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.
Sandra:
As far as exercise, I’m going to start on the recumbant bike. That doesn’t bother the ankle and will be good to get some muscle back in my leg/knee. I think part of the limping is based on not enough strength yet in the knee. Hopefully, at some point, I’ll be able to progress to the treadmill but I don’t think that’ll happen for awhile. I used to love taking step classes but I think those days are over!
Kris
FOR CAROL – FROM SANDRA
Hi. Glad surgery went well, and hope return to work is okay. Let us know you you do.
Posted a message before, but when site was not working, so I don’t think it went on.
Bye for now,
Sandra
FROM SANDRA
Hi all. Glad the site is back working.
KRIS – thanks for the laugh – the thought of an ankle the size of a canteloupe. And are you really joining up to an exercise ‘regiment’?
Well, whatever it is, sounds like a good idea. I would like to at least maintain weight as I lost so much in hospital, but it would also be great to lose some – to take the stress off my ankles. But that seems difficult, when even walking with crutches can be a challenge (at times).
JANELLE. Nice to hear from you. 17 months is a long time. Makes me realize I need to stop feeling frustrated after 4 and a half months!
NANCY. Shame about the brace, but keep hanging in there.
SAMMY. Glad to hear your surgery has been done, and hope you get the pain control sorted out.
CLARK. Interested in your comments about range of movement and you are further down the line than me. I have been very conscientious about my exercises, but am still limited.
I have had a bad few days as I did something that set off an attack of pain. It would be nice to know what these ‘somethings’ might be in advance, wouldn’t it? My pain tends to come in the night so I don’t sleep and wake up feeling awful. In the day my ankle/leg has been stiff and tight, and often very weak. MUCH BETTER today, because I have rested it for a few days, and used two crutches instead of one, and one where I was going solo. The frustration comes from feeling I have been going backwards.
However, went to my phsyio exercise class today and did much better on balance and on some of the exercises, so that has boosted my confidence. Driving is also going well.
On the stiffness/tightness, the physio today said that could be permanent. Not great news, but I just have to deal with it if that is the case. Walking without crutches – or one at least – seems a long way off at the moment.
A walk in the woods is something I love, so I am visualizing that for the Spring – with crutches if necessary.
See Consultant on Wednesday and will be asking for another medical certificate. Then may start talking to personnel about a graduated return.
Keep moving, and keep safe.
Sandra
Thanks Clark, I will give it a try. Thank heavens for this site. Hope all are doing well.
Morning Everyone,
Greg, good news on you cast off. But don’t try rush back to normalcy. Now is the time to use the crutches and let you ankle get used to partial weight earning, slowly. Overdoing it may set you back. What you do now in terms of rehab will have perhaps a permanent and long lasting effect on your ankle. Don’t overdo it.
Nancy, I had this happen. Don’t overdo it. Same advise as Greg. Go slow. I know the months in a cast or boot, etc… can drive one nuts, but if your ankle is not ready for duty, it will tell you, as it is now. I have very limited range of motion, have done all the exercises for months and still am stuck. I have used Tiger Balm, rubbed into the ankle, to ease pain when doing the strength and motion exercises, and have even used the strongest stuff out there, Capsazium (sp) available at the local drug store, no r/xm but use latex gloves to rub it in and then throw them away, and do not get it in your eyes of wipe the sweat off your brow, or anything like that, but it will allow you to push the boundries a bit without feelling the pain (at the time). I’ve been in my boot for 9 mopnths, just for info. Everyone is different.
Kris, glad you had a good time on the west coast and that you made it through in one piece. I imagine everythings different there now, as I haven’t been there in ovef 10 years.
STay well everyone, and watch your step.
Clark
Hello All!
I’m back from sunny California! The good news is that my ankle DID NOT set off the metal detector in the airport! The bad news is that by the time I got to my brother’s house (flew from RI to CA – approx. 8 hours door to door) my ankle looked like a HUGE cantelope! I had to elevate and ice. Had a great time at Universal Studios and I refused to get a wheelchair. I limped around and again had the swollen ankle by the end of the day but it was worth it. I’ve gotten used the fact that “it is what it is”. I’m hoping to get into a weight loss and exercise regiment and pray that by my 1 year ankle break anniversary I’ll be in good shape and walking normally (that’ll be June 2nd). Maybe I’m being optimistic but it’s something to strive for. Hang in there all of you… it does get better. I also can remember laying in bed while in a cast crying hysterically thinking the worst. What else is there to think about when you’re incapacitated like that? Think positive! Happy Healing to all!
Kris
Hi everyone, It has been 5 1/2 months since my ankle break and on Friday they told me I could take the moonboot off and try this ankle brace under a shoe. I could not get any of my shoes to fit over it, so I used a crock. I did that all day Sat, but by Sat night I could not walk on the foot nor could I Sunday. The pain was so bad, so I put my boot back on. Is this normal, should I have put the boot back on? PT told me I was the only one they have worked with that has an ankle this tight, they are talking about putting me in a night brace. Has anyone else had this happen, I am trying to stay strong. Hope everyone is doing ok. Sorry Sammy and Clark, keep on.
It sounds like you and I are in the same boat Greg, I use a cane though.
hey guys,
i finally got my cast off on Wednesday. though my ankle definatly is worse than i thought it was going to be. i thought as soon as they took that cast off i’d be able to jump off the table and walk out of there no problem. it turned out i gotta still use crutches for a week at least, but that night i started walking on it with no crutches (even if it was only five steps in my living room) despite the pain because i am so sick of these crutches, but now that i am back to school it looks like i’ll have to use these crutches for a while because i have a fifteen minute walk to my classes, though i’m not sure how long it will be now that i have this boot and crutches. i do the range of motion exercises and that seems to help a lot with the ankle stiffness however, i’m still scared that this walk to class will over work my ankle, because i was reading some of the other posts that said that some people over used it during the day. i was just wondering how long it took you guys to walk again with no crutches because they are really annoying to have to use them still.
thanks,
greg
Sammy,
Glad to hear from you. No, you aren’t alone. Thought I was in the Twilight Zone. The sight must have crashed. Glad it back on. Seperation anxiety, et cetera . . .
Just what did they do during you operation? Sorry to hear that the epi did not work, though not surprised.
If you don’t want to give the bloody details thats all right, but, I know you mentioned earlier that you suffered a compound fracture of the lower Tibia, just above your ankle, but did you break anything below, like in your ankle, or foot? Just curious.
I suffered a trimalleolar fracture, broke both inside and outside ankle bones and the base of the Tibia and the Fibula as well. The outsides of the tib and fib are generally referred to as anke bones, the bottom or distal ends that one can feel on the outside of the ankle (inside and out, those bumps at the base of the leg) are called informally the ankle bones, but I also splintted the base of my tib and fib, (the large and small downward facing leg bones that end up burying themselves in the ankle) and splintered the talus, but not fractured, as well. So I’m heading for a fusion.
Being on morhpine is a bitch; prepare for a foley (catheter) if not already on one, because the ablility to take a leak on your own soon disappears, and you may end up with an enema or two here and there as well, same reason, and THATS ENOUGH ABOUT THAT.
For me the pain is now very low, but I take 2 Norco 10’s 8-10 hrs apart with 2 Ibuprofin as well, and havea never needed more, but as I said earlier, wouldn’t have done me any good as my doc will not authorize anything stronger anyway. Too much trouble with paperwork and addiction, THANKS VERY MUCH, RUSH.
So hope this helps, write back when you feel like it.
Glad this sight is back up. There are others but not as good, and once you get to know the people that write in abit, you miss them when you can’t communicate.
I WONDER; in the event this happenes again, I am happy to at least offer my email. [email protected].
There it is for anyone that cares to use it. I am home most of the time, retired, bored, a television expert and doing alright otherwise.
Take care, Sammmy, and all.
Watch you step anklebreakers. The last step is a bitch. And as usual, please excuse any typos.
Clark
I haven’t been able to load this page up since the 10th, anybody else have that problem?
I went in early Saturday morning for my surgery, and they gave me an epidural, but it didn’t work. It deadened me from the waist down except for my right leg- the broken one. The doctors were a little surprised, and kept pinching me to be sure, and finally called it off. They had an anaesthesiologist come in later in the day and put me under. That’s a strange experience- falling asleep in an operating room and waking up in a bedroom in intense pain. They’ve been giving me these really mild painkiller injections since I got here, and I can’t get it across to them that they’re not effective. I thought maybe they were giving me the wrong dosage because they had my weight recorded at 70 kilos instead of 80, but they said they only have 2 dosages, one for children one for adults. I’m starting to get really angry. They had me on a PCA since I got out of the surgery, but nobody even told me what it was or how to use it, I figured out about 3 long hours or so after the surgery. I used up the first container of the medicine (morphine?) by Sunday evening, and they refused to replace it until Monday because they were concerned I’d have too much. I can not get it across to them that the shots don’t work on me.
Anyway, I’m wrapped up in gauze again, but now the bones are at least stuck together. It sure makes a huge difference. I’m supposed to have xrays today and get the bandages changed.
Well I went to the Ortho yesterday and got some good news and some bad news. I was really upset when I came back b/c he didn’t feel the need to take off my cast and check out the incisions or stiches. I really wanted it to come off even for 5 minutes it ITCHES ! I am still non weight bearing for 4 more weeks then the cast comes off.
Good – my ankle is healing well.
Bad – I am going to have to have PT starting in mid-february for 12 weeks (3 times a week) and walk with a cane after (for a couple of months)
He cleared me to drive which is great and gave me more pain meds which helps in the evenings after work. He was suprised that I went back to work and completly agreed that I am sufficient enough to work again at full time status. I asked about my toes and the movement I have with them and he said that if I continue to move them up and down that the PT will go alot smoother (I have moved my toes since I broke it b/c they were falling asleep, not b/c I wanted PT to go better). SO EVERYONE if you are able to move your toes DO IT ! I got to actually see my x-rays and the stuff he put in me. I have a HUGE screw in the inside of my ankle (about 3 to 3 1/2 inches long) that goes in diagnol into the fibula.
I was really worried about my leg b/c I have been having some pain in the calf muscle like cramping and such and he said to continue to take the asprin like I am supposed to and eat bananas. That means another beautiful trip to Wal-Mart…..I was upset yesterday when I got back from the Ortho but I am ok today. He told me that I am going to have to work through my issues about falling etc…I guess it will get better. On that note, I have attempted to call my PCP 2 times now and they won’t prescribed me anything or even try to get me a chair for the shower with a sliding bench (I am still not supposed to be showering) without seeing me (which is hard b/c I can’t get there until after work and/or lunch time and they aren’t open) when I know they have the hospital and Ortho reports. I think I am going to get a new PCP.
SAMMY – I hope everything goes well for you with your surgery. I see your getting the spinal (they lead to spinal headaches especially in women so I opted for General)
Janelle – They shouldn’t of told you to go back to work. I work for attorneys and people like you that have to go back to work b/c of an injury that COMP says should be cleared up.
Anklequest – I was in shock for the first week and still have some days where I am really depressed but I have to keep going I like routine.
Clark – It seems there are alot of accidents involoving motorcycles and my b/f has one he wrecked but was lucky. I hope you get to ride the Triumph soon !
Till next time.
