It was an injury which sickened the rugby league world and threatened to prematurely end the playing career of rising Jetstar Gold Coast Titans star Michael Henderson.
The spiral fracture which wound it’s way down from the bullocking front rowers knee to his ankle was so severe, that renowned surgeon Peter Myers was forced to insert a full length tibial nail which was screwed at both ends.
After almost two seasons on the sidelines, Michael Henderson was gearing up for a return to full flight Rugby League in 09 however the tibial nail was restricting power and strength and causing Michael significant discomfort.
“The nails are pretty much put in with a view that they stay for good unless they are playing up and mine is. I’m good for a session and then I have to have two or three days off and I just cant get the power or flexibility that I need, so out she comes.”
After consulting with the Titans medical staff and Doctor Myers, it was decided that the nail would be removed…. And Michael was booked in for surgery.
“They tell me it’s a really simple operation and shouldn’t take any longer than 30 minutes. They just make a small insertion at the top and the bottom, take out the screws and then pull out the rod.”
Assistant coach Steve Murphy looking forward to seeing Michael back at full strength and pain free.
“Michael has put so much effort into his recovery and then towards the end of last season securing his place in the starting side. It will be great to see him come back from this op running without discomfort and able to do the things we require him to do on the field.”
After a ten day recovery process, Michael expects to be back in full training within six weeks and is confident that he will be back pushing for a front row call up during the early rounds of the premiership race.
“Yeah it’s back to the recovery squad for me, but I have had most of the last two seasons on the sidelines, so I don’t want to start rushing things at this stage. After ten days of almost total rest, I’ll start swimming and cycling and build up gradually to full strength training and fingers crossed I’ll be back playing for round one or two of the season.”
To view a video interview of Michael Henderson simply click on the link supplied, http://www.titans.com.au/index.php?page_id=tv
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