woo! broken ankle update… day 83..
Hooray!! I got my stitches out this week… and now I have a bitchin’ scar. Chicks dig scars, right?
So, I’m hopefully nearing the end of my broken ankle saga, started nearly three months ago… The doctors all say that I’m healing up great, and with each day, my ankle gains a little more flexibility and a little more strength. It’s kind of cool feeling it get better with each day. Although I’m going to visit the physical therapist on Wednesday for a consult, the doctor says that with each step I take, it’s like self-therapy, so.. the more steps I take, the better I’ll get. But, I do want to get back into playing baseball, riding bikes, dancing crazily, and everything, so.. I figure a PT consult can’t hurt. Also, I’ve been doing quite a bit of research on the InterWeb, and I’ve kept the best broken ankle links I’ve found at my del.ico.us..
So.. I’ve had three months now to sit on my arse and get nice and fat… so I’m super excited to get back out and run around again. Wahoo!
Thanks to my doctors, and thanks to everyone who has been super nice and supportive to me and my gimpy ankle for these past few months!
July 11th, 2006 at 7:16 am
Hi…I don’t know you,and you me. But I googled broken ankles,and this website popped up. I find it interesting that you have kept a blog about your recovery stages. Believe it or not……I broke my ankle the exact same way you did. But I was skateboarding….I dislocated my ankle(it was about 90 degrees bent outwards) and I ended up having to go to surgery(thank goodness I didn’t eat anything that day so I could go right into surgery that same afternoon). And after reading your stories….I feel much better that there is an end of the road. It has been three weeks since I broke my ankle and this long cast is driving me insane!
Thank you for blogging your story.
July 12th, 2006 at 12:46 pm
I stumbled across your blog with a search engine about a dislocated ankle and broken tibula and fibula. I did mine sliding into home about 10 days ago. ugh. Thanks for your blog though. I having been feeling pretty much the same way as you described and it’s nice to know that things get better! good luck next year playing ball!
July 12th, 2006 at 3:29 pm
I’m glad you guys have been finding my broken ankle post!! If you want to read the whole story, it’s here..
July 21st, 2006 at 9:07 am
Hi there I also stummbled across your site, I broke my left ankle on june 23rd 06 (friday)
It’s been 4 weeks now and I to had to have surgery, I fell off a curb at a gas station by my house ( to sue or not to sue?) and broke my ankle in 3 places and dislocated I was hospitalized that same day and was suposed to have surgery the next day but the doctor had an amergency so I was put on the back burner for another day (sunday I had the surgery plate and 2 screws monday i went home….. I only had a cast on for less then 2 weeks Now I am wearing a walking boot…. If you would like to read my website about my ankle feel free…..Im healing nicely and I started therapy last week The sooner the better and going almost everyday…. Glad to see your doing well best wishes.
July 28th, 2006 at 6:23 pm
awesome….I’m 11 weeks since my ankle crunch. I have 12 screws and a plate. Since week 10 I’ve been progressing pretty well. PT is almost dumb to go to cause I exercise it every second I can. Many, many snaps and crackles come from my foot when I try to put ‘extra’ weight on it now. I think everything is gettnig so much better.
Thanks for you journey to help people going through this. My employer has been great to me.. I can’t see how anybody could do there job with a shattered ankle!
My scars on both sides of my foot are sweet! I dig them.
Thanks!
September 4th, 2006 at 1:26 pm
Hello. I stumbled across this blog….and thankfully!! I dislocated my ankle and broke my tibia and fibula doing the hokey pokey on roller skates on 7-13-06. I had surgery 7-19-06 had a plate and 6 screws to put it back together and I’m still in a cast. My fibula isn’t healing well. I switched calcium suplements and am drinking more milk than a baby calf! It was nice to hear I’m not the only one who has had to endure this. I can’t wait to walk again!
Best wishes to everyone else!
Lori
September 22nd, 2006 at 8:46 pm
Hey people broke and dislocated my left ankle in a really bad car accident on August 19 (luckY to be alive!!!)…….. plate with 6 screws on the left side of my ankle and a huge screw on the right side…… gross…….tomorrow makes it 5 weeks in this itchy case dying to get it off and get back to life……..good luck eveyone!
October 2nd, 2006 at 7:01 am
Hi Dennis - I was googling for help with my Mum who along with my Dad would you believe broke her ankle about 5 weeks ago and is currently very low and in pain. Her foot gets very hot and feels like its tight inside the cast. I wonder if anyone else has suffered this - sadly my Dad seems to be healing very well and isnt suffering at all so that makes it harder for my Mum
Any feedback on the ups and downs of the healing progress would be gratefully received
best wishes and glad things are literally on the mend
October 17th, 2006 at 9:20 am
Broke my right ankle 10/1/06…orif 10/9/06…7 screws 1 plate..I’m going CRAZY in nwbc!! Tried going back to work yesterday…Stayed just over 3 hrs, got home and slept about 5 1/2 hrs, then went to bed!! I’m enjoying the fact I’m NOT ALONE IN THIS!!! But how long til you were back to work?? As I said, it’s my RT foot-so no driving, but I’ve til 10/23 to see the Doc again and don’t really know if I’m being a slacker, or a nut to try being normal!!! I’m 44 with a 4 and 7 yr old, they don’t like Mommy foot up all day! The few hrs (sitting at a desk) yesterday swelled my leg up so fast it barely fit in the cast, and sure was UNCOMFORTABLE-what were YOUR 2nd week activities all about?
Be well, all! Thanks for info- and thanks for bitchin’ scar picture- I can now visualize for my next tattoo!!! Valerie
October 29th, 2006 at 8:32 pm
Just an update, I’m still off work (since July 13)…uugh! I can relate with Valerie, I broke my right ankle to and cannot drive. I am a home visitor so if I cannot drive I cannot do my job. I still have a portion of my fibula that is still not healing. I have been switched over to a cam walker (soooo glad to get rid of the cast). At least I can take it off to shower! I have an EMG scheduled next week, I can’t flex or extend my foot…possible nerve damage some where. And so I wait…some more. Everyone heals at their own rate but I’m feeling a little discouraged (o.k. a LOT discouraged). Cudos to Valerie for attempting to go back to work. My doc told me the swelling could last about a year, but I dislocated my ankle as well as broke my tib. 2nd week activities were crutches, eating, lying down with my leg elevated with ice on it of course and scooting around the kitchen on a office chair to fix dinner for my dh and ds. My thoughts of good healing and quick recovery for everyone!
Lori
January 8th, 2007 at 3:02 pm
It’s been 8 months since I shattered my ankle. I can finally walk in both tennis shoes (which I found New Balance walking shoes the best during recovery) AND within the last month dress shoes. I wear formal clothes to work again!!! It’s has not been the easiest thing to recover from. But like all things, time does heal this wound too.
My ankle still feels stiff and is very sensative on the side with the plate. It is very uncomfortable to lay my lower leg on that side still. But I can tell that that feeling is subsiding. Nerve damage caused me to feel like my foot was “wet” when I took the first step after sitting for awhile. Strangest feeling in the world. My ankle still iches all the time.
I had one pin removed in November and it was and in/out thing. No problems and helped with my mobility going up and down stairs.
My leg muscles look back to normal, but I still favor the unhurt leg.
Still have to hold onto something when putting on pants.
I’ll check back soon for any of your updates.
January 8th, 2007 at 3:08 pm
and one more and very important thing, your doctor MUST take your pain in consideration. If you run out of pain pills that make your recovery easier, ask for more. My doctor wrote a ’script that I ran out of five times and had to call for more. My doctor simply signed the form without question. Do it before you know you’ll run out. Do not wait until your in pain again.
February 19th, 2007 at 1:07 am
Hi,
I have a friend who has broken her tibia and smashed her ankle. She had a four hour surgery to put in a rod. She thinks she’ll but up and around (running/jumping) in six weeks. What do you think??
February 20th, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Here I am with 28 screws and 2 plates in my broken lower tibia and fibula and shattered and sheered off right ankle from a auto accident that was in early May. I found this site because I was looking for information concerning athletic support type shoes. I can tell you after the wheelchair gig, crutches , therapy and pain I have been able to walk pretty normal on the outside in flats and 2″ heels but after about 3 hours it starts to re-swell and I begin to have mild tolerable pain which if I have to, I take motrin. The problem with pain pills is that they interfere with bone healing so its better to use ice, a nice large ice pack bought from the medical supply store than the drugs, percocet or whatever.Just restore it after use in the freezer. Good Luck to everyone, I am working to get back on the tennis court. Ps It hurts to run but I can if I can take the pain.
March 1st, 2007 at 9:46 am
I broke my right ankle while sledding with my husband on Feb 13, 2007, had a 4 hour surgery the next day, I have been trying to stay away from the pain pills because it makes me constupated. I have a cast on but can not put any pressure on ankle for 6 to 8 weeks, hard being layed up when I am normally very busy. I was wondering how long the recovery process takes, I do know that everyone is different, I have doubled my calcum to 2000 ml a day. I sue a walker becasue I am not steady enough to use crutches. I have 2 plates and 12 screws, 4 inch stitches on both sides of my ankle. I have a visit with the Dr tomorrow, I will take photos of my ankle out of the cast and my X-ray. I do like reading from others.
