard to to sleep. Harry has given me some tramadol, but I'm not sure I want to start taking it as I have heard it can be addictive; as long as I can bear the pain without it I will. The worst of the pain I get when trying to sleep is in my ankles, I would describe it as an ache but intense, still only about a 3-4 on the pain scale but it's annoying. I have pain during physio too actually, as you would expect.
https://imgur.com/k92hBQz (https://imgur.com/k92hBQz)
(http://<blockquote class="imgur-embed-pub" lang="en" data-id="a/VZ0NLIC" data-context="false" ><a href="//imgur.com/a/VZ0NLIC"></a></blockquote><script async src="//s.imgur.com/min/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script>)
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Congratulations on your successful surgery. You are gonna do well since you have a positive approach. Harry is a great human being and is going to help you all through your LL journey. Your X-ray looks great as well. Don't forget to have fun. It's a journey you will never forget. Best of luck from my side.
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It’s great start X-ray looks good, Keep up the sprite think positive everything will go well.
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Thanks for your encouraging words guys - Adward thank you for your diary, it was one of the main reasons for me choosing Dr Pradip/Harry and so far I am very happy with my choice. I hope your recovery is going well :)
I should be around 1.5cm by now, still no complications.
Right after my last post I had a fall. I was in my room by myself, wheeling myself to the bathroom on my 5 wheel chair and I must have shifted my weight or something but next thing I knew I was on the floor. I froze for a couple of seconds, fortunately I had one hand on the bed so not all the weight went on my legs. I pulled myself up onto my bed, took a painkiller immediately because the pain was bad and inspected my frames. I could tell nothing was wrong and this wouldn't be a major setback.
I'm pretty sure the fall did no damage. I haven't taken any painkiller since that night (so about 4 days) - in fact, since I've been in the guesthouse I haven't taken a painkiller stronger than a paracetamol ever, so I must be pretty lucky so far regarding pain.
The only negative is that since yesterday I have had pain in my right shin (in the gap in the bone) whenever i try to extend my right leg. When I'm not moving it's fine but it totally prevents me from doing some of the rehab with Harry on my right leg, I have no similar pain on my left. Harry suggested to take it easy on my right leg for a few days and see if that helps. We've also noticed that the right leg has a little bit of swelling over the gap whereas the left leg doesn't - so that maybe the cause, I'm icing it and elevating it as much as possible. I'm not very concerned about this because Harry says shin pain in normal and the pain you really want to watch out for is nerve pain/loss of sensation of which I have none.
Apart from that everything is still going smooth, I'm hoping it continues like this until at least 3cm. I'm already 1/5 of the way through my time in India and hopefully I have less than 2 months left in frames...
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right side fibula seems growing slower than rest the bone. Take some more Calcium and Vitamin D daily to improve bone growth!!
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Day 24
Still lengthening at 1mm/day, no issues yet. On paper I hit 2cm tomorrow
The pain in the gap in my right leg has disappeared and the swelling is gone thanks to some anti-inflammatorys Harry gave me. I'm able to do all physiotherapy again. Been having a bad pain in my left ankle though, I think it's because I slept with my left leg on the side and the weight of my leg was on 2 of my pins. I think I'm starting to lose a little flexion in my left foot, nothing major when I sit my heels still touch the floor easily without me thinking about it/without any stretch in my calf.
Harry says I will have another Xray in 8 days which I'm looking forward to; I'm very curious to see if the gap is the same as on paper and my callus.
My max goal is definitely going to be 5.5cm I think, and my minimum 5.2cm as that is exactly 2 inches. The reasons are 2 fold:
1) It should mean a much quicker recovery
2) I'm worried about friends and family noticing the height change. I have told none of them and I don't intend in it, before the surgery my shoes added 1.5" I'm going to find the flattest shoes on earth to go back in so hopefully they won't notice the change - maybe I can slouch half an inch too lol?
Any vets reading this I would be really curious to know if your friends/family noticed the height change?
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Good brother , you doing good follow what they suggesting do your hard work now don't be lazy during lengthening so follow all the exercises.
Keep update .
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Hi Bluehen ,what is your status now?
I am also want to do surgery in India so want to ask few questions if you don't mind?
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Day 31
It's exactly one month since my surgery. I've been lengthening my right leg at 1.25mm/day just for 4 days to try and catch up to my left since there was a 3mm difference. On paper I should be at 2.7cm on my right and 2.9cm on my left by the end of today. I am getting an Xray soon.
My condition is still fine, no ballerina yet - although my left foot is slightly worse than my right, it is starting to curl inwards just slightly - when I sit with my feet on the floor the outside of my left foot hits the floor and the inside takes a second to touch the floor too, but it's not bad.
I have a little bit of pin cutting which is slightly painful, but it's only a few mm - I have some vitamin C tablets that are supposed to help with my skin and my skin does seem to be healing quickly. Apart from that very little pain - my left ankle is still a bit painful at the pin.
I'm happy with how things have gone so far, I feel like this Xray is the big one; I'm quite nervous about it tbh. I feel like if it is good, insofar as the gap is >2.4cm and the callus/alligment looks ok, then I will probably reach my goal for frame removal. I think my body can easily handle 1mm/day for a bit longer, maybe even for the entire 5.2cm. I really want my frames removed by late September.
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Hi Bluehen ,what is your status now?
I am also want to do surgery in India so want to ask few questions if you don't mind?
Sure Joker, go ahead
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Day 31
It's exactly one month since my surgery. I've been lengthening my right leg at 1.25mm/day just for 4 days to try and catch up to my left since there was a 3mm difference. On paper I should be at 2.7cm on my right and 2.9cm on my left by the end of today. I am getting an Xray soon.
My condition is still fine, no ballerina yet - although my left foot is slightly worse than my right, it is starting to curl inwards just slightly - when I sit with my feet on the floor the outside of my left foot hits the floor and the inside takes a second to touch the floor too, but it's not bad.
I have a little bit of pin cutting which is slightly painful, but it's only a few mm - I have some vitamin C tablets that are supposed to help with my skin and my skin does seem to be healing quickly. Apart from that very little pain - my left ankle is still a bit painful at the pin.
I'm happy with how things have gone so far, I feel like this Xray is the big one; I'm quite nervous about it tbh. I feel like if it is good, insofar as the gap is >2.4cm and the callus/alligment looks ok, then I will probably reach my goal for frame removal. I think my body can easily handle 1mm/day for a bit longer, maybe even for the entire 5.2cm. I really want my frames removed by late September.
Doing good man keep us update , this is very helpful.
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Thank you Bluehen.
Why did you choose Dr Pradeep Sharma ? How is everything there food stay and Physio ?
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Thank you Bluehen.
Why did you choose Dr Pradeep Sharma ? How is everything there food stay and Physio ?
