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From the lens Broken Ankle.

Communicating with others in similiar situations really helps. It can be very depressing and frustrating having a broken ankle and not being able to get around. Sometimes others have ideas and ways to help that you wouldn't think of. So feel free to comment below or ask questions.

  • DebbieHp May 29, 2012 @ 8:40 pm | delete
    Mark, Tendons take a long time to heal. I have a tendon in my shoulder from years past that I injured and it took a full year to feel completely normal again and that was just one tendon. So I can imagine our ankles with the muscles, ligaments, tendons, surgery and everything else that has to work to make us walk correctly is going to take a lot of time. I just wish I felt a little more stable walking...I guess that will come with time too. I have been practicing at home but walking in the parking lot of PT scares me because it isn't flat, it dips down. Then there is that big scary curb to deal with. Plus the stupid sidewalk has all those cracks in them that sidewalks have...why can't they be like the street all smooth. Whose idea was it to make them into blocks with those cracks between them huh?

    Yeah where is our fellow gimp TOM??? He could go to the library and get internet access. LOL...Hope he is okay. I worry about him.

    No, I never practiced in a parking lot because of my arm or nothing. I just got in the car and drove home LOL...my arm did kind of hurt from turning the steering wheel but it was okay. After what she does to me, it was no pain. She bent my arm back today to loosen up my shoulder. Man, that hurt. I have some frozen bits in there that hurt pretty bad. But after the arm hang and then she takes my elbow and puts in over the table to give her leverage and puts her weight into it to try and straighten it...damn that hurts. I asked her if she ever broke an elbow before..she said not yet. Hope I am not the first. LOL...god I will be glad when I can stop this torture. I am starting to not care if my arm is ever normal....I can use it good enough LOL....Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 29, 2012 @ 7:20 pm | delete
    Deb, congratulations on the driving today! That is certainly a milestone for most of us. I read somewhere that most people resume driving at 9-14 weeks so you are on schedule even with your arm problem. Did you ever practice in a parking lot? At least it wasn't your right ankle like me and Tom.

    Yes, balance is absolutely an issue with my recovery. I gave up the cane fairly quickly but I had to really be careful on sloping pavement, grass yards, gravel, etc. I still used the cane on my wheelchair ramp even when I gave it up everywhere else! That's why I was glad to get rid of that ramp. I'm sure it's related to lack of strength in many muscles in your bad foot. I still have my tendon issue but I have noticed my ankle getting stronger over the last two weeks since doing leg work at the gym on my own. As it gets stronger my balance also improves. I'm sure it also just improves with time.

    Hey, we better hear from that Tom guy soon! He can always post from the McDonalds wifi. Ha ha.

    Liz, congrats on reaching another milestone. You and Deb are stealing the progress spotlight now. My progress is at kind of a slow pace now. Whoever said "a year or two until normal" seems to be correct.

    Stay well.....especially if using crutches!

    Mark
  • Liz May 29, 2012 @ 7:04 pm | delete
    Debbie,
    I only have the one body part and still going to PT. 16 weeks of therapy and still no end date set.
  • DebbieHp May 29, 2012 @ 6:32 pm | delete
    Yayy Liz, So happy for you!! I know it has been a long road for you. Glad that is finally over and you can move on now. =) Wish you luck at the doctor.

    I finally drove today!! Yayy..all the way home from PT and had no problems. I was really happy to drive. Felt good.

    Now, she wants me to lose the cane when I leave the house. I am little nervous about it but I think I can do it. I had a little vertigo today for some reason. Just tired I think.

    She also added 3 more exercises and I told her that I can not do all these 2x a day. Once a day is it and she said it was fine that I have made great progress and am almost to normal with many of my body parts. She thinks I am walking really good heel to toe which is why she wants me to lose the cane now. My elbow is getting close to normal she says. We will see because tomorrow we measure.

    So all that stressing thinking if I didn't do the exercises I wouldn't progress and she was fine with me doing them one time a day. Whatever I can do is fine. She said if I didn't have so many body parts I would probably be done with PT by now. It is good to know all my hard work has paid off but I think I am at my limit so once a day now and then just the 4 hard ones 3x a day at most.

    I guess as far as walking unassisted. I am very nervous about it, but I have to look at it as the last thing keeping me from normal. Once the cane is gone they can't take nothing else away and I just have to work on improving my walk.

    Did you guys feel like you didn't have the best balance once you started walking unassisted? ----Debbie
  • Liz May 29, 2012 @ 5:28 pm | delete
    No more Wound Care!!!!!!!!! I had my picture taken and rang the bell!!! Still no baths or deluxe pedicure until OS gives me the okay though. Hopefully Monday when I see him.
  • Pui May 29, 2012 @ 5:17 am | delete
    Hi Deb and Mark,

    Thanks very much for taking the time to respond to my query. There were a couple of those exercises I hadn't come across on the web, so they are very useful. I have done a couple of them this morning and can certainly feel a stretch in my foot that I hadn't before.

    I will ask at the hospital also, for anything else I should be doing.

    Thanks so much for all your help and best of luck with all your recovering, I'll be checking in to see how you're getting on!

    Pui
  • DebbieHp May 28, 2012 @ 9:26 pm | delete
    Welcome to the site for all you new people. I posted my exercises again for any who are interested.

    I just wanted to mention to the new people that I dislocated my elbow so you will hear me speak of that a lot as it hurts worse than the ankle. Also, my wrist and shoulder are something I injured slightly LOL..they say...hurts like hell but anyway, I do exercises for those parts of my body too.

    For all those that have followed my progress, I just want to say I have decided to do all 37 of my exercises ONE time a day for the rest of this week and see how I feel. It is crazy how tired I am and that my temp dropped to 96.7 degrees.

    I did them once today and took TWO naps I was so tired. My temp is back up to almost normal and I feel better and a lot less sore. Anyway, me being a type A personality, I need to take a step back and regroup. So going to cut out part 2 of my exercise program. LOL ---Stay tuned. Hope Tom is okay...You out there trying to still get cable Tom? Poor man, hope the cable folks didn't get lost on him. ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 28, 2012 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    Hi, Below are exercises given to me by physical therapy. I had a bimalleolar fracture on each side of my ankle. I had a plate and 7 screws put in and a pin on the other side. I was in a splint for a week after surgery and then in a cast for 4 weeks. Below are the exercises I was given 4 days after cast removal. I have them grouped by how they were given including weeks given ect. Your situation doesn't sound as bad so you may be able to do all of these exercises.

    The reason you are having issues outdoors I believe is due to uneven ground. Careful you don't twist your ankle. If your ankle feels weak outside you could wear a small air brace to help keep it stable like this http://www.dme-direct.com/deroyal-confor-plus-stirrup-ankle-splint. You may not need this but it would help outdoors.

    You also need help losing the limp. It could be due to your dorsi flexion which is the ability to bend your foot back toward you as far as your good foot. This is due to your calf muscles being tight as well.

    1. Ankle range of motion- : x10 for 10seconds each
    a. Pull your foot upwards
    b .Push downwards
    c. Rotate inwards, then outwards without rotating your leg
    d. Ankle circles = x30 each counter clockwise , then clockwise
    e. Spell alphabet with big toe - Capital letters, printed
    f. Balance on bad foot. Practice switching between good and bad foot for 2- 5 minutes.

    2. Standing Calf Stretch- left foot back – lunge forward 10 seconds x10
    3. Soleus – left foot back, sit back on knee hold 10 seconds x10 – given to me week 5
    4. Double leg squat – knees behind toes, x30-45

    Towel stretches (These are really good ones according to PT a must) x10 for 10 seconds each.
    a)Place towel at ball of foot and pull towards you
    b)Place 1/2 towel under your foot, then tent other half over your toes, pull back then pull down - This loosens the toes for walking.

