So its been about a 1 year (and a month) since I completely broke my ankle (broke every bone and dislocated it) and I’m proud to say my ankle is basically healed. I have scars on both sides of my ankle and it still swells bigger than my non-broken ankle but overall I can do everything again that I could do before I broke it. In fact I have started running at the Gym and it holds up well. Every so often my ankle will tell me if I’ve done too much by causing some pain or if the weather is changing. I still have all of the metal in my ankle as I figure that I’m going to at least enjoy the summer before deciding if I want to get the metal removed or not. Any of you out there who have broken an ankle before do you still have the metal or not? Is it as simple a procedure as the doctor says to remove it? Do I have to go back on crutches at all?
Randomness of Christi
Catch-all of what's on my mind! From Movie Reviews to TV and Cats.
Hi all,
It has been a long time since I wrote here and have been following the comments and have a few things to say….(broke all three bones in my right ankle almost 1 1/2 years ago).
1. Pool – I used a shower stool/chair at the edge of the pool to get myself in and out. The benefits from the pool are amazing. I noticed that after I swam about a week, I no longer limped!! (Not that the discomfort went away, but at least it doesnt show!)
2. Screws – I certainly can feel some of the screws in the plate on the outside of my ankle…sigh…
3. Shoes – I wear flip-flops all the time now…I broke my foot wearing really good clogs and my ankle wearing platforms (uneven parking lot surface).
4. Weight bearing – I was not able to walk when the doctor said I should but when I was able, I managed to ‘catch up’ to where I should have been. I found that I could tell how much weight I could put on the ankle. Just put as much as you can w/o too much pain..it will get better! Note: I limped noticably for over a year..
Wishing everyone quick healing and minimal pain, and of course … good luck!
I am just paranoid. I shouldn’t be that way but I am. I get pains to. My might be because I am starting to walk on it.
I can’t feel the screws when I rub the skin, Wendi, but sometimes I get really sharp pains that I think come from them. My surgeon has said absolutely nothing about ever taking them out, so I sure do hope the pain eventually goes away!
I am supposed to be walking by the end of october also. I have a question. Does anyone feel like they can feel the screws through their skin? It is probably my imagination but I am paranoid.
Oh, Niko, you are one funny lady! I totally cracked up at your story, and it’s just how I feel in front of my doctor. I always go in thinking I’ve mastered this or that, or that he will definitely pat me on the back for all of my hard work. Instead, I come out totally deflated and feeling like he’s some kind of disapproving father…and I’m 57 years old! I guess we never get too old for some feelings. Yesterday, he had a puzzled look on his face that I hadn’t started walking yet, when he’d never told me to put full weight on this darn leg. The one thing I am is a perfectionist when it comes to doing what either the doctor or PT tells me to do, as I don’t want to take ANY steps backward. Oh well, I guess the surgeon’s attitude will only push me forward. I basically have four weeks to get over my fear of walking and Just Do It. I really want to go back to our condo (it’s in Florida and we live in Chicago) in maybe mid-November, and I sure don’t want to be hauling any damn crutches along with me. So, ladies, that’s my goal for now–to be walking by the end of October!
What’s funny is that all while I had my cast on my right ankle, I decided to start flexing my muscles so that they would not set up atrophy and I was moving my ankle from side to side while in my cast just to get it used to movement. Well when I got the cast off the dr told me to wiggle my toes..which I did. Then he said to move my ankle from side to side as much as I could tolerate. So I started moving my ank,this is when I noticed that all the movement that I thought I was doing was actually none at all. It just appeared that way because it was constricted in the cast. So then the dr tells me to flex my leg muscle….so stood there quiet and looking. So I’m flexing away..thinking I know I can’t definately do this because I’ve been practicing and my muscle is probably bigger than the other because of how much I perfected it.
So the dr looks up at me and says..”Ready when u are”. I stopped flexing and looked up and said..”I was flexing, the whole time”….
Yea, I was in disbelief!!! Lol
Thanks trac, For reasureing about putting weight. Maybe I will give the scale thing a try. If yours did not snap I don’t think mine will.
Thanks! Yes, it was a car accident. I fell asleep behind the wheel and hit the wall of a Radio Shack. I had a relatively new Honda Civic w/all the safety features. The dr.s said it saved my life. Any less and I would’ve probably not made it. I’m getting on in a good way. I live in a senior complex and help them with recreation. They keep my spirits up, and I theirs. I really can’t complain. But, I do miss my independence!
A pool? Oh, I’m so envious! I would love a pool!
I’m giggling right now over everyone’s stories about putting weight down. Oh, do I so remember. So frightening, and I can still feel the fear. As I had broken and dislocated both, I pretty much had to learn to get up on both of them. My left healed quickly, I stood on it right away. But, I was so hesitant w/the right one. And, I knew in my mind it wasn’t going to snap in half, but, for some reason I just couldn’t put weight on it. You know what finally helped me? I started standing on a small bathroom scale. From this, I would see just how much weight I was actually putting on it — and it would convince me to keep putting more. Plus it was interesting to see. My walker has a seat. Mainly because as I cannot walk (knee does not extend fully), so I can “walk” little distances with the walker, and this allows me to sit for a moment before continuing on. Really a help. But, I have to use the wheelchair for any significant distances. I hope to get an ankle fusion here in the future.
Well, I had an excellent day, I hope you all did too!
(I’m in Nebraska)
Take Care, Blessings & Peace!
trac
We are putting in a built in pool. It should be done next week. Swimming is good for my ankle. So I can’t wait. I will have to have help in and out of the pool but the exercise should be great.
Awww Judy T, thank you for your kind words! (Hugss) lol!
Yeah it was a tough story, but I figured if I am able to share and open up that maybe in some small way it could help someone else. Especially when dealing with the life changing event of broken bones that we all share. This is why I am still here posting a year later. While in the process of waiting to wear ankle socks again..lol!!
I am so glad to hear judy that your xrays were fine. Keep your chin up. I am afraid myself to put weight on the ankle afraid it is going to snap. But everyone keeps telling me it won’t. I don’t know If I will ever wear flip flops again.
Trac: That is one heckofa story and my heart really goes out to you. It sounds, though, like you are getting on with things and your spirits are high. Was it an automobile accident that caused so many injuries? Anyway, all the very best to you and keep on going, girl!
Wendi: I’ve had a wheelchair, regular walker, and crutches but haven’t seen a walker with a seat. I’ve also not used or seen a bone stimulator. I promised to tell you about my doctor’s appointment that I had this morning: I got a full set of x-rays and everything looks just fine. The surgeon asked me to take a step barefooted on my bad leg and I just couldn’t muster the courage to do it–just kind of stood there frozen. He wants me to start putting full weight on the leg, send the wheelchair back, and also transition off of crutches within the next 4 weeks. When I see him again at that point, he will let me know about transitioning out of the air cast. This is now 12 weeks since my first surgery and 9 since the second, so that’s where I am. I am over the moon at the prospect of walking and driving again, but I simply have to get past this crushing fear that the ankle/leg is going to snap if I put my full weight on it. The surgeon jokingly promised me that the leg wouldn’t snap, crumble, or melt if I walk on it. Easy for him to say!! So, I think I just need to push myself harder and get this job done. By the way, I also had my accident because I slipped in flip-flops! They weren’t even the cheap rubber kind that I have several of in our condo. They were good Rockports that are now going into the trash as soon as I get back down there. No more flip-flops for me!
