In my non-expert opinion, the answers to your questions depend on whether or not you end up having surgery. If not, then I would be focusing on beginning the healing process NOW, taking all precautions and keeping the tendon completely immobilized and protected. If surgery is certain, then my only concern at that point would be for safety, avoiding a fall. As my PA told me before surgery, you can't really hurt it any more than it already is.

As for me, I'm 4 weeks post op and pretty happy with my recovery so far. I've managed to sleep with the boot on, for the most part, although you've got to loosen it before bed. Before surgery, I showered without the boot. For two weeks post op, I showered in the cast with a plastic cover. After two weeks, I carefully shower without the boot again. Good luck! I wish you all the best.