    Sitting: Raise heal pointing toes up, hold for 10 seconds, x30, Then up raise up on toes hold for 10 seconds lower heal slowly back down x30 (Later like now after 2 weeks of these, then week 3 she had me doing these standing with no brace)

    Still sitting put either some marbles or a pencil on the floor, with bad foot try to pick it up with your toes for 3 minutes. After 2 weeks she raised this to 5 minutes.
    These were added week 3:
    1) sitting with your left foot crossed over your right stretch your toes forwards and backwards for 3 minutes.
    2) Place your foot off the edge of the bed rotate foot towards ceiling and down, flip sides x30ea
    Week 1-3: Practice weight bearing and started using a walker while taking small steps. First time I tried I could only take 4 steps so the next day I had to work up to 5 steps. I kept adding steps. I worked up faster than that though once I got the hang of the small steps. Week 1 and 2: 30% weight bearing. Week 3 and 4: Weight bearing as tolerated. Now, I have a walker with wheels and I am taking actual steps one foot in front of the other. Today we are supposed to try a cane because the idea would be to practice steps with the cane and then use the walker as main mode of movement but eventually ( her eventually is like in 2 weeks we want to be on the cane and off the walker)
    Week 5: I was on a cane still
    Week 6: Step ups- 6-8” – step x30 (Step up with bad foot holding onto a bar or railing, then step down with bad foot) Now at week 6, I am walking unassisted indoors on a cane outdoors.
  • MarkBnh May 28, 2012 @ 8:36 pm | delete
    Punster, it sounds like you are doing most of the typical rehab exercises that we all get at physical therapy. The doctors often underestimate how difficult it is to walk normally after an ankle injury. Sounds like the doctor didn't think you needed therapy. Wrong! If you have insurance or are in a country that pays for it, maybe your doctor will agree to send you to therapy. If not, you might do almost as well on your own if you keep it up. If you have access to a gym or fitness center, try riding a stationary bike and using the treadmill at low speed. That's what I'm doing for myself right now. It seems to be helping me.

    Deb is the exercise expert on here. She has some long posts several weeks back which describe the exercises in detail. You might still find them. Good luck!

    Mark
  • Puister May 28, 2012 @ 7:20 pm | delete
    Hi Mark,

    Thanks so much for your prompt response and advice. I had a guess it might well be the uneven surfaces of the pavements / streets.

    The hospital sent me off with no real advice on what to do, I had to specifically ask for a walking boot, upon removal of the cast, as the doctor was quite happy for me to walk on my foot without one. I was not.

    All the exercises I'm doing I have looked up myself on the internet, so I do the foot and calf stretching by standing on my tiptoes, doing ABCs with my foot in the air, rotating the foot, stretching etc. Do you think there are any others which could be helpful?

    Thanks Mark.
  • MarkBnh May 28, 2012 @ 7:11 pm | delete
    Pui, most of us here have much more serious breaks than you which have taken much longer than you to recover and walk. However, we still know your pain and frustration with not doing better sooner. One word of advice....patience! This is a serious injury and it can take months to fully heal and recover full movement.

    I'm not sure why you are doing worse outside than indoors. Perhaps you are trying to walk faster? Is the ground uneven? After being idle for weeks, your foot muscles become weak and they need time to recover. This weakness can affect your balance on uneven ground or pavement. Did you ever do any physical therapy for your ankle? Who gave you the exercises?

    I think you just need more time for the muscles and soft tissue to regain full use. Keep up the exercises, rest when needed, and give it some more time.

    Mark
  • Puister May 28, 2012 @ 7:17 pm | delete
    Hi Mark,

    Thanks so much for your prompt response and advice. I had a guess it might well be the uneven surfaces of the pavements / streets.

    The hospital sent me off with no real advice on what to do, I had to specifically ask for a walking boot, upon removal of the cast, as the doctor was quite happy for me to walk on my foot without one. I was not.

    All the exercises I'm doing I have looked up myself on the internet, so I do the foot and calf stretching by standing on my tiptoes, doing ABCs with my foot in the air, rotating the foot, stretching etc. Do you think there are any others which could be helpful?

    Thanks Mark.
  • Puister May 28, 2012 @ 7:19 pm | delete
    Hi Mark,

    Thanks so much for your prompt response and advice. I had a guess it might well be the uneven surfaces of the pavements / streets.

    The hospital sent me off with no real advice on what to do, I had to specifically ask for a walking boot, upon removal of the cast, as the doctor was quite happy for me to walk on my foot without one. I was not.

    All the exercises I'm doing I have looked up myself on the internet, so I do the foot and calf stretching by standing on my tiptoes, doing ABCs with my foot in the air, rotating the foot, stretching etc. Do you think there are any others which could be helpful?

    Thanks Mark.
  • Pui May 28, 2012 @ 6:53 pm | delete
    Hi there, I've just come across this site from surfing the net for help / advice on my recovering ankle fracture. I had a subtle fracture to one of the bones in my right ankle, towards the back / heel. The hospital had initially missed it on the xray and prescribed a bad sprain. 10 days later it hadn't healed at all, pain was crazy, so I went back and this time they saw the fracture. Luckily I'd not caused any more harm to it.

    I injured my ankle on 31 March, I had a cast put on 10 April, non weight bearing for 4 weeks. Cast came off on 9 May, I've been able to slowly put more and more weight on it and can walk reasonably well inside my apartment with a slight limp. I can get up stairs well, down with a bit more care.

    However, the problems start when I have to walk on the street. Any clues as to how to progress my healing there? My limp becomes emphasised as there is a degree of pain and discomfort I don't get when indoors.

    I'm doing exercises every day, elevating the foot when not using it as it is still swelling up when I do use it.

    Help please!!
  • Pui May 28, 2012 @ 6:53 pm | delete
    Hi there, I've just come across this site from surfing the net for help / advice on my recovering ankle fracture. I had a subtle fracture to one of the bones in my right ankle, towards the back / heel. The hospital had initially missed it on the xray and prescribed a bad sprain. 10 days later it hadn't healed at all, pain was crazy, so I went back and this time they saw the fracture. Luckily I'd not caused any more harm to it.

    I injured my ankle on 31 March, I had a cast put on 10 April, non weight bearing for 4 weeks. Cast came off on 9 May, I've been able to slowly put more and more weight on it and can walk reasonably well inside my apartment with a slight limp. I can get up stairs well, down with a bit more care.

    However, the problems start when I have to walk on the street. Any clues as to how to progress my healing there? My limp becomes emphasised as there is a degree of pain and discomfort I don't get when indoors.

    I'm doing exercises every day, elevating the foot when not using it as it is still swelling up when I do use it.

    Help please!!
  • koreyama-liggins May 28, 2012 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    Hello fellow newbies. I am 1 week in my hard cast and I will let you know, the time does fly. I am a married woman of 5 and I am blessed to have family to help. I do admit it's stressful. My husband is now the sole bread winner and with the kids, life still goes on. As everyone has said, keep busy. TV, music, reading, do whatever you can to pass the time. I have been through all of the emotions but just know, this is temporary. This will pass, There is a facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/368618886485089/458667804146863/?comment_id=458675497479427¬if_t=group_comment that is great. A lot of us go on there to share stories of progress and to motivate. one another. Hope to see you there!
  • Liz May 28, 2012 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    I used to visit the chiropractor, but haven't had an adjustment in over 2 years. My back isn't hurting as bad, but is replaced by a stomachache. I didn't get much sleep last night.
    My gym is closed today which is probably good cuz I really don't think I could do much with the way I'm feeling.
    Hope everyone has a great day. I'm just trying to rest until it's time to cook. Hopefully I can eat the yummy food I'm making.
  • DebbieHp May 28, 2012 @ 1:10 pm | delete
    Glad your having a good day Mark and that you got out and did something. I will be glad when I feel up to that. Right now, my big decisions are whether to take a nap or get up and get on my computer in the other room LOL...

    Yeah getting back to "normal" seems to be a long road. Mine seems to be long and winding in some ways ..once in a while I get to take a short cut but otherwise with this arm I seem to be on the scenic route. My ankle is doing pretty good and seems to be coming along except for it is always sore. Is that normal once you start walking unassisted? I was able to stand on my bad foot today for 2 seconds, I was pretty excited especially when I discovered I can only stand on my good foot for 8 seconds LOL...guess I need to be working on balance.

    My arm hurts from the shoulder to the wrist today. It is a little better since I covered it in heat buddies and laid down and drifted off to sleep for about an hour.

    I think my problem is that I am just tired all the time from struggling to get well LOL...I know that sounds crazy but I keep increasing my little walks around the house about every other day as instructed by my drill sergeant and of course I continue to exercise 2x when I can.

    Yesterday I exercised 2x and was freezing at dinner time. My husband said you are cold because your tired. I took my temperature and it was 96.7. That is around 2 degrees below normal!! I guess exercising and being in pain with this arm and trying to get around with no assistance now is just wearing me out.

    I sat in bed for the most part for 7.5 weeks other than to be moved to my wheel chair and now I have spent the last 6 weeks trying to recuperate from that and I just don't think I have my energy back. I think this injury with my arm and of course the ankle has taken it's toll. I am going to talk to my doctor Friday about how I am feeling along with taking my list of exercises in there and ask him if I should really be doing those 2x a day. I am thinking I should cut to once a day especially since I am more active walking around wise but I don't want to short change other parts of my body and not get full ROM just because I am tired.

    I don't know maybe I need more naps. That is what my husband seems to think. He says I need to lay down and rest more often in between work outs. Go by how I feel he says. If I am aching all over then he tells me to exercise just once.