I never said how I broke my ankle. My family and I were walking our dogs on the street and I was wearing flip flops and I slipped on some loose dirt and gravel and down I went. Now I cringe when I see anyone wear flip flops. I learned my lesson. Tennis shoes all of the time.
I just got a letter in the mail from my insurance company. I guess my doctor requested a walker with a seat but my insurance denied it. Did anyone else have to use one of these?
Where do you live that it is so crisp? I live in San Diego california so we don’t get many crisp evenings. Thanks for letting me know that you used a bone stimulator. No it does not hurt.
thanks Wendi — I usually post on the other site — and have been posting for a while. It has been quite a help. Life is pretty good now. I found ways to deal. I was out of money, and it turns out I had a hidden talent, I could make a pretty good pie — so I started selling pies to earn money for meds — and I have gone on a date — plus, I go out all the time, and I travel, so, it could be far worse — but the mental is always there, esp when you are a teenager, you know?
As far as a bone stimulator? Yes, I used one after my last surgery and then will be using one whenever I have my next surgery. I guess it helped. I know it didn’t hurt. My dr. doesn’t use them for everyone, just people who tend to heal slower.
Ohh, it is a crisp fall day here — and I have to go off to enjoy the evening, hope you all get a chance to as well!
– trac
My doctor also recommeneded a bone stimulator. I am using it right now. I have never heard of one of these before but It didn’t cost me anything so I thought I would give it a try. Did anyone else ever use one of these?
Wow that’s a terrible accident. I feel so bad for you. I do hope though that you keep your chin up and don’t let anyone tell you that you can never walk again. Because there is always hope. I hope for you.
Hey there all! Esp. Macy!
Macy, you know what? I know where you’re at. I, too, had an external fixator (broke & dislocated both ankles, right foot left hanging by a tendon, shattered right leg, knee, thigh, left forearm, wrist & hand), got an infection, and here it is, Oct 2009, my accident was July 2007, and I’m still in a wheelchair unable to walk hoping for more surgeries. I laid for 8 months in a very horrible nursing home that had no idea what to do with me, the food sucked, it was dirty, I lost all my hair, because they didn’t wash or comb it, and I had beautiful long red hair. Right before the accident, I had just been backpacking in Alaska, riding my bike everywhere. I did work as a massage therapist, and now, here I was, being told I would (probably) never do these things again. And, 2 yrs later, they are even more convinced. So, now, I’m a single girl, in a wheelchair, I’ve gained weight, my right leg is swollen, deformed, and quite painful. I’m covered in scars, my right foot is 2 sizes shorter than my left. I have wounds that don’t heal because of circulation, and can’t drive, so I have to ask for rides. I have cried many tears over the loss of my past life. And, how do I meet a man? How do I approach the subject that I can’t drive? So they have to pick me up?
Well, you know what, Macy? Your friends miss you. Your friends don’t care what you can’t do only what you can — they just want to see you out and about, laughing, enjoying yourself. What are you doing for therapy? I really got a boost from aqua therapy. Find a counselor, this is not easy, and you should not feel bad about not being able to handle it on your own. But, stay away from the pain pills! They are dangerous (I know) It is hard, but you can do it. Get out — it is easy for me to say, I’ve already turned my corner — but, I still cry sometimes. But, promise us you’ll get yourself outside, and surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Be proud of yourself for making it this far, and you’ll continue to heal.
Happy, Healthy Healing to you!
trac
thanks Judy, Just don’t want to ruin it for myself. Let me know what your doctor says. You are lucky that you can go on a saturday. My doctor doesn’t work on the weekends. I don’t see my doctor again until oct 26. I think then I am supposed to not be on the crutches. I am still using them now. I don’t want to hurt myself without them.
Hi Wendi: I’m in the same boat as you and am supposed to be putting weight on my leg/ankle “as tolerated”. Are you taking the baby steps with crutches? I have an appointment tomorrow morning with my surgeon and will let you know what he says about walking. I have the same questions you do, although I’m finding out that if I put too much weight on my leg it really lets me know it. Anyway, I’ll let you know what he says.
Just a quick question. I am supposed to be doing little baby steps for the next week and then the next two weeks I am supposed to be starting to gradually putting weight on it. How do I know if I am doing to much or not enough? Can anyone tell me what they did. when they started walking.
I have been getting out a little more myself now also. It makes my spirits higher. Luckily I live in San Diego California so when winter comes I am hoping that the ankle won’t hurt as bad because we have a pretty mild winter.
Hi Macy! I’m so sorry to hear about your accident and the long journey you’ve been on. I know it seems like you’ll never be the same again, but I’m betting that you come through this a new, and improved, Macy. You now have an understanding of disabilities and the disabled that you couldn’t have imagined before your accident. Most of us here have talked about the worst part of this–the depression that inevitably follows bad accidents and broken bones–so don’t feel that you’re alone. It’s given me such comfort and hope to read others’ stories. You’re not alone and all of us here understand and will try to help you through the dark times. Are you able to get out at all with your friends? My accident was 12 weeks ago, and until last weekend the only time I got out of the house was to go to the doctor. My daughters hauled me out to the mall and pushed me around in a wheelchair, and it did wonders for my spirits!
Niko, thanks for your story and I’m sure it’s hard for you to share. I, too, left an abusive marriage and it was the very best decision I’ve ever made for myself. You sound so brave and strong now, not to mention a GREAT role model for your children!
We are all here for each other. That is the main thing. Be happy. I miss riding my horse my I am looking forward to getting better now and being able to ride her again. soon I hope. Keep your chin up Macy we will all get you through it and you will get through it yourself.
Aww, macy don’t ever feel like u won’t be normal again. Here we have all had life changing experiences which bone breaks will do. This doesn’t mean we are not normal, we just have to do things differently.
Macy, it may seem unfair to u at this point because it was not ur fault, but don’t look at it that way. You are young and still have ur beautiful life ahead of you. Healing is just a slow process that needs time which is out of our hands. Just look at the situation differently, stop looking back at what u were able to do and look forward to what you are going to do. If I look back at how my accident happened, I don’t think I would have had the strength to heal and you need your strength. This is a time for you to rest and realize the funny things that your family do to help you.
Last year I broke my ankle in 6 places, I have two children, and I was pushed down the stairs by my daughters father. Macy, I had to deal with my situation “alone” but with the help of my 13yo. I look back now and see things in a different perspective and see fun in small stuff!
The second month into my injury, I tried going up the stairs with my crutches because I had a 3yo whom I still had to care for, well my crutch slipped on the carpet at the top step and I fell backwards. I have 13 steps and I saw everything right there just flash. All of a sudden, my hand reached out and grabbed a railing and I was stopped in mid fall. I could not believe it!
Looking back, I can now say that I was caught in the palm of God’s hand. I was so scared at that moment because my 3yo was standing at the top of the steps watching the whole thing as she was waiting on me to come up behind her.I am now able to see how blessed I am. While u may not like the situation Macy you have to stay positive because that’s where ur strength will come from. We are all here helping each other out.