March 2nd, 2007 at 11:59 am
hi i am sorry for your pain etc. i am in good health and was very active. i broke my ankle in october 06. the non weight bearing cast came off in jan 07..i I havebeen going to physical therapy ever since. i still walk with pain and a limp. i also have many screws and 1 plate. i have another surgery to remove i large screw. the other 8 and plate are permanent. i also dont use pain killer. the pain is quite tough, but it does get better. i try to be patient, but it is a slow process. you will feel well again. you nare just at the beginning, but the worst is behind you!!
March 10th, 2007 at 10:41 pm
HI like many other people too i brok my ankle ive havent been to therapy but im just starting to run again. I ride my bike every day and thats been working out just fine if you want ride again go ahead i started 3 weeks after my cast came off and ever since then i’ve been doing BMX tricks dirt jumping and no problems have happend. Running im not sure any time soon but ride a bike every day and you’ll be running soon.
March 10th, 2007 at 10:44 pm
oh yeah i dont know about you but you might not be able to roll your ankle again
March 16th, 2007 at 8:54 am
I broke my ankle nov 3rd, screws plate and pain. had the screw removed a lot better walkin but cant seem to do the tip toe thing when walkin. so bored being in the house for so long sometimes dont want to go out , its scary but i have been making myself. just want to walk normal now and do the normal things but recovery seems to have stopped my physio said this is normal and could improve all of a sudden. Anyone else feel like this?
March 19th, 2007 at 5:30 am
Jan 4 I broke my ankle one plate and 6 screws. just started physio. have an air cast .starting to put weight on it.Still sore , nice to sleep with bare foot FEELS SO GOOD. Scab from staples still tender. Not sure when I will be able to put all my weight back on foot with out cast , ankle feels week and heel feels painful. Any one know when were back to normal.
March 24th, 2007 at 8:57 am
I broke in several places and dislocated my right ankle on Mar 1st. The Doc said no driving or walking on it for 6 weeks. I also have screws and a plate. Is he being realistic saying 6 weeks or is the reality much longer? He is not a good communicator. Starting Physical Therapy on Monday the 26th, cause he has me in a cami-walker even though I can’t walk on it. I’m worried about work and driving etc.
Any and all info would be appreciated.
March 31st, 2007 at 10:05 am
I broke my ankle January 9, ‘07, and had surgery Jan 11. Got 9 screws and a plate. Before surgery doc said 6 weeks non weight bearing. After surgery he said 2-3 months. After 1 month said wait 2 more. I go back April 17 for my 3 month visit. If he doesn’t let me start putting weight on it I think I’m going to go crazy!!!
I have three kids ages 20 months to 7 years and it’s been really tough. The funny thing about this whole thing is that I got roller skates for Christmas and my Mom was all worried I’d break something while skating. I just twisted my ankle walking across the floor when this happened. Skates didn’t even figure into the picture.
I’ve been going to therapy since about 2 weeks after it happened to work on range of motion. Still having pain on the side where they inserted the 2 big screws that go through both bones. Anyone else having (had) similar pain? The side with the plate doesn’t bother me much at all.
Good luck to everyone else stuck in a wheelchair or on crutches!
April 1st, 2007 at 2:22 pm
ARGGGG! broke ankle 2 1/2 months ago. I still can’t bear any weigth, doctor said no walking for 3 more weeks but to start theraphy immedialy. I don’t know why it still gets inflated when in a low position. I was wondering if it happens alot or there is something wrong. The doctor said is normal and that is healing good. Good luck to everyone and patience to all.
April 2nd, 2007 at 9:57 am
Thanks for sharing your story. I broke my ankle 3/4/07 by slipping on bubble solution at my daughter’s birthday party (Hawaiian themed…had to have a bubble machine). Doc said he hadn’t seen any other “bubble” breaks before…just my luck to be the first. Your x-rays look almost identical to mine…I broke my left ankle as well. They say misery loves company…but I wouldn’t say I love to hear of anyone else having to go through this, although it did provide me a little comfort reading about your progression through the process. Your positive attitude about it is comendable. I’ve had my ups and downs, but try to see the humor in it(on my good days). They have me using a device called a Roll-A-Bout instead of crutches because I had just had shoulder surgery a few months ago and was on the tail end of physical therapy on that. (never had surgery in my life until the past 6 months, go figure). It’s a neat device..kinda like a scooter, you can Google/Images and type in Roll-a-bout and a pic will come up. It’s really been a lifesaver since I couldn’t do the crutches. Well, I still have 17 more days to go until I get this cast off and get a walking boot. I wish the days would go by faster as I’m sure you did too during your recovery time. I will keep looking forward and remember each day is one day closer to being back to normal…. Thanks again for sharing! Not only was your story informative, but you made it quite entertaining as well!
April 10th, 2007 at 11:59 am
Nice site. I find I get more depressed as I find that I won’t be up and running as soon as I had hoped! I tripped over a dog bone and broke my right ankle in 2 places on March 3rd. I have a plate and 9 screws on the right side of my foot and a screw on the inside of my foot. I also have a Roll-A-Bout and that has saved my life! Here is why I am depressed. On March 1st, we had a pond and new patio installed and I can’t go out and view it in full because crutches and the roll a bout sink in the mud. On March 2nd, we bought my dream car, a Chrysler 300T, and it was ready on the 3rd and I broke my ankle and I still haven’t driven the damn thing. Also, my Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT bike was purchased during the month of January and I only rode it 6 times due to the weather and now it is collecting dust in my garage. Then, I started a new job on March 1st and had to then take off 3 weeks due to the surgery I had on March 12. I get the current cast taken off 4/12 and I don’t know what is happening next. I went into renew my drivers licence and they wouldn’t let me because I can’t drive. Not a good year. I have never been depressed in my life until now. I can’t wait to get out and do life again! Thanks for the info and letting me vent! I feel better now…
April 16th, 2007 at 5:35 pm
I broke my ankel in aug of 2006. and i am not even close to a full recovery. please let me know how your recovery is going i will even leave my phone # 774-696-4933or email me at briangentilotti@ yahoo.com.
thanks
April 21st, 2007 at 10:37 am
I broke my ankle on feb7th 07 and went through surgery 1 week later. I have 8 screws and a plate. I went to the doctor april 6th and he said that the next week i should be placing weight on my ankle and walking with crutches for confidence, the next week i should be walking with my walking boot and no crutches and then the next week i should be walking in shoes. However, this has not been the case. My ankle feels fine when I put pressure on it the problem is the bones and muscles in my foot cause great pain. I have been doing exercises around the house to help strengthen it but it doesn’t seem to work. Supposed to be going to Vegas May 3rd not sure i will be walking by then since i still have to use cructhes. any suggestions on exercises to help speed this process along ?
Hope everyone heals well and recovers fully
April 24th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
Almost a year since my break. Feeling very good. New girlfriend helped!! Started bowling with the hook. Things got alot better after month 9 or so. Still can’t hike and after a 5 mile walk for MS, it was sore for the night; things are getting better. Final doctor visit cleared me from taking any of the 11 screws out. I hope you have the same good rexovery I had. Good luck!
May 3rd, 2007 at 3:59 pm
Everyone wants to know how long it takes to recover and i dont think anyone knows do they! A friend of mine broke his ankle and after the cast came off was playing football after 6 weeks! Dont think Ill be that lucky though. I broke my ankle in 2 places and the cast is coming off in 3 weeks, the last 3 weeks have been the slowest ever. I was just recovering from breaking a vertebrae in my back last summer…hasnt been a good year!
May 6th, 2007 at 11:00 am
I broke my left ankle also 8 weeks ago, have the plate and 8 screws and still hurts. My doctor removed my cast after 1 day(do to massive swelling) and I was just keeping it wrapped. At week 6 my doctor told me to stop wrapping it and start walking on it with the crutches. Now after two weeks of walking with the crutches I have been only using 1 and not using any at all. It hurts and all to walk after only 8 weeks, but I just can not stand these things. Today I pulled my manual Roush out of the garage and back in and it just hurt to push in the clutch. I am supposed to stop using the crutches in one more week( week 9), but after reading all your stories you have me stressed OUT!!!! Am I being stupid for rushing along? Or just healing really fast? I am 37 years old, so my bones are not like a kid. My doctor also told me that he is never removing the screws? Is that normal? Sorry for the long post, but like I said after reading all these posts, I am kinda ?????
May 10th, 2007 at 3:53 pm
Yes,those posts majorly stressed me out too! I think it varies with every person…as I said I have a friend who was playing football withiin 6 weeks and told me i could fake a good walk after about 2 weeks. I dont think your being stupid for rushing along but would take it careful,maybe leave off driving just for a few more weeks,you dont want to set yourself back! I was under the illusion Id be up bouncing again after a few weeks but after hearing some of those stories,im prepared for it being a little longer! HOWEVER its not going to be THAT long!
May 12th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
I broke tib & fib 3 years ago 2 plates are in there , took months to heal as im diabetic, still pains some after walking some distance , cant run at all , until the break i was a fit 68 yar old , but still do my 3 mile walks a day , good luck to you all with your breaks , Dave
May 16th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
Hi David, I’d get a second opion on the pins. But most Drs wont take them out before the first year is over.