1) I spoke with lots of Indian doctors and had phone consultations with the 2 that ticked all my boxes (Dr Pradeep and Sarin) and I was just really impressed with Dr Pradeep. For example - I have a very rare slight condition in a part of my bones in my lower body (I don't want to say what for anonymity) and I wasn't sure if Dr Pradeep would have heard of it in English. He told me on the spot exactly why it doesn't affect my ability to get LL and his answer was exactly the same as the answers I had gotten via email from Dr Guichet and Solomin. I also had the chance to speak to current patients for both Dr's - I strongly suggest you do the same, call all the Dr's you are considering, write down some questions beforehand.
2) The food is fine, I get 3 meals a day - they're pretty flexible with what they'll give you, at first they gave me some food I wasn't really liking so I just let them know and they give you other stuff. I prefer mainly the Indian food they do so I get that most days. I also eat a lot of protein bars and have a protein shake everyday (I just order them from Amazon)
3) Physio I give 10/10. Harry does all the physio and he is amazing, he has probably seen more cosmetic limb lengthening cases than any other physio on earth lol. He is really highly educated as a physiotherapist and he actually owns his own physiotherapy clinic here in Gurgaon which I didn't know before. He stretches my feet/calves really well to avoid ballerina and monitors my condition closely. He comes twice a day and also does strength exercises for my quads and hip abductors (these help with walking I believe)
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Just got back from my 3rd Xrays - I'm very happy with them. On paper I should be 2.8cm on my right and 3.0cm on my left based on what I've turned since my last Xray. The gap is pretty much exactly that. Harry also says my callus is good considering I'm only about 34 days post surgery and I've already lengthened near enough 3 cm. I'm optimistic about reaching my goal of 5.3cm in September and removing fixators late September.
https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC (https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC)
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Just got back from my 3rd Xrays - I'm very happy with them. On paper I should be 2.8cm on my right and 3.0cm on my left based on what I've turned since my last Xray. The gap is pretty much exactly that. Harry also says my callus is good considering I'm only about 34 days post surgery and I've already lengthened near enough 3 cm. I'm optimistic about reaching my goal of 5.3cm in September and removing fixators late September.
https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC (https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC)
Good luck brother...
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Your X-ray is looking good and so as the callus. I would really like to meet the doctor. I would really appreciate if you can give me any contact details to them.
I am definitely not going to Dr Sarin so I guess I can take a chance to conversate with Dr Pradip/ Harry.
Thanks in order brother.
Keep us updated.
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Just got back from my 3rd Xrays - I'm very happy with them. On paper I should be 2.8cm on my right and 3.0cm on my left based on what I've turned since my last Xray. The gap is pretty much exactly that. Harry also says my callus is good considering I'm only about 34 days post surgery and I've already lengthened near enough 3 cm. I'm optimistic about reaching my goal of 5.3cm in September and removing fixators late September.
https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC (https://imgur.com/a/NNkL4oC)
X-ray looks good bro, Keep is update.
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Day 36
Should be at 3.3cm on left and 3.2cm on right by the end of today.
Ah man people say things get harder around 3cm and they're dead right. Everything is a lot more uncomfortable now. I have slight pain in both my knees (it's a different kind of pain in both knees). When I straighten my legs I feel a stretch at the back of knee and it's getting harder to straighten them. My ankles are aching a lot and getting stiffer, still when I sit my heels touch the ground but it's not automatic anymore, I have to think about it. One of my pin-sites is killing me, every time I bend or straighten the leg it feels like it's cutting through 5mm of fresh skin - it's just healed super weird after being cleaned.
At least I've had no complications so far, and the finish line is in sight - I want my frames removed by Sept 20th, as long as i'm at or above 5cm in both legs. I'm going to discuss slowing my rate down to .75mm/day with Harry.
I'm so curious to see what life post frames is like. I keep having the weirdest dreams about my frames where I'm meeting my friends in a few hours so I have to take my frames off myself so they don't find out about my LL lol. And I had a dream that I'm pre-LL, walking along the rocks on some cliff face with the sea behind me and I see my parents on the beach having a picnic. My dad smiles at me and turns back to his lunch, my mum smiles at me then looks me up and down and looks sad/looks away. I continue towards them but when I look down to see what my mum was looking at I notice I'm wearing my frames, and I collapse on the rocks.
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Your X-ray is looking good and so as the callus. I would really like to meet the doctor. I would really appreciate if you can give me any contact details to them.
I am definitely not going to Dr Sarin so I guess I can take a chance to conversate with Dr Pradip/ Harry.
Thanks in order brother.
Keep us updated.
Harry arranges everything here - his whatsapp is +919560867721
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Harry arranges everything here - his whatsapp is +919560867721
Thank for the reply.
I had a word with him he is asking for some booking amount I am bit confused weather should I trust him with or not so just a quick query, how you paid ?
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Thank for the reply.
I had a word with him he is asking for some booking amount I am bit confused weather should I trust him with or not so just a quick query, how you paid ?
Yeah I paid $1000 to book the surgery, the rest I paid in India. I used an app called Transferwise to transfer the money because it saves money on the exchange - but it can be slow, can take a few days to complete transfer.
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Day 41
Everything continues to get harder the further I lengthen. 3 of my pin-sites are stinging like hell from pin cutting even though it doesn't look that bad. Ankle/knee flexion is getting harder. I just have more pain in general and was finding it much harder to sleep. I started taking Tramadol for the first time, I take it around 9pm and even though I have read that it can cause insomnia it has been a miracle for sending me to sleep. I've taken it the last 3 nights and fallen asleep within about 15 minutes of midnight and barley woken up in the night which is amazing.
I forgot to mention since 3cm I have been standing with a walker. I really like it, it feels weird with the pressure in my pins, but it feels good and I can feel the blood flow to my legs and feel my legs regaining strength. I've been lengthening at .75mm/day for the last 4 days and plan to continue at this rate from now on.
I just keep saying get through August then as soon as September starts it's only 20 days until frame removal - 20 days is nothing. I should be getting an xray around Sep 2nd, by then I should be just shy of 4cm in both legs.
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Day 47
Had Xrays yesterday, was expecting just over 4cm on both legs, got 4.08cm on my left and 3.84cm on my right. It's weird because I've lengthened my right 3mm more but it hasn't caught up. Still it's not far off. Will attach Xrays below
I've been in agony the last couple of days. 2 days ago I woke up with extreme swelling on my left ankle and it's not going down and it is causing me sooooo much pain; by far the worst pain I've had since day 3 after surgery. The worst of the swelling is right on the 2 pins on the outside of my ankle and it is causing so much pain at the pin, lot's of pin cutting and a deep, sharp, constant pain right through to my ankle bone. I would say it's a 6 on the pain scale when resting and an 8-9 during physio, painkillers maybe knock it down just by 1 point. I've been elevating it for 6+hours a day and icing it but it's not going down.