Just a little secret…to this day, I still have not told my family what really happened!
Wow this was long huh? I feel like we are all at camp around a campfire..lol!
Well I might as well finish the ending….and yes I have long left the individual who pushed me down the steps and I have been living many of my happiest moments!! Oh…may bad for the length…lol 😉
Macy
I feel so bad for you. Keep your chin up. Hopefully you will get through it. Getting on this site really helped me. Keep writing and talking and it helps. You are young luckily so usually younger heals faster. But It’s been a year for you. I feel for you. Keep smiling and keep writing and you can feel better.
Hi my name is Macy Gibbs, i was in a car wreck october 12th of 08 and i had 15 surgeries, i completely shatttered my talus, fibula, tibula and caceanous bones and the little bones by my toes. i had 15 surgeries cause a week after i got home from the hospital with my exfix i got an infection, i was in the hospital from october to dcember. its been a year now and i have an afo brace, and it still hurts me so bad. Im only sixteen i do not wanna deal with this therest of my life. it urts the worse when the weather is changing, and during the cold. my doctors wont prescribe me anymore pain pills the cut me off back in january but i need them i reallly do just for the pain. its not fair, i waws so active in sports and everything and now i feeel like a blob, i just dont even know what to do anymore, im a teenager, i feel like i shouldnt have to deal with this especially since i was even driving when this happened im almost seventeen and i dont even have my license i cant ever be a normal child again.
I have a friend in Wisconsin and her daughter sprained her acl tendon. She didn’t have to have surgery. She went to the hospital and the took xrays and told her that it was a sprained ankle. Two days later she went to the clinic and they told her it was the acl tendon. So now she says she is not going to pay the hospital bill because they didn’t diagnose her right. Acl is nothing to mess with. After a certain amount of time they can’t fix it. So good thing that she went for a second opinion.
Thanks to everyone for the words of support and understanding. Since there are two Judy’s here, I’m Chicago Judy–the one with the amazingly inept first doctor who missed three fractures during my first surgery. Has anyone else experienced poor medical care? To my knowledge, the doctor has not been made aware of my situation and the fact that he missed so much. My second surgeon says that the work he did do was very good, but it’s just that he missed two breaks in my ankle and a second break in the fibula. The worst part of all this was that it set me back a full three weeks in healing time because I needed a second surgery and, like Nancy, I was away from home for about twenty days. The PTs in the nursing rehab facility didn’t know I had a broken ankle, so the sessions with them were excrutiating and mentally exhausting for me as I couldn’t do the ankle exercises they insisted I needed to do. Anyway, does anyone have an opinion about what I should do about the first doctor? Should I call or write to tell him about my case, or should I just leave it alone? I find myself thinking about this in the middle of the night sometimes, and it just doesn’t seem right that nothing is said.
I just appreciate all of the feedback. It helps me know that I am on the road to recovery thank you. For now I am going to keep all of my hardware in my ankle. I just don’t want anymore surgery at this moment.
This is a different Judy but, Last Sept. I fell and broke my tibia and fibula bone in my leg at the ankle.
I had physical and surgery and still have a plate and lots of screws in my leg.
The top of my left foot is tight and I do think it the nerves in the top of my foot.
I still have a slight limp as I walk but thank goodness I can walk. After wheelchair, walker and cane I am proud to be at the stage I am now.
Don’t give up everyone I hope to one day be able to walk without the limp.
Hi, this is a different Nancy then last posted. I really feel for Judy. I can’t imagine going through what you did. For a Dr. to miss as much as the first one did blows me away. I had two tibia plateau fractures in my knee and three in my ankle. It took 8.5 hours of surgery to put everything in place. My trauma Dr. is very against removing the hardware. My body tells me I would be better off without it. It has been 13 months since my accident. I spent 23 days away from home and don’t think I could mentally go through another surgery. I still get a lot of pain and have been trying to figure out why. I had an EMG test last week. All of my main nerves checked out fine. Since the EMG, I have actually had less pain. I think the electrical shocks they give you helped calm the nerves some how. A big reason why I wanted to write was to talk about the depression issue. As we have all stated, our accidents were life changing. When I was in the nursing home I asked to get some help for what I felt was depression. I was told I was fine and everyday would get better so don’t worry about it. My tibia plateau fractures put me in a wheelchair for three months and not driving for 4 months. I have two school age kids that are very active, so when I came home it only got worse. I had incredible guilt about not being able to do the things I had always done. The main thing that I try and focus on is my progress. Where was I a year ago, a month ago,a week ago? Even though the progress seems slow at times, it is at least progress. Hang in there everyone and thanks for sharing your stories.
I shattered my right ankle 14 yr ago and still have the hardware in. Two years ago I repeated with the left ankle and had the hardware out last year. I can tell you it’s much better without the plates and screws.
I was hesitant because of the awful memories of difficult recoveries. I can assure you have a surgeon go in to work on your ankle is a totally different experience than smashing it up yourself.
I had outpatient surgery at 9:30 and woke up at 11. I was discharged by noon, home at 1pm and making work phone calls by 2. (I’m self employed).
I was on crutches about a week and all set in a month or two. I’d never leave in metal I didn’t have to going forward and the sooner you do it (once you’re all healed) the easier it is. I waited too long for the other leg and now it’s too late. If I could get it removed I would. I know it is scary and I convinced it’s worth it.
Thanks everyone for the reassurances. I just hope I am on the road to recovery. Sometimes I don’t think that I have any luck and all the bad stuff happens to me. I just want good stuff now. If I don’t have to have any of my hardware in my ankle taken out I am not going to. My doctor says that it is very rare that he would have to take them out. I don’t know how long a person is down if they have to have them out. And do you have to have another cast on?
Hey everyone, it’ve been 9 months, almost 10 since i went through the whole suffering most of u are going, and the recorey was bad and painful, but im happy to say that now i live a normal life, so there’s hope for all of you. Yes, some days it’s just too painful and i stil limp a little every now and then, but that’s normal, and it’s not an every day thing. Just dnt over stress ur ankle, and everything will be fine, i love dancing, and most of the time my ankle starts hurting bcuz i dance the whole night, but that’s it. I’m scheduled for january to get the plaque and screws removed… really looking forward to that!!
Hi Ladies,
It will get better, its just a slow process. I broke my ankle last year in July in 5-6 places, so I have two plates(inside and outside of ankle) and a bunch of screws. The waiting period was the worst for me, getting the cam walker was the best because I was more mobile. I came off of my cam walker sept 8, 2008, last year and even after that has still been a healing process. I used to limp last winter but now I am walking with a normal gait although at times I may still limp but very minimal. My ankle still swells and I must admit that i dont have the full range of motion I once had. I was looking into removing the hardware, but I was just waiting to see others experiences, because I am just scared to go through that surgery process again…..It was the worst pain in my entire life!! I know there is some downtime with that as well, so I just havent made up my mind yet!