However as for rushing, you’ll never know what you CAN do with out a bit of the testing of the water. So sometimes yes, you are going to push your self. However, just know that these things can take time.
Its hard.
May 21st, 2007 at 1:40 pm
Dennis, I broke my ankle mountain biking on 4/10/07 and I’m scheduled to see the doctor to start walking on 5/23/07; both dates 1 year later to the day of your events. Weird,eh? You have a great attitude and your account of what bothers you is so close to my list of complaints that you have made me feel much better. Double weird, eh?
When I was going into surgery I asked the doctor how long until I was back on my bike again and he said 6 weeks. Clearly he’s never had a broken ankle. Still from what I have read, biking is a great way to recover. I think I’ll stay on the paved bike trail at first though…
I went back to work 5 days after surgery because I had to. Starting in week 3 work got busy and it helped
me get my mind off of my pitiful state. I’m still not walking or driving however and I really don’t think that in 2 days everything is going to be like before.
Good luck to all of us.
May 21st, 2007 at 2:15 pm
I just broke my ankle in 3 places , having plates and pins inserted next week as its too swollen for surgery. Everyone has a great story of how it happened but mine is really sad as it happened when I was hardly moving on my bike ! The bike sort of fell on me and somehow my ankle got caught. I can’t believe I did so much damage . Now I will be out of action for at least 3 months .
May 27th, 2007 at 5:36 pm
i fell off a latter and broke my heel in three spots is there hope that i get back 100percent use, im a 57 year old women had breast cancer and had radation, any doctors or people with the same trouble tell me how long,
May 31st, 2007 at 3:41 pm
I broke my right ankle 4 weeks ago today, May 3rd,07. The pain has not been bad, hurts me more to be stuck inside instead of my flower garden. I had a plate and 7 screws put in. After 2 weeks got the soft cast off and the dr put me in a walking boot….I was so excted for about 5 seconds when he said no weight for 6 more weeks. To add to this I have had back trouble and using the crutches has it out again so I am going back to the chiropractor 2-3 times a week. Also found out Tuesday I have to have some out patient female surgery done next week. I am wondering what I did to deserve this. I have had almost no swelling and only took pain pills for about 5 days. They made me sick to my stomache and at least I lost about 8 lbs. I have been trying not to snack much-have enough weight to lug around on those crutches the way it is-ha ha. I am glad but sad to hear that I am not the only one going thru all this. I am hoping to be able to go on a float trip in July…keep your fingers crossed for me.
June 3rd, 2007 at 8:36 am
I broke my ankle on cinco de mayo (may 5) 2007. I was in the shower when my boyfriend which has a key was banging on the door I came out the shower wet and slipped in my living room broke ankle in three places and dislocating it had a cast on for ten days for swelling to go down then had surgery which meant having two plates and seven screws put in my ankle 3 weeks later I have a walking boot still no beaing weight for 5 more weeks going crazy love my crutches though with four kids ages 7 month to 9 years old everyday is a challage did I leave out I live in a four floor walk up good luck everyone melrey81@yahoo.com
June 8th, 2007 at 2:31 pm
Poor Rick was mowing the lawn and decided to make one pass on the top of the hill on the riding mower…. oops! Well the mower had another idea and stated to slide and tip, so Rick bailed and in the process the mower blade sliced his left calf pretty much clean through. It’s a dirty wound that the dr. tried to close, but it had to be reopened and debrided and now we face a month or more of “wound vac” which looks like a daisy seal a meal on his open wound which is stuffed full of sponge and wrapped up like a deli sandwich. Cool! So we are dragging the wound vac about all over the house and it looks like we are resigned to crutches and a long hot summer… bummer!!! A bummer summer…
June 16th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
Oh wow! Poor you!
Had surgery on my broken ankle with plate and screws attached some 8 years ago. Begged my surgeon to remove the plate and screws because my ankle was weakening. He refused. Finally found someone who would 7 years later. Had to lie about the pain, which really isn’t so bad. But it was the only way to get the hardware removed. It’s the infirmity and having to use canes, restricted mobility and fear of falling that bothers me. Six months have passed, and still, not much improvement. I still have to use canes to go anywhere and any walking weakens my ankle after only 5 minutes. So count yourselves lucky if all you have is some pain, swelling and scars. You just all make me so jealous with rage.
July 8th, 2007 at 9:01 am
Broke my fibula in the ankle area on 8/18/06 - - 1 plate, 6 screws. Almost a year now and I still don’t have full range of motion. After being on my feet for extended periods (more than 2 hours) my ankle swells and hurts. It usually feels ok if I don”t stand on it for more than a couple of hours at a time. But it always hurts when I first put weight on it from a sitting position. I’m frustrated, that’s why I started to do a little research on the web. To commiserate with others - - it validates my continued pain. Thanks! I’m trying to decide if I need to go back to the doctor and beg for the plate to be removed.
I was only off work for one week - - I’m a high school art teacher and I was one week into the new school year at a new school. Luckily I have a large “shop-like” artroom so my wheel chair worked great to get around the room. Took pain medicine the first two weeks. But took motrin like it was candy. I thought the healing procces was extremely slow, but others said it was fast. I’m concerned now about my stamina and continued pain. Am I wishing for too much at the age of 50?
July 10th, 2007 at 1:09 pm
hi there,i broke my ankle in 3 places at kickboxing,which happened at the start of april 2007,was in two casts,and now iam in the aircast boot,been attending physio for the past 3 weeks now and doing exercises at home too,slow but steady progess.ive been told i should be walking by august time,fingers crossed,still abit of swelling and discolouration,but it doesnt seem to be as bad as it was.i get my girlfriend to rub baby oil on my foot and massage it to get rid of the fluid and maintain a healthy colour in the foot.fingers crossed folks iam walking next month.will keep an update on the progess.bye for now
September 11th, 2007 at 10:48 am
I googled broken ankle and stumbled across your blog. I just wanted to thank you I found it very informative. I broke my ankle Aug 2nd attempting to extend a double to a triple. I also just turned 30 and people are telling me I’m too old to be sliding around with the youngsters. Thanks again and if possible could you post an update on how your leg is doing now.
September 13th, 2007 at 12:44 am
I broke my ankle on 7/31 walking out to get the newspaper - I tripped. Dislocated and shattered - I have a plate and 8 screws. Today I ge my cast off and I’m thinking how in the world am I going to walk??? I can put a bit of weight on my heel to walk around the house in this hard cast, but anything further is out of the question. I can’t use crutches (bad arthritis) so I’m worried I’m going to be stuck on my butt again. Does it hurt to get the cast off? Should I take any pain meds before I go for my appt??
Good luck to everyone with your healing!
p.s. We have a Disneyworld trip planned for early November - I’m going to guess I’m not walking the parks - but lets stay optimistic for now!
September 17th, 2007 at 12:35 am
I broke my ankle/lower tibia on 7/31 and got my cast off on Sept. 13 as well. I have a walking boot and it hurts when I try and make a walking motion because my foot is still moderatley swollen. It actually feels better for me to use a normal shoe to walk in instead of the boot, but I use the boot just to be safe. Walking on 1 crutch is getting easy and Im going to force myself to walk without crutches in a week.
Everything seems to be going fine but I just hate the swelling. It’s moderate and not as much as when I first broke my ankle (obviously), but it just looks weird and Im wondering how long it will take before I can see the bones around my ankle.
October 17th, 2007 at 11:08 pm
I broke my left ankle on 10.02.07; the bottom of my fibula bone broke in two. I am so graceful that I accomplised this just by walking from my driveway to my backdoor! I was put in a temporary half-cast at the ER and walked with crutches. The following week the orthopedic surgeon put me in a walking boot. At first I was scared of walking in the boot! I continued to walk with the crutches.
Because of the broken bone, I then developed blood clots up and down my inner leg. I knew something more than just a broken ankle was wrong because the pain up and down my entire leg was so great. I was hospitalized for a few days while given Lovenox and Coumadin to thin my blood. I continue to take Coumadin daily and have to frequently go to the DR to have my blood checked. I am told that I will have to take Coumadin for the next 6-9 months.
At the site of the blood clots I then had a large pocket-like area of swollen skin that was bright pink and sore and hot to the touch. I went to the DR who determined that I now have cellulitus. Fortunately, the antibiotics seem to be working quickly and I’m already feeling some relief from the cellulitus after just 24hrs of use.
I just finished week 2, and I am told that I have to wear my boot for 12 weeks total. I am to go back for x-rays at week 6 to track the progress. To those of you with kids, I understand your frustration! I am 33, widowed, and have 3 children ages 10, 7, and 4. All 4 of us hate me being out of commission!
I am getting around slowly with just the boot now. My ankle and leg both swell if I am on my feet for too long. I am still taking Vicodin which helps me to sleep since I am most uncomfortable at night. I tend to jerk my leg while sleeping which can really hurt! Since I have to take Coumadin, I cannot take any aspirin, tylenol, or advil.
Good luck to all of you, and may you have a speedy recovery.
October 18th, 2007 at 7:10 am
broken tib and fib on aug. 28th screws and plate r.s. 8 weeks to the day and im still swollen. just want 2 walk again!! doctors that tell you 6 weeks are just trying to keep you patient until you go back and they tell you 2 more weeks. long screws on inside of right foot hurt, still i think i can see them protruding!! heel swollen too bad wear shoe.