I cannot wait for frame removal, I should reach my goal of 5.2cm by the 18th, but I'm worried my right leg still won't have caught up (even though I will lengthen it 3mm more than my left) and that will delay frame removal as I will need another set of Xrays to check my gaps are equal length.
https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc (https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc)
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Day 47
Had Xrays yesterday, was expecting just over 4cm on both legs, got 4.08cm on my left and 3.84cm on my right. It's weird because I've lengthened my right 3mm more but it hasn't caught up. Still it's not far off. Will attach Xrays below
I've been in agony the last couple of days. 2 days ago I woke up with extreme swelling on my left ankle and it's not going down and it is causing me sooooo much pain; by far the worst pain I've had since day 3 after surgery. The worst of the swelling is right on the 2 pins on the outside of my ankle and it is causing so much pain at the pin, lot's of pin cutting and a deep, sharp, constant pain right through to my ankle bone. I would say it's a 6 on the pain scale when resting and an 8-9 during physio, painkillers maybe knock it down just by 1 point. I've been elevating it for 6+hours a day and icing it but it's not going down.
I cannot wait for frame removal, I should reach my goal of 5.2cm by the 18th, but I'm worried my right leg still won't have caught up (even though I will lengthen it 3mm more than my left) and that will delay frame removal as I will need another set of Xrays to check my gaps are equal length.
https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc (https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc)
Hi BlueHen,
Don't be upset this is just another phase of the journey, mostly when you going towards the end of it. I also faced the pain and swelling but it will be fine don't take too much stress because stress also cause negative effect on your recovery.
And about the difference in length, its not something that can't be correct.Have patience and faith everything will be alright. Your Xray looks good even better than mine.
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Day 47
Had Xrays yesterday, was expecting just over 4cm on both legs, got 4.08cm on my left and 3.84cm on my right. It's weird because I've lengthened my right 3mm more but it hasn't caught up. Still it's not far off. Will attach Xrays below
I've been in agony the last couple of days. 2 days ago I woke up with extreme swelling on my left ankle and it's not going down and it is causing me sooooo much pain; by far the worst pain I've had since day 3 after surgery. The worst of the swelling is right on the 2 pins on the outside of my ankle and it is causing so much pain at the pin, lot's of pin cutting and a deep, sharp, constant pain right through to my ankle bone. I would say it's a 6 on the pain scale when resting and an 8-9 during physio, painkillers maybe knock it down just by 1 point. I've been elevating it for 6+hours a day and icing it but it's not going down.
I cannot wait for frame removal, I should reach my goal of 5.2cm by the 18th, but I'm worried my right leg still won't have caught up (even though I will lengthen it 3mm more than my left) and that will delay frame removal as I will need another set of Xrays to check my gaps are equal length.
https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc (https://imgur.com/41Xbrhc)
You r almost done, don't worry I had same problem when I was lengthening the left to catch up the right, sometimes ur muscle push back ur bone so it is expected.
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Congratulations, Your X-ray looks good and I believe Arabic man and adios are right. You are almost done good luck.
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Day 54
Thanks for your supporting words guys, means a lot considering 2 of you have gone through the same recently.
My condition is still fine, no ballerina yet, should be around 4.7cm as of today. I do have quite a lot of pain though, which is normal I guess at this stage. Some of the pain comes from pin cutting which is rather bad on some pins, but it's an entirely superficial pain. The rest of the pain is in my left ankle, the swelling has gone down quite a lot but my left ankle still hurts at the pin.
I'm standing everyday with walker, although I am now putting 100% of my weight on my legs. At first when I stand my heels do not touch the floor but after a minute they do, Harry says this is to do with pin tightness and not actually ballerina yet which is good.
I'm having, hopefully, my last Xray on the 18th after that unless there is a problem with the length of the gap Harry will book for frame removal ASAP. I really hope we manage to get frame removal quickly after Xray because I think it will help with recovery, right now physical therapy is very painful because of the pin pain.
Can't believe I'm almost done with the lengthening part, in about 10 days I will never spend another day of life in frames. It's a shame they have started to cause me pain this last week because in a weird way I know I will miss some things about them - the turning, sitting up, hugging my arms under my legs and just admiring the engineering of them, everyday it seems I find something new that I didn't know about them. But on balance of course I'm soooooo excited for frame removal - I can't imagine how light my legs are going to feel after removal, it will be weird.
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Hi BlueHen. How did you find Dr Pradip Sharma? And why him only? Considering most westerners are afraid of getting it done in India.
What was the cost of approx cost of the procedure?
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Hi BlueHen. How did you find Dr Pradip Sharma? And why him only? Considering most westerners are afraid of getting it done in India.
What was the cost of approx cost of the procedure?
Hi Thatguy,
I found Dr Sharma through this forum. I called every doctor within my price range for a phone consultation and Dr Sharma was my favourite for many reason. I also liked the set-up with physio twice daily provided by Harry who I knew had very good LL knowledge. I couldn't tell why I wasn't afraid of India, I really wanted to get this surgery done when I was young. I have been following the forums (here and the old forum) since 2014, observing everyone's outcomes and I thought with careful planning and conservative goals I could have success with India, I still believe that.
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Wonderful mate. Congratulations!
Does he offer stryde? How much was the cost? (You can PM me the cost if you find telling here uncomfortable.)
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Wonderful mate. Congratulations!
Does he offer stryde? How much was the cost? (You can PM me the cost if you find telling here uncomfortable.)
Thanks!
No he doesn't offer stryde atm, just LON Tibia lengthening. The price is $15,000 which includes everything for 3 months(accommodation, food, physiotherapy, e.c.t)
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Day 61
Went for Xrays today - I actually have got more length than I was expecting. I was expected around 5.2cm on both legs, I got 5.6 on my right and 5.4 on my left. I'll attach below
I'm happy with the Xrays, I going to lengthen my left 1mm and shorten my right 1mm to hopefully even them out, they will be measured again on the operating table during frame removal to ensure they are equal. Hopefully I will be removing frames very soon.
I'm very happy to be done lengthening. I was starting to get knee bending - I can only keep my legs straight for maybe 10 minutes before my hamstrings feel too stretched. And my ankles are really tight, when I stand for a few minutes my heels touch the floor 90% but they are maybe 0.5cm off the ground at the back so I was starting to get ballerina.
Can't wait to remove frames, now I can focus fully on recovery and forget about lengthening!
https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A (https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A)
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Ha - that must have been cheap for you being a European.
Why stop at 5.6cm though?
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Day 61
Went for Xrays today - I actually have got more length than I was expecting. I was expected around 5.2cm on both legs, I got 5.6 on my right and 5.4 on my left. I'll attach below
I'm happy with the Xrays, I going to lengthen my left 1mm and shorten my right 1mm to hopefully even them out, they will be measured again on the operating table during frame removal to ensure they are equal. Hopefully I will be removing frames very soon.
I'm very happy to be done lengthening. I was starting to get knee bending - I can only keep my legs straight for maybe 10 minutes before my hamstrings feel too stretched. And my ankles are really tight, when I stand for a few minutes my heels touch the floor 90% but they are maybe 0.5cm off the ground at the back so I was starting to get ballerina.