Ashley
CLARK- Thanks for the kind words. I had my motorcycle accident in a parking garage where I was going to give some private lessons. I crashed while driving quite slow and trying to turn a corner. Just after I started to turn there was a car coming down the aisle right at me fast and close, so I had to brake, and the bike slipped on the smooth enamel painted concrete floor. The bike came down on my calf somehow. People showed up from all over, asking if I was alright and if they should call 119 (that’s the emergency number here in Korea), but I was totally in shock so I just called my wife and told them she’d handle it. They called an ambulance anyway, and together with my wife we went to a bone clinic instead of to the hospital. This place is okay, but I have a few complaints about my room. There’s no call button for the nurse, no nightstands, no curtains between beds and the beds aren’t adjustable. There’s a big language barrier, as none of my roommates speak English, and my Korean is still pretty basic. But,they are all mobile, so they help me all the time; like when they see me struggling to slide up the bed, or when I can’t reach something or when I need to alert the nurse about needing another shot of the painkiller or a change of ice packs. They’ve all been here for so long that they all act like best friends, sitting in each other’s beds playing card games on their laptops or going out to bars at night. There’s a girl from the next room who comes in and harasses all of them everyday, even dragging them across the floor and beating them. This is Korea, so that kind of playing around is really common between men and women.
To be honest, I haven’t been down at all since I got here. Monday was my birthday, and many friends came to see me and eat cake. I have a pile of movies and books that people continue to bring me- far faster than I can watch or read them. I’m up to 12 books already, including a book of sudoku puzzles that I keep screwing up. It might be the drugs. I’ve got a laptop with wireless access, so I’ve been watching TV shows and movies off the internet at night when I get insomnia, and I study Korean during the day. My wife comes in every day and helps me out so I can brush my teeth, change clothes, empty the urinal thing and take a warm towel bath. I try to go to the toilet once a day, but it’s pretty painful to walk on crutches without an actual cast on since gravity pulls all the bones apart. We were supposed to leave for the Phillipines this past Tuesday for our honeymoon. I feel really bad for my wife, really guilty actually. She’s been great about the whole thing though. We have a little restaurant/bar selling western food and catering to foreigners. So she works ’til about 2 in the morning and then usually comes by here to check on me, and sadly I’m usually still up. My body fights against sleeping for some reason. Sometimes, if I can sleep, I just get these bizarre cyclical dreams that leave me feeling exhaused when I wake up, or just as I start to fall asleep my whole body suddenly spasms causing the broken bones to shake and intense pain all over again. That happened 5 times last night as I tried to get to sleep. A pharmacist friend of mine is going to bring me sleeping pills tonight.
Anyway, my surgery is scheduled for Saturday morning. The doctor said I wont be able to lift my head for the whole day after the operation, something about having a headache. He speaks a little English, but in typical Korean style he doesn’t offer much information unless directly asked. Following the operation I’m supposed to get a soft cast and 3 days of strong painkillers. And after 1 week in a soft cast they’ll take it off, xray me and see if the plate, screws and bones are all as they should be, then put me in the hard cast for another 5 weeks.
All in all, I’m okay with this. It screwed up my personal and professional plans 100%, but I’m in good spirits, better than before the accident even.
I didn’t mean for this to be so long…
I’ll write about my adventures with the toilet next time.
Hi everyone well its been 17 months since I broke my ankle.. I was sitting down at work and stood up from the chair and went down fast with a loud pop in my ankle…one of the worst fractures you can get.. don’t know how or why.. have plates and screws now.. its been a LONG recovery and still cannot walk long distances without the constant reminder and aches that the ankle will never be the same.. I was forced to resume work by Workmans Comp their OT kept calling me and acting like it was taking too long for me to heal.. saying things like it usually only takes 6 weeks for a broken ankle to heal.. made me more frustrated!
HEY SAMMY,
Just did some re reading of these posts and found your original from the 4th, and with your accident on the 3rd, and with you in South Korea one day ahead, that means 7 days ago and that must be you. Read that you also had a broken tib/fib from a motorcycle accident, and that the doc was waiting for the swelling to go down before doing any surgery, so now I’m caught up. My God, one could make a career out of keeping all these posts current, there are so many, and thats what is so great about THE RANDOMNESS OF CHRISTI’s websight.
Different countries do medicine differently. Seems most surgery in the states is done with full anasthetic, I mean you are out cold, unless there is a reason not to. I guess sometimes one gets the choice, but I’d much rather be out for major ortho surgery if I had the choice.
But things are done so differntly here, or perhaps its just me and my situation, but I had a tri mallealar fracture almost 9 months ago, 3 surgeries ago, and had my surgery the night of the accident, and my ankle was very swollen when I woke up after the surgery, but don’t know if it was very swollen before. It was dislocated and they put me out to relocate, and then back out again for the surgery. It just seems a long time from your accident to your eventual surgery (still upcoming I’m guessing) and that doesn’t seem the norm here, but my frame of reference is limited to me and what I read on this blog.
Still, seems like a long wait anyway. My
73 Triumph Bonneville 750 is in the last stages of a frame up restoration in Los Angeles, almost done, and I’ve gone down on my old Harley twice, but was never hurt. Sold the Harley several years ago but plan on riding the Triumph if possible when it is done. Both of my prosthetic guys became amps due to motorcycle accidents, and from this blog many of the anklebreakers had motorcycle accidents as well. You just never know. Glad it wasn’t worse, but it sounds bad enough.
Hang in there, sorry I didn’t find your post earlier, but now am all caught up. Good luck again on the upcoming rebuild and keep your ankle and your chin up.
Take care,
Clark
Hi Everyone!
Ashley, looking back, I was in shock the first 6 weeks so I am amazed you are at work. I started work Part time after I was able to hobble around on crutches.
Clark, thanks so much for your detailed posts. You are so much “worse” than most of us, that every time you post I can say I am grateful that things are not as bad for me. What a way to be thankful!
SAmmy, you sound like a mess too…. did you have the full anathesia? Why are you still in the hospital? They kicked most of us out after a day or two. I went to a rehab place for a few days to learn how to get around on one leg for a while.
And for the UK lady, congraduations on your tremendous progress. I remember when things where much worse for you.
Also, before I went back to work, the internet sites and posts meant a great deal to me as I knew nothing about broken ankles, so I do understand why some say it’s like having a family to support you!!!
Good healing to everyone!!!
Hey Sammy,
Sorry to hear about your badly broken ankle and tibia and welcome to the club. Just added a blog and then saw your letter so wanted to wish you well.
The good news is that your in the hospital being fixed, and that it looks like you’ve got a working laptop, and the bad news is of course pain management, lack of decent tv channels, the food and using the facilities. Sound like you reall did it. A compound tibia fracture above the ankle? But did you break you actual ankle or just the tibia above it? (just for reference and curiosity). Tell us more about what happened if you can.
This websight is a Godsend (to me anyway) and offers much info and insight from only those that really know. And you can laugh a bit and commismerate and know that you are not alone in this.
My first visit in the hospital was a 3 day stay but they kicked me out with no crutches even because I had no insurance. Then after the first op failed and they had to completely redo the operation, I had completed my MediCare paperwork and had an 8 day stay with crutches provided, and my third op was a 4 or 5 day stay for more setting and hardware, so I can relate. !6 days so far, and been in a srrap on exo sleleton boot since the first op.
Don’t laugh, but if this works, here is a websight for the old 80’s video game SPACEA INVADERS.
Believe it or not, playing it really takes your mind off things, so here is is:
http://www.goriya.com/flash/invaders/invaders.shtml
Copy it to your browser and fire it up, and FEEL BETTER, it will get better, and hey, your’e just getting started.
Don’t hesitate to write when you feel like it and tell us what your situation and prognosis is.
Get well,
Clark
HELLO ANKLEBREAKERS,
Attention Don, from your 12/31/07 message (I should have wished you well back then but was caught up with a power outage and major NorCal storm up here, but I wish you well with your situation anyway as it looks like we may be the only ones facing ankle fusion at this point, sorry I did not write sooner).
This is an anklebreaker update, with emphasis on prosthetic follow up, for those to which it may apply. Had my second but first appt. with a new prosthetics guy, the first being a double amputee (both below the knee, motorcycle accident) who apparently could have cared less that I was a client, and when he learned that I had a non union of the distal tibia (open fracture unhealed bottom end of the tibia, the actual piece that overhangs the inside of the foot and is commonly referred to as the ANKLE BONE, also very common to heal very slowly, not unusual or uncommon to take over a year to close) he not only told be to get lost until I knew whether or not my ankle would be permanetly fused or not, but decided to charge me for the initial visit, rather then the complimentary first visit analysis. So he billed it to MediCare and I never went back to his office or his attitude.
So … the first visit with the new guy today went very well. He was also an amputee (left leg below the knee, Mustang vs. his Harley) and a great guy. Seems that a lot of those that those that lose a limb go into the prosthetic line of work, and who better to know). He took measurements of my foot, and made a very quick setting (5 min) wrap on memory setting plaster cast of my foot and ankle to fit an AFO (ankle foot prosthetic) which fits very closely to the foot, ankle to mid calf, and is made of very hard but a bit pliable hard styrene plastic that goes over the sock to mid foot, up to mid calf, and has a leather upper with actual brass holes for laces or velcro, depending on the user and the situation. It is not fitted to an elderly mens shoe with all the holes as in the old Florshiem style, though, but meant to fit inside trendy leather footwear or athletic shoes. The fit took about an hour and one half, with paperwork and the war stories and usual BS that guys talk about (not sure what it would be like for you ladies, and not being chauvanistic by any means).
He said it would take about 2 weeks to arrive, and should be an improvement to the velcro strap exo skeleton I have come to rely on for the last 9 months. He also said that this may be an interim brace, as things may change after the fusion, which should take place within 6 months to a year.
And with any luck, with some savings, and the brace in place, I can do what I intended to do the weekend following my ankle break, that has been postponed indefinately until I am pretty much stabilized, and that is move to the Northern Calif. Coast, where the cost of living is low, the air clear, the population is less dense, and you are living in between the tall Redwoods and the surf. Hopefully that day is still coming. But the ankle break disrupted those plans and the two places I was to check out that upcoming weekend, spending it in the hospital for 3 days instead.
A note: I am certainly not an expert on anything and am relatively new to this blog, but my thoughts are offered for info only, based on my experiences only, as all of ours are different, and perhaps if long winded offered as a break from the tedium of daily life stuck with perhaps one or in some cases two broken ankles, and assorted spiral fractures of the upper tibia and perhaps femur, with rods and pins, etc… And if too long winded, also to allow you to fall asleep at the computer if you cannot find sleep available, or to laugh at anything you find funny or can relate to herein.
So with that in mind I offer my appologies if needed, and also I wish everyone well in their endevours to regain health and stability, on one or both feet.
Take care.
Clark
So this is my 7th day in the hospital now. I’m still wearing the brace they wrapped me up in when I got here, and it’s murder. The doctor examined me last night and said he wants to wait until Friday or Saturday to operate because the swelling hasn’t gone down enough yet. I’m going kind of crazy here. I only sleep a few hours a night and then have to experiment with all these different positions trying to get comfortable. I finally saw my xrays yesterday, and I was so shocked I just yelled “Oh my God!” My tibia is broken right above the ankle, I think the kind of break is called “oblique transverse”. The bones were sticking out with sharp jagged points. I can’t stop thinking about it.
Joanne, I am in about the same situation as you. I broke my ankle in early November and now in early January I am walking in regular shoes with an ankle brace. The thing that does surprise me though is that you had surgery with plates and pins and are already at this same stage. I had a very minor break compared to most people here and didn’t require any surgery. So I am surprised given the severity of your break you are as far along as you are.