October 19th, 2007 at 11:56 am
I broke my ankle stepping down about 18 inches off bleachers at a baseball game on June 2nd. Had surgery the next day which included a metal plate and 5 screws. I was in a temporary cast for two weeks. Then into a plaster cast for 6 weeks. Then in a walking cast but not allowed to put weight on it for another 4 weeks then increase weight bearing by 10 pounds per week. After 4 months of crutches I fired my doctor and went to a new ortho last Friday. He said get rid of the crutches. So I went from about 80 pounds of weight bearing to full weight bearing (I unfortunately weigh over 200 pounds and sitting around the house all summer has not helped the situation). I’m now in excruciating pain from going from nothing to all and my ankle is so swollen that it looks like I have elephantitas. I’m back to using one crutch. Is this normal? Is the swelling and pain EVER going to go away? I’m so depressed. I was fired from my job for being out of work for 4 months. I have a new job but elevating the ankle and icing it 3 times a day is an impossibility. At this point I wonder if I’ll ever really walk again.
November 13th, 2007 at 8:42 am
I broke my tibia and fibula on July 12th, 2007. The hospital said I would most likely need surgury but went to an outside osteo surgeon and he told me that we will treat this non surgiscaly (which i loved), put me in a boot and stayed non weight bearing for 6 weeks. At that point, for two weeks I was gradually putting weight back on it and then full weight bearing at week 8. The problem is I never got to full weight bearing, I tried, pushed it at the gym like he said to. Well at week 10 he noticed the tibia was shortening, and my leg got shorter, “nothing to worry about” he said. At week 12, still in alot of paid, another X-ray showed it wasn’t healing like it should be(I’m in very good physical shape and work out daily)he put me on a bone stimualtor ($3000 device) which increases blood flow to your bone for another three weeks. At week 15 I got fed up and consulted another doctor (finally), he said it was very bad and he needed to send me to a trauma doctor, I had what was called a tibia plafond fracture, where the bone was crushing down on my joint now. Well at week 17 I had surgury by a trauma doctor who put the screws and plats and an external fixator on my leg(like a permanent errector set attached to my bones) to hold everything together as they had to relengthen my leg and put n bone grafting. It has been one week now and waiting, the extenal fixator will be removed in 6-8 weeks (hopefully)
November 25th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
i have shatered my ankle and broke the bone above my foot on oct 3rd 2007 i fell from a ladder and of course the ladder won the fight i was rushed to the er and had to wait until the ortho dr to come that evening they put on a external fixater to keep everything in place for about 2 weeks and then was re admitted to the hospital where they put 8 screws and one plate the Dr said that cartilage had been damaged and did what could do to fix the problem i was in the hospital 4 days and still on pain meds and musle relaxers tto deal with pain to date i have been bed and recliner riden and only to use a walker and crutches to get around their really is not a formula for this just patients and prayers family and friends to get through this i have adoctors appointment on nov 26th to see what is next just take one day at a time
November 25th, 2007 at 4:31 pm
I broke my ankle November 12 and had surgery 2 days later. I am not really in any tremendous pain as of now. Ask me that question a week ago and it would have been different. Just the itching and slight pain where the stitches are. That part really is the worst as far as being layed up goes. I go in 2 days and get my stitches removed so I am slightly excited about that. I do have a question and would LOVE if someone else can relate…… I have a partial cast that covers 3 sides.
When I stand up or put my leg down ( anything but elevated ) I get this pain and it feels like my foot is swelling so big in that cast. It just feels like it is squeezing it tightly. This doesn’t make sense as it’s not a full cast and there is some release. Has anyone else felt this too and can I do anything about this? I am really scared that this feeling will transfer to when they put on the full cast and that will be worse since it is fully covered at that point. I really appreciate any advise from someone that can relate.
P.S. I have really enjoyed reading everyone else’s posts. It is very nice to know I’m not alone because sometimes it sure does feel like it.
December 12th, 2007 at 11:39 am
Stay positive and don’t get lazy. It will make the recovery time go by faster. Getting around on crutches was actually a good workout for me. I lived in NYC when I broke mine, and I went everywhere on crutches. Three years after breaking my ankle I ran the NYC marathon again. Good luck.
December 13th, 2007 at 8:58 am
It feels good to know that I’m not alone. I was really starting to get depressed. I broke my ankle playing in an annual fraternity football game. It was the alums vs the undergrads. I’m 32 and was the second to oldest guy there. But I was in such good shape that they had me play running back. I scored a TD and the next play I had after that, I broke it on Nov. 18th.
The worst part is - I don’t have insurance. I had an interview 2 days later and was in too much pain to go. I thought it was only a really bad sprain at the time and wanted to avoid the “getting medical treatment in the US with no insurance thing”. Went to the ER a week later and found out I broke it pretty good. I’m trying not to get depressed. Paid for everything out of pocket and drained my savings. Its also starting to strain my marriage a little as I was typically the big bread winner until this awful year of mine.
Had surgery Tuesday 12/11 and ortho said I should be able to walk in 6-8 weeks from now. TRying to stay positive. Trying to take pain meds for pain ONLY and not to make me forget about my bad luck. This site is very helpful. I’ll stop complaining now and just focus on improving my future. My 1 year old and wife are depending on that.
December 23rd, 2007 at 3:40 am
Well, just like the rest of you, i’ve stumbled across this using a websearch. I was curious what normal recovery time would be. I broke my left ankle, but have a standard tramissions pick up which means no driving to mom’s for xmas in my toy. I have to borrow the Jeep from the guy that broke my ankle.
I found this on a website and added my own caution.
How can I help prevent an ankle fracture?
Unfortunately, most foot sprains occur during accidents that are not preventable. However, it is important to wear proper fitting footwear , to avoid running or playing on uneven surfaces and playing with drunken idiots and their friends
I was the sober one of the group and got the most hurt on the way to go toboganning last weekend (dec 16). I have a plate and 6 pins in my ankle, i broke the fibula and dislocated the cartildge in my ankle, They put me under to set the ankle, which then popped out over night, and I had to wait another day for the operation. I’m hoping that none of you had the horror of dealing with St Mike’s Hospital in Toronto, Canada. They are a bunch of incompetents, if you read this and are going to a hospital in downtown, go to Mt Sinai. (I know i’m going to from now on) . If you have the option for OTC meds, i would recommend them rather than the addictive percocets or the morphine I was given. I felt like hell for days after and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. I am using Extra Stengeth Tylenol, if I feel any pain, unless it’s too much and then I will use the percoets, but I have been able to manage without using them and my head is a lot clearer during the day. It’s nice to know that people are out there and talking about what is happening to them. because to me, that’s what makes a good society where people can talk, nuture and support each other.
Happy Non-Denominational Winter Holiday
December 27th, 2007 at 10:02 am
Well, I guess I am being added to a long list of unfortunate people. When you go through this, it feels as though you are alone. I am a mother of three, and I drive a forklift for a living. The day before Thanksgiving, I was at work, and I got off of my Lift. It continued to coast, hitting my right ankle, twisting it inward. I just felt a crunch and extreme pain. Since it hit me from behind, I never saw it coming. Someone who saw it, said I turned pure white, we both looked down at the same time. I saw my foot bent inward. I was released from the hospital with a sprained ankle, only to be operated on 2 days later (Black Friday)(my Christmas Shopping Day). I had 4 dislocations and 2 fractures, they said that my foot was a full dislocation. Now, with Christmas done (I’m still not sure how I pulled that one off considering I can’t drive or walk) I am waiting for my next operation so they can take out the pin in my foot, they said the screw won’t be remove for at least 6 months. I am tired of sitting on my rump. All of the excerise I did before the accident is now null and void, along with all the weight I lost. I am eager to be able to walk again and be able to exercise again but I’m not sure about getting back on a forklift and the thought of putting steeltip boots on again only brings me great fear!
January 1st, 2008 at 3:39 pm
As with most people I was doing a search on dislocated ankle and broken leg and found this site. I was looking to see how long the swelling and discoloration will still be present. I dislocated my ankle and broke myleg the same way you did only I was sliding into second to break up a double play. This occured on July 29th and had surgery soon after to put in a plate with 8 screws. Went through the process of going from a cast to a walking cast and eventually getting the cast off. As of today five months after my injury my ankle still swells up everyday and I have discoloration on my foot on the inside of my ankle and then on the outside of my foot starting off at my ankle and running all the way to the base of my toes. I asked my doctor about it and he just said give it another six months. Has anyone else experienced anything else like this?