    Today I am just tired. I might do a little exercising later....give it a quick once over. I don't do all of them anyway the second time around but i might cut it some more and just do my shoulder ones and a couple elbow ones, just a couple important ankle ones and call it a day. It is so hard to find that fine line between working enough and working too much. It is hard to know when to push and when to lay off.

    Anyway, hope you are all having a good day today. I am just trying to rest up. I have PT 2 days in a row this week. Tomorrow and Wednesday. Then it is off to the doctor Friday.

    Time for lunch. Half of a turkey and cheese sandwich and an apple.

    Hope Tom is doing okay. Hope you feel better Liz. Hope you have a good day Mark----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 28, 2012 @ 8:44 am | delete
    Good morning everyone. Hope you are having a good weekend so far. Tom seems to be among the missing. Tom?

    Liz, I agree with Deb's advice. It may be an issue of bad posture while walking with the strain of a bad ankle. Take the pain pill if you need to! Why suffer? I hope you feel better soon. Oh, and rest as much as possible.

    Deb, hope you enjoyed that BBQ yesterday. We went to a cookout in the afternoon but the food wasn't all that great. At least I got out and did something! I had to walk down their sloping driveway, up some old steps to the rear yard, then other steps on their patio. I was very careful! When we left, I avoided going down the old broken down stairs and took a longer route on grass. I guess we won't be "normal" for a long time.

    I should do the gym today but decided to skip it and take my 83 year old mother out for the holiday. Gym tomorrow for sure! The extra day off may help anyway.

    Enjoy the day. Bye for now.

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 28, 2012 @ 8:20 am | delete
    Liz, I am sorry to hear about your back. I would schedule an appointment with a chiropractor if you believe in them. If not, then a regular doctor. I would take a pain pill and see if it settles down, if it gets much worse you could go to ER. Wonder what would have brought that on?
  • Liz May 28, 2012 @ 1:05 am | delete
    My back has been HURTING the last two days. I've used ibuprofen and a heating pad, without any success. I don't really wanna take a pain pill, but I don't know what else to do.
  • DebbieHp May 26, 2012 @ 10:59 pm | delete
    Also, I would highly suggest for those that don't have one yet, invest in a shower chair. Be careful if you are on crutches. If you can get a knee scooter or walker or even use a wheel chair, I believe they are safer while you are non weight bearing. Patience is key with this injury. It sucks and it takes a while to heal so just sit back, try to accept that this is what it is..can't change it. Happens to the best of us. We all been there and if you are sitting around crying, no big deal. I have done that plenty. My dogs fur probably is coated with my tears. He has sat at the end of my bed since Feb 22nd and is there right now. He stays by my side if I get out of bed to just walk around the house, he walks with me. He is so cute. =) Anyway, once you get the staples/stitches out and the splint off, then you get a cast, then a boot, then PT and then life gets a lot better. It is not really that far off in the grand scheme of things just seems like forever.

    So, I am still all sore and achy. I think it is pain pill night and time for bed....Night all ---Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 26, 2012 @ 6:50 pm | delete
    Grrrrr...lthis site just lost a big long post I just typed. Makes me mad! So this one is gonna be short.

    Deb, hope you feel better after that shower and rest. Your body is telling you to let up a bit. Did you practice driving yet? It's fun to do that first drive! I got a new car when I retired and it was calling my name.

    All you new people need to get a routine and relax while you are housebound with your cast or boot. This injury is serious and needs time to heal properly. Usually 6-8 weeks minimum for the bones and longer for your foot to start working again. I watched tv, read some ebooks, played with my cats, read Facebook and blog sites, etc. The time will pass and you will walk and return to your mostly normal life. Be patient!

    Tom, hope your move went okay and you get Internet service working. Let us know.

    I had a good day....did some yard sales, rested, then sat by a lake this afternoon and enjoyed the fresh air and breeze. NICE to be out doing things again.

    Oh, I wonder who that was who Deb said leaped out of the wheelchair and started walking? It took me a few days with the walker,cane, and boot. Well, I guess I was faster than some around this site....he he.

    Happy healing. Enjoy the weekend!

    Mark
  • Liz May 26, 2012 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    Andrea and Nhendricks: Like Debbie said, I was between 3-4 months before I started walking unassisted. I have a sprial of the tibia and fibula so my healing time is a little longer, plus at my 3 month appt my tibia still wasn't fully healed. I just celebrated 5 months yesterday and life is slowly getting back to normal.
  • DebbieHp May 26, 2012 @ 3:48 pm | delete
    Okay woke up feeling pretty good today. Exercised pretty hard this morning. Was really tired by 11:00 so I took a nap and it is now 3:00 almost and I am so achy and sore. No more exercising today. I am going to take a nice hot shower and relax the rest of the day. My body is saying on more today. Hope everyone has a good memorial day weekend. ----Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 26, 2012 @ 10:38 am | delete
    Just to let you all know for those that are new. I broke my ankle on Feb 22nd in 2 places on both sides, dislocated it and my arm. I have a plate and 7 screws on one side and a big ole pin on the other side. My arm was in a brace for 7.5 weeks so it hurts too. I was in a wheelchair that whole time because I couldn't use my arm. I am not going to lie, it sucked. My advice: keep busy, read, write letters, watch tv, anything to keep your mind off your injury as much as possible until you can start PT. Take pain meds as prescribed to stay ahead of the pain. I am 12 post op and am now walking unassisted this week. If I was brave I could have maybe done it sooner. My doctor told me, the average time for a broken ankle is 3 months before you can walk unassisted and life starts to go back to some kind of normal. ---Debbie
  • Nhendricks May 26, 2012 @ 8:56 am | delete
    Andrea I was the same way. My 2 week visit @ the Dr I was thinking staplesout cast off and back to work in a few weeks ...but that wasnt it. So I know how heart breaking it can be. After my doctors visit that day I got very depressed bc I wasn't thinking I would be down that long. And I still don't know how long it will be that's why I'm glad I found other ppl going through the same thing. If I can be of any help just ask. Hope everything goes good for you at the doctor on Monday.
  • Nhendricks May 26, 2012 @ 8:10 am | delete
    I'm so glad I found other ppl that are going through the same thing. Thanks Deb I have a boot and everything looks fine with my foot so I'm thinking its just sore my next Dr apt is June5th.
  • Nhendricks May 26, 2012 @ 8:10 am | delete
    I'm so glad I found other ppl that are going through the same thing. Thanks Deb I have a boot and everything looks fine with my foot so I'm thinking its just sore my next Dr apt is June5th.
  • DebbieHp May 26, 2012 @ 8:04 am | delete
    Hey Joe, I still think PT will help you. They will help stretch you more than you are willing to stretch yourself and they will give you the right exercises to get you walking again. I was doing some stuff on my own too and couldn't believe how much PT helped me in just one week. I was amazed. So yes, I think PT is going to help you.

    Andrea, I am sorry you were injured. I am also sorry to say that it is going to take a little while depending on your break for life to get back to normal. Eventually, you will live a normal life again. Although I am not sure why everyone wants to wear heels, I think you will be able to. I am not familiar with your injury and really only your doctor can answer these questions with confidence so I would ask him but my unprofessional opinion is yes, your life will return to normal but it will take time, patience, and some work, and more patience. Getting the stitches removed and I am assuming you are in a splint, is a big step to normal. Usually after they remove stitches you get to wear a light cast for a few weeks depending on your injury. Then once they remove that you start PT and slowly life gets better. But it all depends on so many factors as to the when of all of that. Everyone heals at a different rate. If you are one of the rare ones, like someone we know, then you will leap out of your wheelchair or off your crutches after the cast is off and just start walking. But I wouldn't count on it. Let us know how it goes and if you have a facebook account you can join our group over there to. Look for broken ankle/leg/foot survivors under groups. Ask to join and you should get a response. Keep us posted Andrea.

    Tom, hope your move went well. We are all waiting to hear =) ---Debbie
  • Andrea May 26, 2012 @ 2:55 am | delete
    I had surgery on may 14th i still have the stitches, on Monday they will remove them. I thought I'd be ready to walk after that but from what I'm reading, this is a very long process right? I'm desperate! And very sad... Will I be able to live a normal life, exercise, wear heels etc.?
  • Andrea May 26, 2012 @ 2:55 am | delete
    I had surgery on may 14th i still have the stitches, on Monday they will remove them. I thought I'd be ready to walk after that but from what I'm reading, this is a very long process right? I'm desperate! And very sad... Will I be able to live a normal life, exercise, wear heels etc.?
  • How Crabtree May 25, 2012 @ 10:47 pm | delete
    Hi guys, joe again. Ok so I'm starting physical therapy tuesday but I have many questions for anyone out there. It has been 6 weeks That I have been walking in my boot and taking it off and stretching on my own. I even sometimes walk on it even tho it hurts. So since it has been so long will pt even help? If all my bones are healed then pt is my only hope but Im afraid it won't since Ive been pushing myself, walking, stretching and have seen no improvements. I need to start be able to walk!!!!'
  • MarkBnh May 25, 2012 @ 10:10 pm | delete
    Nhendricks, Deb offered you good advice. I never fell on my bad leg so I can't offer advice. I never used crutches either....mostly wheelchair and walker. I wish you well.