But trust me ladies, it will get better, “I am a lot better today than I was last year”. Is what I say to myself everytime I see a cute pair of heels that I know I am not ready to wear yet 🙂
My first surgery was about aug 14 and then my second surgery was two weeks ago. He went in on the second surgery and put in a bigger plate for more stability and to more screws. He told me these first two weeks I need to do baby steps with crutches. Then the next to weeks to start gradually putting weight on it. I have an upstairs but I won’t attempt those yet. No stairs to go outside so I am glad for that. Thanks for talking with me. It makes it easier each day for me. My doctor has prescribed pain pills for me just in case I need them. I hate taking pills though so I haven’t used any. I just don’t know when I am going to put to much weight or not enough. That is what I am nervous about. I don’t want to over do it but I don’t want to under do it either.
I looked back, Wendi, and I think you are about 6 weeks since your surgery?? It’s been 12 since my first surgery and 9 since the second, but the physical therapists got things moving pretty quickly. Are you getting any PT? My surgeon said that the ankle with screws is stronger than one without, but (like you) I have these awful thoughts of the screws/ankle snapping if I put too much weight on it. Baby steps, I guess, will get us through that nightmare!
I’ve gotten much more mobile in the past two weeks. I can get up to our second story and can also make it down our back steps to sit in the yard, since a carpenter built a strong rail for me. Actually, if it wasn’t my right leg that’s injured, I think I could drive myself around and start getting back to normal. I absolutely HATE not being able to drive.
I walked with crutches quite a bit yesterday, putting more and more weight on my leg, and really paid for it. I was up most of the night with very deep aches and pains. Sigh. Hope you’re doing well today!
Hi Judy,
I am to afraid to move it around without the boot on. I guess I am just paranoid that the screws will break or something. My husband says that it is pretty stable and I don’t need to worry but I still do. Let me know now how your excerciseing it goes.
I really should learn to be more patient, but I’m really anxious to get out of this boot. I know it’s not happening any time soon, but a gal can hope! I leave it off most of the day if I’m not up and around and exercise and ice the ankle all day long. I still am not getting much movement, though. I can point my toes down but can only get the ankle to a neutral position when I pull the toes up.
Does anyone have any tips for loosening up the joint? All of my hardware is supposed to remain in for life, I think.
Thanks!
I don’t mind that I have to go until thanksgiving as long as I can walk. The last 6 weeks of now walking really sucked. I couldn’ do anything. Until I got the boot I couldn’t even shower and I hated that. I am glad I made a friend on here. Someone to talk to. I don’t have much to do. Good luck at your appointment on Saturday.
I’m in the boot also, Wendi, but I’m not sure how long I’ll be in it. I have an appointment on Saturday, and I sure hope he doesn’t tell me Thanksgiving, but it wouldn’t surprise me. My ankle is still pretty frozen, and I’ll be darned if I can get it loosened up. I’m trying everything I can think of. It’s amazing to me how much longer the healing process takes than I imagined. I just want to drive again and start getting back to normal. Hang in there, from the looks of things here we’ve got lots of company!
Thanks judy,
I am on the mend. I have the boot and can walk with little baby steps for the next two weeks and then the two weeks after that I can start gradually putting weight on it. I can’t drive for 4 weeks. I will be in the boot until thanksgiving. Thanks for writing it makes the days go buy easier knowing that I am not the only one. My son and Husband have been great but my husband has been a little grumpy.
Hi Wendi: I have plates and screws, too, and also get cracking in both my foot and ankle, mostly when I massage them. I’m sorry you had to have two surgeries–I did too–and the second one really walloped me. I’m in my 12th week now, and once the mind-numbing pain subsided, I think the worst part of all this is the depression and boredom. I try to keep busy, but my life is completely different right now from what it used to be. I can’t drive and probably won’t be able to for a good time yet, and having to be taken places is a drag. Both of my daughters ride, and I know they would feel like you if they had to give it up for a while. Keep your chin up and keep smiling!
I am just glad to know that there are other people out there that are going thru what I am going thru. I hate being down. i have a horse and I haven’t been able to ride her now for about 6 weeks. And now I don’t think I will be able to ride her until after november. I just miss going and doing stuff with the family. I am in the boot now and starting to walk a little. Hopefully everything works out and I don’t have anymore fall outs. Thnkas for listening. It helps to have other people like me.
Hi All:
Just reading this site has made me feel better, knowing that others have, or are, going through the same things that I am. I took a nasty fall on stairs while on vacation on July 12 and had surgery the next day. Both the right tibia and fibula were snapped completely off and were repaired with a rod in the tibia and several screws. My left foot was also broken but didn’t need surgery. I traveled home a week later (quite an adventure) and when the ortho doctor here saw me three weeks after the first surgery, he sent me right back for more x-rays. Unfortunately, the first surgeon missed two breaks in my right ankle and a second break in the fibula. Another trip to surgery, and I now have two rods, two plates and eight screws. This is my 12th week since the first surgery and 9th since the second, and I’m now in an air cast and was told I could put weight on the right leg “as tolerated”. I’m scared out of my mind to put more than 50% weight on it, and afterwards the aching is awful. I’m also not having good luck with mobility of the joint. I use an elastic band to pull on the foot and also make circles with the foot. Can anyone suggest other exercises that will loosen up the joint? Like others here, I feel like I start completely over every day and it really gets me down in the dumps. I also try to be cheerful in front of my family and, while they’ve been very supportive, I know they think this is taking way too long for me to heal. Thanks for listening to me!
I broke my ankle. I have to have surgery and they put screws and a plate in it. I was down for about 5 weeks. Went back and have to have surgery again. Got a bigger plate for more stability. My question is I am on the road to recovery now. I am in the boot. I can take it off while I watch tv and sleep and shower. Occasionally my bones crack. Is it normal for them to crack in the ankle with a plate and screws? has anyone else had this happen to them?
I had my hardware(6 screws and plate) taken out three wks ago this tue….i’m just now getting more movement back in my ankle, up and down is alot better, but still have no movement at all from side to side.
I was on crutches for about first 5 days after sergery and was limping around with my brace(which i’v got to wear for 2-3 months)during the 2nd wk, this past 3rd wk i’v gone from limping to walking more normally. Everyday I feel improvement and should be 100% in a wk or so I think. Its just sore at the side where the plate was taken out from cutting into the skin, once thats healed hoping to feel alot better and get my side to side motion back.
sharon, i’m 67. we’ve got 30 years to go. why do it in pain when we have a chance to make it go away? People older than us have major surgery with a lot more risk. let’s do it. i’m calling tomorrow for a consultation.
Bruce, thanks for the info. after removal surgery, were you able to get around? I hate the thought of that darn walker again. I don’t think i have the strength or balance for crutches. could you put weight on that ankle at all?
Good Morning to all my broken ankle friends,
I broke my ankle 4 months ago and had surgery on June 5, 2009. Recovery has been slow. Physical therapy has helped. I have an appointment with the Doc on Monday Sept. 28 to discuss having the hardware removed. It is uncomfortable, sometimes causes pain and I walk differently than I did prior to the break. My last appointment with the doc he told me blood clots and infection were possibilites due to my age (70). Not sure is I should live with the discomfort or go for removal of the “stuff”. Any older patients our there? What has been your experience?
Nancy, Maria
I’ve had shattered ankles on two separate occasions. I’m pretty sure your hip problem is from walking funny.
