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Highland Fling post operation come back?


Medigger's picture

By Medigger - Posted on 04 October 2009

I had a spill at the beginning of August that resulted in a fractured clavicle and a titanium bolt. The surgeon has advised not to ride until the 20th of November which is 3 months post op.

I have an entry for the Highland Fling half fling. I haven't ridden there before and was wondering how technical the trail is and if there are any further collar bone shattering opportunities.

Any other experience of post op comebacks would also be appreciated.

Rob's picture

The 50km fling is quiet smooth and doubt you will encounter any opportunities for broken bones.

That said, there is no way I'd be riding before advised (the Fling is 2 weeks before the 20th) and no way I'd be doing a 50km event as a first ride back either.

Take it easy... there will be plenty more chances to ride, but only this one chance to let your body heal properly.

jpack's picture

I won't comment on whether you should ride or not, that's for you and your doctor to decide.
You just don't want to crash again and be back at square one.
That said, if you aren't going to the ride, i missed out on entries (as i though i was going to be away)
So i'll be happy to purchase the ticket from you.

PM me if you're interested in selling

hawkeye's picture

I'm still recovering from a shoulder dislocation in March that was operated on in May. I'm back road riding, but geez the comeback is hard and drawn out.

Not only was my fitness all but disappeared, my core strength is non-existent and stuff like ligaments and tendons are as weak as jelly.

Don't underestimate how much you've lost by being off the bike for a few months. On Tuesday I did the 30km to work from eastern Frenchs Forest to Sydney Olympic Park via Roseville Bridge and Ryde. Then, because I missed the bus and felt good, decided to ride back the same day. Bad move. The muscle anchor point at the back of the knee let me know it isn't up for that just distance yet aboout 2/3rds the way up Mowbray Road. I still had Roseville Bridge in front of me. Sticking out tongue

Lesson: take your time coming back after a long break and don't be too quick to push yourself. The cardio comes back relatively quickly, but the connective tissues can take a lot longer to regain their strength, and injuries only drag things out for longer again. The surgeon has said no trail riding for another couple of months - falling off would be a "problem". Don't ever wanna go through this again, so only groomed fire roads for me for the time being.

ad's picture

I was in a similar situation in 2007. I had a big stack the weekend before the Scott 24hr in which I ruptured the AC in my shoulder (Category III tear)
I volunteered at the Scott as a time keeper instead of racing and after 3 months of physio I was told I could ride the Half Fling

In hindsight I probably shouldn't have ridden but I was really hanging out for a good ride.
After another 3 months of physio I entered the Double Centurion, Angry Doctor and the Highland Fling, completing all Smiling

Stick with the rehab plan your doctor gives you and double what ever exercises the physio gives you.

I'm also in the market for a Fling entry this year so give me a call if you would like to sell yours. 0408000236

Good luck
Andrew

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