    Deb, I can't believe you have no steps at all in your house. I'm in a single story ranch house, but have 3 exterior steps up to my front door and I had to have a ramp built just to get in and out in a wheelchair! My garage has 2 steps into a side office, then 2 more small steps into the main part of the house. It took both my wife and daughter, 2 chairs, and much sweat just to get me into the house when we got home from Hawaii. It was a nightmare! My stepson and his carpenter friend built a wood ramp to the front door 2 days later...thank god. It was a lifesaver. But, I was so happy when I could get rid of that ramp! I have nice stairs with a rail on both sides to practice on if I wish.

    Deb, it sounds like that arm may be a long term project. You are doing well. I think your plan to practice driving is a good one. I practiced on my dead end street and in a school parking lot at the end of my street. Then, I drove myself to PT the next day despite my wife's doubts. When I got to PT she said "oh, we checked with the doctor and he said you can drive as soon as you can apply pressure to the pedals okay". I said,"good, I just drove here alone". LOL. Been driving ever since....about 6 weeks now. No problems, but nothing over an hour non stop yet. The foot gets weary if I drive too long.

    The gym went well today but the added walking of Walmart and the grocery store was a bit much. My problem tendon started hurting...grrrr. I also wore a newer pair of sneakers so that didn't help. I'm still worried about that tendon issue. I rested this afternoon and it's okay now. It's a fine line between enough exercise and too much. Yard sales tomorrow! My ankle is feeling a bit stronger on uneven ground. I think the leg presses at the gym are helping that.

    Hope you had a good day Tom. I would of been a good supervisor! Have you ever watched Matt Roloff on the "Little People, Big World" tv show? Kind of like him! LOL

    Happy healing. Mark
  • DebbieHp May 25, 2012 @ 6:16 pm | delete
    Welcome to the site Nhendricks. Yes, I have heard of people doing it. Most people are okay. I would talk to your doctor and ask him if he wants you to come in for an X-ray to ease your mind. Do you have a cast on? If so, then I doubt you did anything to it.

    I fell and hit my cast on the floor hard and my arm brace (dislocated the elbow too) a few days after I got home from the hospital and it didn't do anything. Also did you put your weight directly down on the heel or toe. If it was more toward the toes probably didn't do anything. Hospital told me that. But you do want to avoid hitting the heel but if your in a cast chances are you are okay. If you can't talk to your doctor you could go to ER and get x-rays especially if it is really hurting. If just sore, I would wait and talk to the doctor.

    I got a compression sock on my arm now for swelling. If my arm doesn't move anymore she said it is now considered functional so hopefully she won't add no more weights. We will see. I am starting not to care. I would just like to get another 4 degrees out of it and I would be happy.

    She took 3 exercises away and added 2. She said she added 3 but I only see 2. Now I have to side step until tired and another one was to go up and down a stair. I have no stairs in my house so I guess I am going to use my step stool for now. The mall has stairs but I am not driving there every day.

    Man, when I come back from there my heart is always racing and I am so tired. Glad it is Friday. ----Debbie
  • Nhendricks May 25, 2012 @ 1:53 pm | delete
    I had surgery 5 weeks ago I got 10 screws and a plate. I'm still not allowed to put any weight on my ankle but today I was walking with my crutches and they slipped on the rug and before I thought I caught myself with my bad leg putting my weight on it. My ankle looks normal but it is very sore ...I'm worried that I may have messed something up. I would like to know if anyone else has done anything like this before and what the outcome was. Thanks
  • DebbieHp May 25, 2012 @ 1:05 pm | delete
    Tom, Hope the move goes well today. Let us know.

    Wow Mark you are really doing good. I think you are right. Doing things around the house for ourselves is a form of PT.

    I woke up this morning achy all over again. Took some ibuprofen and went back to bed for 3 more hours. Woke up feeling better. Another PT day...yippee. I did manage to get my own drink today in my thermos and walked into the computer room, played my video game and got out all the stuff for lunch and made toast. I know it doesn't sound like much but for me it is progress. I was always afraid to carry something in my hands while walking unassisted but now that I am ..like I said I am trying to get back to doing normal things.

    Plus, I think my husband might have to start going back into the office week after next so I am trying out my wings. This weekend we are going to a parking lot and I am going to test out driving. Next PT I plan to drive. Independence is just a little bit away now....yayyy. Progress. =) ---Debbie
  • Tom May 25, 2012 @ 7:36 am | delete
    Tomorrow is the official move in day, I will be sleeping there tomorrow night wide awake listening to all the new noises lol...... Mark between the two of us I think we could do a hell of a job supervising all the physical work. Today I am waiting for the half hour call ahead from the cable company.......hopefully they take tips so he can set up the wifi in the house. Deb your right our loved ones are healing from much more serious surgeries....... I am glad to here that your aunts surgery was successful, I had a friend who had major back surgery last month and he is back to work already. Have a great day all. Tom
  • MarkBnh May 24, 2012 @ 9:09 pm | delete
    Deb, that's great news! Shows you how much the dumb doctors know. They are not the gods they think they are. I'm happy for you. Hopefully she recovers well.

    Stay well. Bye again
  • MarkBnh May 24, 2012 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    Tom, I think you can find someone in better shape than me to help you move. I don't dare lift my own window air conditioner that I usually have in place by now. Ugh....not back to normal quite yet. Is this the official move in weekend? When is your first night sleeping in the new place?

    Hey Tom, we are closer in op dates than I knew. I will be 16 weeks this Sunday I believe = 4 months. I just retold my whole accident story again today to a former co worker. I'll be having lunch with him on June 7th. He works from his house in Manchester. I thought he might have heard about me through the grapevine, but NOT. He was shocked...lol.

    I actually did vacuum my car today and started my emergency generator to let it run a few minutes. All the stuff that the man of the house hasn't been able to do lately! You know, all of the little tasks around the house are like PT....they make you use more muscles and motions.

    Gym time early tomorrow. I love being retired!

    Aloha my friends. Mark
  • DebbieHp May 24, 2012 @ 8:57 pm | delete
    Update: My aunt made it through the surgery very well and is doing well in recovery. They said she will be sore for a few days but after that should be okay. Amazing how she can have something like that and be okay in a few days while a broken ankle takes months. Anyway, I am so happy she is going to be okay!!! ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 24, 2012 @ 8:56 pm | delete
    Update: My aunt made it through the surgery very well and is doing well in recovery. They said she will be sore for a few days but after that should be okay. Amazing how she can have something like that and be okay in a few days while a broken ankle takes months. Anyway, I am so happy she is going to be okay!!! ---Debbie
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    Error corrections........ Not to dwell..........and perspective not prospective lol oops maybe I should try some of claires meds
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 8:30 pm | delete
    Liz, I'm at 4month post op tomorrow, hope fully I can progress to the shopping cart by 5 months I guess my ego has been one of my enemies by trying to rush it. But I do admire the courage you had to have to get to the milestones you have, you should take great pride in what you have accomplished with your injury and your loss, and still being strong for those around you. You, Deb and Mark are truly strong wonderful people whom I have learned from through you all, so I can take that positive out of this injury, I learned to appreciate the good and to dwell on this injury which prospective is a mere bump in the road. So again I thank you three truly good people. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Hey by the way anyone want to help me move this weekend???? Anyone??? Lol. Tom
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 8:30 pm | delete
    Liz, I'm at 4month post op tomorrow, hope fully I can progress to the shopping cart by 5 months I guess my ego has been one of my enemies by trying to rush it. But I do admire the courage you had to have to get to the milestones you have, you should take great pride in what you have accomplished with your injury and your loss, and still being strong for those around you. You, Deb and Mark are truly strong wonderful people whom I have learned from through you all, so I can take that positive out of this injury, I learned to appreciate the good and to dwell on this injury which prospective is a mere bump in the road. So again I thank you three truly good people. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Hey by the way anyone want to help me move this weekend???? Anyone??? Lol. Tom
  • Liz May 24, 2012 @ 7:42 pm | delete
    Tom sorry that you had minor damage from your fall. 5 months tomorrow and I didn't notice as many milestones as I had last month. I am gaining some speed, but nowhere near what I want to be. Still the slow turtle.
    Debbie, I hope your aunt is ok. Let us know.
  • DebbieHp May 24, 2012 @ 5:03 pm | delete
    Sorry you had some damage Tom, that just sucks. Some people just heal slow, nothing wrong with it just aggravating. If I were you I would take some calcium pills if you don't already have a multivitamin you take plus I would eat pudding every night. I also ate Tums because the pain medicine bothered my stomach. Who knew they had calcium in them? Anyway, I am suprised I healed so quickly bone wise because last time I had a bone scan they said I was losing bone mass. Also, my dentist says some of my teeth problems are due to bone loss.