My doctor told me the following:
Jan weeks 1-2 quit wearing the moon boot, and wear the ankle brace in my regular shoes instead. Walk, swim, and bike.
Jan weeks 3-4 I can start to add in jogging/running.
Feb I can ease back into playing sports.
March I can start transitioning to not wearing the ankle brace.
I do not have a lot of swelling, however the frustrating part to me is how tight and weak my foot feels. When I walk or stretch my foot I feel only the slightest lingering ankle sprain pain in my ankle. But my toes, the ball of my foot, the back of my heal, parts of my foot that were NOT injuried initially, they are the parts that hurt. Especially my toes and the ball of my foot feel so stiff and have an ache to them. I am kind of torn between should I rest my foot more and back off walking as much as possible or should I intentionaly try walking more to re-build the strength and loosen that stiffness.
Hi All,
I’m so glad I found this place, after my daughter broke her ankle. It really helped me understand what she was going through. She was only twelve.
Patience is hard when you cannot walk.
But it has been 10 months now. She is back to playing basketball. Not a starting position but in the game.
She quit playing soccer with her orignal team and decided yesterday she was ready to start conditioning more. So she will go out and practice with a new team that is a little less competitive. Hold on everyone it does get better. Try to use your down time reading or catching up on all those movies you wanted to see and did not get a chance. Good luck.
BTW she had her hardware taken out, first two weeks after were hell! but she does not regret it at all.
Hi everyone…..thanks for your words of wisdom. I know I did go back to work rather fast. I sit in an office all day with my leg propped up and when I do decide that I am going to leave my office I never get out of my chair; I roll all day long (to avoid falling b/c I am not that great with crutches). My oldest boss (I have 2) is in Florida for the month of January and my other boss insists that I not move around and he will be vacationing to Florida for the next 2 weeks. He told everyone they have to wait on me.
I use ice when I get home and don’t move from the couch for about the first 1 1/2 hours I am home. I spend alot of time with my dog who seems to understand when I am having a bad day.
I am feeling good today, I am really excited that I get to go to the doctor tomorrow. I want to see my leg and see what it is all about….. I really don’t have a clue what he did except what everyone has told me and I have a list of about 27 questions to ask him about my recovery etc…
Again thanks so much for the words of wisdom and everyone kindness. I really appreciate it. This website gives me something to look forward to in the morning. You guys are like a little family.
Ashley
Hello Everyone,
Erika:
I think we are along the same time line with our ankles. My surgery was 10/16/07. I am also going upstairs okay one foot over the other, and when I was at PT yesterday I told them that I could only go downstairs one step at a time, he had me stand up and grabbed the front of my ankle and slowly pushed as hard as I could stand it. I was very sore but last night with my hand on the rail, I was able to go down a couple of steps one over the other. Maybe your therapist could help you with it. I feel so liberated.
Ashley:
What we have all been through is very traumatic, and I think we all have probably broken down from time to time. It’s okay, and you will get better. We are all here for you if you need to vent, cry, or whatever. I was driving at 4 weeks and did feel a sense of freedom. It was very hard for me to ask people for help also.
Everyone take care. I am going to wash my car today, (it has been 3 months). It is going to be 65 degrees here in NY and I plan to enjoy every bit of it.
Kerri
Joanne: I am one who was only in a cast for 2 weeks and then got a moon boot (broke right ankle in 2 places and the tibia), and also broke my left foot. Had surgury 9/23/07 and have 8 screws and a plate. However, I was not able to weight bear for 9 weeks. Then I had permission for 50%. Then at 12 weeks got permission for 100% weight. Even at that point, I couldn’t do it. I used 1 crutch or a cane for a couple of weeks. I am FINALLY walking at home and work with no help. I use a cane when I go out. Cruches if a lot of walking is necessary.
I think it all happened a bit quick for you. Just because your doctor says you can do something, doesn’t always mean you can. Its your body and your ankle. Push yourself some – but not too much. Yes, your ankle will swell alot if you do not keep it up. Can you raise it at work? Right when you get home, you should put it up and ice it. This is perfectly normal. It took me a good 2 weeks to feel comfortable walking with 100% weight after my doctor told me it was ok. She kept saying, “your bones are healed, you should not have pain”. But, I knew I did have pain – it was not in my head. It still hurts and is still VERY stiff. I stretche SEVERAL times a day – and go to PT twice a week. With the stiffness I have I feel it will be a few more months before I can bend down at my knee or go downstairs one over the other. BUT, I can stand at my stove and cook. It is wonderful. I am cooking nice meals – my husband can’t say enough. AND my kitchen is spotless! It is the only room in the house that I can clean the whole thing. Takes a while, but it is worth it! The only think I can’t do is clean the floor (because it involves bending – ane the ankle cant take that yet).
Hope this helps Joanne. Every day will be easier. Don’t push it too hard.
ERika
Nancy: I am so glad you are going back to PT. We all need it.
Ashley: You are young. You went back to work Soooo soon. I took 2 months off. Its been 3 months now, and I am JUST starting full time. Could you get off a bit early? I know you said $ is an issue. Maybe you could work from 9 to 3 or 4pm? At least that way, you could get home early enough to rest. When you get home, put your foot up and REST. Don’t worry about the cooking and cleaning, etc. If you can get prepared food or just cook speghetti or mac and cheese or a sandwich – just do that. Keep your foot up and iced or take a nice warm bath. If you have to work – at least take GOOD care of yourself at home. I am sure your boyfriend will continue to take care of you. You sound like a great girl – he’d be stupid not too.
Hope everything turns out well. BTW – its been 3 1/2 months for me. I can now go upstairs one foot over the other! I still can’t go downstairs but one at a time – It seems that this will last a long while, my ankle is SOOO stiff (8 screws, 1 plate in right ankle and broken foot / left) :(. Anyone else able to do downstairs one over the other yet? It does take a while. Did ALOT of crying over the first 2 months. It DOES get better. One day at a time.
Erika
Nancy
Glad to hear you are goiung back to PT. Wish you all the luck in the world. It will hurt but you can get by this and move forward.
Ashley
We do understand the pain and the emmotions that go along with it. Frustrationg when you want to get something accomplished and you just can’t. Helpless is a word we are all familiar with. I went back to work after my accident and still have trouble with my ankles due to arthritis and such what can be frustrationg is over help. People that want to run and do everything for you as if you were helpless. At times it is just as frustrating as when I was laid up with the injuries. Work through it though and before you know it you will be doing things like before.
Thanks everyone you have been very helpfull to me through all of this
Don
hi all anklebreakers
going away for a few days,my daughter paid for us to stay in a hotel ,in a lovely city in the uk,as a xmas present,it was a nice suprise,hope i will cope with the walking i used to be able to shop till i dropped,my husband is disabled so we make a right pair,i feel like we are doomed at momment,if you are going to break your ankle its best do it while you are young,and Ashley,i have three daughters and would love to have them come home for me to look after them two days aweek,do your parents fuss you to much?i can imagine thats what i would do.will let you know how my ankle coped with all the walking.take care.
Hi all anklebreakers
Ashley- Dont worry you WILL get better- It is good to cry no one understands until it has happened to them- I have cried many a time and my husband has looked at me like I am mad but it has helped to cry and let it out- after all we have lost our mobility even though it is temporary- I smashed up my left ankle June 18th last year 9 screws plates wire etc- I just had some of my hardware removed and it feels much better and I can move more freely now – At last I am preparing to walk without crutches and hopefully go back to work 3 days a week next month- something in my darkest days I never thought I would achieve so- Dont rush it is my advice be guided by your own body- Know that you will get better but it will take a lot of time time- I really wish you well
Special hello to Sandra – I hope you are doing okay and are on the mend – Happy New Year to you and all fellow anklebreakers
Carol
Dear Clark:
Thanks for your reply and for once in 4 days I cried because it was a nice post not because I was upset with myself/situation. I am not married but I do live with my boyfriend (of 6 years) and it makes it hard because I did everything……..now I can’t even do laundry. On certain days (Sunday’s and Monday’s I have to stay at my mom’s house because the doctor said I can’t be alone for these 1st 2 weeks) I haven’t lived at home for 4 1/2 years…….especially with your parent(s).
I swear sometimes you feel so pathetic for yourself. I know that it will get better and I know that it takes time but I just feel like both ends of the candle are burning and it just doesn’t get any better.
Don’t worry poly-sci major. I work in a law firm, I am all politics all the time and I would probably watch them anyway.
I hate the dreams….I feel like I am caught in the middle.
Thanks for the advice it helps to know other problems/situations. I think if they clear me to drive it would help a little b/c I wouldn’t feel so dependant on everyone.
Thanks for you kind words !
Ashley
Dear Ashley,
Take a deeo breath, release it slowly and think to yourself “I will make it through this!” and do that several times when things seem the worst.
I am sure that we all have our moments of depression and anxiety concerning our futures, after going through the trauma and pain of a serious ankle break. Crying is a good release, like a venting pressure valve, to clear you emotions and your brain, so you can continue on. There is nothing wrong with that. And it makes a difference whether or not you are married, or living with someone, or are alone. There is much to be said for both, but if you are alone, it usually means that you have to do everything for yourself.
At the time of my accident I had a small ranch, in a rural area, with houses not to close to each other. My neighbor sent over a wonderful breakfast that day after I was released from the hospital, and what a treat (I hads to call them to come get my truck and dogs from the firestation before I was taken off inthe ambulance). But after that, I never heard from her again, ever. Nothing! Oh well. It seems that most people, unless they experience it themselves, have any idea what a debilitating, disabling injury a broken ankle is, and although they comprehend the intitial injury, surgery, etc… they don’t get that it is with you every minute of every day and gets better, very very slowly. And most of us, before our injuries, probably never gave much of a thought past compassion and sympathy for others in this situation, unless they work in the medical field or have relatives or friends with disabilites.
When you fell and broke your ankle you joined a special club, whose membership requires that you be strong, committed, persevering under adversity, and ready to take the highs and lows of an uncertain future regarding your recovery.
You will probably be cleared to drive an automatic when you see your Ortho. And a routine of going to work is actually a good thing. It may take your mind off your situation and keep you in the mix of friends, co workers, etc… Believe me, sitting around watching the eletcion news all day is no peach. But I was a poly-sci major so what the hell.
As for your dreams, I guess we all have them, of one sort or another. But thinking about your fall,reliving it, and being “in it” will probably diminish the dreams, once you’ve accepted your injury. An elderly friend (82 yrs old) of mine couldn’t sleep one night and she took 3 Tylenol PM pills instead of the usual one. She slept very soundly into the next morning and was awakend by 3 firemen standing around her bed, after breaking in her front door, to make sure she was alright (alerted by neighbors) and was bothered by dreams and nightmares of firemen in her bed for weeks. I suggested that she go visit the fire station and say hello to the guys, to have a better last impression of them, and she finally drove to the firehouse, and sat and hung out with the guys that came to check on her, basically confronting her fears, and after that, no more dreams. I’m not saying relive your fall, but go over it in your mind, and make it OK, and perhaps it will go away in time. I reread your mail about your fall when I read your latest entry, and I sounds frightening. Catching your finger in a door, arms full of groceries, falling backwards and hearing the break as it happened. Not good memories.
Don’t know that I can offer much more. But the key is to hang in there, know that you are not alone, that we all feel thses things, and all of our situations are as random as a shuffled deck of cards. Each fall and living situation is different, and we may all heal a bit differently, but it will get better. This just happened to you last month. Merry Christmas! A great gift. But just go with the flow, and know that you are not alone. At least we all have each other in this, thanks to Christi’s websight.
