tlongII
01-15-2010, 10:14 AM
http://www.portlandtribune.com/sports/story.php?story_id=126348650228171100
Portland center Greg Oden is targeting a return to action this season.
“I’m actually hoping, and saying my prayers, that I can come back before the end of this season,” says Oden, who underwent surgery on Dec. 7 to repair a fractured left patella.
What do the Blazers’ medical experts, including team doctor Don Roberts and trainer Jay Jensen, have to say about that? “They haven’t dismissed the idea,” Oden says.
General Manager Kevin Pritchard confirms Oden’s version.
“It’s possible, but you know, we’ll play this by ear, and we’ll be very cautious,” Pritchard says. “We’re not going to push. We’ll let it happen naturally and follow what the doctor orders.”
Oden’s knee is braced to keep him from bending it. He has just moved from walking with crutches to using a cane.
“It’s not too sturdy,” he says. “I’m trying to find like a walking stick. That’ll be good.”
Medical experts told Oden it would take six weeks for the fracture to heal.
“We’re into the fifth week,” he says. “Another week and I can get back into the weight room.”
Pritchard says when Oden reaches that point, he can also begin water workouts. Sometime in the following two to four weeks, Pritchard says, the 7-footer should be able to begin light running and gradually increase his workout regimen.
So what are the chances that Oden will be back before the end of the season?
“I’m not ready to say that,” Pritchard says. “We’re taking it step by step. He has to hit certain milestones in his recovery. We’ll monitor his progress.
“Dr. Roberts is one of the best knee guys in the country. We believe what he says. We’re hopeful, but we’ll be in no rush to get Greg back on the court.”
Portland center Greg Oden is targeting a return to action this season.
“I’m actually hoping, and saying my prayers, that I can come back before the end of this season,” says Oden, who underwent surgery on Dec. 7 to repair a fractured left patella.
What do the Blazers’ medical experts, including team doctor Don Roberts and trainer Jay Jensen, have to say about that? “They haven’t dismissed the idea,” Oden says.
General Manager Kevin Pritchard confirms Oden’s version.
“It’s possible, but you know, we’ll play this by ear, and we’ll be very cautious,” Pritchard says. “We’re not going to push. We’ll let it happen naturally and follow what the doctor orders.”
Oden’s knee is braced to keep him from bending it. He has just moved from walking with crutches to using a cane.
“It’s not too sturdy,” he says. “I’m trying to find like a walking stick. That’ll be good.”
Medical experts told Oden it would take six weeks for the fracture to heal.
“We’re into the fifth week,” he says. “Another week and I can get back into the weight room.”
Pritchard says when Oden reaches that point, he can also begin water workouts. Sometime in the following two to four weeks, Pritchard says, the 7-footer should be able to begin light running and gradually increase his workout regimen.
So what are the chances that Oden will be back before the end of the season?
“I’m not ready to say that,” Pritchard says. “We’re taking it step by step. He has to hit certain milestones in his recovery. We’ll monitor his progress.
“Dr. Roberts is one of the best knee guys in the country. We believe what he says. We’re hopeful, but we’ll be in no rush to get Greg back on the court.”