    I don't know, can't figure these things out just have to go with it. Maybe you need to rest more Tom and can once you get moved. Rest is what helps you heal and I am not hearing about you getting much rest. You are always running somewhere. Anyway, glad you are able to progress some again. Hopefully, you can start making more progress once your life settles down some and you can focus on healing.

    Your a wise man staying away from facebook. It has caused me many problems but my son is in the Navy and lives in Virginia Beach and he posts pictures of my grandchild all the time so I get to see her. That is the main reason I have an account.

    Don't feel guilty Mark because of your progress. You are 3 weeks ahead of me I believe and even if not, it is great you are moving along so quickly. I am not sure how you jumped out of a wheel chair and started walking. I put my foot down and put some pressure on it and it hurt like hell all the way up to my hip. No way could I walk on it at that point. But I am very happy for you so don't worry about it. I am glad to hear of your progress because we will get there soon too. Gives us all something to look forward to. Life does get back to normal eventually. It is not all about exercise and pain and healing. Some day we will get up and forget we are injured...can't wait. =)

    Have heard no news about my aunt yet..thanks for the well wishes. She went into surgery 3 hours ago so I am thinking no news is good news. It is a 4 hour surgery so we will see. Hoping for the best.

    That is it for now..gotta go eat dinner...Talk to you all later, Debbie
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 3:34 pm | delete
    Deb I too wish the best for your aunt. Mark I do think u had many other battle to simultaneous had to deal with, between your diabetes and the sensitive surgery but only you, the doctor and your wife knows how "big" that surgery was!!! Lol. I do not do the Facebook thing I'm afraid to read about my grown children's personal life or them know about mine. Tom
  • MarkBnh May 24, 2012 @ 2:22 pm | delete
    Oh, Deb, I forgot to answer your question about the side plate pain. I have noted that the area is more sensitive and will hurt just a little sometimes if I lay on it too long. I think because the hardware is so close to the surface. The only pain I get unannounced sometimes when sitting is in my problem rear tendon. It will just start aching for no reason then go away. That aggravates me! I believe it is the "posterior tibial tendon" to get scientific.

    Bye again. Mark
  • MarkBnh May 24, 2012 @ 2:02 pm | delete
    Hello everyone, Sounds like everyone is in a better mood today. That's good. Deb, I'm still hoping for the best for your aunt. Sounds like she is fighting a lot of issues. Also glad to hear that some of your aches have gone away. I think the extra rest is the key and believe you were overdoing it there for a while Just my opinion. I'm actually taking a rest day today myself. My wife and daughter are out for the day so I'm doing a few little things on my own. I ran a few errands in the car then came home to eat a sandwich I picked up. If I get ambitious, I may vac out my car later. I feel guilty telling you guys that I am now capable of doing these things again! I've decided to limit my days at the gym to Monday-Wed-Friday for now. I try to add a couple of minutes to each exercise each trip as my own physical therapy routine. At least the scenery is better at the gym than at the PT office....haha.

    Tom, I'm glad to hear that you finally got your xrays and the damage done was minor, but I'm sorry to hear there was any damage. You have been at this for a long time now. I really didn't think I was making a rapid recovery since I am now approaching 4 months post op. However, compared to the extra complicatiions you and Deb have had, I guess I am speedy. Anyway, we all heal differently and have to go at the pace best for us. Since I am also a type 2 diabetic I was worried about possible slow healing also. However, I have it under fairly good control so I guess that wasn't a major factor for me. Remember, I also had major prostate surgey on 3/20/12 to correct a urinary problem. I had a great surgeon for that work...thank goodness since its a more crucial and sensitive area than the ankle. rofl. So, keep at it Tom and we will have that beer sooner than you know. I'll be away July 21-26 on a short cruise but other than that I'm free.

    Deb, thanks for the info on the shower pad. I think we have a similar older bathroom with the small tub/shower combination. We also have no bars and just a shower curtain now. Nothing to hold onto so it's a little scary stipping into the tub. That's why I added those treads rather than chance the tub mat moving again. I installed a suction type bar on the wall next to our toilet for my elderly mom when she visits. I thought about moving that into the shower for now or getting another one. They work pretty well. I got it from a medical supply store then noted that they have them right at Wal-Mart. grrrrrrrr Anyway, the shower continues to be scary to me and I have cut back on the frequency a bit. Hell, I went 2 months without a full shower when I had the cast on. LOL

    Wow, I type a lot more on my Apple full size keyboard than I do when using the ipad touch pad! I may use this more. I do facebook with the touch pad only. Hey, Tom, you never joined our Facebook group. Maybe you don't do facebook?

    Okay, time to go vac the car. Happy healing today. Bye for now.

    Mark
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 1:26 pm | delete
    Hi all, Thanks for the concern, I tried writing yesterday but it never posted, I directed it towards Joe just to confirm to him the doctors know how to Xo the surgery but they don't know jack about aftercare, in fact mine told me I was a loser if I wasn't walking independently by my next visit within four weeks, a real attempt at motivation, well that caused to push harder then I should of and I ended up with a stress fracture. So listen to your injury it will tell you what's too much and therapy will guide u in the right direction. As far as my new dilemma I got the xrays this morning and I did do a little damage but it was nothing of great concern. He doesn't know why it is taking so long to completely heal but he said overall it is improving gradually, so we are back on track so the petal to the metal!!!!! I am sooooo relieved, I am between 50 and 75% WB at therapy, I have been walking up my stairs with 1 crutch, they haven't showed me how to walk with 1 crutch so I am trying to teach myself I don't do it well I end up dragging my good foot. I hope to catch up to Liz, Deb and Mark soon. As far as smoking pot as a pain killer you got to be crazy it is more a mind drug than a pain killer I think it will make you worry about your injury and pain then forgetting about it in my case the paranoia factor would be more bothersome, ( so I'm told ). Lol but of you do let me know how it worked for you. My drug of choice is gonna be that beer Mark buys me ;-) Deb I'm so happy to read about your huge leaps in progress with your recovery you are a very determined woman. Mark I just get blown away about your recovery in such a short amount of time. I'm so envious of you both. Well I have therapy later today. Happy healing to all my fellow gimps. Claire puff puff pass. Tom
  • Tom May 24, 2012 @ 1:25 pm | delete
    Hi all, Thanks for the concern, I tried writing yesterday but it never posted, I directed it towards Joe just to confirm to him the doctors know how to Xo the surgery but they don't know jack about aftercare, in fact mine told me I was a loser if I wasn't walking independently by my next visit within four weeks, a real attempt at motivation, well that caused to push harder then I should of and I ended up with a stress fracture. So listen to your injury it will tell you what's too much and therapy will guide u in the right direction. As far as my new dilemma I got the xrays this morning and I did do a little damage but it was nothing of great concern. He doesn't know why it is taking so long to completely heal but he said overall it is improving gradually, so we are back on track so the petal to the metal!!!!! I am sooooo relieved, I am between 50 and 75% WB at therapy, I have been walking up my stairs with 1 crutch, they haven't showed me how to walk with 1 crutch so I am trying to teach myself I don't do it well I end up dragging my good foot. I hope to catch up to Liz, Deb and Mark soon. As far as smoking pot as a pain killer you got to be crazy it is more a mind drug than a pain killer I think it will make you worry about your injury and pain then forgetting about it in my case the paranoia factor would be more bothersome, ( so I'm told ). Lol but of you do let me know how it worked for you. My drug of choice is gonna be that beer Mark buys me ;-) Deb I'm so happy to read about your huge leaps in progress with your recovery you are a very determined woman. Mark I just get blown away about your recovery in such a short amount of time. I'm so envious of you both. Well I have therapy later today. Happy healing to all my fellow gimps. Claire puff puff pass. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 24, 2012 @ 11:36 am | delete
    Welcome to the site Claire. Did your doctor give you pain pills? I think I would try that first and see how that goes. I have heard that marijuana helps with pain in chemo patients so I guess if you want to try it that would be your choice. Just try not to get in the habit as it is really bad for your lungs. Think about all that resin that is left in the pipe after people smoke it.