January 5th, 2008 at 10:54 am
these stories can be so depressing. Everyone heals different, and one cannot say when you will be ready to walk. I broke my tib/fib and was in surgery for 12 screws and two plates. I am at week 7 now, I am also a private chef and rented a knee scooter to get around for the last two weeks in my cast. Yes it hurt, yes it swelled, and yes I have pain now, but I recommend that you all keep you head up. I am leaving for Italy to complete a masters program and will be getting on the plane with crutches. I do PT myself everyday. I rub arnica gel on my ankle and I do the excercises I have found online. I too have many questions, but think of mind over matter and the rest will be up to you. We will heal, as some people are disabled for life. I recommend that you all give some of your time to the patients that need help walking when you recover…as we really appreciate what we have when we dont have it. I’m 39 years old, healing slow, but it will get better. Have patience. I’m only 5 days out of my cast, and already going from two crutches to one….just believe
January 7th, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Hey, Never belonged to a ‘group’ befor… wish it had been a more fun one. I broke my ankle Dec 14 07, at my Christmas Party. Fell off a very short heal, in a small bit of water on my own bathroom floor. Broke Fib and tib, and the ankle socket, smashed pretty good, Plates, pins, screws. Surgery happened 2 days later, have a open cast on, open up the front. Stitches removed after 14 days, about 20 on each side. Nice. Tried to go to work, day 18, turned white, almost passed out 3 times. Back on my bed, I am the Office Manager, so I am trying to do some of the book work from home, but I tire very easily. I also got a good by present from the Hospital, the flu, nausous ever since, don’t want to eat, but the worst part is the feeling of Depression. I feel helpless, and like if anything else goes wrong, It will be too over whelming. Had to take 16 yr old best buddy in for final sleep, furnace fan broke on New yrs Eve, and good old hubby ‘walked’ on Chrismas Eve, after one too many Bud, haven’t heard from him since. (well guess that’s not so bad, haha) Hot flashes (50 yrs old) or fever, can’t tell the diff any more. wahhhhh. what a baby. But that is how I feel. Tomorrow I get the cast on, wish this was over.
Thanks for letting me Vent. Happy Hopping everyone…. Cathy
January 9th, 2008 at 8:02 am
I was also researching recovery times for fibial fractures when I came upon this site. I broke my fib in half & displaced the broken bone on 18/11/07 ( I slipped on a wet dance floor). I had 2 hrs of surgery that night to realign the bone and fix it into place with a plate & screws. I had a full heavy cast for 9 days which was replaced with a removable back slab cast for the next 5 weeks. I was told not to put any weight on it until I’d been x-rayed again on 02/01/08. The Dr said he was dissapointed I didn’t have more movement in the ankle , the previous Doc had said not to move it!!! I am now in a 3-D walker and getting around slowly with 1 crutch. The purpleness and swelling mentioned before still occurs if I stand for too long but is far less than it was. I am in this walking boot for at least 3 more weeks then hopefully back into normal footwear! Xmas was a real bummer - it’s hard to party/shop on crutches while trying to keep injured limb off the ground! To all those still suffering - keep your spirits up, you CAN cope with it! Oh. it’s horrible feeling the screws just under the skin, I have been told they have to stay for 12 months - something to do with not interrupting the blood supply to the recovering bone.
January 9th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
I guess just like the majority of people on this site, lying around with your leg elevated leaves one little else to do but surf the net, in the hope that we will find some information that can help explain what we’re going through. I’m so glad I found this site and can relate to many of the blogs. I broke my ankle and fibula bush walking and was air lifted out. I was operated on 12 hours later and received a plate and 5 screws with one screw put in to compensate for the damage I did to my ligament. I too like a number of you have had problems with swelling when I put my foot down, this is frustrating beyond belief because to remain pain free I must have my foot elevated. Life can be a real shit some times but we have to make the best of our circumstances. So for now I’ve decided to practice mindfullness and meditation which are two things I always wanted to do but could never find the time. I’m also back to painting and drawing again. A friend of mine learnt to play the guitar beautifully when he was recovering from a broken leg. Sometimes life throws things at us for a reason we just have to take the time to ask ourselves what that might be. If any of you are having trouble with weight gain I’ve found that you can exercise successfully by using free weights to do some upper body work and lynig on the floor with your legs resting on the lounge you can do sit ups. I use diet powders for breakfast and lunch and snack on vegies and a small amount of fruit during the day. I have a small meal at night containing protein and vegies. Good luck to everybody
January 12th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
i broke my ankle oct 23rd 2007. i am just starting to walk without the boot. What is the best sneaker for me. I dr said stability shoes, and i am a medium arch, so what do i get? I went to this store today called the running store and they didnt have a def answer either? The girl was new and they were busy. First she broaught out the new Asics and Brooks. Are those the best?
January 24th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Ha ha it is funny how many of us type ‘broken ankle’ into a search engine and all end up telling the story - you pay good money for this sort of therapy!
I had a very bad fall at new year and my ankle was a horrible colour and i couldn’t put any weight on it. I’m in the UK and I looked on our trustworthy NHS website who came to the conclusion from my symptoms that I had a grade 1/2 very bad sprain. So, I felt sorry for myself for a while but eventually after a week of full rest I started walking about again. At first the pain was quite bad but it got to three weeks after the accident and it just ached a bit and I couldn’t run but I had been walking to work, taking driving lessons and also passed my driving test.
It wasn’t until mon 21st Jan (3 wks after fall) that I thought i should maybe go to hospital as there was still a bit of swelling and bruising on my foot. Turned out I had broken my ankle and also fractured my fifth metatarsal (nice). I’m now in a moonboot and have had a license for less than a week to no avail! Boooo!
January 25th, 2008 at 8:52 am
I broke my ankle in what looks like the same spot as you. Got a plate with 6 screws. I’m surprised to see how long your and others recovery periods have been. I seem to be progress much quicker. I got my splint off and staples out 10 days after surgery. Put into a walking boot. Used crutches for 4 days after that. Started therapy after 7 days. Now it’s been 28 days since surgery and I’m already cheating and not using the boot much anymore. The doc said I need to use the boot for 4 to 6 weeks. He must be nuts. No way. Anyway, I’m sure you are 100% by now. I look forward to that day.
January 25th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
i broke my 2 ankles 3 weeks ago, i have 9 screws and a plate in the right ankle, i have two hard casts, getting one off next week and the other in 3 weeks can anybody tell me when i will walk again, im going crazy, my doctor wont till me nothing, dmk3131@hotmail.com
January 26th, 2008 at 5:30 am
Wow Nik, that’s something to brag about in years to come - can’t believe you managed to pass your test with a broken leg, that’s seriously impressive!
Alan, I think you are mad not wearing the boot. The Doc said 4 weeks for a reason. Although the plate holds the bone together it doesn’t make the bone ‘knit’ so if you are bearing weight on it unsupported you may find that that when you have your next x-ray the bone still won’t have fused. The Docs really do know best. Having spent all this time in plaster/boot and doing physio I wouldn’t dream of putting undue pressure on an injured bone, you risk setting yourself back months. It’s worth being patient now rather than pay the price later.
I did mine on 18/11/07 and should be getting rid of my boot on 29/01/08. It has been frustrating but there is light at the end of the tunnel. My physio told me I’d already got 95% mobility back in the joint having done as I was told. Another patient who had the same injury done the same day is still way behind as she put weight on the joint too soon and still has a lot of swelling on the ankle joint. The only swelling I have is around my achilles tendon through being strapped in the damn boot! Please be patient, it really is better for you! I was told that good quality trainers are probably the best footwear for the first cuple of weeks as they support the foot and cushion the heel. Worried that I won’t be able to ride my motorbike though as the screws stick out of my ankle and this walking boot thing presses on them so I imagine my bike boots will do the same - bugger! Anyone out there got any tips regarding protruding screws? (clean replies, please!)
January 26th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
All this information has been extremely helpful. I broke my tib/fib/ankle on Dec 7 2007 and I just had my cast removed and replaced with a boot due to severe swelling. I still can’t put any weight on it but I’ll be glad when I will be able to. My gripe are people who call me everyday asking me why I am not walking yet, when am I returning to work etc. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy but sometimes I wish that maybe if jus t one of them had this experience they would just stop bugging me about my situation. I am grateful for my mom, sister and niece who have been here since day one to help me get around and take me to my appointments. This experience has given me a different type of independence, I will never take life or my body parts for granted. I appreciate my limbs and I will be more careful instead of running around like a chicken with her head cut off! God bless all of you thorough your recoveries and experiences.
January 29th, 2008 at 12:26 am
Hi there, Can anybody tell me what are the advantages of having a plate and screws removed from a broken ankle injury. I broke my ankle 7 months ago and when I went to my orthopaedic surgeon for a routine appointment end of last week, he said I should be re-admitted to hospital in approx. one month`s time to have the plate and screws removed. I`m getting on okay with them in so why remove them? I envisage more discomfort, loss of mobility, more time off work (don`t get paid for sick days), etc.
Can anybody out there offer advice on whether to have plate and screws removed or to let them remain?
Many thanks in advance.
February 3rd, 2008 at 7:09 am
Dennis - Thanks so much for creating this site and for everyone who has contributed. I broke my right ankle and Fibula one week ago today playing ice hockey. I’m 39 years old and have a wonderful wife and beautiful and amazing 17 month old daughter. I am obviously upset with myself for putting them in this predictament (sp).
I went to the Ortho on Monday morning and he recommended immediate surgery (following afternoon) to repair the lower fracture (talus has a chip fracture) and more importantly, to repair the ruptured tendons that wrap around my ankle and run up in between the Tib/Fib. That twisting of the tendons is what caused the Fibula fracture, which is up fairly high and just below the right knee.