Can't wait to remove frames, now I can focus fully on recovery and forget about lengthening!
https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A (https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A)
Please minus 15 % from computerised measurement
It is always more than your real lengthening amount becouse of magnification.
Tell your Dr. Next time use metal scale for better result.
And your left tibia look crooked and misaligned
You must have foot inversion or Everson. Or you may have permanent knee pain.
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Please minus 15 % from computerised measurement
It is always more than your real lengthening amount becouse of magnification.
Tell your Dr. Next time use metal scale for better result.
And your left tibia look crooked and misaligned
You must have foot inversion or Everson. Or you may have permanent knee pain.
Hi Indian Girl,
Nope. Thanks for your concern though.
I hope your lengthening is going well, best of luck!
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Ha - that must have been cheap for you being a European.
Why stop at 5.6cm though?
Recovery is a top priority of mine, more so than an extra cm or two
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Your callus looks very strong in X-rays. Can I ask you if you use any supplements and how your diet looks like?
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Day 61
Went for Xrays today - I actually have got more length than I was expecting. I was expected around 5.2cm on both legs, I got 5.6 on my right and 5.4 on my left. I'll attach below
I'm happy with the Xrays, I going to lengthen my left 1mm and shorten my right 1mm to hopefully even them out, they will be measured again on the operating table during frame removal to ensure they are equal. Hopefully I will be removing frames very soon.
I'm very happy to be done lengthening. I was starting to get knee bending - I can only keep my legs straight for maybe 10 minutes before my hamstrings feel too stretched. And my ankles are really tight, when I stand for a few minutes my heels touch the floor 90% but they are maybe 0.5cm off the ground at the back so I was starting to get ballerina.
Can't wait to remove frames, now I can focus fully on recovery and forget about lengthening!
https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A (https://imgur.com/Hhdjo4A)
Hi Brother
Xray looks perfect.
God bless you for your recovery. Bone formation is also there. Now the major part comes once the frame remove, work on your muscles. You will be fine in no time. Your journey being very calculus. PERFECT.
Best of luck....
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Your callus looks very strong in X-rays. Can I ask you if you use any supplements and how your diet looks like?
Hi Tallpersonality - thanks!
I supplement 1200mg of calcium and 5000 IU of vitamin D3 every day. My diet is high protein - lots of protein shakes/protein bars/chicken/eggs. Tbh I'm planning on changing my diet because I have only been eating around 2500 calories/day and I have read it is better to eat around 4000+ (I gotten much skinner since the surgery too)
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Hi Brother
Xray looks perfect.
God bless you for your recovery. Bone formation is also there. Now the major part comes once the frame remove, work on your muscles. You will be fine in no time. Your journey being very calculus. PERFECT.
Best of luck....
Thank you Adios, yes I am looking forward to finishing this first chapter of the journey. Harry has confirmed I'm removing my frames tomorrow morning, very excited!
Hope your recovery is still going well :)
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Hi
Bluehen how are you ? Is your frame removed or not ?
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Day 69
I had my frames removed on Saturday the 21st. I Was in and out of the hospital in about 8 hours, went fairly smooth I think. Had some really bad pain right when I woke up after the surgery. I told the nurse it was a 9 on the scale and she gave me a painkiller in my IV, after about 20 minutes the pain went right down.
I've had a lot of swelling around the ankles and where they insert the nails at the bottom of the tibia which is to be expected, it is going down slowly. My ankles feel painful sometimes, I'm not sure what it is. Apart from that I have no pain, I haven't thought about taking a painkiller since the day after surgery.
My tibia's look so long! You don't notice until you take frames off (they're also skinny as hell which adds to it). My legs feel so weak right now.
I must admit I feel strange right now, I'm not sure why, I feel probably the lowest I have since I arrived in India. Even though everything is going according to plan and there have been no complications; I just feel weird. I guess I'm getting sick of my total lack of mobility, I really hope it picks up soon, even if it just means walking with crutches I'll be happy. Sleeping is much harder then it was in frames for some strange reason. I used to fall asleep within an hour, now it takes 2-3 hours.
I do feel these next few weeks are probably going to be a low point, and I'm prepared for that. Hopefully once I've made it through them I will slowly start to rebuild strength.
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Congratulations man .
I also made my with Dr Pradeep Sharma will join you soon.
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Day 69
I had my frames removed on Saturday the 21st. I Was in and out of the hospital in about 8 hours, went fairly smooth I think. Had some really bad pain right when I woke up after the surgery. I told the nurse it was a 9 on the scale and she gave me a painkiller in my IV, after about 20 minutes the pain went right down.
I've had a lot of swelling around the ankles and where they insert the nails at the bottom of the tibia which is to be expected, it is going down slowly. My ankles feel painful sometimes, I'm not sure what it is. Apart from that I have no pain, I haven't thought about taking a painkiller since the day after surgery.
My tibia's look so long! You don't notice until you take frames off (they're also skinny as hell which adds to it). My legs feel so weak right now.
I must admit I feel strange right now, I'm not sure why, I feel probably the lowest I have since I arrived in India. Even though everything is going according to plan and there have been no complications; I just feel weird. I guess I'm getting sick of my total lack of mobility, I really hope it picks up soon, even if it just means walking with crutches I'll be happy. Sleeping is much harder then it was in frames for some strange reason. I used to fall asleep within an hour, now it takes 2-3 hours.
I do feel these next few weeks are probably going to be a low point, and I'm prepared for that. Hopefully once I've made it through them I will slowly start to rebuild strength.
That is strange, you should feel more comfortable now , probably because quite heavy weight gone from your legs after months. Don’t worry you will be fine. I guess the feeling of walking tall would worth the discomfort.
All the Best and keep us updated.
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Day 75
Things are starting to improve slowly. Standing/walking with walker has become easy, I feel I am ready for crutches, Harry says we may start with them next week. My legs are feeling stronger and my ankles are feeling less tight already. I still occasionally have a slight pain just above my ankles
I will go for an Xray soon (probably next week) to see how much callus there is/see how much weight-bearing I can do.
Strangely my sleeping is still worse than it was when I was in frames, but it is starting to improve.
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Day 75
Things are starting to improve slowly. Standing/walking with walker has become easy, I feel I am ready for crutches, Harry says we may start with them next week. My legs are feeling stronger and my ankles are feeling less tight already. I still occasionally have a slight pain just above my ankles
I will go for an Xray soon (probably next week) to see how much callus there is/see how much weight-bearing I can do.
Strangely my sleeping is still worse than it was when I was in frames, but it is starting to improve.
Great brother, things getting improve .
Keep us update
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Congratulations , is that possible for you to post some actual photo or videos , I am curious to see the shape of your feet.
Quite a precise diary. I am not very cognisant about this but quite a qualm how everything has completed on exact timing.
Please don’t get offended I am just a newbie here and everything seems perfect with all the Dr Pradeep Sharma’s patients.
It’ seems fallacious.
I wish I am wrong but would actually like to see you walk.
All the best.