    Mark, Yeah it is a high price of pain for so little movement. However, when I started PT 6 weeks ago, I was at 30 degrees from normal. Then 4 weeks later I was at 20 degrees. Now 2 weeks later I am at 14 degrees. The first 4 weeks twice a day. I was wondering if it was making any difference. It has by a whole degree or a half of a degree per week. So really not that huge of a difference. I was only hanging my arm at PT, then the last 2 I have been hanging it at home I guess but it is progress. But if I had not hung it at home I wonder if I would still have made that much progress. Because the closer it gets to normal the harder it will be to get the rest of the way. We are really trying to beat the clock with my arm. First of all, it should have had therapy 2 weeks sooner than it did. My fault there, I didn't realize I should have gone. I decided to wait until my ankle was ready and just do it all at once thinking 2 weeks wouldn't matter much. However, it really does because scar tissue is building up in there. The longer it is not normal the harder it gets to get there. Luckily, scar tissue takes a while especially since we are really stretching it. I just want it to be over. I hate it. 14 more degrees to go. She will measure again next week for the doctor on Wednesday, we will see how much it has moved.

    No, I haven't worked on any walking or stairs at PT. I am already there for over 2 hours so she has left all the walking to me but she did mention last session she wants to get started on stairs soon.

    I think you are doing great at the gym. I know when I had tendonitis and my PT was over I started going to the gym and it didn't seem like it took as long to feel better. I really think I got better results at the gym.

    When you lay your foot on your plate side does it start to hurt after a while? Now that I am walking unassisted more I am noticing all kinds of pains. Plus, I am not walking normal really. I can walk normal for short distances but when I get to walking more then I walk funny. Like side to side almost. I am really trying to work on walking heel to toe but it is hard. It is like my brain forgot how to walk.

    On my shower floor I have a HUGE mat from Walmart. Looks just like this http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Shower-Mat-White/15715452?findingMethod=rr.

    It is pretty big and covers the entire tub. Our bathroom is very small and we have shower doors normally. Now we took those out to fit the shower chair. I wish I could have my shower doors back now and stand for my shower but have a chair there just in case. It is scary taking a shower. Especially getting in and out of the tub. I think I am going to wait until I am more sturdy for that. We have no handles or anything to assist with that. Also with the way my bath tub is I guess I would have to get in backwards to get in with my good ankle. We really need some kind of shower bar or something. I am not taking any chances. I am just going to wait until I am ready. Could be months but so what.

    I do worry about Tom. He is really not making the progress he should be making due to his stupid doctor. Something is not right but it sounds like he is going to get to the bottom of it. Hope we hear from you today Tom.

    So far, I am having a pretty good day. I am not as tired as I was. Odd, but I feel tons better. In the morning my arm and ankle are sore but that achy feeling is gone..yayyy. Not sure what that was about. Although I did cut down on some of my exercising so I have time to live my life a little bit and I do rest more. Not sleep just sit and rest. Take it easy and try to relax more.

    I am waiting for news about my aunts surgery today. Kinda sucks. They are not sure if she will make it. The cancer doctor says she won't and her primary says she will. She has kidney cancer and it is on the outside and inside of her kidney but has not spread anywhere else or to her lymph-nodes or so they say. Things sometimes change when they get in there. She has problems with having heart failure, diabetes, neuropathy in her legs, plus she is 5 foot 2 and weighs 215 pounds which is a 45 pd change from 3 months ago. Her kidneys are not functioning at full capacity. That is another issue. So they are going to try and save part of her kidney because she only has 46% function in each one. It is pretty much a mess. I hope she lives through it but last time they did surgery on her foot she quit breathing and they had to wake her up for a few minutes. Can't do that with this surgery. Anyway, basically going to stay busy and keep my mind off of it.

    Hope you all are having a good day!! ---Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 24, 2012 @ 9:09 am | delete
    Claire, It sounds like your friend wants you to be her drug dealer. I can't tell you what to do since I have no experience with marijuana and pain from broken bones. It might help your sex life though! LOL.

    Gang, is she serious? Ha ha. ...Mark
  • Claire May 23, 2012 @ 10:22 pm | delete
    Hi everyone I'm 27 years old and am a female. I recently fractured my talus on my right foot also like joe who I guesse is a member of your group. I live in California and my friend suggested medical marijuana and she wants me to actually try to get a perscription. Idk what to do!!!
  • MarkBnh May 23, 2012 @ 7:46 pm | delete
    Deb, congrats on the arm progress! You certainly paid a high price in pain for the gains you made. I hope the next few weeks are less painful for you.

    As far as the walking you are right on to just DO IT as the commercial says. As I have said before, I didn't know any better so I just ditched the walker and cane and went....lol. My progress may be slower now but I think I'm doing okay. I'm puzzled about your problem turning corners. I never noticed that. Have you done any work on stairs yet....foot over foot the normal way? I found going up fairly easy but coming down I am still working on. It bends the bad foot more. Anyway, keep up the good attitude! Oh, I agree with all you said in your earlier post....especially the stuff about OS doctors. I don't have much respect for mine. As you said, they think you can just get up and walk out! Too bad our spouses had to be there to hear that crap! I'm sure there are better, older, more experienced doctors in that field. Thank god my urologist is older and very very experienced. He cut into a much more sensitive area than my ankle during my recent prostate surgery! I have a lot of respect for him. Ha ha.

    I hope we hear from Tom tomorrow with some good news. I feel bad for you Tom. Get better will ya! I want that beer with you.

    I did my own PT today at the gym. I did 25 minutes on the bike, 15 minutes on the treadmill, and 15 minutes on leg press machines. I'm still slow on the treadmill but I got up to 2.0 today! Big deal....lol. Mostly I work on my stride....no limp, pick up and bend foot, etc. I really think the treadmill work is helping me more than the actual PT sessions did. Time will tell. At least I'm going out at will and my life is mostly back to normal except for going slower still.

    Hey, what do you guys have on your shower floor? We have a porcelain tub that I have to step into and it is scary. I already slipped on a mat with suction cups once with my bad ankle! As a result, I got rid of the mat and put down those non slip treads on the tub bottom. Much better! I also now take the first step into the tub with my good ankle....also better. Just tossing out this info to the group as the shower can be scary....water, soap, closing eyes, etc.

    Guess that's it for now. Have a good night of healing!

    Mark. (deb, you need to sign in again)
  • Debbie May 23, 2012 @ 6:10 pm | delete
    Hello friends and family, I am so happy. My arm is 14 degrees from normal. Two weeks ago it was 20 degrees from normal. So it has moved 6 degrees in 2 weeks. That means all this torture is paying off. I am so happy!!

    Ankle wise, I threw caution to the wind got up this morning and started walking without my husband watching me. He was pretty shocked to see me in the computer room this morning LOL. Now, I am walking all over the house. Pretty soon, I will be venturing out doors. I am determined to be normal again. By god this injury will not hold me hostage NO MORE!!! ::shakes fist:: LOL..not sure what brought it on but suddenly I am determined. I didn't go through all this crap to use a cane the rest of my life and waiting for my husband to supervise me is just crazy. Takes the man forever to come get me. I have been dealing with him being slow (god bless his heart though for putting up with me)...for too long now. I kind of cheat sometimes and grab a wall to steady myself if I am unsure but that is what walls are for right? To tell you the truth I really believe I can just walk now. I think my problem is fear. I need to get some confidence.

    Soon, I am going to start driving again too. ...Look out world because here I come ...LOL ---Hope you all are having a good day---Debbie
  • Debbie May 23, 2012 @ 8:44 am | delete
    Hi Folks, It just absolutely never ceases to completely amaze me how stupid these doctors are. They might know surgery but they don't know jack about being in a cast for even 4 weeks and then thinking you can just walk out of there. Wonder if any of them have EVER broken anything. My doctor told me the same thing. You are healed you can walk. Yeah right. I was wheel chaired to my car.

    I don't care what you did to your foot, ankle, leg, whatever. If it has been in a brace, cast or immobilized for at least 4 weeks, when you get it taken off you will not be able to walk. It will feel weird just to put pressure on it. My carpet felt like tile to my bad foot when I set it on the ground for the first time.

    My physical therapist is a lunatic and gave me a walker and told me to walk my first visit. I took 4 steps and almost died. I learned I needed to take really little steps no bigger than the size of my foot. I had to learn to walk all over again. AT first I was just partial weight bearing on that foot. I could put a little pressure on it. Now, 6 weeks later with MUCH intense physical therapy I am just now starting to walk unassisted. Very slowly and carefully mind you, not walking and whistling a tune.

    Yes, all your parts are there and if the bones are healed technically you can walk, but what about all those things called ligaments, muscles, tendons and stuff that take up to a year to heal? They all have to be stretched out or you are not going to walk.

