8 month update

It's been quite a while since my last entry, but all is well.  After about 6 months, the doctor said he didn't need to see me anymore and gave me the green light to start working out and running.  But he did say there is a greater risk of re-rupture within the first year, so I took it really slow.  I soon started going back to the gym and riding a stationary bike and lifting weights again.  Eventually, I even started doing calf raises.  I could tell that my left (injured-side) calf was much weaker.  But, of course, it has evened out in time.  I also started playing some beach volleyball again.  The first few weeks, I couldn't play 2 v 2 and I didn't really jump or dive at all.  But now, I'm almost back to normal.  I'm still not jumping like I used to, but I'm getting there, slowly but surely.  I also haven't been running any sprints or long distances.  In fact, I just recently started hiking again, which was a good test.  Now, it gets a little sore and swollen sometimes after a good workout, but after some massaging and resting, it feels even better than before.  I guess the key is to listen to your body and not try to push it.  Just be smart about it.  It's like learning to walk all over again, or learning to ride a bike.  Take it slow or you're going to hurt yourself.  I found that swimming and yoga were really helpful.  And simple stretching exercises coupled with regular massaging of the injured area is a good idea too.  Soon enough, you should be back to normal.  Any questions?