Heres how I found out about this blog; I was depressed, alone, and at my computer, looking for some type of support group (they are hard to find) and kept coming up with nothing, and so I googled “I’ve got the depressing, painfull, mean, low down ankle breaking blues” pr something to that effect, into the search engine. And Christi’s websight came up. No lie.
So hang in there, it will get better.
Take care,
Clark
I am back at work today and I feel ok but I have a rough weekend. I can’t seem to comprehend that I am 22 and I can’t walk, drive, bath, sleep or even CLEAN my house. I spent almost the whole weekend crying and everytime someone said something to me about being hurt I cried even more. I don’t know what is wrong. To top it all OFF when I attempt to go to sleep (and finally achieve it) I have the reoccuring dream that I am falling over and over and over again. Will it ever stop?
I go to the Ortho on Wednesday and I have not a clue what he is going to do since this is my first appoinment but I have a list of questions and I want him to clear me to drive (I broke my leff ankle)so I can drive myself to work instead of everyone else.
Anyone go through all of this mental stuff ? I need some advice ?
Joanne,
I am also blown away at how quickly you are moving through this process. Please do be very careful and do not over do it.
As for swelling, I am surprised at how much my ankles swell now that I am up and walking around some. I hope this is common and part of the healing process that must be worked through.
To everyone out there, stay focused and positive. We will all get there.
Dear Joanne,
Sorry to hear about your ankle break and surgery. I also had a tri-mallealar right anke fracture almost 9 months ago, and from what my doctor has told me and what I have read on this blog, they are the worst, unless complicted by other injuries as well.
I think your ortho and physical therapist are pushing you too fast. Pins, plates and screws need time to seat into the bone (and they can slip, mine did after the first surgery) and the bones themselves need time to heal. The fact that you are experiencing swelling and pain in your ankle is an indicator that your ankle is rejecting the treatment. This can be the worst sugery to heal and recover from, and pushing yourself too hard may only set you back. Listen to your body, use your crutches, and go slowly. What you do now in rehab and recovery will be with you for the rest of your life. Get a second opinion, and until you do, take it slower than you are with less weight bearing.
I’m not a doctor of course, just a patient, but I would advise a consertive approach towards healing. After you know that things are seating well, and stablilizing, you can always step it up.
But I could be and probably am wrong. But until you know for sure, slow way down. Everyones situation is different, and yours may be the exception. But when in doubt, don’t do anything until you know for sure.
I have never heard of anyone moving as fast towards recovery as you have done. Certainly not reflected in the stories told here.
At least get a second opinion, or a third. And go from there.
Hope you get better soon.
Clark
I broke my ankle at the beginning of November. It was a trimallealar fracture and needed pins and plates which were put in a week later. 2 weeks after surgery I started physical therapy and got weight bearing 3 weeks later in an ankle brace. It is now 8 weeks since surgery and I can walk in shoes without crutches but mike ankel gets very tired, is very stiff and will not flex forward no matter how many exercises I do on it. It swells like a balloon when it is down too long. Has anyone else experience of early physical therapy like this? I am hoping it will make recovery quicker but find it difficult to find info on other peoples experiences as most seem to spend a long time in a cast.
Thank you Erica and Sandra, I can use all the advice I can get. I hope all ankle breakers are doing ok, if you haven’t been there you could never understand. I will start PT again on Monday and will work through the pain. Godd luck all.
well, good news for me, had the cast removed, doc was happy with the healing, i am in a moon boot, he said to put weight on it, and after one day, i can walk with no implements of torture(ie crutches). he said in a month i should be out of the boot, and pretty much back to normal! thank god!!!!!
Well, since my break in early October… I am walking in boot to work, but at home I am out of it. My PT said nothing more unless doctor thinks we need more PT, hardware may still come out and yes it is still very stiff. Mainly to the left where the plate side is, and also pointing. Otherwise so far so good.
My advise on carring things: Invest in the sports backpack! Go to the sports store and they have these Nike and other brand bags. Just a real light waterproof material that has a draw string and the strings are what you use to wrap. If you don;t need it you can put it in your coat pocket! It is so worth it and I have seen both men and women use these! Here is one website that shows what they look like. Do not buy from this company because it is for business and they are in BULK! Your local sports store should have it, or try ebay. Just make sure they have the strings on BOTH sides:
http://www.garrettspecialties.com/string-backpack-p-3386.html
Crutches falling: The backpack strings- you can use these and shove the crutch through these when say your standing and need your hands, etc.
Hope it helps!
FROM SANDRA
Bit late to be doing this, but here goes . . .
CRUTCHES fall over all the time. Used carrier bags with mine to carry stuff as I could hold these and the crutch, or pockets in trousers for small stuff. Found an old shoulder bag that will go across my body for outside.
KRIS – hope flight goes well, let us know – wear some nice undies just in case.
SAMMY – also had to wait for a week for surgery in a back plaster, which meant I felt my bones moving around. Had general anaesthetic. Previous experience of a spinal left me with back problems and intestinal problems for a couple of weeks. Plus I found the procedure a bit unpleasant.
STAPLES – that’s what I had. Came out after 2 weeks. A bit unpleasant. Meant I had to be replastered. But it all healed up well.
NANCY – having a tough time, but keep persevering. Hope there is someone you can turn to for advice.
ERIKA – well done on progress and thanks for web-site. My achilles tendon is a real problem, and I do have to stretch it, and keep foot mobile – ankle circles and so on.
DON – thanks for info about the card. Not sure if there is something in UK, but there might be, so I will ask.
Off for some sleep.
Night all.
Sandra
hi all anklebreakers
broke my ankle end of august,plate pins and screws,six weeks in plaster,never forget the day plaster came off,it was like an alien foot at the end of my leg,coudnt help but just stare,purple and so swollen,the nurse said well thats looking really good,was she looking at the same foot as me?my foot was so stiff couldnt move my toes at all,i was chuffed if i could move my big toe,started pt two weeks later.nearly fainted when pt said now try and walk with one crutch.no way.thought i was glued to crutches for ever.after alot of balancing on one foot while bouncing a ball,sitting on the ball balancing on one leg,moving my arms up and down like a plonker,have come to the conclusion exercise is the only way, stretching every day walking on its own is no good,you have to stretch your foot every day circling gently.still having problems with the top of my foot think i might have over stretched a bit,some days are worse than others,still a bit swollen and stiff, cold weather does,nt help ,trying to do more round the house and starting to feel guilty about work.still sleep with my fluffy sock on as bedclothes feel like sandpaper,i have an awful limp[ not very ladylike],but hey, things ,can only get better,take care.
Greetings all
Nancy I understand that it feels like nothing is getting better but it will and believe me that YOU DO NEED PT. I can’t stress that enough. It hurts it is frustrating and at times it seeks futile but you need to do it cause if you do not and do no excercies you will have more trouble when you do get the chance to work out. I was in a car accident on Dec 10 2006 I was in the hospital for 3 months and was no weight bearing on both legs and left arm.
I have 8 pins 2 rods 2 plates in my right ankle a rod above and below my right knee a bar in my right femur 18 pins 2 rods in my left ankle and 8 pins and 6 screws in mt pelvis and hip on the left side which was broken in 6 places and a rod above and below my left elbow. I have come across pleople that did not do their PT and 2 years later are still having trouble and had to start all over and still have a limp. I have met people that worked their way through therapy and also know as you do the pain of it but kept it up working a litttle by little and are now walking well. Stick it out work throught it keep the faith it will go away and get easier for you but grit your teeth and work through it.
A few months of frustration and pain can make a whole lot of difference for you later when you want to take that stroll in the woods or on the beach or just play a simple game or just walk and look at the stars. Better a little limp then a world of frusrtration that you can’t do simple things without it being an adventure. Keep working and keep the faith
Sandra
There is a card your Doctor can give you. It tells the Security that you have implants so you can be wanded at places like the airport and courts. It gives the Doctors name phone number and a long listing that would make you set off the detector. You just have to tell them what you have and where. I use mine when I went into court for the trial against the guy who hit my wife and myself.
As for going warm or cold. I find I have trouble only when a storm is comming not when it is here. The pressure of the storm comming seesm to activate the arthritis and once it gets here the pressure seems to go away. So doesn’t matter to me cold or warm but I personnaly would rather be warm then cold anyway:-)
So good luck all and have fun
Don
Thank you Erica for the info, it is a very good site and I will do the right exercises until I get to Pt. So glad you are progressing.
NANCY: I broke my ankle in 2 places and the tibia. I had a plate & 8 screws put in on September 23rd. I am going to PT. When I first started about 3 weeks ago, there was not much I could do. I am now holding onto a bar and marching in place, going up and down on my toes (with the left foot helping alot), and using an elastic to stretch my ankle. Try doing circles with your foot at least 4-5 times a day. It will hurt. Try writing the alphabet with your toes in the air. This will hurt too, but the stiffness does get better. I am now walking with just a cane. When I was told 2 weeks ago, I could put 100% weight, I thought they were crazy. I still walked with crutches. But slowly, I have been taking more steps at home with nothing helping. When I go out I use my cane for balance. I am stiff, and yes, it hurts, but it feels better every day. The PT definitely helps with the stiffness. If you are not going – make sure you do some excercises at home. Look up online for ankle rehabilitation exercises if you need to. Try http://www.physicaltherapy.about.com and then look for ankle exercises (I googled it).
DAVIDE: After having surgery, I had to wait for my staples to be removed (3 weeks after surgery), and then I had to wait 2 more weeks. So, about 5 weeks, i was able to take a shower without covering the ankle – but I do remember having to be very careful – because the incisions did hurt.
It’s so nice to be up and about. Cleaning the kitchen is now a joy after being shut down for 3 months! 🙂
Erika
Sammy~
When I had my surgery I was numb from the waist down. You are still completely out but you are not as deep as if they just put you out with Anesthesia. I got the option of either when I went in for surgery and after discussing it with the anesthesiologist he basically told me that if it was his daughter having the surgery he would reccomend the waist down as its much safer about when you come to. I guess sometimes if you get knocked completely out they might not be able to wake you back up (hardly ever happens but there is the possibility).
Screwsinplate: Each time I go to the gym I am able to run longer. I am 28 and my break was a year and a half ago now so keep hope and someday hopefully it will happen. I have basically the same amount of hardware still in my ankle.
I am in such a dilemma. I broke my ankle in 2 places on Aug 19th. I had the surgery and a plate and 8 screws plus the long across the foot screw. It was removed 2 weeks ago and I started pT. I did not feel they were helping me as my ankle is still so stiff. I decided to change PT so I called my doctor and still have not heard back. I am not in PT, can’t get a new RX want to get a new doctor and just don’t know where to turn. I feel like I am going in reverse and will never walk again. Thank you.
Sticky:
I did not have dissovable stitches. When the plaster cast was removed, the removed the stitches.
Kris
Screwspinsandplate:
I think the running thing will all depend on your age and physical condition. Personally, I’m 46 years old and out of shape. I broke my ankle June 2nd, 2007, and I’m walking with a limp. I couldn’t run to the front door right now if my life depended on it. I’m assuming your young and in good health which will totally be in your favor. Listen to your orthopedic doctor and physical therapist and don’t rush into anything that could do more damage than you already have. Unfortunately, as I’ve said in the past these breaks can take up to a year to work all the kinks out. The good news is that my neighbor who is probably 22 years old broke her ankle in 2 places, had surgery, plates and screws and a year later was walking normally and working out at the gym like the ankle was never broken. What you’ll need is patience, which is extremely hard when you’re in this situation. Hang in there.
