Team Garmin-Slipstream’s Blake Caldwell is one of many of the Argyle Armada that is currently recovering from an injury — in his case a broken hip. But with a little time, and some ‘space-age’ equipment from Dr. Allen Lim, he should be back on the bike sometime soon.
Like several of you, I’ve been anxiously sitting in front of my computer reading live updates on Gent-Wevelgem, and watching the TV coverage of Pais Vasco, looking for blue and orange argyle. On one hand, I could be upset and gloomy about not racing too, but that does no good at all. Given the hand I’m dealt, the most productive thing is to cheer on the guys from the couch while doing as many isometric exercises as I can.
Instead of focusing on doing so many intervals at x watts and y hours on the bike, I’m finding that lifting my leg using my hip-flexor is my new challenge. I’ve started rehab in town and am seeing some rapid progress since leaving the hospital last week. At rehab, I’m using a Compex E-stim machine to work on contracting my quad and increase circulation. I can put a little weight on my right leg and move it around without using my hands. I’m moving around well now. I just have to allow a few extra minutes.
Lucky for me, one of our sponsors has a product that was invaluable to me the past couple of days. The NormaTec MVP is a compression device for the entire leg. Also known amongst our team as “Space Legs,” it consists of two full leg boots that are inflated by a pneumatic pump. Just like a massage, it promotes circulation and flushes out inflammation. On Wednesday, my right leg was so swollen I could barely fit on my jeans and it hurt if I stood vertical for more than a few minutes. The pain was not coming from my hip, but from the pressure throughout my leg. After using it on Thursday, my right leg is nearly back to the same size as the left and the inflammation is localized just to the site of surgery. I’ve also been wearing 2XU compression socks during the day to help with circulation. In short, I feel incredible today in comparison to two days ago.
I just hope to keep up the rapid progress over the next weeks. Getting back on the trainer will be a big milestone. In the meantime, join me in cheering on the crews at Pais Vasco and Roubaix!
Thanks for reading,
Blake