    I think only a professional physical therapist can know how to properly work you to get you back to normal. Joe, there could be more going on in there. But if they tell you our bones are healed and your good to go then I would say PT should help you. Wish you all the best of luck.

    As a side note: Remember not long ago when some guys were saying they had more hair on their injured leg? Some guy was even growing hair on his feet? Well guess what? I am growing weird black hair on my arm and elbow. It is going to look like a monkey arm. It growing all along where I was bruised real bad. I am still thinking it is because extra blood pooled there...still weird. So now, I have a monkey arm. I shave my legs...wonder if MY bad leg is hairier? Hmmm....Have a nice day everyone...I get to go to PT hell and get my arm hung...15 minutes of brutality ..can't wait. ----Debbie
  • rikoshaprl May 22, 2012 @ 9:55 pm | delete
    Hi Joe - I went through the same thing just recently. I fell down a flight of stairs on April 1 and suffered a right distal fibular fracture and also sprained my left leg. On my right leg, they gave me 9 screws and a plate. I had surgery on April 4. Seven weeks later, at my second post-op visit, I was told to get rid of the crutches and start walking. I was shell-shocked. They gave me an air cast and acted like I was going to be fine and they made me feel like there was something wrong with me that I couldn't do it. My husband also thought I should be able to do it because they said I was fine now. I was so deeply depressed and felt that there was something wrong with me. They did give me an aircast and a physical therapy prescription which I ran home and made an appointment for the next day. Today is my first same of physical therapy and my PT told me there was no way I would have been able to walk unassisted. She made me feel a lot better and I can see in a few weeks, I will be okay. I feel much better now. I did get a knee immobilizer walker (something like a tricycle/scooter) during my convalescence which was a Godsend. You should definitely get physical therapy.
  • rikoshaprl May 22, 2012 @ 9:55 pm | delete
    Hi Joe - I went through the same thing just recently. I fell down a flight of stairs on April 1 and suffered a right distal fibular fracture and also sprained my left leg. On my right leg, they gave me 9 screws and a plate. I had surgery on April 4. Seven weeks later, at my second post-op visit, I was told to get rid of the crutches and start walking. I was shell-shocked. They gave me an air cast and acted like I was going to be fine and they made me feel like there was something wrong with me that I couldn't do it. My husband also thought I should be able to do it because they said I was fine now. I was so deeply depressed and felt that there was something wrong with me. They did give me an aircast and a physical therapy prescription which I ran home and made an appointment for the next day. Today is my first same of physical therapy and my PT told me there was no way I would have been able to walk unassisted. She made me feel a lot better and I can see in a few weeks, I will be okay. I feel much better now. I did get a knee immobilizer walker (something like a tricycle/scooter) during my convalescence which was a Godsend. You should definitely get physical therapy.
  • Debbie May 22, 2012 @ 7:39 pm | delete
    Hi Joe, Welcome to our group. I agree with Mark, you should talk to your doctor about your pain again and ask for a physical therapist referral. I go to a sports therapy clinic and I see many people your age being treated for sports injuries and they are doing just fine.

    I have the same questions as Mark: Did he say you could put full weight on it? After 4 weeks in a cast I was told I could start putting weight on it but not all my weight. Maybe you need a walker or crutches to help you get around while putting light weight on the foot to retrain the foot to accept your weight again. Then I would suggest going to a physical therapist for sports therapy. Also, are your bones healed all the way?

    I do not think it is too late. You just need physical therapy and peace of mind that your foot is really okay. If you had an MRI and it came back fine then I would have to assume your bones are healed. Talk to your parents and get their opinion also. What do they think?

    I had problems walking after I got my cast off and my doctor acted like I was all healed but it has been 6 weeks and I am just now starting to walk without a cane or some kind of assistance. I have been going to a sports therapy clinic and they have worked wonders.

    So, talk to your parents and talk to your doctor about getting your into a sports therapy clinic to get physical therapy for your foot. You will be fine and will be surprised how quickly you can start walking again. I am not a doctor but if I was a betting woman I would say you will play sports again. Just going to have to give it a lot of time and patience. Let us know how things are going for you. ----Debbie
  • Joe Crabtree May 22, 2012 @ 8:00 pm | delete
    Thankyou very much Debbie! And to answer your question, he said that there was still a little inflammation to my talus and calcaneus but nothing to bad. I have an appointment tomorrow and idk if I should ask for a cast just for a little again to insure that it heals or still do what I'm doing and start physical therapy. I did use the crutches with the walking boot for three weeks and gradually put pressure on it but after three weeks it just felt the same.
  • Liz May 22, 2012 @ 7:34 pm | delete
    Tom,
    I used the motorized cart at Walmart till about a month ago. Now I just make sure I'm the one pushing the cart. I have been walking unassisted for the last month as well. I wear a compression sock and that is the only support I have for my ankle as I wear flip flops for short distances. Sneakers for my trips to Walmart and the mall.
  • MarkBnh May 22, 2012 @ 7:23 pm | delete
    Joe, welcome to the walking wounded club. Most of us here have broken ankles rather than stress fractures, but the end result is similar. When not used while in a cast, all the small muscles and tendons in your foot shrink and become very stiff from being idle. I'm sure as an athlete you know about training your muscles by using them more. It's the same idea. Now that the bones are healed or healing you need to retrain the rest of your foot and lower leg. It's almost like learning to walk and especially balance all over again. It takes time and patience.

    A few questions. Did the doctor say the bone breaks were fully healed? Did he say you could put full weight in your injured foot? Did he offer to send you to physical therapy? Most of us really needed professional physical therapy to show us how to properly exercise and build up our injured foot in the correct way. You may need to ask your doctor for this treatment referral. I have seen several guys your age at my therapy sessions who were hurt doing sports. I think the doctors sometimes just assume you younger people will heal fast on your own but this is not always the case as you have seen.

    4 weeks after the cast is not a ling time for the pain to continue. My bones are fully healed and I still have foot pain 7 weeks after cast removal. It should slowly get better for you, but I would ask about therapy if you haven't done that yet. Good luck! Oh, and feel free to ask advice and complain here all you want.

    Mark
  • Joe crabtree May 22, 2012 @ 7:43 pm | delete
    Thankyou very much mark on getting back to me. It feels a lot better knowing I can talk to people who know what I'm talking about. And yes my doctor recommended physical therapy and I have it lined up for next week some time but idk because I've stretch it beyond belief and did some strength exercises to and it still feels the exact same. And he said there was a little bit of inflammation in the talus and calcaneus still but not bad. I'm going back to the doc tomorrow and idk if I should get it casted just for a short while to ensure that they both heal or go as I am
  • Joe crabtree May 22, 2012 @ 7:43 pm | delete
    Thankyou very much mark on getting back to me. It feels a lot better knowing I can talk to people who know what I'm talking about. And yes my doctor recommended physical therapy and I have it lined up for next week some time but idk because I've stretch it beyond belief and did some strength exercises to and it still feels the exact same. And he said there was a little bit of inflammation in the talus and calcaneus still but not bad. I'm going back to the doc tomorrow and idk if I should get it casted just for a short while to ensure that they both heal or go as I am
  • Joe Crabtree May 22, 2012 @ 5:38 pm | delete
    Hi. I suffered a stress fracture in my heel and in my talus bone. I'm 15 and am a 3 sport athlete so I'm very scared about my situation. I was in a hard cast for 4 week and then I was put in a walking air cast. Once I left the doctors office and tried putting some pressure on it I noticed a lot of pain in my forefoot. It continued for the next week in a half so I had to go back to my doctor and he said ya its normal since you haven't used that foot in so long blah blah blah. Well it's been 4 week after I got my hard cast off and I have been trying to put weight on it and stretch it like he said. Im in miserable pain very second I'm not sitting down. My foot feel like its breaking with every step. So It was hurting so much that I got another MRI and it came back fine. Doc said just a little inflammation in the talus and calcaneus witch makes no sense bc all my pain is in the middle of my foot? That was a week ago. So Ive been pushing it pretty hard this last week and it's still the same pain in the foot and some in my talus. I'm very scared that even if I do get it re casted it won't help since if been walking on it so much. Is it to late? Will I be able to play my sports again? Please help me!!
  • DebbieHp May 22, 2012 @ 12:44 pm | delete
    Hey Sonia welcome to our little group. Sorry about your injury. Just looked DVT up on the internet and it says it is a blood clot in the vein. So sorry to hear about that. I think the fact that your ankle is not bending properly is probably normal as most of us have that issue, me included. I am doing some lunging exercises that seem to help with the bending of my ankle in the forward position. In other words bending my toes toward me.