I tried to walk fast and got knee problems both times. I’d take a step and throw my “good leg” out fast and far, hyper extending the knee. Most likely PT would help you. I ended up going to PT 4 times a week – 2 for the knee and 2 for the ankle.
The lesson here is when recovering focus on walking as normally as possible even if slowly and small steps.
Nancy,
I have my plate in from 14 yr ago and I don’t like it – too late to get it out now. My plate from two years ago was removed and I’m much happier. Recovery was not that bad, nothing like the original injury. It took some weeks and I did go to PT – not a big trauma.
.
This is my first post here. broke my ankle a year and a half ago. Maria, I also have hip problems now. Sometimes I can barely walk because of my hip pain. seems to have started after the break, I attribute it to hopping around with a walker for five weeks and then walking funny for a while.
My metal plate is really bothering me now. I’m seeing a doctor in a week about getting it out. I’m scared about it because I don’t want to be hopping around again and make my hip even worse. Anyone have any words of encouragement?
Hi All!
Hi Nancy, sorry it took so long to reply.
I do still have nerve pain, yes, but not to the degree I did prior to all of the testing. I take Neurotin. It helps. What the test was helpful in determining was where and to what extent I had nerve/muscle damage, and how to treat it. My dr. was definitely able to treat it to a better degree after the test. As far as calming down, I can’t answer that except to simply relax and understand that this will help you in the long run. I kept repeating that to myself. Good Luck to you!
Healthy Healing to all —
trac
Hello, It’s been a while. Hope everyone is doing well. Just a quick question…Did anyone develop a hip problem after recovering from a broken ankle?? Thx!!
Trac,
What kinds of things did you learn from the EMG? Do you still have nerve pain? What is the best thing to do to calm down nerves? Thanks, Nancy
Hello, fellow anklebreakers,
I am a regular poster on the other site. A quick summary — 2 yrs ago, I broke and dislocated both ankles (the left was a closed fracture, the right was a compound fracture), shattered every bone in my right leg, incl. knee, and shattered my left arm and hand. I have used aqua therapy extensively and found it to be the most productive form of therapy, so I have to agree with you completely, Nancy, and I, too, recommend it to everyone I know. I have had the EMG test, I would like to tell you that it is painless, but it is not. It is the most painful, annoying test I have had thus far. I’ve had a couple of them. I think if I tell you how horrible it is, maybe you will go in dreading it and come out saying, “that wasn’t too bad” 🙂 I will stress to you how important it is to be relaxed when they ask you to, because if you squeeze your muscles, it makes the test more difficult, thus take longer. However, that all being said, the information gained was valuable. I will be thinking of you.
Good Luck to everyone else and happy healing!
trac
It has been a few months since I last wrote but I have some new questions. A year ago I fractured my knee in two places and my ankle in three places. I was having too much pain and did not want to get rid of my crutches 8 months post op! After being put on Lyrica once a day it all changed. My nerves calmed down and I could do more. About 6 weeks ago all the pain started coming back. They doubled my dose of Lyrica but it did not help. Today my pain has been nonstop and all my trauma docs were at a conference. I went to a general Dr. and she ordered an ultrasound and an EMG. My ultrasound came back as normal. (no blood clots) The EMG test will be next week. Has anyone had this test?
By the way, if you want painless therapy that feels amazing, go to pool therapy. I was trying to do stuff at an LA Fitness on my own but then started going to a hospital for pool therapy. I wish I had gone in my earlier stages of recovery. I highly recommend it.
Just got my metal plate and seven screws taken out yesterday. Back on crutches, I was told recovery would only be a wk, but right now i’m having difficulty moving my foot up and down, no movement side to side, and can’t put much preasure on it, much less walk. When i try to move my foot up, the side where the metal came out just aches. Anyone know how long till I have movement and can walk again? JAN said in a preview post that she was walking in sandels just two days later. Happy for her, but def won’t be that fast a recovery for me.
Dont give up JT. It does get better. Do your pt right and rest your ankle as much as you can. Let it heal. You will not be in pain when they remove the pin and you will have more mobility, so look forward to that. The plate I dont know cos I still have mine.
Take care
Mario
I just broke my ankle two months ago and they put a screw and a plate in me. they are going to take the screw out in october but I have to wait 6 months to a year to take the plate out….this has been the worst experience.
Hi Anklequest
I hope you are starting to feel better and I know what you mean about the drugs. Too me it seems like a long road but the drugs they gave me seem to make it harder to heal. So I stuck with advil but even advil would get to me after awhile. My prayers are with you and may God speed your healing.
Hello Everybody,
I forgot to mention that when I went to therapy they did get me a tens unit and it helps me with the pain and aches. Sometimes I use it once or twice a week. Also I did get a step stretcher too. I am glad I found this site to share our stories. I found another website that helped me realize that I wasn’t alone in this experience and it is http://www.pponline.co.uk/forum/talk-injury/broken-ankle-injury
Alot of others share their stories at that website.
May God speed your healing.
Will continue tomarrow.
Have more details….
All the best to everyone..
Anklequest
3rd post…cont…
Surgery was Monday. On Tuesday I still could not feel my leg due to the block. Finally Tuesday evening things began to get better and i began to feel my ankle. My husband had been told by the doctor to be sure to give me the pain medicine (oxycodone–not percocet since, as it turns out, I cannot take asprin type drugs) before the block dissapeared or I would be screaming in pain. Well, so I took the oxycodone and went to sleep for the evening, hearing voices, and feeling no aches and pains at all (felt quite odd since I do have normal aches and pains). The next day, Wednsday, I had a co-worker scheduled to come over so we could work on writing a proposal. I’d taken another two tabs by then. By then I was feeling completely out of sorts, occasionally dizzy, and some other symptoms. I could function and we did plow through ideas, but, I was definitly less able to “think” of vocabulary words related to the project and my coworker said I was a bit more “agitated” than ususal. I told her occasionally how I felt and she, after 4 hours, suggested I get some rest, which was a good suggestion. The out of sorts feeling for me was so intense that I became determined not to take anymore oxycodone and thereafter just took 2 tylenol every 6 hours. In retrospect, I feel the oxycodone really did a number on my brain, and I hope not to have to take it again. For my first surgery, the morphine did the same.
Anklequest
Hi again.
Now an update on my arthoscopic ankle surgery on Monday. (Sorry it took a while but for some reason things got busier, people over, etc and I got more tired in the evening.)
First, background for the new posters: I’ve been posting off and on for about three years. I broke my ankle about 3 1/2 years ago–trimalleolar fracture– and also ended up with a severe external wound which could not be stitched and didn’t heal for 6 months. I was 61 and in excellent health..running, hiking, extensive gardening,and all that stuff. At first I thought, after one year that I would be OK but gradually things didn’t improve any more. Then, about 6 months ago, things really started to worsen and I could see a more misshapen ankle. So I went to one of the best docs in the NY area and was told I had severe arthritis in the ankle. In April I had a cortisone shot and again in June, with only about 3 weeks effect, so in July, after a vacation trip to California with problems walking, I decide to go for the recommended arthroscopic surgery.