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Day 75
Things are starting to improve slowly. Standing/walking with walker has become easy, I feel I am ready for crutches, Harry says we may start with them next week. My legs are feeling stronger and my ankles are feeling less tight already. I still occasionally have a slight pain just above my ankles
I will go for an Xray soon (probably next week) to see how much callus there is/see how much weight-bearing I can do.
Strangely my sleeping is still worse than it was when I was in frames, but it is starting to improve.
All the best brother you doing good.
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Congratulations , is that possible for you to post some actual photo or videos , I am curious to see the shape of your feet.
Quite a precise diary. I am not very cognisant about this but quite a qualm how everything has completed on exact timing.
Please don’t get offended I am just a newbie here and everything seems perfect with all the Dr Pradeep Sharma’s patients.
It’ seems fallacious.
I wish I am wrong but would actually like to see you walk.
All the best.
Hey Atypical,
Not gonna be posting any videos/photos anytime soon. I'm very concerned about anonymity. 90% of diaries do not post videos, I have been 100% honest with everything I have written and provided all Xrays if you do not believe me I can't help you.
I wouldn't say things have gone perfect yet, I'm not even walking on crutches yet. I still have all my mobility to get back.
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Day 80
Went for my first Xrays since frame removal yesterday. Harry says the callus is good, I can't really see that much callus tbh but it's only a couple weeks since frame removal. I was expecting a little more callus tbh. Xray attached below
https://imgur.com/a/jh6S4yI (https://imgur.com/a/jh6S4yI)
Everything else is going alright, no pain expect for a tiny bit just above the ankles occasionally. I really want to improve my mobility over the next couple of weeks it is very important to me, Harry says we will start walking with crutches this week.
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Great brother, Your callus looks good , fibula almost join.
Have you start walk or not yet.
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Day 80
Went for my first Xrays since frame removal yesterday. Harry says the callus is good, I can't really see that much callus tbh but it's only a couple weeks since frame removal. I was expecting a little more callus tbh. Xray attached below
Callus formation is good to start with. It’ll eventually get better and better when you start walking. Good luck for your upcoming journey. Nice diary. Keep us updated.
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Day 84
I started walking with crutches 3 days ago. First time I used them I walked up and down my hallway once and as I was a few steps away from my room I almost fainted! My vision went completely black and Harry had to help me sit down. I threw up a tiny bit and felt fine after 5 minutes. I think this happened because I hadn't drunk enough water that day and it was my first time properly walking in so long. Happily, since then my walking with crutches has improved massively and feels really good/smooth - it almost feels like I'm walking normally (even though I'm surely not) with just a little support under my armpits.
I have decided I will post 2 videos. One today showing me walking with a walker during physio (it's nothing special but I don't want to show crutches because they're my personal crutches). And I will post one more video in about 2-3 months when I am walking unaided normally (Harry says I am 1 month from walking unaided)
https://imgur.com/a/PeW8hsk (https://imgur.com/a/PeW8hsk)
I have no pain apart from occasionally during walking at the bottom screws I feel pressure/pain there.
I fly home in 2 days and will no longer be updating this regularly. I do promise to return in 2-3 months to share my progress. If anyone wishes to ask me any questions you can PM me, I may login from time to time.
Thanks to everyone who has given me advice and encouragement, good luck to anyone who's going through this!
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Day 84
I started walking with crutches 3 days ago. First time I used them I walked up and down my hallway once and as I was a few steps away from my room I almost fainted! My vision went completely black and Harry had to help me sit down. I threw up a tiny bit and felt fine after 5 minutes. I think this happened because I hadn't drunk enough water that day and it was my first time properly walking in so long. Happily, since then my walking with crutches has improved massively and feels really good/smooth - it almost feels like I'm walking normally (even though I'm surely not) with just a little support under my armpits.
I have decided I will post 2 videos. One today showing me walking with a walker during physio (it's nothing special but I don't want to show crutches because they're my personal crutches). And I will post one more video in about 2-3 months when I am walking unaided normally (Harry says I am 1 month from walking unaided)
https://imgur.com/a/PeW8hsk (https://imgur.com/a/PeW8hsk)
I have no pain apart from occasionally during walking at the bottom screws I feel pressure/pain there.
I fly home in 2 days and will no longer be updating this regularly. I do promise to return in 2-3 months to share my progress. If anyone wishes to ask me any questions you can PM me, I may login from time to time.
Thanks to everyone who has given me advice and encouragement, good luck to anyone who's going through this!
Congratulations BlueHen , Thank you for uploading video. You started walking very early and your feet also looks flat in video means you have no ballerina that's great.Now i understand they people working seriously hard. Sorry for the prejudice.
Mobility will come gradually and you will be walking good in no time i wish.
You are leaving is good sign. All the best for the recovery. Please keep the story coming how it goes.
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Congratulations brother.
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Hi BlueHen ,
What is your status after reaching home ?
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Hi BlueHen ,
What is your status after reaching home ?
All good. Won't be doing a proper update for a couple months but I will attach my Xray I took back home today
https://imgur.com/a/1TAlfp5 (https://imgur.com/a/1TAlfp5)
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Day 69
I must admit I feel strange right now, I'm not sure why, I feel probably the lowest I have since I arrived in India. Even though everything is going according to plan and there have been no complications; I just feel weird. I guess I'm getting sick of my total lack of mobility, I really hope it picks up soon, even if it just means walking with crutches I'll be happy. Sleeping is much harder then it was in frames for some strange reason. I used to fall asleep within an hour, now it takes 2-3 hours.
I do feel these next few weeks are probably going to be a low point, and I'm prepared for that. Hopefully once I've made it through them I will slowly start to rebuild strength.
I made the same experience. A week after frame removal I felt the lowest after more than 10 months. Maybe it's because we internally expect more from our bodies after frame removal, we imagine it to be a big milestone but we realize that it's still going to be much work until we reach a normal...
My sleep got worse as well. But when I got home and made my bed more comfortable with extra blankets for my legs it was fine again.
Regarding dreams:
In the first months I also had dreams where I was without frames. But one time I dreamt that I had frames on with which I went to an indoor swimming pool in which I swam...One time I dreamt that I just stood up from my bed, unaided and that I walked effortlessly. That was really nice but unfortunately when I woke up I realized that it was just a dream :D Luckily I'm very close to that now...
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All good. Won't be doing a proper update for a couple months but I will attach my Xray I took back home today
https://imgur.com/a/1TAlfp5 (https://imgur.com/a/1TAlfp5)
Good man your callus looks improving.
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Hi Bluehen, what is your status now.
Are you still on arm crutch or walking without crutch.
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Hi BlueHen ,
Have you start walk without crutch or you still using them. .
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He is probably enjoying new height and forgot about forum :D
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He is probably enjoying new height and forgot about forum :D
Yes you are right brother.
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Hey, bluehen, what's your status??? Hope you are enjoying your new height
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Hi BlueHen please update your current status . I think you busy in your normal life.
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Hi BlueHen,
please update your status .
