Achilles Tendon

Henry Deutsch is an active 72 year old who regularly attends VMH Wellness Center classes and participates in various athletic events throughout the country. Deutsch is a retired  USDA Forest Service employee who in retirement planned to stay fit and participate in a specific number of fitness events each year. In 2010 his goal of participating in one triathon per month was cut short when he partially severed his right achilles tendon in an unfortunate encounter with a power hedge trimmer.

Deutsch was immediately rushed to the Vernon Memorial Healthcare Emergency Department and Dr. Mark Romzek operated that day. As an active individual, Deutsch was prepared for the challenges of an immobile lifestyle while he recovered. "Dr. Romzek told me that the recovery for my injury because of the severity would be three months including a period of time where I couldn't put weight on the injured leg." Deutsch commented that Dr. Romzek was very supportive throughout the process and that the Vernon Memorial Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Staff "walk on water."

Deutsch began physical therapy a month after surgery and worked closely with Derek Waddell during his healing process. Within two weeks Deutsch was walking normally and beginning to see real improvement. "Derek was enthusiastic, careful, professional and knowledgeable. The advancements I was seeing were amazing. I believe that he assisted considerably with my speedy recovery."

Recovery for Deutsch was a "fabulous feeling" and he indicated that everything about the experience was exceptional. "I feel reinvigorated and am preparing to return to my normal activities. There are plenty of swim meets and triathlons waiting in 2011. VMH is a truly unique and precious asset to Viroqua and the region."