I wanted to do a quick update about what’s been going on with my Achilles tendon and cycling. As I reported in an earlier Facebook post I abandoned my bicycle tour that was supposed to be from far northern Minnesota back home to the Milwaukee area. However, on the second day, I started to experience a great deal of swelling on my left Achilles tendon and decided it would be best to end my tour and head back home. My wife, Jenny, was actually gracious enough to come to my aid and make the drive up to Warroad, Minnesota, and rescue me.
Some people have commented about the pain I must be in, but, fortunately, I have experienced virtually no pain or discomfort. Even when I was cycling it was more bothersome than it was painful. I was even tempted a few times just to say, “To hell with it. Damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead!” But when I looked down and saw that large, swollen lump on my Achilles tendon I quickly decided that may not be the best course of action.
Diagnosis and Remedy
I did see an orthopedic physician earlier this week and his diagnosis was tendinopathy, and his remedy was one to two weeks more rest and recovery. So I’ve been trying to take it easy. Fortunately, it doesn’t hurt to walk so I’ve been getting out and walking a couple of miles each day. I hope to get back on the bike the second week of July and gradually increase my duration and intensity in two-week increments.
RAGBRAI? Maybe next year…
Jenny and I were supposed to do RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) in July but we both agree it’s probably best to take this year off. RAGBRAI is a pretty intense (but fun) week of cycling. Besides, I’m hoping to be ready to do another bicycle tour starting in early September. This one will be from Milwaukee to Key West, Florida.
Professional Bike Fitting
I also had a professional bike fitting this past week as well. It’s clear that how I was positioned on the bike was problematic. But I’ll be making a separate post about that later on.
Thanks for all your concern and well wishes.