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Great...good going
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Day Whatever
It's been almost 2 months since I left India so as promised I will update.
Overall things are going well and I'm happy with how everything turned out. Had a few minor setbacks but I'm walking unaided now for anything under 1km. My gait is not bad, I would say on a good day it looks 99% normal, but on a bad day when I have pain I have to walk a little weird.
I'm getting better for sure and almost back to a totally normal life, minus the running/sports for now.
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Hi Bluehen congratulations
Good to hear that, you walk without aid ,Dr Sharma’s patients recovering very well.
If you don’t mind,Can you please share walking video .
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Day Whatever
It's been almost 2 months since I left India so as promised I will update.
Overall things are going well and I'm happy with how everything turned out. Had a few minor setbacks but I'm walking unaided now for anything under 1km. My gait is not bad, I would say on a good day it looks 99% normal, but on a bad day when I have pain I have to walk a little weird.
I'm getting better for sure and almost back to a totally normal life, minus the running/sports for now.
Your dairy did help me to start with, good to hear you back to normal, am sure you be back 100% soon, congrats mate
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Day Whatever
It's been almost 2 months since I left India so as promised I will update.
Overall things are going well and I'm happy with how everything turned out. Had a few minor setbacks but I'm walking unaided now for anything under 1km. My gait is not bad, I would say on a good day it looks 99% normal, but on a bad day when I have pain I have to walk a little weird.
I'm getting better for sure and almost back to a totally normal life, minus the running/sports for now.
Great,
So what about when you wake up after sleeping, can u walk without crutches ??
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Day Whatever
It's been almost 2 months since I left India so as promised I will update.
Overall things are going well and I'm happy with how everything turned out. Had a few minor setbacks but I'm walking unaided now for anything under 1km. My gait is not bad, I would say on a good day it looks 99% normal, but on a bad day when I have pain I have to walk a little weird.
I'm getting better for sure and almost back to a totally normal life, minus the running/sports for now.
Thank you Bluehen for update
You guys makes me confident, which I decided about my CLL surgery with Dr Pradeep Sharma and Harry in January.
Please keep update , Best of luck
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Hi Bluehen
What is your current status?
You mentioned 99% normal , Can we see your walking video if you don’t mind?
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Great,
So what about when you wake up after sleeping, can u walk without crutches ??
Hi Arabic Man, how are you doing these days?
Yes, the last few weeks even first thing in the morning I can walk to the shower without crutches without problem
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Hi Bluehen
What is your current status?
You mentioned 99% normal , Can we see your walking video if you don’t mind?
Current status is good, can go 3 days without touching my crutch (only using one crutch when walking 1km+) I feel like I don't even need it for that anymore. My callus is very good and I'm about 50% consolidated already. Flexibility is nearly in the normal range (no ballerina but not much dorsiflexion + hamstrings still a little need work).
I will post a walking video when I get the chance to film one, I'm really busy with work and don't want to film it in my house/near it but I will try and post one within the next 2 weeks.
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Current status is good, can go 3 days without touching my crutch (only using one crutch when walking 1km+) I feel like I don't even need it for that anymore. My callus is very good and I'm about 50% consolidated already. Flexibility is nearly in the normal range (no ballerina but not much dorsiflexion + hamstrings still a little need work).
I will post a walking video when I get the chance to film one, I'm really busy with work and don't want to film it in my house/near it but I will try and post one within the next 2 weeks.
Congratulations brother, most impressive recovery.
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Please share your current recovery status.
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Hi, BlueHen
Did you start walk without aid confidently.
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Update on my condition.
Since my last post I have not touched my crutch. Two weeks ago I walked 5km Friday, 7km Saturday and 4 km Sunday (I checked on my phone) no crutches of course, I was walking around the city with my friends going to lots of different places and my legs felt fine, I was also walking very fast overtaking people on the street. I have felt totally normal since my last post in terms of walking. I walk at least 3km everyday without problems. My gait is totally normal, up and down stairs no railing e.c.t (although downstairs I am little slow without railing because my calf flexibility still needs work)
I have started light jogging too, first time it happened I subconsciously started running for a train. Running feels weird, not like walking which I picked up again straight away, because right now when I run I don't take big strides a precaution, but I can jog a bit and it is faster than my fastest walking.
I tried recording a video at my gym but there wasn't enough space, and I want to show jogging. I promise a video is coming soon!
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Whoa! Congrats bro!
That's a big feat....
I'm sure you will start running like before or even better!
Eagerly waiting for the jogging video!
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Update on my condition.
Since my last post I have not touched my crutch. Two weeks ago I walked 5km Friday, 7km Saturday and 4 km Sunday (I checked on my phone) no crutches of course, I was walking around the city with my friends going to lots of different places and my legs felt fine, I was also walking very fast overtaking people on the street. I have felt totally normal since my last post in terms of walking. I walk at least 3km everyday without problems. My gait is totally normal, up and down stairs no railing e.c.t (although downstairs I am little slow without railing because my calf flexibility still needs work)
Congratulations BlueHen .
I am eagerly waiting about your video.
I have started light jogging too, first time it happened I subconsciously started running for a train. Running feels weird, not like walking which I picked up again straight away, because right now when I run I don't take big strides a precaution, but I can jog a bit and it is faster than my fastest walking.
I tried recording a video at my gym but there wasn't enough space, and I want to show jogging. I promise a video is coming soon!
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How is your ankle ?
Are you feel still stiff in the morning?
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Hi Bluehen
Waiting for your walking video.
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What is your current status?
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Hi all,
It's been over a year since my initial surgery. Things are going very well. I will attach a video at end of post
I wanted to update my diary sooner, the two reasons I didn't are
1) I wanted to wait until I had a video, but I'm very concerned about anonymity and it is hard to record a video without comprising that
2) I felt like if I wrote an honest update people might say I'm fake because really I'm not currently having any problems
But I owe it to this forum which I lurked on for years before getting my surgery to write an honest and full dairy. If it weren't for this forum I would have never had the surgery and I'm very glad I did.
My last update was January 25th and I was walking 100% normal and starting to jog. Things continued to improve quickly from that point and I was able to jog 100% normally from March. Playing sports since April.
Summary of where my legs are at today:
1) Running - I can run pretty much as fast as before surgery (when playing sports I'm faster than many of my friends) although not for as long because my endurance is terrible
2) Flexibility - Still not 100% but my physio said it was within lower end of normal range and has improved since then (I haven't seen a physio since January). I don't have any issues with flexibility on a daily basis or even during sports apart from when squatting without shoes, but even then I find if I hold the weight in-front of me it helps me balance
3) Strength - Still not 100%. I only recently starting trying to build strength back up in legs. I notice lack of strength in legs when I jump because my jump is much lower than before.
4) General daily life - 100% back to normal since February. I'm active, I don't notice the fact I had LL at all during my daily life. First thing I do every morning is walk down stairs to bathroom and I no longer even feel any slight tightness in calves when doing that.
