Tell me that my life isn't over

[Gilly]

Before we start, I'm not after medical advice.

Had an MRI on my long-standing knee problem last Saturday. Taken bloody months of physio and arguments with doctors to actually do an MRI, they said I just needed to increase the strength around my knee joint.

Turns out I have an ACL tear and a meniscus tear. I'm being referred to an orthopaedic surgeon.

I'm feeling very depressed. Tell me from your own experiences that it isn't all bad? Please?

No horror stories either! Can't face them yet. That's why I can't read up on it online.

 

[Gilly]

It wasn't even a tackle, it was just my studs catching in the turf and as I twisted my knee opened and POP

Had 3 teams ask me to join them this season as they knew I hadn't been playing. One of them I can hear the shouts from my house when they play!

I'm truly gutted.

I had an option for medical from work that I deferred because it would have put me over the 40% tax bracket and with my other benefits it'd have been a big cost. I can opt back into the medical scheme but not until January, I'm wondering if it would still be worth it.

 

[Gilly]

Why would it have been a big cost because of putting you over the 40% tax bracket? It's a marginal rate...

The BIK for my car alone would've been 4 figures.

With ACL stuff on the NHS, however, you have to be pushy as otherwise you will wind up being delayed beyond the acute phase of the injury after which point recovery is much harder and longer.

It's been done a year now, they told me there was no problem and physio would fix it.

Fingers crossed for you!

Thanks I hope I can emulate your Dad with his golfing!

 

[Gilly]

Ok - so you're post-acute and into the chronic phase. How badly are you impeded at the moment?

If you're not going for a reconstruction (guessing the lack of immediate MRI post-injury was due to it being relatively stable) then find yourself a decent sports physio (ask around at your club/s or whatever) and a decent Strength and Conditioning coach to recover.

I have tried doing light exercises and tend to break down after not very long. Can't cycle or run as I used to be able to, can't play football, etc. Have put on lots of weight due to lack of exercise because my knee is knackered, meaning there's more strain on my knee.

Vicious circle.

Having worked in the ski industry for years now I've seen loads of ACL related injuries. Nearly every single one of these people is back on skis.

With the right treatment and the right recovery process you'll be grand. Just don't over do things too soon and be patient.

Encouraging words. Thank you