My posts from May 3:
Well, speculation runs rampant, as we might expect.
There is some fundamental misunderstanding expressed here, though. For one, the peroneal nerve has not died or been torn; there is just microscopic internal damage, probably at a severity of Sunderland's second degree, wherein there may be slight damage to the endoneurium but the epineurium and perineurium are intact, and the deficit can expect to resolve at a rate of 1-2 mm daily. This will be a process (not Garrett's words), not a sudden awakening or overnight resolution. Lastly, the nerve fibers are intact in their distal distribution; there is no need for regrowth and reconnection, such that we might wonder if the nerves go where they're supposed to; that's a complete misrepresentation.
Recovery from ACL repair usually takes 8-9 mos, so Smith's knee may be on pace to be ready by September. Add another 8 wks of getting into football shape, and he just might be an appropriate PUP candidate.
Following this type of nerve injury, Wallerian degeneration takes place involving the reabsorption and removal of myelin and axons (afferent nerve fibers) distal to the injury.
Then axonal regrowth occurs along the already-established perineurium at a rate of 1-2 mm daily; the architecture of the nerve is only changed internally.
Based on the EMG's that that the Cowboy's medical team has recently seen, this regenerative process is progressing nicely; hence, their optimism.
Even if the regeneration is a bit slower than expected, it should still be complete by November or December. He has continually undergone nerve stimulation therapy to keep muscle tone and prevent atrophy, and has upgraded his workouts on a weekly basis. His own excitement and confidence in running and cutting should be music to our ears. You can also bet that he already knows the system.
It wouldn't surprise me if we see him on the field next month.