Sticky:
Once my plaster cast was removed, one and 1/2 months after my surgery and I was put in a walking cast, I was able to bathe without it. That was a milestone in and of itself.
Kris
Sori
How long do the dissolvable stitches take to dissolve??
Is there 2 ss in that???
Davide..
I wish you luck. I broke my fibula and tibia Aug 11th 07!!! Before this I played very sport going, especially football!
My fibula break wouldn’t heal and I only got surgery 15 days ago..
Take it easy for your initial 6 weeks (I mean easy)..
** Can anyone tell me when their wound healed enough to shower without the Aircast???
Thanks
Hi everybody my name is Davide. I broke my right ankle on June 16, 2007 in 3 spots. I ended up getting 10 screws, 2 pins and a 5inch plate.
It has been a real devasting and depressing time, not because of the pain or anything…You see my goal is to enter the police academy but as of right now my ankle is holding me back and I was wondering if there was anyone on this forum who had a similar break and is now able to run on a daily bases 2-3 miles.
Happy New Year to all
I was knocked out and I wouldn’t of done it any other way because it is serious pain and it hurts like hell. PLUS do you really want to see them drill into your ankle ? not me.
On another note, since this is my first break on a lower extremity is there anything really in particular that I should ask the Ortho when I see him on Wednesday ? any certain questions that someone thought were helpful to know ? I am nervous…… I look forward to some responses.
I broke the tibia and fibula in my right leg yesterday in a motorcycle accident here in South Korea where I live. The doctor said he has to wait about a week for the swelling to go down before he can operate, and they said they’re going to put in a metal plate that needs to stay in for 2 years. I’m really looking forward to getting a hard caste, that’s for sure. I’m just wrapped up in gauze and a brace right now, and its murder. So when I have the surgery, is it better to be knocked out or deadened from the waste down? I think I’d prefer to sleep through the whole thing if possible, but the doctor said its safer for me to be awake. Does that make any sense?
I am totally understanding the using your crutches to do stuff for you. I use mine to help get my pants off from around my ankle I use them to get blankets and I actually have a bag that hooks on the left crutch that is meant to go on your belt when you go target shooting. It actually has a smaller pocket on the top of the bag and a larger pocket on the bottom of the bag and it hangs perfectly on my crutch handle and doesn’t get in the way (the downfall is it says winchester AA on it; but I guess I can deal with that if I can get a pop or anything smaller like a book or remote control or hairspray curling iron etc. around with me when I need it)
NOTE TO CRUTCH USERS:
I found that I could fit a beer in each pocket to travel back to my chair. If I was “REALLY THIRSTY”… I’d put 6 in a soft cooler with a long strap and put it over my shoulder/across my chest. Be careful using crutches with a “buzz” on! Sweatshirts with pockets in the front are also helpful for carrying sandwiches/chips in baggies. You learn to be creative when on crutches. I used mine to turn the T.V. on & off when I couldn’t reach the “clicker”…shut doors…. drag things across the floor… very useful in some situations.
Kris
Sandra:
I’m flying from RI to CA on Jan. 7th, returning the 13th. Will let you know when I return if I set off the metal detector and need to be “strip searched”… HA! Now THAT could make for an interesting start of the vacation. I’ll also let you know if my ankle swells to the size of a watermelon while on the 9 hour excursion (change planes in Vegas).
Kris
RULW OF CRUTCHES:
NO MATTER WHERE YOU PLACE THEM THEY ALWAYS FALL OVER.
WHEN THEY FALL OVER, THEY MAKE IT A POINT TO DO AS MUCH DAMAGE TO ANYTHING NEARBY AS POSSIBLE.
BUT WE COULDN’T GET ALONG WITHOUT THEM.
I had to go back to work fast, I had to pay the bills. I luckily work for some great attorneys who are making life at work comfortable !<—- I have a great rolling office chair.
QUESTION FROM SANDRA
I would like to go on holiday later in the year. Anyone been on a plane – if so, did your ankle swell up? How did it go getting through security and setting off the alarms?
Is it best to go to a cold (achey) place, or a hot (makes ankle swell) place?
Someone told me there is a card you can get that shows you have had surgery. Anyone know if there is an international thing that’s recognized?
Sandra
FROM SANDRA
Kris, Thanks for your response. We have lifts at work, but have regular fire drills where you are not allowed to use them. So I will have to check out all of that before I return – and what to do in places which are not accessible. You have done well to return. I am in two minds – part of me wants to, but on the other hand, I don’t feel quite ready. But your advice is good – I will do what’s feels right for me. Like you and others I will have to get used to using crutches at work. I had hoped to get to a stick first, but things are going a bit slower physically than my mind wants!
It does help to read this, as I don’t think anyone quite understands what it’s like unless they’re going through/have been through it.
CLARK – you have led an interesting life! Glad things seem to be okay financially. Hope it goes well with the injury. Don’t get that programme here, but having a sense of humour really helps – especially being able to laugh at myself.
ASHLEY – you went back to work fast. I would not have been physically able having done both ankles – could not walk. I also had to wait a week for my surgery until the swelling and bruising went down. Make sure you take care of yourself.
TROY – CONGRATULATIONS. I still find it amazing that I can actually stand on my own two feet, and that I can walk. You will get used to the crutches pretty quickly. The only problem is having no spare hands!
Bye for now,
Sandra
Hi ! It is very encouraging to read all of these stories that everyone has put on here. I broke my ankle on the 23rd of December of 2007. I was walking out of my house (onto my deck) and my hands were full (I was carrying my dog in my left hand and closing the door with my right) and I shut my right middle finger in the door causing me to jar my body backwards (slip/fall) my left ankle went completly underneath of me 180 degrees (backwards) and I heard the whole noises of the pop and clicks and crunch.
Needless to say I was rushed to the ER where some man was waiting (impatiently might I add) for his wife to be taken to triage and he looked at me (At this time I was hysterical and going to pass out) and said “that doesn’t look to good”. People and there comments…….then he was mad that they took me before his wife.
My ankle was broken (of course!)but they thought that it was dislocated as well because my foot was dangling down to the left and just hanging. If I could of taken a picture I would of because nothing was as deformed as my ankle.
They took me for x-rays (but not before giving me morphine) and they x-rayed my whole left leg to make sure nothing else was broken. Then sent me back to my ER room. The doctor looked them over and decided that it wasn’t dislocated but needed to have another set of x-rays to determine all the breaks. So off to x-ray again I go (the tech was NOT sympathetic at all! pulling/pushing/turning etc.)
The doctor determined that for me to be able to walk again that I would have to have surgery ! SO he began the process of admitting me to the hospital (which didn’t take my insurance–I found that out after I had already received treatment in the emergency room!)
I was admitted the evening of the 23rd of December 2007. I was given morphine (IV) every 2 hours, Vicodin (2 pills) every 4 hours till midnight. I didn’t sleep and wasn’t aloud out of bed.
The Ortho Surgeon came in the 24th of December (Christmas Eve) 9:00 and said that my insurance wasn’t accepted at this hospital but he was going to see about it. At 9:15 he came in and said I have good news…..I am doing the surgery your insurance will cover it because of the emergency claus in your policy. 15 minutes later I was getting wheeled down to the OR……….I don’t remember anything after that until I woke up in the recovery room and they told me I have a titanium plate with 6 screws securing it and another screw the opposite side (or the inside) of my ankle. TOTAL= 7 screws 1 plate.
It is now about 1 1/2 weeks post injury/post surgery and I went back to work (even though I was supposed to be off for two weeks-someone has to pay the bills)
I quite taking all the pain meds b/c I don’t have that much pain. I have some swelling but most of my discomfort comes from the heaviness of the partial cast.
I don’t see my ortho for another week and I would love to know what comes next? I want to drive, I am TIRED of depending on everyone. I think I am starting to get on there nerves. I just want my leg/ankle back. I appreciate everyones help I just want to be normal again.
ANKLEBREAKERS UPDATE:
First, thanks Kerri and Sandra for you thoughts and comments and to all as well. It goes without saying that when we read each others little blogs here that we all sympathize and empathize and can relate in ways that only those suffering from broken ankles can.
Troy, congratulations on a good doctor visit. Sounds like you are on the right track. Keep it up.
Had my vist with the Doc today, a while since the early Nov. visit, and I really let him have it about the hospital kicking me out early due to no insurance.
As the nurse said, backed up by the discharge coordinator; “you have a huge bill and no insurance and will probably never ever pay us!” (Verbatim) And they did, two days after major surgery, with me living alone, and no help and a very tough time. AND NO CRUTCHES! I asked the Doc why no crutches were given to me upon release and he said they should have been. I asked the nurse and she said none were ordered and didn’t offer to get me any, so I had to borrow a walker and I think that set me back a bit. The Doc said I should contact the hospital Administrator, and I may, with my lawyer. But he said that my ankle was so bad, even back then that it was very doubtful that I would have a good outcome (doctorspeak) and that after todays visit with the new xrays that I should proabable schedule a fusion with 6 months to a year. He ordered and in the shoe AFO brace that creates a fusion without the surgery, to protect the ankle, and rescheduled me in 6 weeks. He said with the xrays showing bone on bone over most of my tibia and fib base, that any added physio would only cause more distress, and said to just use the crutches for long distances and the cane around the house. i know, poor me, wah wah wah!
So thats that for now.
And Sandra, I am retired from law enforcement (10 years sworn) but was still able to work after my retirement injury, just not as a cop, so did so in affiliated careers; Private Investigation, insurance fraud, estate management, executive protection, and moved up north after 20 years in Los Angeles doing that, and was recruited by a Tribal Rancheria up here as a tribal police officer and was rear ended 1 year into a 3 year stint, and suffered a ruptured S1-L5, and a torn rotator in each shoulder. I stayed 2 years after the accident and finally quit, to drive truck for a year, before I got much worse, and ended up doing that only for a year, but (luckily) boosted my quarters by alot for SSA and State Disability. After I came back and contacted the tribe for my work comp, found out that the carrier had filed bankruptcy a month earlier and I was not on the new policy, and they refused to cover me on the new one or privately, and so was left without insurance. Not one lawyer would take my case although clear liability, but the Soveriegn Nation Treaty took care of that (can’t sue an Indian Tribe). Two refies for my back and shoulder with poor results led to finally getting my SSA disablity, plus my police pension, so I came out OK, and not broke but can get by alright, and then after all that, I broke my ankle. So I hope that whatever kharmic bill either I or one of my previous lifetimes accrued is now paid in full, because all this bad luck is getting seriously ridiculous.
I can remain stoic and laugh at all this because I do have a safety net with the retirement (just recieved my Medicare and went ahead and added the full boat AARP supplemental insurance, with my luck I may need it) and and now tax free, so I guess I paid my dues and get to limp around in my travels. But so many have it so much worse, what with the regular accidents, slip and falls people have here in the states, but our guys coming home from Afghanistan and Iraq have it so rough and need so much support and our government is so slow to rise to the occassion, that I can’t help but feel that my problems are nothing. Any obstacles and inconvience that I may suffer are nothing compared to the healing and readjustment our troops are going through, and will go through, for years to come, and when I look at it in that light, I feel very fortunate. Besides, life can be a drama or a comedy, its just the point of view, so I choose to laugh. NOTE: Just starte watching “CURB YOUR ENTHUSIAM” with and by Larry David, and it is LAUGH OUT LOUS FUNNY, for those of you sitting around with HBO. Check it out. You laugh even if you don’t want to.