Lee, one of the posters on this board, was very helpful in providing information about arthroscopic surgery, and that was definitely a great encouragement to me.
I did not need my hardware removed, as that was not, and still is not, causing any problems. My problem is that the bottom of my tibia was likely damaged, but i will find out more next week when I go back to get stitches removed.
More to come,
Anklequest
Hi Everyone!
Linda, thanks for sharing your story. It sounds ever so familiar. My opinion, anyone with the severe break you had should never work standing on your feet for longer periods of time again, as your ankle will never be the same. I hope that you let your co-workers know that certainty, for it can make a difference in how they feel towards you. I too had to remain off my ankle completely for 6 weeks without a cast so completely understand what you went through.
My boss broke her ankle walking her dog in the cold snow on new-year’s day in a quiet suburban cul-de-sack. She was eventually discovered by a laundry truck. Luckly, despite the fact that she had a trimalleolar fracture now some 5 years ago, she is doing very well, has little arthritis, and walks without a limp at age 58. She lucked out with a most excellent surgeon who fixed the ankle perfectly. So some can fare quite well, and then others like me
who haven’t done as well.
Will continue with several separate pieces as my longer posts often dissappear,
Anklequest
I forgot to add that the first six weeks I kept my foot elevated and only got up to go to the bathroom. I kept my foot very still and never put weight on it for first six weeks. Also the doctor put me in an aircast. Bless you all in your healing.
Hi
I broke my ankle in all three places Jan 10, 2009. Ice was under leaves and I was walking a pit bull. I slid on the leaves with the ice under it, the pavement caught my foot and I heard snap crack like the sound of a branch. I looked at my right foot and it was turned to a 3 o’clock position. I left my cell phone at home. I tried to get up and my foot fell right out of it socket and I fell back down. The dog was jumping all over me. I adjusted my foot myself and tried to crawl but was in too much pain. A man or should I say an angel drove up in a truck and said Ms. are you alright and drove me too safety. I was 53 years old and they operated on me immediately. Now I am 54. They did surgery and put in a woodnail on my left side of foot, a plate bracket and several screws on the right side of the foot. I broke all three bones in the ankle (fibula, tibula, and the other one). I was out of work for four months. My job is standing for eight hours straight. I had to get the doctor to give me a note to sit at work. It seems the doctor and co workers do not understand that you need to be able to stand, stretch, sit or walk when you break your ankle. It’s almost as though they feel you should be back to normal in 8 weeks. I did therapy for six weeks but the best therapy is biking. It gave me back my range. I try to bike or walk 2 to 5 times a week for 40 min per day. Now that I am back to work I have to walk more than bike. But to me biking is better. I try to stay away from the pain killers because they depress me and if I have to I take advil. I try to eat right and keep the weight off. Biking gave me back my range. I even bought a bike that folds from http://www.citizensbike.com. I keep it in my car so I can bike anywhere. I also do my abc’s with my foot. Lately I am thinking about removing the hardware because of the tightness and muscle pulls, aches that comes if I stress the ankle too much. But I am afraid that it will end up worst if I do remove the hardware because the doctor said he doesn’t know if it will work until he opens up the ankle again. Well thanks for letting me air my story and bless all of you with your healing.
Hi Everyone!
I broke my ankle skydiving on 6/26/09, broke it in 3 places and tore both of my ligements. I was put in a thigh high cast at first, but once the doctors noticed it wasnt set correctly in the cast, they opted for surgery.That took place on 7/10/09. Im in a walking boot but still havent been ok’d to bare weight on my foot. I believe my ankle was almost shattered.
I am back at work with the help of crutches, but I am anxious about when I walk again. I go to the doctor Friday after 1 moth after surgery.
-Will I be walking aout of the Doctors office that day? How does that work?
-Will I take my first steps during PT?
-Also, my doc told me to stop smoking. I have, but I want to start up again. Call me crazy, but Im really stressed out.
P.S.—I’ve gone through this whole experience by myself. No family or relationship. I’ve even managed to learn how to drive with my left foot (right is broken). This injury has taken more of a mental toll on me then physical. Im only 29, and my life feels like it came to a screeching halt!
7/31/09 Hi everyone. I got my staples taken out today from when I had my hardware removed 7/23/09. The sites are clean but itch alot. The nurse applied a few steri strips and said to let them fall off naturally. I don’t see any drainage so I think the strips will fall off soon, one has fallen off already and the day is not over. I am walking ok but I can feel my ankle is not completely healed. Its swollen a bit now but is not hurting. The doctor said this was my last visit unless complications arise and that I can walk without restrictions. I’m going to the mall now and test my endurance. Will keep you posted. Hilda
Sorry, more to add. No bath for a month. Stitches can’t get wet. Stitches came out very easily in two weeks. Wore like a butterfly bandage then for about another two weeks til they fell off. Foot is not swollen nor did it feel as stiff. Just be sure to rotate it with the alphabet to keep it mobile.
Hi all.
It’s been 4 months since hardware removal. 5 screws and a plate on left side of ankle and a long screw on right side. The surgery cost about $11,000. My insurance paid for it because I was having more pain with it in.
I am not entirely pain free, some swelling still but not as much. The recovery was awesome. I was walking in the boot immediately after surgery(I woke with it on) I had it on for only one more day before I wore sandals.
I still catch myself watching where I step, the doctor said that would eventually go away.
It will be two years in September since I met with the gopher hole in my backyard. It has been a journey and the best to you all with prayers.
Jan
Question, how long is the recovery time for hardware removal? OMG, I dont want to go thru the same pain as i did before and after the surgery..it was soo painful, it took a toll mentally and physically..
Yes indeed, here here!!
I dont like the stiffness, sometimes I have good days and I definitely cant walk around my house in a regular house shoe…I wear a flipflop that has a arch support on it. Its just a regular thick soled one from walmart. It allows me to run up and down the stairs when I in my house without pain.
After reading others posts about hardware removal…I decided to look into it….I just heard that there is downtime with the procedure. So I am just waiting to see how others experiences have been..
Like you……my break was very bad from the time they removed my gymshoe in er to the time they removed my stitches!!
I definitely don’t want to feel that again..
Guess we are all in the same boat. Its been over 7 months since I broke mine and its terribly frustrating not to see any improvement. I guess it will be some time before I can remove the hardware and to be honest I am not looking forward to it. The thought of another operation does not make me feel any better.
Hi Tiniko, thanks for the reply, its been awful from day one, breaking it was the worse, but now im experiencing all type of pain around my ankle, it stays swollen, i have a lump that never comes down, no matter how much ice i put on it, cant do much walking, standing, very unstable here as well.
Hey Iris….
Yeah, you broke your ankle a month after I broke mine and I have two plates and many screws as well. Sounds like we are in a similar position. I am looking into getting my hardware removed. I am able to right slightly, can walk up hills correctly and still unstable. Yes I as well have the pain on top of the foot although it is periodic.
Hi everyone, sorry to hear of your pain, i broke my ankle in 3 places on aug 1, 2008, had surgery, i also have 16 screws,plates, i did therapy but i really didnt follow thru, its almost a year later and im still in alot of pain, im going to see if the doctor can remove all the hardware, because i believe its causing me to have alot of pain, my pain is on top of my foot. has anyone experience this? I am still limping, i cant run, its very depressing.