I'm confident I will get back to 100% on everything - I haven't been pushing myself at all these last 6 months when it comes to strength/flexibility/endurance and with training I believe I can get back to better than I was before even.
Here is brief video of me running - https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9 (https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9)
I found this was the only way to record without showing myself, so it is a little awkward running whilst holding my phone far to my side and down! Also this is why I went barefoot (I know people IRL who are considering LL and if they saw my shoes on here they might recognise them!) at the start if I'm walking a bit weird it's to avoid spiky things on ground btw (also I've always had a slightly open hip where my feet don't point straight they point out slightly, nothing to do with LL).
This is not my fastest running/acceleration by any means (was having to dodge spiky grass barefoot!), just a quick video. Anyway, I know I would have found it useful as someone looking into LL.
If you have any questions ask away - I will check here in September and reply if there are any. I may try and record a better video at some point also.
Good luck to everyone thinking about/going through LL right now.
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How r the scars on your leg, hope they must have lightened by now. Also when are you planning to remove the IM nail.
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Hi all,
It's been over a year since my initial surgery. Things are going very well. I will attach a video at end of post
I wanted to update my diary sooner, the two reasons I didn't are
1) I wanted to wait until I had a video, but I'm very concerned about anonymity and it is hard to record a video without comprising that
2) I felt like if I wrote an honest update people might say I'm fake because really I'm not currently having any problems
But I owe it to this forum which I lurked on for years before getting my surgery to write an honest and full dairy. If it weren't for this forum I would have never had the surgery and I'm very glad I did.
My last update was January 25th and I was walking 100% normal and starting to jog. Things continued to improve quickly from that point and I was able to jog 100% normally from March. Playing sports since April.
Summary of where my legs are at today:
1) Running - I can run pretty much as fast as before surgery (when playing sports I'm faster than many of my friends) although not for as long because my endurance is terrible
2) Flexibility - Still not 100% but my physio said it was within lower end of normal range and has improved since then (I haven't seen a physio since January). I don't have any issues with flexibility on a daily basis or even during sports apart from when squatting without shoes, but even then I find if I hold the weight in-front of me it helps me balance
3) Strength - Still not 100%. I only recently starting trying to build strength back up in legs. I notice lack of strength in legs when I jump because my jump is much lower than before.
4) General daily life - 100% back to normal since February. I'm active, I don't notice the fact I had LL at all during my daily life. First thing I do every morning is walk down stairs to bathroom and I no longer even feel any slight tightness in calves when doing that.
I'm confident I will get back to 100% on everything - I haven't been pushing myself at all these last 6 months when it comes to strength/flexibility/endurance and with training I believe I can get back to better than I was before even.
Here is brief video of me running - https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9 (https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9)
I found this was the only way to record without showing myself, so it is a little awkward running whilst holding my phone far to my side and down! Also this is why I went barefoot (I know people IRL who are considering LL and if they saw my shoes on here they might recognise them!) at the start if I'm walking a bit weird it's to avoid spiky things on ground btw (also I've always had a slightly open hip where my feet don't point straight they point out slightly, nothing to do with LL).
This is not my fastest running/acceleration by any means (was having to dodge spiky grass barefoot!), just a quick video. Anyway, I know I would have found it useful as someone looking into LL.
If you have any questions ask away - I will check here in September and reply if there are any. I may try and record a better video at some point also.
Good luck to everyone thinking about/going through LL right now.
Congratulations very impressive recovery.
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Congrats man! If your sprinting is back to before surgery I'm impressed, int he video you showed similar pace as mine when I'm actually kind of pushing for speed.
do you still have hardware in you?
-
Hi all,
It's been over a year since my initial surgery. Things are going very well. I will attach a video at end of post
I wanted to update my diary sooner, the two reasons I didn't are
1) I wanted to wait until I had a video, but I'm very concerned about anonymity and it is hard to record a video without comprising that
2) I felt like if I wrote an honest update people might say I'm fake because really I'm not currently having any problems
But I owe it to this forum which I lurked on for years before getting my surgery to write an honest and full dairy. If it weren't for this forum I would have never had the surgery and I'm very glad I did.
My last update was January 25th and I was walking 100% normal and starting to jog. Things continued to improve quickly from that point and I was able to jog 100% normally from March. Playing sports since April.
Summary of where my legs are at today:
1) Running - I can run pretty much as fast as before surgery (when playing sports I'm faster than many of my friends) although not for as long because my endurance is terrible
2) Flexibility - Still not 100% but my physio said it was within lower end of normal range and has improved since then (I haven't seen a physio since January). I don't have any issues with flexibility on a daily basis or even during sports apart from when squatting without shoes, but even then I find if I hold the weight in-front of me it helps me balance
3) Strength - Still not 100%. I only recently starting trying to build strength back up in legs. I notice lack of strength in legs when I jump because my jump is much lower than before.
4) General daily life - 100% back to normal since February. I'm active, I don't notice the fact I had LL at all during my daily life. First thing I do every morning is walk down stairs to bathroom and I no longer even feel any slight tightness in calves when doing that.
I'm confident I will get back to 100% on everything - I haven't been pushing myself at all these last 6 months when it comes to strength/flexibility/endurance and with training I believe I can get back to better than I was before even.
Here is brief video of me running - https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9 (https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9)
I found this was the only way to record without showing myself, so it is a little awkward running whilst holding my phone far to my side and down! Also this is why I went barefoot (I know people IRL who are considering LL and if they saw my shoes on here they might recognise them!) at the start if I'm walking a bit weird it's to avoid spiky things on ground btw (also I've always had a slightly open hip where my feet don't point straight they point out slightly, nothing to do with LL).
This is not my fastest running/acceleration by any means (was having to dodge spiky grass barefoot!), just a quick video. Anyway, I know I would have found it useful as someone looking into LL.
If you have any questions ask away - I will check here in September and reply if there are any. I may try and record a better video at some point also.
Good luck to everyone thinking about/going through LL right now.
Amazing brother. Flawless . Eagerly waiting and working hard on my legs to fly like this. This is splendid.
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You may not be 100% recovered, but do you feel like the potential is there? Or do you feel like you reached an invisible ceiling. Like for example when I was paralyzed I couldn't even force my leg to move. It was only after I regained my functionality that I could strenghten it more and more
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You may not be 100% recovered, but do you feel like the potential is there? Or do you feel like you reached an invisible ceiling. Like for example when I was paralyzed I couldn't even force my leg to move. It was only after I regained my functionality that I could strenghten it more and more
Arrogance it might be irrevelant but I wanted to say that your signature is insane bro. I enjoyed reading it. Thank you.
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Arrogance it might be irrevelant but I wanted to say that your signature is insane bro. I enjoyed reading it. Thank you.
Wow, thanks! I wasn't expecting this. Now I feel like someone whom I fell in love with on this forum. Also a great writer
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Great Diary, could you please send me link or tell me how much the surgery cost you? And also what is your opinion on doing 2 surgeries, 6cm tibia and 8cm femurs? As I’m 160cm and want to gain at-least 4-5 inches, please reply thank You
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How r the scars on your leg, hope they must have lightened by now. Also when are you planning to remove the IM nail.