Sorry to have gone on so long. Hope everyone out there is getting better. Be careful out there, and watch your step.
Hello All,
I went to my doctor’s appointment today and the doctor took a new set of x-rays and visually inspected my ankles and my leg. The doctor also used his hands to squeeze my ankles, one at a time, as I rotated my feet making circles as well as bending the foot up and then down and out and in. My x-rays showed my bones to be healing nicely. The doctor also stated that my hardware was in tact correctly and everything looked great.
Even though I have been in non-weight bearing status, I did tell my doctor that I have been up and moving around some. He asked me to show him so I stood up and walked across the office and back to him. I told him that I wasn’t in pain from it however my ankles did ache at times. The doctor told me to expect that to last for months to come. The doctor did tell me I could turn in my wheel chair and that it was no longer needed. I have been cleared to begin walking for endurance and at a conservative pace in order not to suffer any set backs. The walking has to be very cautious with no jumping or jarring. The doctor did prescribe me crutches to use when fatigued but still needing to get around. He also prescribed me a visit to the physical therapist to show me how to use crutches to take some of the load off both of my feet. The doctor stated it can be done and there is a trick to doing it. The doctor told me to continue the stretching excercise he had shown me when my cast were removed and that, coupled with my walking, should be sufficient at this time.
I am mentally on top of the world today. I can only hope that everyone feels this excitement at some point in their healing process. I still have a lot of work to do, mind you, however today was another victory.
I have a job to project manage in Hawaii due to kick off by the end of February and I hope to be able to make a site visit as well as parlay that into a bit of vacation. My doctor wants to see me again on 2/13/08 for another look to be sure.
Anyways, just wanted to share my events of the day and wish each of you good healing.
Sandra:
I went back to work (new job) four full months after surgery. I was still on crutches and a walking cast and was weight-bearing “somewhat” but not a lot. Fortunately for me, I broke my left foot so driving has never been an issue for me. Getting in and out of a Ford Expedition was a little tricky though… used crutches to hoist myself up. I ended up with bursitis in my shoulder from being on the crutches for so long. Anyway, my job only has 4 stairs to go up so “hopping”, at first, wasn’t a problem while using the hand railing. “Most” buildings where I work have elevators but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re working at all times. Had to forego some meetings as I just couldn’t get to the floor they were on. It was extremely frustrating and at times I just wanted to sit down and cry. At the moment, I’m walking with somewhat of a limp… some days are better than others. I’m finally wearing normal shoes/boots although I do feel MOST comfortable in sneakers. Going “up” stairs isn’t a problem and I can pretty much do that without holding on at all. It seems that my knee and thigh are still weak which is the biggest problem with going “UP”. Going “down” stairs is a different story. My ankle still does not fully move in that direction so I definitely need to hold on to either the wall or railing… or walk down like a two year old… one step at a time. Frustrating to say the least but I’m walking and I’m HAPPY about that. So…….. don’t rush going back to work. Wait until you feel comfortable doing so… if you can. I too, had people say, “WOW… you’re still on crutches”… you don’t WANT to know what I REALLY wanted to say to those people. Hang in there… it gets better. It’s nice to be able to “vent” every now and then to everyone on this site.
Kris
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL FROM SANDRA IN THE UK
Hi, Reassuring to hear some of your comments. Just 4 months since I fell and fractured right ankle, broke tibia, fibula on left one and ankle moved. So like others I have had surgery and hardware inserted.
Spoke to someone on the phone today who said they thought I would be better by now! So was feeling a bit put out, and a bit guilty at not being back at work yet.
I live on the edge of a very hilly city in England and cannot go anywhere without doing a hill. Having managed to lengthen my walk, I have now discovered that there are some downhill slopes I should not be doing. Either, they cause excrutiating stabbing pain in the night or a lot of stiffness and swelling. Like the last couple of days. I think walking downhill puts more stress on the bottom of my leg/where leg joins foot which is what causes the problem. So will have to plan walks more carefully.
KRIS – interested to hear your comments on walking, limping and the stairs. At the moment doing stairs with one crutch, but no idea when I will be able to progress to no support. It’s helpful to hear about your experience.
PAIN mentioned in a few posts. Apart from the stiffness above, I get a lot of pain in my achilles tendon and the inner side of heel. That pain can be worse than the ankle – as someone else said. Doing stretches, but concerned about over-stretching.
PHYSIO has ceased for Xmas so have not seen anyone for 3 weeks. Now consigned to a class which re-starts on 7th January, but a little worried about no individual input. Will have to try and nab someone before or after the class I suppose.
CLARK – you have been through a lot, but sound quite stoical about it all. Are you still working?
ON WORK – increasingly anxious at the idea of going back to work, mainly as I have to commute. Plus, there is the getting around safely and doing any stairs. What about fire drills and alarms? – I will have to be left on a landing on whatever floor I am on. Even my office is on 4th floor. I suppose I would have to have a personal evacuation plan, but it is all a worry. (SHUT UP – that’s to me.)
CALM – I have been very calm and patient through all of this, but as you may see the work stuff sets me off. Anyway see Consultant on 16th and hope to ask for another three/four weeks off so I return in early February.
How have other people managed the return to work after an extended period at home, and how have you dealt with any lasting ‘problems’? Would love to hear.
DRIVING – had a go at emergency stops and managed fine, but the left ankle is the worst one and changing gears caused some pain – manageable. Hope to get more practice – unless it snows as is forecast.
Bye to the rest of the club out there, and take care.
Sandra
Thanks Clark! I’ll update everyone on my experience when I return. The wheelchair may be the route to take. Just standing for long periods of time does a number on my ankle… let alone walking long distances.
Kris
Happy NEW YEAR ANKLEBREAKERS,
Kerri, Greg, Kris, and Troy, thanks for all your comments and support. I hope that all of you and everyone on this list continues to improve and get better. Perhaps when we are all well we should get together for a track meet (kidding).
Kris, have a good time in LA at Universal Studios. The “CITYWALK” was great and you should see it if it is still there. The 3D rides were great. I lived in LA for 20 years and it is a really good time, but don’t be crazy and overdo it. Use your crutches, or at least a cane, it may put you at the front of the line and they are long long lines. But don’t do anything to undo the surgery or reinjure you ankle. Use a wheelchair, relax, be pushed around and have a good time. After all, you only have one ankle at the end of each leg. Don’t take chances.
Happy New Year All.
Clark
Hi Everyone,
Happy New Year! Hope 2008 will be better for all of us. Erika, my surgery was on 10/16 and a week ago I started using a cane. By putting the additional weight on my foot, I have developed tendonitis that starts below my tibia and runs down into the arch of my foot. The doctor and physical therapist told me to make sure to wear shoes with a good arch support. I had been walking in my house barefoot or in socks. I guess it is kind of like having a fallen arch. Anyhow, it may be what you are going through also.
Clark, I feel for you and your situation, I really hope they can help you and that you can get some relief. It does sound like you really did a number on it.
clark,
i heard that comment too although my bones never had to be fused together. i also had a pretty bad break in my ankle but my doctor never mentioned having to fuse my bones together. i used to get tremendous pain in my foot much like that was mentioned above when i wouldnt elevate my foot kinda like the lady mentioned above about her daughter who played socker. i got that pain in my foot but not my ankle. i hope your doing better. that kinda stuff scares me bones being fused together, but i’m sure you will be ok even though you may walk with a limp because your bones are fused together.
happy holidays,
greg
Greetings all
Been on vacation this last week but got back to work today. Want to wish every one a happy new year and a safer one. Just had a Doctors appointment while I was away and got the news that the right ankle is collapsing with arthritis. Soi now we know what the pain is from. I was told the only opsion is for me to have fussion done on the ankle. Told him I would hold off on that not ready to have my ankle frozen in one possition just yet. Was told that I would be the barrometer when the pain gets tpo bad just come in and we will go for surgery. Gee all the things i get to look forward to. Wonder how I got so lucky.
Ahh well at least were all walking to some degree and hopefully we will all get stronger as the year rolls on. Talk to you all soon
Don
For Erika
I had surgery with 5 screws and a plate on 9/11 and began PT on October 30th. I’ve done quite well and am walking with just a little limp. In early December, I did develop a condition called Plantar Fasciitis which was a pain on the bottom of my foot, from the arch area down to the toes. My therapist told me that it’s from a tight achilles tendon as a result of the restrictions from the moon boot and then not putting weight on it while walking with crutches. He worked on relaxing the tendon and gave me exercises to stretch it which helped a lot. Ice helped, too. When it first developed, it hurt worse than the ankle, but it has improved. You may have developed a similar condition.
Good luck in your healing.
Clark:
WOW! After reading about your experience you make my broken ankle (tibia & fibula… plate & five screws) seem like I just fell and skinned my knee!
In any case, I’m into month #8 of recovery. Although walking, if I don’t concentrate real hard, I’m limping and have some discomfort. Walking “down” stairs is an impossibility without holding onto the wall or a railing. I guess I can live with the way it is… if this is the worst case scenario. What else can I do, right? The Dr. said it can take up to a year to work out all the kinks.
Wish me luck as I’m going to CA next Monday to visit my brother and am planning on spending a day at Universal Studios. The thought of walking the park all day just “freaks me out”! I REFUSE to get a wheelchair.
In any case, I wish ALL OF YOU a Happy and Healthy NEW YEAR! Hey… could it possibily be worse?!?!?!?!
Take care all….
Kris
Hi everyone, hope all are doing ok. Can someone help me with a question? I started PT and have been about 6 times. It seems I am getting worse instead of better. I don’t know what they should be doing, but it does not seem like they are doing the right things. I have been told to try a different PT. I am just so confused and feel like I am going backwards and that the ankle is getting stiffer. Thanks for any suggestions.
Troy,
Thanks for your concern and comments. I appreciate them. Hope your recovery is going well and that you get 100% back from before your accident.
Erika,
Just read your situation and can tell you that I had a double bunionectomy in June of 1997, which changes the weight bearing geometery of the foot, and displaces and rearranges the metatarsals of your feet.
My second metatarsal broke about 2 weeks out of the cast and then I was back into a walking boot again, but it healed naturally with no complications. The left foot second metatarsal never broke, but the pressure at the ball of my foot, just behind or back from the beginnings of the toes, felt like I was walking on a nail. That was caused by the pressure from the surgery om the second metatarsal actually pressing into the ball of the foot, right at the junction of the 2nd toe joint and I finally had to have it operated on. By the time I did the joint connecting the two bones was so deteriorated (Thompsons syndrome?) that surgery was impossible, so the doctor removed half an inch of the metatarsal thinking that that may relieve the pressure. It did not. I guess thats why they call it practicing medicine. The point is that something, perhaps your ankle surgery and bone repair, or tendon or ligament repair caused the same type of weight bearing rearrangement that I had. Most orthopedists don’t do feet. Try to find a qualified Podiatrist and give him your medical history, perhaps he can help. May not be the same thing, but the symptoms are identicle, and it is very painful. Good luck. Watch your step.
Sun night. Husband went off snowmobiling (not sure if I will ever do that again). I just started watching “Last Cowboy” on the Hallmark Channel. How sad.
