good news to share - Cerebral Palsy Message Board

Zagreus · 07-03-2004, 07:13 AM

We just returned from a follow-up with the orthopaedic surgeon. My son had his heel cord lengthened in the spring. The surgeon says he can go the summer without wearing a brace and he'll reassess the need for a brace again in 3 months. My son is very happy -- for the first time he'll have summer without wearing a brace. That's been his goal and hearing this was a great psychological boost. Of course, as he grows he may still need the brace so this may not be permanent, but even three months without it is a blessing.
Just wanted to share that with all of you, especially in light of all your encouraging comments when he had his surgery.

Strawberry1 · 07-03-2004, 08:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zagreus

We just returned from a follow-up with the orthopaedic surgeon. My son had his heel cord lengthened in the spring. The surgeon says he can go the summer without wearing a brace and he'll reassess the need for a brace again in 3 months. My son is very happy -- for the first time he'll have summer without wearing a brace. That's been his goal and hearing this was a great psychological boost. Of course, as he grows he may still need the brace so this may not be permanent, but even three months without it is a blessing.

Very nice to hear! I think it's likely that he can continue without a brace, even if the operated heel probably will not get as good as his non-disabled heel. And he still needs physiotherapy! The surgery is not a final cure - his ankle still needs some special attention, though not as much as before the operation.

Zagreus · 07-03-2004, 06:39 PM

Oh, yes, he's still in therapy. He has been since the week following the procedure. The one therapist is also working with some electrical stimulation procedures that help exercises the muscle in the leg to help him lift his toes. It's working very well.

But you're right -- physical therapy is crucial.

Thanks!