Hi Samsunny889 - my scars have lightened a lot, they are not big but people would notice if I wore shorts, I might do surgery to change the discolouration. I have not decided about removing IM nails, I probably will remove in 2021.
Congrats man! If your sprinting is back to before surgery I'm impressed, int he video you showed similar pace as mine when I'm actually kind of pushing for speed.
do you still have hardware in you?
Hey Movie - thanks! I really enjoyed reading your diary; even though you started a month or so later than me I always found it motivating to read. Yes, I can run a bit faster than in that video, especially when I'm in shoes. I still have nails in yes planning to remove in 2021 but in rush because they don't bother me.
You may not be 100% recovered, but do you feel like the potential is there? Or do you feel like you reached an invisible ceiling. Like for example when I was paralyzed I couldn't even force my leg to move. It was only after I regained my functionality that I could strenghten it more and more
I feel like I can reach 100%, but it will probably take another 2 years to get my leg strength back to 100% - 150kg deadlift/120kg squat for 5 reps. I'm not sure I will bother deadlifting/squatting in future, it's not super important to me and I feel I can build leg strength in safer ways with less weight.
Great Diary, could you please send me link or tell me how much the surgery cost you? And also what is your opinion on doing 2 surgeries, 6cm tibia and 8cm femurs? As I’m 160cm and want to gain at-least 4-5 inches, please reply thank You
surgery cost can be found on Pradip Sharma's page in this forum - the current price is $16,000 I believe.
My advice would be to do 6cm on tibias - do not go over 6cm on tibias. Doing tibia's is cheaper so more 'bang for your buck' and if you recover well then you can do femurs. I feel like I could do femurs now if I wanted to. But do not do them at the same time you will fk up your legs. When you lengthen tibia's your hamstrings get tight; I can't imagine if i was lengthening femurs at the same time it would be much more difficult to maintain flexibility/regain mobility.
-
Hi all,
It's been over a year since my initial surgery. Things are going very well. I will attach a video at end of post
I wanted to update my diary sooner, the two reasons I didn't are
1) I wanted to wait until I had a video, but I'm very concerned about anonymity and it is hard to record a video without comprising that
2) I felt like if I wrote an honest update people might say I'm fake because really I'm not currently having any problems
But I owe it to this forum which I lurked on for years before getting my surgery to write an honest and full dairy. If it weren't for this forum I would have never had the surgery and I'm very glad I did.
My last update was January 25th and I was walking 100% normal and starting to jog. Things continued to improve quickly from that point and I was able to jog 100% normally from March. Playing sports since April.
Summary of where my legs are at today:
1) Running - I can run pretty much as fast as before surgery (when playing sports I'm faster than many of my friends) although not for as long because my endurance is terrible
2) Flexibility - Still not 100% but my physio said it was within lower end of normal range and has improved since then (I haven't seen a physio since January). I don't have any issues with flexibility on a daily basis or even during sports apart from when squatting without shoes, but even then I find if I hold the weight in-front of me it helps me balance
3) Strength - Still not 100%. I only recently starting trying to build strength back up in legs. I notice lack of strength in legs when I jump because my jump is much lower than before.
4) General daily life - 100% back to normal since February. I'm active, I don't notice the fact I had LL at all during my daily life. First thing I do every morning is walk down stairs to bathroom and I no longer even feel any slight tightness in calves when doing that.
I'm confident I will get back to 100% on everything - I haven't been pushing myself at all these last 6 months when it comes to strength/flexibility/endurance and with training I believe I can get back to better than I was before even.
Here is brief video of me running - https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9 (https://imgur.com/a/2HiSxr9)
I found this was the only way to record without showing myself, so it is a little awkward running whilst holding my phone far to my side and down! Also this is why I went barefoot (I know people IRL who are considering LL and if they saw my shoes on here they might recognise them!) at the start if I'm walking a bit weird it's to avoid spiky things on ground btw (also I've always had a slightly open hip where my feet don't point straight they point out slightly, nothing to do with LL).
This is not my fastest running/acceleration by any means (was having to dodge spiky grass barefoot!), just a quick video. Anyway, I know I would have found it useful as someone looking into LL.
If you have any questions ask away - I will check here in September and reply if there are any. I may try and record a better video at some point also.
Good luck to everyone thinking about/going through LL right now.
Congratulations for recovery.
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Great going ,
Do you know how much the cost is for femur lengthening also what nails are available
Is stryde nail an option or is it only LON.
If only LON, is it a safe, good nail/ method ?
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Brother seems like you have achieved your pre operated status. you mind if i ask are you able to do all your activity like squatting, long drive and jumping??
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Hi. Bluehen
What is your status now? Can you resume your all activity like before?
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What is your status ? When will you plan for road removal?
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update as 2020 comes to an end.
I'm still doing really well. Not much else to report. LL is definitely not something I think about at all anymore really until I look at my scar, my legs feel totally normal.
To answer some recent questions - I can squat/deadlift fine. Squats are a bit harder because my flexibility still isn't 100% so can't go that low unless I do front squats which I find easier. Long drives are fine, I can jump fine. I spoke to my dr recently and asked if it was safe to jump high/do heavy deadlifts and he told me my legs are just as strong as they were before LL (I have full consolidation now) and can handle the same weight.
I haven't decided on rod removal yet. I have no pain at all and my legs feel 100% normal. I'm not sure if it is worth it. The only reason to do it would be for metal detectors at airports but I'm not sure it's worth it.
If any vets who have had rod removal could share their experience with me I would be grateful - how long does it take to recover after the surgery?
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Plz post your X-rays, if u can
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Hey how you doing lately? I’m pretty sure you have returned to your normal life and I’m happy for you. Just wondering about when would you get your internal nails removed? Are you going back to India for removal surgery anytime soon?
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Arrogance it might be irrevelant but I wanted to say that your signature is insane bro. I enjoyed reading it. Thank you.
Chill, it is a halo quote lol
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update as 2020 comes to an end.
I'm still doing really well. Not much else to report. LL is definitely not something I think about at all anymore really until I look at my scar, my legs feel totally normal.
To answer some recent questions - I can squat/deadlift fine. Squats are a bit harder because my flexibility still isn't 100% so can't go that low unless I do front squats which I find easier. Long drives are fine, I can jump fine. I spoke to my dr recently and asked if it was safe to jump high/do heavy deadlifts and he told me my legs are just as strong as they were before LL (I have full consolidation now) and can handle the same weight.
I haven't decided on rod removal yet. I have no pain at all and my legs feel 100% normal. I'm not sure if it is worth it. The only reason to do it would be for metal detectors at airports but I'm not sure it's worth it.
If any vets who have had rod removal could share their experience with me I would be grateful - how long does it take to recover after the surgery?
People say it take days to a week to recover almost like nothing happened. Definitely short recovery in rod removal