Post Op Rehab

Devon Lad
Devon Lad Posts: 75
After tearing the ligaments in my left ankle playing rugby, then returning to rugby after 3 months with the aid of heavy taping (all the while cycling regularly), I was told at the end of the season by the team physio I would never be able to practice serious sporting activities to a decent level again unless I had the ankle ligaments reconstructed and re-stabilised.

5 weeks on from the operation with my lower leg immobilised I'm dying to get back on the bike! The cast comes off next week and basically the question is, how should I return to cycling? The doctor at a conservative guess advises that cycling out on roads is out of the question until Christmas however turbo trainers are OK and the call ultimately rests with the physio.

On removing the cast for showers, my calf muscle is almost half the size of the other, how quickly will I regain lost muscle and fitness? Also should I taper my effort on the turbo, or just train as hard as I can? (bearing in mind the action of cycling has no effect in exacerbating the injured ankle)

Any advice and/or uplifting stories of those who have had similar experiences would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance
Will