He indicated it would be a couple of screws to hold the tib/fib tightly together and that I’d be out of commission for at least 3 months. He described the injury and surgery as the same that Terrell Owens suffered the year the Eagles went to the super bowl. I was awake and alert for the surgery, thanks in part to a Spinal Block, as I have an aversion to General Anesthesia. I sort of regret the spinal block after the fact as it was scary being completely numb from the middle of my waist down to my toes, and that feeling remained for nearly 4 hours post op.
Anyhow, I was in tremendous pain the first evening after the numbness of the spinal block wore off. Felt like someone was taking an axe to my lower leg. I was told just a couple of screws, but it feels more like 50. I have my first post op visit on Wednesday of this week (8 days post op), and have been told I can choose eaither a fiberglas cast, or a walking boot. Althought I am still not going to be able to put any weight on my leg for up to 3 months.
Any advice on supplements to take to help with the healing process would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again to everyone for your insight and experiences.
Best,
Dave
February 6th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Hi Dave, sounds pretty traumatic! I would opt fot the boot even though it is heavier then the fibreglass cast because you can remove it so you can shower (I got a seat to go across the bath until I was weight bearing) and also if you have an itch you can take the boot off & scratch. I’m now 11 weeks post op and am up & about unaided, although walking a little slower than before. I also damaged the tendons when my ankle double backed on itself. I am currently taking a Calcium/vit D complex and Omega 3. I am also using a massage oil infused with Comfrey - a healing herb known as knitbone for its healing properties, it also helps with soft tissue damage. It may be one of those ‘New Age’ things but after going through that I’m prepared to try anything that will get me functioning 100% sooner. If nothing else the massage is good for your circulation! Take care & good luck.
February 6th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Hello,
I broke my right anke back on November 12, 2007, and all was going well. I fell off my crutches a few weeks later, and started to have this very bad pain in the calf area, I though maybe it was a muscle pull or something. Got a new cast put on on Dec 3rd, 2007, and Dr. told me it looked to be healing well. Then on December 11, 2007 I got bad chest pains, could not breathe, heart was racing, sweating. I wen to the ER on December 12th, 2007, and was diagnosed with Blood Clots in both lungs, and my right injured leg. I was in the ICU for 6 days, bedrest,and a total of 14 days in the hospital. I will be on blood thinners forever now, and it is a very long recovery ahead of me. I just was able to start P Therapy and am in alot of pain. So, if anyone ever has theses symtpoms go to your Doctor. Does anyone have an idea of when you can start driving again? Or is that most likely to be determined by your Ortho? Thanks!!
February 7th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Hey everybody!
I know that I have a total of 9 screws and some plates. I fell backwards and broke my ankle. In my house on a pretty soft floor. I had a bone density test done before this and during this and they turned out very good. I am not sure what all I have broken(still dealing with denial that this could have happened to me) I fell Jan 21 2008. One of the reasons I am having such a hard time with this is because I lost my father to the same thing August 20,2007. Not so long ago. His was a severe sprain that he neglected, because he knew deep down he would never live through the treatments. When he did go for help, He got MRSA and when the took his cast of after only a couple of weeks it was too late, He was septic and he had a major heart attack and died.(he was diabetic) I blame myself for talking him into seeking medical help. If he would not have gotten the staph he might still be with me. I am a very busy person and I absolutely hate being tied down. I have 4 children and one child with cystic fibrosis. Which since all of this I can not make sure that sh” youngest is 4 and just 1 week before all of this we had an emergency with her. She met her older sister in the hallway which the older one was running holding a very thin vase and “BLAM” right into the little ones left eye. It cut right through all folds of her eye lid. When I got to her all I seen was meat hanging out of her eye. I drove her to the e.r. with her holding onto me in my lap while driving. we ended up at a trauma 1 center and plastic surgery the whole nine yards. not to mention when we got there we found out we had no insurance. Luckily she still has her eye. She must of had an angel on her shoulder. I am going to the doctor in the morning and having staples out. I am scared, I do not want them touching me. I have been through so much pain and humiliation. Not being able to weight bear at all. Meaning help with all the personal things. I have only ate two or three things in the past 3 weeks. everything taste bad to me. One reason is that drink or eat and have to go to the bathroom. With no help. I am so depressed. I am with one of the others, the doctors say “you will be up and walking in 6 weeks. What is that something that they teach in med school before they can graduate. It is just to prolong us and hope that we believe it. I am not sure if I have other issues with my ankle. I have severe pain coming from my ankle all the way up to my knee, right along my shin. And I always feel like I am running a fever. I am out of pain meds and wonder if the getting the staples out is like the doctors cut off for any pain meds. I can not take the pain. I had pain before all of this from scoliosis and fibro and restless leg so this is just added to my misery. Have any of you seen the movie MISERY? That is what I feel like. I feel like when I sleep someone comes with a bat and takes a few swings at me while I am knocked out on meds. I just know that I will not walk right after this. There is no way that what god gave me that worked really well, is going to come even close to working anything like what “man” can fix. Maybe I have lost all faith. Did any of you go through such depression that you guys did not want to eat or drink, just because they were too proud and modest to have help to do bathroom duties. Kita309@yahoo.com
February 10th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Hi All
thanks for having this site!! It makes me feel like I am not as crazy as I thought!! I fell Dec 20th, had a long spiral fracture of my right tibia and tore the tendons off my fibula. Had surgery Dec 28th, plate and 10 screws. Had a soft cast for 3 weeks then hard cast for 4 weeks. Have a walking boot now for 5 days but am still having hard time putting weight on it still, but keep trying. I use a walker and get by. I go back to my office job part time tomorrow, as I am out of PTO. I can’t believe that we made it through Christmas, New Years, Anniversery and 3 Birthdays not to mention my 14 yr olds basketball season. It has been a very slow process and not at all like the surgeon said it would be. I still take pain meds when I get up and when I go to bed, it seems to help me get around and do more with less pain and feel better getting a good nights sleep. I am dealing with a bit of depression at times and think it may be the meds. I try to keep in check with how far I have come and how soon things will be better. I can’t wait to be able to get up and walk. My family has been so good to me. My husband has been doing it all, and works full time and is in a Masters program so he has his hands full with our 5 yr and 14 yr old kids. I feel very guity at times but remember the ” for better or richer and sickness and in health” words!! I too had the burning like fire feeling for weeks in my chin, swelling and very tight cast. It passed when I got the cast off. I thought maybe there was something wrong with me as I can’t walk without the walker, but feel better hearing from you all that it takes a while. I am now more motivated to keep trying. Thanks so much for all your posts. I hope you all heal very quickly and pray for you!
February 11th, 2008 at 11:39 am
I have been feeling so sorry for myself then stubbled across this website and now i know i’m not alone!!! on th 22-12-07 i fell down the stairs (top to bottom) dressed as a christmas tree at a friends house party whilst talking to the host who was dressed as jesus ha, ha… i look back now and giggle but i really have been in such a grump! i live in the UK so ended up getting a taxi to A&E as our ambulances take forever… my boyfriend didnt believe that i broke my leg because i wasnt crying due to the shock… i arrived at A&E still in fancy dress so you can imagine i had a few funny looks. I had worked there for 4 years previously so all the staff knew me which was so embarrassing! i had the x-ray which showed i had broke my tib, fib, and severed my achillis and snapped my ligaments. I had to stay in but they let me home xmas eve.. When i went bk 3 days later the bones had moved and my ankle was now so unstable they had to operate the next day. I had a plate and 5 screws and all my ligaments shaved….. i had my cast off 3 days ago, but have to wear an aircast for another month and partial weight bare. I never thought it would take so long!!!! does anyone have a pain in their calf??? xx
February 11th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
I fell on January 14h, 208 and broke my right ankle and had surgery which consisted of a metal plate and 7 screws on the outside and 1 big screw on the inside. Cast is off and now this stupid aircast boot is on and they think I can sleep with it on, ya right. Any suggestions on exercises?I am going nuts but I am becoming a CSI agent I do believe, well watching 5 shows a day. Thanks Terry
February 11th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Wow, so many broken ankles! I, too, found this site on the net while researching physical therapy for a broken ankle. It has been a very long road. Broke my tib, fib and both sides of the malleous, along with dislocation and torn tendons on December 8, 2007. Was in Branson, Missouri for a girls weekend of shopping and holiday shows. Needless to say, I don’t feel like I got a bargain. While trying to outrun an impending ice storm, I fell in the parking lot of a Ramada Inn and the rest is history. I had a conscious sedation to realign the ankle and shin bones at a hospital in Branson and then drove home to the Kansas City area through a really bad ice storm. The usual 3 1/2 hour trip took us 7 hours! Very scary! I had surgery on December 11th and then went back for my first post-op on December 19th, at which time my surgeon informed me that he would have to do an additional surgery since the bones were not holding together. I now have two plates and about 25 screws in both sides of my ankle and tib and fib. I had my second surgery on December 20th. I had plans to fly back east for the holidays, needless to say, we missed that trip. I, too, have battled with bouts of depression. At times, serious depression. I live alone, since my 21 year old son is in college. I couldn’t wait to see him in December at winter break. As far as the pain and burning sensation, I had that as well. I thought I would go insane with the burning sensation and pain in my calf. The burning felt like brush burns at the incision sites. Not fun! I had a sugar tong splint throughout my surgeries and then was moved to a boot after my 2nd post op visit. I am still non- weight bearing. It has really been a long road - this is week 10. To complicate things I fell in my bathroom on January 3rd and broke 4 ribs! As a result of being further hurt and alone at home, I was sent to a rehab - a nice word for a nursing home! I did have excellent care and was definitely the youngest person there. At 50 yrs old I am no spring chicken anymore! I go to my surgeon on Wednesday and hope to get some good news at that time. He has been wonderful! I can’t say enough about him. My surgeon is the father of a student I had in school. It really pays to keep i n contact with students. I called him from Branson and asked him to have his father call me. The docs in Branson wanted to do surgery that night it happened. So glad I waited. I think I will begin passive range and motion on Wednesday and then partial weight bearing in a few weeks. At this rate, I hope I get back to school before the end of the school year! Thanks for posting all your comments. I feel like it’s helped me in my recovery! When some of you said that your doc isn’t the most forthcoming with information, it helps to hear that others are also experiencing some of the same things you are. I wish speedy recoveries for everyone. Hang in there - there is a light at the end of the tunnel! I feel like I have rounded the corner and am now in the home stretch!