Been 2 weeks since I was given permission for 100% weight bearing. Only can walk 100% at home. When I go out it is with cane or crutches. Surgery was on 9/23/07. So, I am having this “new pain”. Since I started walking, I am feeling somthing at the bottom of my foot. But, it closer to my toes than my ankle. It feels like a screw is coming through my foot, but I think it is too far away from the screws for that. Could I have a bit of broken bone or something trying to come through? It is below my middle toe – about 2″ below. Any ideas? I have 6 screws on right side of ankle and 2 screws on left side of ankle. Broke outer, inner & tibia on 9/23/07. Thanks for any insight.
BTW – does anyone have any brown spots i like to call
“mottling” near their incisions?
Erika
Clark,
I sincerely regret the tough time you are having to go through. I know that this is really tough and I hope you can remain as focused and positive as humanly possible. I am pulling for you and everyone else.
/Troy
Sticky,
The burning sensation is normal as told to me by my doctor. I still have it quite a bit. In my case it seemed to be the worst just after having my cast removed and only on my left (I broke both ankles). If I move my foot around vigorously it seems to be feel normal for a few seconds but then the numb stinging sensation returns straightaway. It is not as intense as it was a few weeks ago. Hang in there and stay tough.
/Troy
Hello AnkleBreakers out there;
I’m 55, retired police with no lifetime medical insurance and broke my right ankle walking my dogs at a local lake near my home on May 18, 2007. Really should’nt have happened, no slip or twist, just a loose shale rock and down I went, hearing the “crunch” and “break” of the bones as I went down. The dogs were swimming at the time and all I could think about was being in such an isolated area, alone, with the pain setting in. But it never did, as the damage was so great the pain circut to my brain was disconnected and I was very lucky. Found by other dog walkers a short time later and 3 hours later out of XRay with my first pain shot, then Fentanyl (waking sedation, no memory) for the dislocation relocation and then out 3 hours later for the Tri Mallealor repair; Two long pins, temporary talus fusion, one inside plate with about 10 screws and about 4 screws on the outside. Much pain and swelling, and no insurance. The surgeon came by the next morning and told me that it was about the worst he’d ever seen and didn’t think the outcome would be great, indicating fusion, solid foot, no ankle bending. No crutches provided, due to insurance I guess, but why rebuild the engine but don’t add oil?, with my neighbors lending me a walker. Supposed to be non weight bearing but very hard to do with a walker, and I was not able to get crutches at that time.
Back 3 weeks later for x rays, bandage change, and back in another 3 weeks, being told that everything had shifted and the pins were broken and he had to redo everything. Finished my MediCal app and this time no pain, no swelling, stayed 6 days and was provided crutches. Doc still said it was the worst he’d seen and would likely be fused due to probable painful arthritus.
More bandage changes, xray etc… and 6 weeks after the second surgery, mid August, back for outpatient surgery to remove 2 pins. Turned out to be a plate and screws placed along the back of my shin above my ankle, below the Achilles Tendon and calf. Very very painful, 5 day stay, with same prognosis; probable fusion. October slated for PT, with much pain and swelling to inner ankle, with xray showing a non union of the bottom end of the tibia, never healed.
Seperate Doc for bone health revealed osteoporsis in lower spine, and perhaps ankles, but not definative due to non use. R/X for Actonel and Vitamin D and Calcium supplements. Attempted to find new Ortho but no one would touch it due to the complexity of the case. One also agreed that fusion was probable and damage too great for normal repair.
Next appt. in a few days with probable surgery to reparir non union and then another for the fusion.
Had to sell the Mustang (5 speed), bought a Dodge Ram automatic, and can never play my drums again. At least not now, may find a way yet, having played for 40 years. Did get the disabled liscense plates though, a big help.
Sleeping is terrible, with side to side tossing all the time, and the heavy boot the only thing that stops the pain from the covers.
I alternate between a cane around the house and crutches everywhere else, due to pain and needed stability.
Have been in sworn law enforcement for 10 years and affiliated careers for 20 have never heard of any vehicle code stating what foot one must drive with, but that it must be done safely. Have had no problems driving with my left foot, other than the inconvience. Long trips require cruise control. And driving a large pick up help.
Never was prescribed anything stronger than a Norco 10, 325/APAP. Nothing stronger allowed without a Narcotics Triplicate, which my doc refuses to prescibe probably due to fear of abuse or addiction.
That twice a day with two 250 mg Ibuprofin keeps me from climbing the walls but not by much.
I’m able to get out and walk the dogs with crutches for all of our exercise, and short walks with a cane, but much more painful and less steady. Crutches are the safest and best. (I’ve had 6 knee surgeries from my years on the force).
Still don’t know where this will end up, but my life has change dramatically, and not for the best.
Trying not to gain weight, but its very hard, and the exercise I used to get is not possible right now.
My sincerest best wishes to all of you, and a thank you Christi, and best hopes for your recovery. This website is a good place to reconnect with reality.
Hope everyone out there is healing well, and remember to WATCH YOUR STEP.
Hi.
I broke my ankle (Fibula and Tibia) at start of August 07. I was in a cast for 8 weeks. When I came out of the cast my ankle was wildly swollen. It took another 8 weeks on crutches with physio to walk. After 18 weeks I had an x ray and MRI scan as the pain was still bad. This showed the fibula hadn’t healed!
Well, 20th Dec 07 I had surgery, plate with 6 screws and a bone graft for good measure.
I took an infection after 5 days (Xmas day) and now have anti biotics for 7 days.
Can anyone tell me if they had a wild burning/stinging sensation around their wound??? This is constant! No sleep and its driving me mad!
I’m back for my 1st review this Wednesday.
Pls help.
Hi Greg,
Agree with Debbie that you should be careful about the weight-bearing. I could also move my foot but did not put any weight on it until the plaster came off and consultant said I could.
In the longer term, it’s not just the ankle that’s affected, but all the muscles in that leg, because you are not using them. That’s why it is important to do exercises physio give you.
You are young and I am sure that you will make good progress when the plaster is off – just don’t put weight on it now.
Like Debbie says your ankle will swell when plaster is off, it is likely to be stiff and you may get some pain.
But it does get better. I have made so much progress since mine came off.
Still achieving more each day, and so will you.
Sandra
Greg
Be patient! I also could move my foot inside my cast and was quite tempted on a few occassions (when I just had enough) to bear weight but I knew I would be making it worse in the long run.
I am also very active (though much older than you!) and a self-employed horse trainer so being fit and having lots of ankle flexibility is super important to me. I HAVE to be able to bear all weight and such on my ankle. I have been out of my cast for a month and a half and it was awesome but let me warn you that you will have ZERO muscle tone in your calf and a HUGE ankle. My main problem now is still just major stiffness and alot of it is actually in the sole of my foot.
The best thing you can do is listen to the doctor and follow up with as much phys. therapy as you can. I have done a lot on my own and it’s working. I imagine playing hockey will take a bit longer because of the side to side motion. My break actually is doing great, it’s just the soft tissue damage that’s taking longer to heal.
Take care and good luck on your exams!
Debbie
hey guys,
glad i found this blog. i broke both my tib and fib
while i was at school been home since the 19th of novemeber. i had to get a plate and 6 screws in my ankle. sucks cause i gotta take my finals when i go back to school. if everything goes well i’m supposed to get my cast off in early january. my doctor told me not to walk on, or put weight on my ankle but i put weight on it the other day with no pain and i can move it inside my fiberglass cast. i hope i can still play hockey and football when this is over with. the stories of you guys not being able to run and jump kinda scares me though because i’m a pretty active person. but this blog has really helped me out by reading all of your stories. thanks for putting your stories out there.
-greg
HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL FELLOW TRAVELLERS – from Sandra.
Nearly 4 months since I fractured both ankles – and have a lot of hardware in the left one. Resolved to walk as much as possible in the house with no crutches, but still using two or one outside (depends where I am).
When first home I was in plaster and air boot and hopping on a frame. Thought of myself as Ms. Hippity-Hoppity. Now when walking I limp and sometimes lurch, so I am Ms. Wibbly-Wobbly. Well – it keeps me amused. But I do hope for a limp-free walk one day (and I don’t want people to think I’m drunk all day.)
Started phsyio clases for lower limb. Circuit training focusing on balance, stretching and strengthening all muscles below the waist. Surprising how weak everything gets when you can’t use it properly. Had a go on EXERCISE BIKE. Biggest surprise was having to bend my knee that much – it was so tight – but it worked! It’s not weight-bearing and I think I may buy one after the Xmas tree is out of the way and use it.
Still some stiffness and like most of you out there and aches/pains. Hardware still staying put.
On shoes – my left foot was always slightly bigger than the right, and now that’s worse.
Not driving yet, but hoping to start after holiday season ends.
On work – may get signed back in January, but frankly worried about it. I am so slow at walking, and my ankle still feels weak. It’s difficult to carry stuff on crutches, then there are the stairs . . . And I had better not get started on my 80 mile round trip to work.
Interesting to hear from those of you who have done a year, or getting there. It does take a long time, but it’s encouraging to hear of your progress.
Definitely not good to mess with ankles.
I value everything I can do, and each little task that I accomplish – probably like the rest of you out there. Has certainly made me see life from a new perspective.
Have done all Xmas shopping online this year. Felt a bit of a hassle at times – not least making sure I could get to the door for packages. But it’s all accomplished, so now there is just the wrapping.
Enjoy the fesitivities wherever you are in the world.
No forecast of snow in the UK, but take care if you get any and watch the ice.
Sandra
sheldon, i am currently in a fiberglass cast, and my second xray is due on 1/5, and if all goes well, i graduate up to the moon boot. I will never take walking for granted again! I would have much rather broken my arm than an ankle. other than breaking one’s neck, an ankle break must rank up there as one of the most inconveniant breaks on a body! Thanks for all the info everyone on here has posted, its been quite helpful. hope everyone has a merry xmas, happy new year, happy hannukah, and anything else i left out!
Hi all,
I feel really lucky. My greatest gift is that I can walk for the holidays. It has only been 8 1/2 weeks since the surgery. I may only be able to walk for a short while, but that is all right. I don’t use a crutch in the house. I do best with socks that have the little rubber grips on the bottom, as most of my house is tile. It is a bit painful and I have a limp. I can’t hardly walk with that moon boot. So, yesterday when I went to physical therapy, I didn’t wear it. I am encouraged by how much I am able to do, as I was only released to walk 10 days ago. My routine at PT is a lot of work. I ride the exercise bike for 10 minutes, then go to the pool. In the pool I walk 10 minutes forwards, then 10 backwards. I do 60 each of calf raises, squats, & step ups. Then, I stretch. And lastly, I water jog for 20 minutes( I have a floating device, so I am suspended in the water to jog). I love walking in the pool because I can walk almost normal, no limp.I still have a lot of burning in the arch of the foot. But, that has improved since I have been able to walk. This morning, I am really sore. My body & right leg are getting adjusted to working again. I am probably still a few weeks away from driving. I have a fair amount of flexibility back in my ankle, but, I can’t move it side to side fast. I feel bad for those of you that have to deal with snow & ice. I can’t even imagine that. I live in the outskirts of Phoenix, so that is never a concern.
Debbie- Hopefully, I won’t be far behind you. If my progress continues like this, maybe the ortho Dr. will release me to ride sooner. I see him again in 2 1/2 weeks. And, hopefully, I will be able to do some gymnastics soon after, no big jumps, just some exercises to build up myself and my equine partners up. Have you jumped yet? And, if you did, how did it go?
Everyone have a Happy Holiday.