Hi Niko, I just had my hardware removed 7-23-09, I’ll let you know when I’m healing. It’s only been 6mos since I broke my ankle. Hilda
Hey all!
It has finally been one year since I broke my ankle. Although I am still not able to wear anlke socks…my progressed has improved. Now seeing that everyone is getting their hardware removed, I was thinking the same. I have two plates and I think like 7 to 8 screws. I don’t have the same movement as my other ankle and I see others say that removing the hardware allows that. How long is the recovery time with removal, because with my hardware I am still unstable!
Hi Mario, It sounds like you are right. The hardware in your leg is foreign to your body and probably saying get me out of here and I’ll perform for you.(smile) Of course, I don’t know for sure, only you know what you are feeling in your leg. It would probably be worth it to talk to several surgeons or medical doctors to get their opinions. keep me posted. Hilda 7-24-09
Hi Hilda,
I’m glad your surgery has gone well and that it is behind you now. I hope you manage to rest and get back on your feet in no time. I myself am not happy with my recovery. I can walk and do most things but I cannot run and my left foot can’t do what my right does. I still have a plate on the side of my foot (shin) and I was hoping I would not have to undergo surgery to remove it but Im doubtful now.
Keep me posted
Mario
7-24-09 Hi Mario, thanks for the advice, its 3:45a and can’t sleep. I had surgery yesterday and my hardware was removed from my left ankle. I was told not to bear weight on it for 48 hours and given a prescrition for tylenol with codiene for pain. I only had local anesthesia this time and the pain after recovery room was not much but more of a burn sensation at the entry site, the nurse gave me a tylenol with codeine before I was released and I took one before I went to bed. Thanks to you I haven’t walked on it. Like you I was anxious to tell my spouse every time I could walk better only to later find I’d overdone it and the pain would take over. I forgot to say that when I was having pain using my cane in my first note that I used one cruthch and sometimes two depending on the distance I was walking. I’m glad I found this site, its good sharing the experience with someone whose been there. Will keep you all posted until I can walk well. Hilda
Hi Hilda,
After I had the pins removed from my ankle I noticed a big improvement and the pain subsided a bit. If, like me you are sent home immedeatly please dont make my mistake: I was walking around telling my wife how better I felt…..until the anaesthetic wore off and I was in agony for a couple of days. Take it easy and keep moving it, do your exercises and if in pain take painkillers (dont be a hero like i did, not worth it). I wish you best and a speedy recovery.
07-20-09 Hi everyone, I slid on the ice and broke my left ankle in 3 places and disclocated a bone in my left foot exactly 6 months ago January 20,2009. The dislocated bone was put back in place the same day in ER but surgery was done 2 days later. My cast was removed March 2,2009 and I was given a walking boot and started therapy with cruthes until I was given a cane to use. While trying to use this cane I walked the way the therapists told me to walk and my left knee begin to hurt on the right inner side and severely in back of knee in May 2009. When I told the therapist, they said they were treating my ankle not my knee, so I stopped therapy which I had been in for 3 months. I started taking motrin 800mg every 6 hours which gave me a lot of relief. The pain came and and went but I didn’t want to take so much motrin. When I visited the Dr. on July 13,2009 he said to take aleve 2 a day and my pain has greatly subsided. I got a good regular gym shoe that had padding at the ankle and I can walk ok without my cane. When I walk barefoot it feels funny like I need more support so I just put on that gym shoe. I have six screws on my outer ankle and one long screw on my inner ankle and a plate. My Dr. has scheduled surgery for 7-23-09 to take the hardware out of my ankle and hopefully I’ll be able to walk more normal. The Dr. says recovery is quick like a week or two. How about any of you, have you had a similar experience?
Thanks Ana,
I’m sorry to hear you have to undergo a 3rd operation, hope it goes well it relieves some of the pain.
I am trying hard to get better. My mistake was to ‘ignore’ my therapy for some time as my wife and I had our first baby in february. The change that brought was so much I had very little time for myself. Now I am fighting a stiff joint which is proving to be a hard and painful battle.
As regards returning to soccer I am a bit negative. Apart from the pain and the fact that its impossible for now to run etc, I think mentally I’m too scared after the injury. Seeing my foot so out of place has left a scar that won’t heal easily. I must admit I’m quite a baby when concerning hospitals and the time I spent there was horrible, especially the 2 and a half days waiting for my operation. Also, and I’d love to hear opinions about this, I feel that if I go back and god forbid get injured again I will feel very guilty towards the people around me, especially my wife. It’s a battle between the fear of another injury and the craving for a sport I’ve been doing all my life.
Dear Mario,
I am a soccer coach for my little one who is 4. I broke my ankle 6 years ago. 6 screws, a plate and 2 pins. Two years ago I had the hardware removed and arthritis is building including osteophytes which I will be removing soon for the 3rd operation. I am in pain a lot, and I receive cortisone shots every now and then which helps tremendously. What you are feeling is normal, it’s not the break but the recovery afterwards. Physical therapy is the best remedy, it helps with the tightness you feel. Try and do the excersies while you are watching tv, or day to day activities. Don’t give up. During soccer practice I run with them, I do everything I tell them to do, jump,sit ups. I wear a brace and it hurts but I never show that to my kids. I am never giving up and even though I obviously can never play like I did in high school, I really try to. Don’t give up if soccer is your passion, healing takes time, but if you give up it will never happen. Please keep me posted, I would love to hear about your recovery. Thanks to this site, you can see you are not alone.
I’m just browsing, looking for other people who also have my problem. I broke my ankle on the 27th December 2008, during a soccer game (the ankle was pointing the wrong way). It’s 6 months now and though I am able to work and do most things I’m still in a lot of pain. I’m trying to do as much phisio as possible but every morning my ankle is stiff and sore, so I have to start over again. I don’t have 100% mobility either. If I put my foot flat on the floor I can only move my knee outwards a few centimeters. I’m really frustrated and nearly sure I’ll never play soccer again.
When does it end?
Hi all. I usually post on the other site (broken ankle – 2 years later). I was just catching up here. I broke my right ankle – 3 places – screws and a plate on September 23, 2007. One year later, on Nov. 4th 2008 I had the hardware removed and don’t regret it for a second.
Just 2 weeks ago, I fell and broke my LEFT ankle! No surgery – only broke the fibula in one place (only lol). So, here I am again, on the couch feeling sorry for myself :). Anyway, at 3 am this morning when I could not sleep, I wrote a poem and thought I would share. Hope it makes you smile:
It all started with going for a walk in the park.
Then my foot met a hole and everything went dark.
The pain was intense, as I looked at my foot.
“Go get the car”. I will stay put.
The ambulance comes – oh, what a scene.
But I don’t care – just give me morphine.
The lights are blaring – the bumps hurt so much.
You need an x-ray – my foot – please don’t touch!
You have a bad break they tell me with care.
Go home – here’s some crutches – they give me a pair.
We go home in the car. The ride is hard – “Oh my”.
Every bump and curve makes me want to cry.
We finally get home and I try to walk to the door.
After 3 steps with the crutches-I want no more.
I look up all the stairs. I feel so dumb.