February 11th, 2008 at 7:58 pm
Bethan
I had my hard cast off last Tueday and now that I am starting to walk a bit with the walking cast, my calf is very sore. It was sore just after I had the hard cast put on as well. I was worried about a blood clot but all was fine. I had a lot of cramps in my calf muscle at first.
susan
February 11th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
Dave
I also had the spinal and not put under all the way, I had a good experience with it, lots of pain after I got the feeling back. My Doc opted for the hard cast after 2 weeks post OP splint. He had told me I could do the boot but he had to repair a lot of the tendons so when I went back he opted for a hard cast to make sure I didn’t hurt it again. I think I would have been better with a soft one or boot as most of my pain was due to the foot and leg swelling under it and would get real tight. With the boot it expands with the swelling and is so much more comfortable than the cast!! Your skin gets really dry under a hard cast. Yuck!
Good Luck Dave
Susan
February 18th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
I guess Tri-malleolar Ankle Surgery is quite common. I broke my ankle on Feb 1st, 2008 jumping over a large puddle, completely sober(don’t laugh). I had Surgery on Feb 7th which included 2 large screws and a plate with 10 smaller screws, and have been in a cast/splint since. I developed a fracture blister in between the time I broke my ankle and the surgery. Has anyone else had a fracture blister? Other than the discomfort that the blister creates, everything is fine and I will be given a walking cast this Friday. So my only concern is the blister. If anyone can respond to this, that would be great.
Heal Well…
February 27th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
I dropped my 700 lb motorcycle and was pinned underneath it after it stalled in a low speed turn. After getting help getting from under it I rode home and then walked upstairs into my house. Over the following 11 days they discovered a broken tib and fib so I needed surgery resulting in a plate and six screws. No ligament damage; I was very lucky. The trouble is I am a big and tall guy and still get occasional swelling even after 5 months. I excercise regularly but don’t walk much as I am an Office Weeny. Anybody else?
February 28th, 2008 at 4:55 am
Hey Y’all! I thought my situation was serious. After reading everybody’s story it is quite sad. I will pray for you all. Well, I broke my anke(fibula) Wed. Dec. 12, 2007 rollerskating. I’ve been skating for years..stop for a few yrs. and started back up about 2 months before then. I was skating about 3 times a week..doing all kinds of tricks and plus when I fell dusted my self off and got back up. But on that one night I did a move that brought me to the floor..it didn’t hurt it just felt uncomfortable. How I fell and how I still was able to put pressure on my foot..everybody thought it was a bad sprain. Oh but the next morning, I was in a lot of pain..when the Dr. examined me she didn’t think it was broken..the pain wasn’t that severe and I did’t have a lot of swelling..But the x-ray told it all..I was devestated..see I was suppose to dance in a wedding the next weekend. I taught 3 dance classes a week..plus I drive the school bus as my regular job. See I am very active and a lot of people depend on me.. I felt like I let everybody down..Praise God I didn’t have to get surgery..my heart goes out to you all..I had to wait almost a wk. for an aircaist..now im in a brace..its been 11 wks. I’m healing normally..Im off work until the end of March..Because Im not able to work and teach Im missing out on a lot of money..See I make more money when I go to work..plus I still have the same bills..I can’t wait to get back to work so I can catch up on some bills
February 28th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
VITAMIN C!! Take it. C is the most important to promote healing. Also inportant are Beta-Carotine, Zinc and B vitamins. Boy, so many people on this blog had to have plates and screws. I bet every one of those breaks happened to people who drink a lot of cola. Cola has Phosporic Acid which makes bones weak because it is more easily assimilated than calcium and your bones will use it in place of calcium. I broke my ankle (cracked the tibia, but not a complete break) when I fell 4 weeks ago. The knee-walker thing someone mentioned is well worth it. My insurance is going to reimburse me for the rental because I got my doctor to write a prescription for it.
March 1st, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Hey Everyone..
Went out for a night of dancing to celebrate a friend’s birthday wearing my extremely fashionable (not comfortable) 5 inch red suede boots and fell doing the salsa. I’m in a hot pink cast for the next 4 - 6 weeks but after reading all your posts I guess I can say I’m pretty lucky = /
But you all seem to recovering well and my recovery has just started..I lived at the gym, lived for the nightlife and worked on my feet 40 hours a week..
As my dad likes to put it, “God punished me” hehe no more dancing and living a crazy always on the go life..at least know I have to time to perfect my resume and start looking for my dream job since I just graduated college in December.
So if anyone wants to chat as I tell all my friends who have been truly blessings (and my parents as well) I’ll be around.. ; )
Keep Smiling Everyone!
March 10th, 2008 at 8:08 am
I want to thank all of you for your comments. It really has made me feel lucky. I fell on black ice on 02/02/08. I have 2 plates and 6 screws. Tib/fib and dislocation. Woo hoo. I am still non-wight bearing, but no pain and minimal swelling. I am a paramedic so this has really hindered my life style. But did not take those pain medications, they are really bad for you, screws up your thinking.
Kita, buck up, there are a whole lot of people worse off than you, you need to talk to your Dr. your depression is related to your injury but not all of it. Cymbalta is a good medication for depression and pain. Please get some healthy help.
I am due to have a walking boot 03/18, looking forward to losing the ‘crutches’ I bought a stair stepper to assist in my healing, my right leg is in great shape, cant’ wait to start on the left.
Really, everybody try to remain positive, quit taking narcotics for the pain, keep it elevated and for God’s sake listen to your Dr. unless the Doc is a quack like some of you drew for your own. Sorry about that. Also, vitamin C is good, but go sit outside, get at least 20 minutes of daylight a day, good vitamin D.
Good luck and I will write more later when the pain starts for weight bearing.
March 10th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Hello all….Great stuff on this blog…makes me want to start my own. I’ve got plenty of time now it seems. I too just broke my ankle and tibia a week ago. the problem is I’m still waiting for a bed at the hospital to be operated. I live in Toronto and we’re supposed to have a half decent health care but beds are in short supply (does anyone have an extra mattress). I slipped at work on an icy patch (to sue or not to sue?) and my foot went under me outwards. As a result broke my tibia and my ankle in two spots. Apparently I got get “screwed”. It sucks guys and girls…I feel for everyone incuding myself. Happy recoveries to everyone and hope they are speedy ones…
March 11th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Hi there! I broke my ankle about a week ago and I still feel so weak! Is anyone else having trouble with those darn crutches? They rub on my sides and it does not feel so great… I fell on the ice on my campus and I am really nervous about going back to classes! How will I ever get around, maybe a wheelchair… Anyways, I hope these next 6 to 8 weeks fly by so I can get back to the land of the living. Good luck everyone!
March 11th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
I just wrote the post above and forgot to ask something. Is there a better alternative to endocet oxycodone w/ acetaminophen pain killers? These pills take the pain away but they hurt my stomach and I feel droopy all the time. Also get chest pains and feel hot at times.
Just wondering what else you guys are taking to relieve you of the pain.
March 13th, 2008 at 7:52 am
I am on Percocet for pain and it is pretty nice, no stomach pains or feeling too droopy or chest pain. It just makes you feel a little numb for a while-but I am only taking one at a time. You can take 1 to 2 pills every 4 to 6 hours.
Hope that helps!
March 15th, 2008 at 5:36 pm
I started putting weight on my broken ankle 6 weeks after I injured it and my knee hurt, due to using a knee walker for 6 weeks. Now when I use the knee walker, I put the weight on my shin. I took a lot of ibuprophen for pain during this whole ordeal. I think my ankle wasn’t ready for weight because now, after limited waling for a week it hurts as much as it did when I first broke and sprained it.
March 16th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Hello all… I am currently going into week 14 and things are really looking up for me! I saw the Dr. this past Wednesday and he released me to go back to work on the 24th of March! WHOO - HOO! I know, who gets excited about work - that would be me! I really miss my students! I last saw them on December 6th - feels like an entire school year! Anyway, I can now walk without my mobilization boot at home (indoors only) and while at physical therapy. All other times, I’m in the very fashionable boot! I have a really aggressive PT and she really makes me work! During the first week of therapy she had me on the eliptical going both forward and backward while wearing the boot! Not too easy to begin, but I am getting used to it. On Friday I did the eliptical without the boot both front and back - now that is tough! This 50 year old wishes she were in better shape!