Hello again:
I went to the Dr. yesterday for my last follow-up visit. The bottom line is… “it is what it is”… He said that it normally takes up to an entire year to work out all the kinks. He also said there was no reason to have my hardware removed. I’d just be looking for more time on crutches and healing all over again. As far as cortizone shots, he said that would do more harm than help. My left ankle will NEVER look like my right ankle again. I’m not too concerned about that, it’s the limping that bothers me the most. Although at this point I think that sometimes I limp because I’m just used to it now and need to “re-train” myself. If I concentrate, I can walk “limpless” but there’s still some pain. So all, I guess the bottom line is that we’re all in this together and should probably look at our one year anniversary to hopefully put all this behind us. Have a great holiday everyone and a HAPPY NEW YEAR! It has to be a better year!
Kris
Hi. I also broke the tib and fib and dislocated. What a mess! It’s been 7 months and I’m still in this air boot. I also had about 15 fracture blisters all over my foot. Plate with 6 screws,and then 5 screws on the inside of the ankle. And one of the screws is starting to migrate out. It’s really uncomfortable now. You can see about half of the screw – the shape of it, but it hasn’t broken the skin yet. I’m supposed to get it out Jan.17.
I can sure sympathize with you people. It is absolutely the pits! And yeah..I’m sick of being all cripped up. But hopefully one day, it will all heal.
Sheldon
Regarding post number 59732 about driving.
In the State of NJ you are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle while you are under Doctors care. Unless the Doctor releases you to drive. If you are caught driving any motor vehicle and your Doctor is called by the Police you will be sited for driving without a Driver’s license.
I just went through this a little bit agao and they even told us that at Rehab at Morristown Memorial Hospital. I am not sure about other states though
Don
Hey all
I read all the notes in here and with the things that happen to others. I realize that there is always someone in more pain or worse shape then I am in or have been in. I am fortunate to say that after the year none of my stuff has come loose. I lost some turning movement in my left arm which makes holding my M&M’S in a certain way hard at times without moving the elbow but all in all it is good. My Doctor told me if I wanted more movement they could take me in and remove some of the bone to give better motion. (My Response) I appreciate all he did for me but there is no way in hell that he and I and a hospital with sharp pointy objects are ever going to get together at the same time and place again EVER.
I came across this blog looking for others that might have some answers in taking some of the weather pains away. Some ideas I have seen I like some I am unsure of. Some I can help with, for those having problems with the scar tissue on the scares get some lotion or oil and massage the scare itself. On the ones I have on my ankles I have had to do this in order to get them flexible and stop them from shrinking lower then the rest of the skin. Pinching and making them pliable has helped me a great deal with walking and flexing. I have three on the left ankle and 4 on the right so lots of massaging. Hope this helps some
Don
Thanks Kris. If you are at 7 months, I have 3 more to go, so we will see. Good luck at the doctors.
Nancy:
I’m in month #7 of recovery (broke tibia & fibula… (plate and 5 screws). As I’ve mentioned before, although I’m walking, I walk with a limp and my ankle is still very stiff, especially where the scar is. I no longer go to PT because I was told there wasn’t anything more they can do for me until the swelling goes down. My ankle looks great in the morning but by the time I get home from work, it’s swollen. My PT says this is because I was non-weight bearing for 4 months!!!! I’m heading to my orthopedic doctor in an hour. I’m hoping he’ll have some great theory on how I can get the swelling to subside, the pain & stiffness to go away, and how I can get walking again without the limp. Walking in snow and ice right now is a stressful/agonizing experience. Hang in there. You’ll definitely walk again. This entire scenario is so frustrating! You’re probably all so sick of hearing from me but stay tuned… I’ll be writing again after my Dr.’s appt.
Kris
Hi everyone, Merry Xmas and a Happy Healthy New Year, everyone be careful and safe. I had my long screw taken out last week and was able to start PT. After going a couple times, they tell me my ankle is extremely stiff. I have been trying to tell my doc that for 3 months. I was told it was 17 negative, what ever that means. I get so scard that I won’t walk again. I am trying very hard to stay possitive. Has anyone else had a tight ankle, what did you do and are you ok now? Hope evertone is doing ok.
hi don
i think that goes above and beond a broken ankle but i guess its better than loosing a leg,my husband had a bad accident in work two years ago smashed his knee cap and broke the fibia tibia he had to have a few bone graphs and was plates and pins from the knee down.the reason he had his metel work removed one year later, was it always seemed inflamed very hot and swetty,had a scan and some of the screws had become loose.yours sounds way more complicated.good luck for the future,and have a good and painless xmas.and lets hope next year is a good one for all of us.take care Diana
Don
All I can say is YIKES! More power to you , man!
debbie
Greetings all you leg/Ankle breakers.
I was not looking for this blog when I came on, but was surprised when I started reading it. My name is Don and about a little over a year ago 12/10/07 my Wife and I were in a head on car crash with a drunk driver. I read that people were talking about having their metal taken out? For me that would mean a long time off my feet again let’s see I have 1 tee that goes into my right foot up into my ankle with 2 plates and 2 rods. A rod below and above my right knee a bar in my right femur, 18 pins 2 rods in my left ankle 8 pins and 6 screw in my left side pelvis where my hip was ripped off my body and a bar above and below my left elbow. So all in all I am mostly metal Neah I think I will just let it all stay in there. I was not able to walk or put any weight on my legs or left arm for three months. I agree weather is a killer for me, if the storm sits there and does not come in the pain is unbelievable. If it hits then I can walk again, have had a few times when I needed to go back to using the cane from time to time. But over all I am getting around I can walk I can’t run YET (but who knows)
It is cool to see other people out here that know what it is like when your struggling at times and don’t want to admit it to others. Others that have been there and are there putting in their time and just moving forward with their lives. Thanks for the upbeat stuff. Even the complaints are upbeat to see everyone fighting back. Merry Christmas to all and a Happy Holiday Season
hi all ankle breakers
i would like to wish you all a very merry and safe xmas,don,t forget too much vino makes you wobble and we do not want any accidents do we?do not break the already broken ankle as they say.thats not a saying i just made it up,i dare say there will be alot more names on this site after the holidays,so merry xmas and a happy new year to you all and thank you for being there.
Diana
Dena
Riding was great and the funny thing is that my thighs hurt more thananything for about 3 days! I only got to ride once so far as we were away for a big show Thur thru Sun but will be back in the saddle today and for the rest of the week before vacation. Even though my ankle bone did not bother me the muscles, tendons, ligaments (whatever) were tight and felt weird and in the back of my mind I’ll admit it makes me nervous about reinjuring the break. Also, the bottom of my foot is still real tight and hopefully the riding will help stretch that out.
Take it slow and treat yourself to massages if you can because that moonboot was KILLER on my body (putting it all out of whack and stuff beacuse of how thick it was my whole body was out of alignment.)
Debbie
Hi everybody, I would say that horses are my enemy, but they are not. I obviously tried to land on one leg when I was bucked off. I will try and remember to land on my bum, where there is more padding next time. I am sure that there will be a next time in the future, as I really love to ride and jump, and I have many young horses that can be a bit more unpredictable than their more senior equine buddies in the barn. Anyway, yesterday I thought maybe I could get a couple of short housework tasks done, now that I am weight-bearing some. I live with my 2 sons( 22yrs &21 yrs)and my fiance; plus my near 80 yr old mom comes up from Tucson(I live in the outskirts of Phoenix)to help 5 days a week. I am not a nag and I hate to ask for much of anything because my younger son takes total care of the 9 horses in the barn(feed, clean stalls, & turnouts)plus has been working on his research and classes primarily from home; my mom makes sure that I have whatever else I need; my fiance goes to work and runs all the errands after work. My youngest son is visually impaired and doesn’t drive, nor does my mom drive. My oldest son works and is hardly around and can be a bit unreliable. So, the only driver right now is my fiance(I broke my right ankle & lower leg). There are not a lot of close neighbors, as we have horse property. We live on the very outskirts of Phoenix and don’t have any places that delivers chinese food, pizza, etc. Sorry, got off on a tangent. Well, I thought that I might try to get my bathroom cleaned and my bedroom picked up. None of it was bad, but isn’t cleaned and such as often as I would do it normally it to be. I really feel bad asking for anything because my family is bending over backwards to help me. I am sooo fortunate. I spent about 15 minutes doing the bathroom and later in the evening spent about 20 minutes picking up my room. Towards the end of the later, my foot and ankle had swelled and boy did it ache. Before this happened, I worked 12 hour days as a pediatric ER nurse and worked out. The 3-4 days off every week were spent at the barn riding my horses, cleaning the stalls, & various house duties. I guess that I expected to be able to do some things without too much difficulty once I was able to bear weight. Last week( week seven since surgery), I was so happy to be able to start walking, and I still am. But, I didn’t think that I would be so weak and winded doing little things. Again, I am very frustrated. I was using my walker and not putting my foot down much. What have you guys encountered? I guess I was expecting too much too soon. Oh, another question; when those of you that are using a regular shoe, when you say trainers, are you referring to cross trainer tennis shoes? I am long from being out of the boot, but want to be prepared. Thanks for the encouragement and updates that everybody gives. This site has been really helpful.
To Debbie- How did it feel to ride again? I can’t wait. I am months away, but try not to think about that.
Happy healing to all.
hi all anklebreakers again
my enemy is wet grass and chidrens paddling pools,and i have to say xmas shopping at the momment my ankle and foot is killing me,ime back on my painkillers and my foot on two pillows,i feel i have gone back a few weeks,i have been wearing knee lenth boots and feel they have,nt done my ankle any good at all,so back to trainers, cant imagine me back to work for awhile i work in a hospital so i am on my feet alot only time will tell, take care all.
hi all anklbreakers and sheldon
i am a fiftty six year old and the only exercise i feel able do without harming my ankle is my bike as long as you are careful it seems to me its the knee that takes much of the tension and the ankle follows on, personaly i would say yes go for it what does everybody else think? take care.
My enemy is ONE 8″ step! Which broke one right ankle in 3 places and one left foot!
Just started walking last week. WOW! Was I in a lot of pain this weekend. Had to pick the crutches back up. Woke up several times at night in pain. Wish I still had my Vicoden!
Erika
Michael Bell: I think my injury is similar to yours. I am curious though, are you in a cast right now? Your doctor didn’t tell you anything about how much weight you could put on it? I always think my doctor is not telling me enough things either, like he is just passing through my appointment on his way to some place else. But even he made sure I knew about whether or not I could bear weight or not.
I think each situation is different, for me I rolled my ankle playing basketball and broke off the tip end of one of the bones. Like your injury not nearly as severe as most people on here, no surgery, no hardware. My timeline so far is:
xray 1 = showed the break
Week 1 = soft cast (split) no weight at all.
Week 2-4 = hard cast (fiberglass) Partial weight, I walked on it but with crutches helping. My doctor warned against going full weight on it.
xray 2 = showed good healing progress
Week 5 = Moon boot, Partial weight, he said to still use the crutches and not go full weight.
Week 6-8 = Moon boot, full weight, this is where I am at now and I can walk with full weight. I was warned to not try walking at all without wearing the moon boot.
My third x-ray will be on Jan 3, the doctor said if this x-ray continue to show good healing, I will be able to use an ankle support that fits in a regular shoe rather than the moon boot.
I do have one question for others though. I have heard some people ride exercise bikes with the resistance set on the very lowest. Is that safe or not? I am at the stage where I walk full weight bearing with a moon boot, but never without. I obviously would be riding the bike without the boot. On one hand it seems fairly safe, I don’t think my ankle could twist or snap riding that bike, and my weight is on my seat not my feet. But on the other hand I don’t want to do something stupid or risky and set myself back.