I then decide, I’ll go up on my bum.
At the top of the stairs I say ouch.
Then I look for my destination and start for the couch.
For the next few weeks, the couch is my home.
While I sit and wait to heal my bone.
I can’t get my coffee. I can’t get my lunch.
Someone cleans my kitchen – thanks a bunch!
Sometimes I feel that I am so alone – so stressed.
Then I see a picture of an amputee and I feel so blessed.
My friends come to visit – they call and they talk.
Soon I’ll be up and able to walk.
It seems so far away – but I know it will come.
Soon I’ll be up and this all will be done.
Erika
Hello everyone and especially the person who said that her or his (sorry I deleted the letter from my inbox and it is no longer on the site) ankle was not healing. When I was in hospital nearly two years ago after my car accident and my ankle was half severed I was in a ward with a young woman of 23. She had had her ankle all but severed two years before and was having her 20 something surgery as it had not healed and there had been lots of complications. It was so hard for her and I am grateful that my ankle and knee, while they still give me quite a bit of pain have healed fairly well – but at 48 I know that healing is slower and perhaps not as good as when you are younger – also the severity of the injury can make things harder as one can see from the young woman I met in hospital.
So all I have to offer you is sympathy and my prayers that your bones will heal. They young womans last surgery proved successful and she is much better now.
It does make it hard for your loved ones when you take a long time to heal. I unashamedly kept my wheelchair for a longer time so that I could do things like clean a bit, even do some cooking, shop -I did all my 2007 Christmas shopping from presents and food in my wheelchair – something immpossible on two crustches with two gammy legs. I have even made changes to my work so that I can spend more time sitting.
It can be difficult when your exeperience is still so closely with you. People not in your situation can get a bit impatient and just expect you to be fine. It can make one feel a bit lonely, frustrated and even like a wimp – but I promise you you are not a wimp – it takes courage to cope with all this pain and trauma!
My 18 year old daughter who was also badly injured in the crash wrote this poem.
Afterwards by Ruth Kruger
Crash
Glass, metal, blood, pain, confusion…
Everyone
Cares, helps, cooks, visits,
at the beginning.
You move on,
Or are pushed.
No one likes to see self-pity’
Afterwards.
So you tell yourself
It’s over.
When it isn’t
Youre strong, you’re fine, you’re over it,
When you’not.
No-one
Likes to see self-pity,
Afterwards.
(This is not to say we are not deeply grateful to all our friends and other peopel who gave us so much help and support. We had a survivor party a year later to thank everyone.)
What happens to us matters less than how we cope with it! Be proud of your survival and coping skills.
Thanks for the replies. Very interesting. I find the meds work but they seem to wear off quickly due to the body getting used to them. I, was, of course on IV morphine from the time of accident Jan 2 up until several days of leaving the hospital and going to the skilled nursing facility. Then it was percocet and a 30 MG slow release morphine pill every 12 hours.
I gradually got down to 15 MG slow release morphine and percocets every 4 as called for. Since I had an external fixator in my pelvis I had to remain bed ridden and largely immobile for 3 months. Often I would go long stretches with no percocets or would take them at night.
Now when I am up and working that ankle it seems to hurt worse despite being first released for PT at the end of March. The initial physical therapy effort went so well that I was released on 16 April.
Oh….a great idea for icing an ankle that is cheap and easy….purchase a large bag of frozen peas and use that as your ice bag ..or several. Use and place back in the freezer much cheaper than all those pricy speacial made icing devices sold at the pharmacy.
I thought I posted but I dont know where it went.
When I still had my cast, I had oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine and motrin. I took myself off because there would be times when the meds would wear off and my leg would randomly jerk and I could not control it and I would be in more pain then after that. It always seemed to happen when I would find a comfortable position to sleep or lay in while elevating my leg. That random jerk always woke me and and the pain always resume. It felt I was being stuck over and over on my leg with needles.
I also took many pain meds too. Lyreca is used after the bones are completely healed, but the pain is still there due to nerve issues. My guess is you are still at the pain med stage. Another advantage of Lyreca is it makes you very tired, so I really sleep soundly. I had not done that since pre-accident.
Lyreca. I will have to remember that. I was taking Oxycodone but have been downgraded to Vicodin.
Sometimes that seems inadequate or only lasts for a short time and I can only take eight a day.
I know too much of the narcotic stuff is not good due to a prpensity for addiction or at minimum mild dependency.
I’d sure like to be pain free enough to function for an full nine or ten hour period without taking more than the recommended dosage over that period.
(I dont do that but its tempting at times)
It has been almost 9 months since I fractured my ankle in 3 places and my knee in 2. The Dr. kept telling me that my bones were healed, but I kept telling him I was in too much pain to walk without crutches. Since I started Lyreca a couple weeks ago, I have really progressed. I barely use my crutches and my pain is so infrequent compared to before. Lyreca is used to calm the nerves. I am finally believing that I will walk with a more normal gait some day. I also think pool therapy has helped.
Thanks Niko. I am just sick and tired of being a gimp and was looking forward to a quick progressive healing.
I sit in front of my computer at work (just started back last week) I intend to sit longer and spend less time walking around starting tomorrow.
Yes Kevin, you are still very early in the healing stage, so it will take time. Everything basically has to repair and regrow such as tissue and veins because your ankle bone was not the only thing that suffered damage. Especially if you had a bad break you will need time. You must remember to keep you leg elevated (As my good friends of this board has informed me :). I broke my ankle July 5, 2008 and I still swell and limp from time to time. Dont rush it though, the healing of bones is something we cant control. My doc said the swelling is because the veins are in repair mode to be able to carry blood normally, but since they are healing it only so much they can take which causes the blood to collect in one area instead of moving along.
I was finally able to run up some steps on the ball of my feet as of two months ago. I too have two plates and lots of screws..I know it seems like its a bad situation with the pain on and off.
Trust me it will get better. I was very frustrated with my ankle and just wanted everything to be the way it was. Since I have found this site….my progress is getting better and I know it takes time. It hasnt even been a year for me yet!
Its a slow process Kevin, but hang in there and you will do ok!
Hello everyone. I broke my ankle badly on Jan 2, 2009. Surgery was done about three four days later due to extreme swelling. They put an internal fixator through the ankle in the interim I believe. I had many other injuries ..broken neck two vertebrae at C7, My pelvis was dislocated and broken, the right shoulderblade was broken, tendons on the right wrist were cut and surgically repaired.
At this point in time the ankle is my limiting injury.
I guess bad ankle breaks take forever to heal completely? I have two plates one for the tibia and another for the fibula and an even dozen pins and screws.
I was immobile for three months and then allowed weight bearing PT. I progressed quickly to just using a cane but in the last few days the ankle seems to be more sore,swollen and painful. Is this a norm for bad breaks?
I have heard some folks have pretty good degrees of pain for up to nearly a year. I am only at 4.5 months. Today it seems I need to regress to a walker.
For the last four days I ice the ankle every evening twice over two three hours for 15 to 20 minutes each.
Is it normal to have good periods and bad periods like this?
Katherine,
I am so sorry for all the pain you have been through.
My prayers go out to you. I do hope this last option does the trick.