It is so amazing to hear all of your stories! I never thought this many people had broken ankles, tib and fib! I agree about the narcotics for the pain. They really mess up your mind and your body functions! I stopeed them as soon as I could stomach the pain. I switched to ibuprophen and it really managed the pain pretty well. The depression was really awful. I agree with getting outside for even a little bit each day even though I coldn’t do that. It helps that the sun is shining more and more each day! The light at the end of the tunnel is near for me, sure wish is was for everyone else! Hang in there and keep supporting one another - it does help to read the posts of others.
I was out shopping (very short trip! can’t stand being on the ankle very long!) the other day and a woman asked me what happened to me. When I told her she then told me of her daughter’s situation. Last year her daughter was in a bad car accident - cam away with two broken femers, broken tib and fib in one leg, torn rotator cuff, broken arm and wrist. I will never feel sorry for myself again! I can’t imagine how this person recovered! The poor girl still is in rehab and still in a lot of pain. I wonder if it will ever go away!
As for me, the swelling is now under control as along as I don’t overdo it with the walking around either in or out of the boot.
Someone mentioned taking vitamin C - I have been loading up on calcium and a good mineral based daily vitamin. I have never been much for taking pills, but I am now taking these. I was amazed at the comment about drinking cola. I don’t drink a lot of cola, but have had my share over the years. It does make sense. I will have to mention this to my doctor and see if he consurs. Makes sense to me.
Take care and heal well - keep a positive attitude and things will be much easier to handle. Just keep in mind that soon you will be up and around. I wish you all speedy recoveries! Happy spring to you!
Melissa
March 18th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Hi all,
One week ago, today. Broken tibia / fibula. 5 screws / 1 plate; right ankle. Bad spraign, left ankle. Had surgery Wednesday, day after break, 2 nights in hospital, released Thursday. Follow-up scheduled for 4/1/08. Using a walker around the house. Splint on right ankle, non-weight bearing. Keep elevated …. Getting stronger everyday. Incision is starting to itch. Taking Lortab at night, but no pain meds during waking hours. Taking calcium, hoping that will aid bone healing. I’m trying to keep my attitude high. Glad to hear of other’s experiences.
March 23rd, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Hi everyone,
Been reading everyone’s experiences and thought I’d share mine with you.
Was ice-skating on 1st March 2008 with my daughters and waiting for the youngest to finish her lesson. Was stood still waiting to speak to the teacher with my right toe-pick in the ice when someone knocked my left shoulder making me fall backwards - leaving my foot still in the ice! Fell back and twisted onto to my left side, resulting in dislocation, and 3 breaks one of which was split and twisted which is the real problem.
Went to hospital and due to swelling couldn’t have the op for 9 days - then went for surgery, went under anaesthetic and came round thinking all was done - but no!! Had an enormous fracture blister all the way round the back of my foot so had to wait for another 5 days due to the risk of infection. Was in hospital for 16 long long nights in a ward with 2 demented women who shouted and screamed all night - got 2.5 hours sleep a night tops.
Have been told by consultant that the op didn’t got as well as they hoped as bones had started to knit and there is now a gap - apparantly won’t knit back together so will always have problems.
Getting really fed up - had a cast on 2 weeks before the op and another one has been on now for 8 days, driving me mad!! Made a couple of friends on the ward, one of which had a badly broken ankle like me. She got an infection in the wound and was in hospital for 3.5 weeks. In that time, she fell and broke her wrist! So I shouldn’t complain.
I was told I would have 2 maybe 3 plates with screws plus 2 screws from the front to the back. To be honest, I don’t know what I’ve got! Next appointment in 10 days, so hoping to find out more then. Told me would have cast on for 6 weeks, just hope that will be it, but reading everyone elses blogs think it might take a bit longer. Going to try calcium and vitamin d - and yes I do drink a lot of diet coke, damnit!
March 31st, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Hi Everyone,
I have been reading this blog now for a couple of months and thought it time to post. On January 19th, I managed to fall. Okay, I jumped in the air and missed the landing. It was getting late in the evening and the snow was starting to ice over. I made a ‘move’ and found myself very quickly lying on the ground. Oops..that’s not good. So, my friends helped me hike (hobble) out to the trailhead about 3 miles away. I thought it was just a bad sprain. I continued my camping trip and visited the doctor when I got home two days later. Ostensibly to learn how to wrap a sprained ankle. The examining doctor made a face that said my swollen purple cankle was very unpleasant to look at just before she told me I had a broken ankle. Can I tell you that she made an even funnier face, like I had gone crazy, when I started laughing out loud? I couldn’t believe it…
So I was put in a cam boot and crutches and told not to walk on it and the Podiatrist/Ortho guy would be calling me. Oh yeah…I had to cut off my toe rings before my toes died and fell off. I went back 2 days later and was told it was a spiral fracture, quite impressive, but stable and no surgery! Just a cast and no weight bearing for four weeks. Four weeks!? After one week I had to go back and have the cast removed since I was having too much pain. Turns out, there is nerve damage and torn/stretched ligaments and tendons. Great…another cast; this time in purple.
After 4 weeks, I received my cam boot, but no walking without crutches. I now have these lovely calluses on my palms from eight weeks of crutches. I went in last week and was told to start transitioning to regular shoes for an hour everyday and increasing until I was full time back in regular shoes. I am now going on daily hikes in the wilderness wearing hiking boots. I am trying to strengthen and stretch the muscles. I am supposed to climb Whitney in 8 weeks and need to be ready. I agree sounds pretty ambitious.
So, why I am telling this story? I guess I am a lucky one; I have been told that numerous times by doctors over these past weeks. 95% of people with this type of break require surgery. No surgery for me. I too, thought I would go crazy from sitting on my couch and gaining weight. When I would stand, the burning sensation in my leg and foot was so intense it would take my breath away. My cankle still swells up everyday and is very flushed looking. I kept thinking, ‘How long is this going to last?’ I took less than ten of the prescribed vicodin as I get sick; so I guess I have a very high tolerance for pain.
The point is to tell you all that every person heals at a different rate. It also depends on your injury. I am now into my 10th week and I hiked in a regular boot today for 90 minutes on uneven terrain. Yes it hurts; but not nearly as bad as it did. I am trying to keep a sense of humor about this and share my story simply because I am so grateful to be where I am in my healing process. I hope my silly story made you smile today. =o)
Good Luck to you all……..
March 31st, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Oh Yea..,,I forgot to mention that it does hurt to hike in a boot and I do have a limp. This too shall pass…right?
April 7th, 2008 at 9:22 am
Hi sandyann! I ‘lost’ my limp literally overnight at week 18, I suddenly realised I wasn’t limping anymore. If I do a lot of walking my leg aches but I’ve put that down to the fact that my leg muscles in the injured leg are still a little less defined than in my good leg, so hopefully the ache will go when the muscle returns. Re the earlier comment on cola - I don’t drink the stuff so I guess I was just unlucky! That’ll teach me to go dancing now I’m in my 40’s!!
Hope you are 100% soon……..
April 11th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Hi Everyone!
I broke my Tib and Fib about 5 and a half weeks ago. Fell on the ice and had to have surgery that same night! I have a plate and about 7 screws in my right ankle. The doctor had told me it was going to be 6 to 8 weeks to heal. Well, I went back for a check up last week and he said it would be more like 12 weeks until I can begin to walk! I was like WHAT?? Why do they even tell you 6 to 8, it just got my hopes up. Now I’m back to waiting for what feels like an eternity until I can start to re-gain some independance. I am sure it takes a while to get back to normal once you start putting weight on it. Does anyone out there have an estimate on how long it takes once you put weight on it until you feel somewhat normal again???
Happy Healing!
April 16th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
hello,
im 17 years old (16 at the time)
on October 20, 2008
i was the passenger in a CAR CRASH
i shattered both bones in my lower left leg. (also broke 6 bones in left hand/wrist but has healed up now)
Tibia is in about 33 - 38 peices
fibula in in 12
13 screws and a plate
10 separate operations
developed a MRSA infection after second operation
2 months in hospital
had dual muscle grafts from back onto leg to fix the open wound caused by MRSA
skin grafts aswell
been 6 months so far
still got an EXTERNAL FIXATION on and will have for the next 5 months at the best Doc says.
very depressed and missing my life
I FOUND OUT LAST WEEK THAT I HAVE TO HAVE MY ANKLE FUSED IN 6 WEEKS
i had just started an apprenticeship 2 weeks before accident
i have a very good boss so i still can keep my job
but i will not be walking untill 2009 at the best
i was a very good golfer before the accident and had very good chance to go pro
I STILL HAVE AT LEAST 3 MORE OPERATIONS TO GO
1. to fuse the ankle
2. to remove external fixation
3. to reshape the muscle grafts on leg so i can wear shoes
if anyone have any help or advice or experience that will make me feel better please feel free to email me at
lachie_wood@hotmail.com
thank you
i go to physio 3 times a week
April 23rd, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Hey Lachlan,
Oh my goodness, I am feeling for you!! My break is nothing compared to all you are going through and I am probably not much help, but you are definately