    Tom even though your shoulder and rib pain is not due to an injury, it can still become an issue if your not careful. I would keep rotating your shoulders to make sure you have good ROM. My shoulder muscles were starting to freeze due to being in the brace for the elbow for so long. Even though I was moving them after the fact, it had already started to freeze.

    The achy feelings we have is from us working so hard. She also said Sunday I could have been having a bad day due to the rain. I didn't realize that could cause all over achiness. Felt like flu symptoms but it is just exhaustion. With everything you have going on I am sure you have some of that too. Don't forget to rest. I know it is hard with you moving and everything but still try to get some rest here and there. I know I felt better after that nap. LOL about Mark jogging by. I had to really laugh at that.

    Isn't it just amazing how we can walk our whole lives and then it sits in a cast for 4-6 weeks and BAM everything freezes....cripes. Now, apparently I have forgotten how to walk. Doing a little better today with walking unassisted. I am sure it just takes practice. I feel like a little kid taking those corners nice and slow.

    Yeah, it is funny how people keep saying they can't wait to run. I wasn't running before the accident. I walked really fast...people were always commenting on how fast I walked but I couldn't run. I don't even care about running or jumping. Just want to walk correctly and I am going to consider myself cured. LOL ...

    My arm doesn't even have to get to 0..I would be really happy with 5degrees. At last measurement it was 20 degrees from normal. Because really who could tell the difference between 5 and 0? Not like I plan to be joining a sport in the near future. I mean I have a finger that I jammed that will never be straight, but it is workable and doesn't hurt so I am okay with that.OKay so I am rambling again...

    Hope you are all having a good day today. It is getting warm here. Going to be 90 for the next few days. I am going to have to find some shorts that fit. Hate that I gained weight, I was just starting to lose it when this happened.

    Tomorrow they are picking up my wheelchair. I will be leaving for therapy and they said to leave it outside. I just hope no one steals it before they can pick it up. Usually that is not an issue around here....but you never know. I will be glad to see that thing gone. Wish they would let me burn it.

    Talk to you all later, Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 22, 2012 @ 9:38 am | delete
    Welcome to our little group Sonia! Your accident date was close to mine. I broke my ankle while on holidays in Hawaii on 2/4/12. I had a dislocation and broke bones on both sides....plate and 9 screws. However, I didnot have your complications and have been walking unassisted now for about 5 weeks. I'm sure it is okay for you to practice walking on your own at this point. Let pain level be your guide. Have you done any physical therapy? They can help with the bending issues as everything freezes up while not moving. Hang in there.

    Tom, I hope you get some better news this week! And, NO I won't be jogging any time soon! Hell I couldn't jog when I was normal. Lol.

    Deb, when your arm is sore work on your ankle! Clever of me, huh? Ha ha. I hope your arm test goes well next week.

    Today, I'm dealing with car repair issues. My wife's vehicle died yesterday and we think it is a recall issue....grrrr. Always something.

    Happy healing. Mark
  • Sonia Bailey May 22, 2012 @ 8:49 am | delete
    Hi. I fell on 29 January 2012 down two stairs and broke 3 bones in my leg/ankle, fully dislocated my ankle and partially dislocated my knee... spent 8 days in hospital, a plate and 8 pins/screws and finally went back to work on reduced hours last Tuesday (about 17 wks). My, its been a long road... infection after infection and now a DVT just adds to it all. So, I'm 41 and now sporting a very attractive surgical stocking for the next two years. I'm now using one crutch, mainly because the swelling was severe due to the DVT too and my ankle just doesn't bend brilliantly. I'm taking lots of steps without my crutch and it feels fine and i'm not due to see my consultant now until 8th June so wondering if its okay... am guessing it should be! I'm fine walking on flat areas but outside on pavements or uneven ground I find it tricky.... nice to read all of these and now I'm going to sit outside in the lovely English sunshine (before it disappears!). Sonia
  • Tom May 22, 2012 @ 8:45 am | delete
    Hi all. Deb thanks for the note of support it means so much coming from someone who understands what I'm talking about. I do have pain all the time but it is achy pain which we r all use to, just gonna keep my senses alert toextreme sharp pains as I work out, the therapists telling me about thinking the screw came loose scared the crap out of me but I can't afford to have a setback of it is just a bruise. I can't imagine dealing with arm injuries along with this, although I do deal with shoulder and rib pain from the crutches, but I know its not an injury its just strain and friction of carrying a 220 pound body around. Liz great job I did the mall on crutches a few weeks ago what a workout, what r u using to assist with your walking? I do walmart weekly but I cheat I'm that guy that uses the motorized cart. I have therapy later today, maybe ill see mark jogging along the way, it sure wouldn't suprise me with his progress damn showoff lol. Happy healing my fellow gimps. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 22, 2012 @ 7:41 am | delete
    Good for you Liz, sounds like you are getting back to normal. It is good you were able to ride it out. I probably would have went for the pain pill =)

    My arm is real sore today. I think from the arm hanging. Hopefully it is a little straighter. I am praying it is next week. I am really getting tired of it. 6 weeks of it and it is getting old.
  • Liz May 22, 2012 @ 2:01 am | delete
    A few days late posting this, but I don't visit this site every day. On Saturday, my ankle got a workout. I went with my boyfriend and his kids shopping at Hobby Lobby and the mall. Later I did my weekly shopping at Walmart. My ankle was sore and I was really tired. Thought about taking a pain pill, but I just rode it out and was fine the next day.
  • DebbieHp May 21, 2012 @ 9:34 pm | delete
    Tom, I think that sounds like a really good plan. Sounds like you are going to get some answers. I would have to say you bruised your foot but I am no doctor but I thought it sounded that way by your description. I am happy to hear they will approve a second opinion if needed but you are right if the x-ray comes out clean the OS doctor is just needed for follow up x-rays. Mine doesn't even look at my ankle anymore. He just looks at the PT notes to make sure I am making sufficient progress or at least I hope he does. My PT says half the doctors don't read those notes but just go by what we tell them. If we are doing good then they just collect their money and that is that.

    So yeah I think you have a good working plan now for recovery. I am really vested in your story and care about whether you make progress. I want to hear all the gory details of your PT and how your doing. Yeah you shouldn't have any serious shooting pains. Maybe some aching and hard stretching but probably nothing you can't handle at this point.

    Mark, my dad was a swimmer and swore that shaving his legs made him swim faster. Hair supposedly bogs you down. Of course, when he joined the service he stopped shaving his legs for obvious reasons. In the 50's you can understand why. He was a state champion for running too ..they wanted him to go to the Olympics but he turned them down. He said he liked running to much to spoil it by becoming a job. LOL....my dad was something else.

    Anyway, keep me posted guys I love reading about your progress. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 21, 2012 @ 7:33 pm | delete
    Deb and Mark, the insurance I have is like an accident insurance, I own a small trucking company and can't afford workers comp so I got this insurance for my employees and myself, which pays for medical bills which your main insurance doesn't cover such as copays and some medical equipment if you are hurt on the job and pays you supplemental income,about 80% of your income up to a certain amount unfortunately it only covers 30% of mine so this is a must so I am forced to abide by their rules, it is in their best interest to heal me in a timely manner but more importantly in a thorough manner They got me an appt for Thursday morning when the os were not going to see me until next week, and if I am not satisfied with the appt Thursday they will then approve a second opinion. I feel my self at this point if the xrays come up clean I will stay the course and push my self to the finish line, I really felt b4 this last accident I was just starting to really make some of my first real progress. I feel if the xrays r good the need for the os is minimal and therapy is my only need. So I hate to hinder any progress bychanging doctors at this point as long as the xrays come out good, otherwise I will not let this os touch me again. My insurance nurse thinks that since the swelling does go down and my foot goes back to normal size after ice and elevation she thinks I probably just bruised it, but only the xray machine knows. I have therapy tomorrow so I will do as much as I can tolerate without any serious shooting pains then by my next therapy appt Thursday afternoon I will have my answer. So that's my plan including my home exercise. Do you guys think I should do something different? Tom
  • MarkBnh May 21, 2012 @ 7:29 pm | delete
    Thanks Deb. I'm training to walk about on a cruise ship on July 21st. Grrrr..can you believe that my wife had to book me on another vacation so soon? The last vacation didn't turn out so well. At least this cruise leaves from Boston so no plane flights are needed. And yes, we did buy trip insurance again! So far we have collected over $2000. for my uncovered accident costs....not counting over $6000. for first class flights home.

    Congrats on the next step of losing the cane! I loved it when I tossed the cane for good. I also saw that you were standing in the shower...another milestone! I don't have to sit to shave my legs though...haha. Hey, a lot of male cyclists and swimmers do shave their legs. I never quite understood that....friction?

    See, the PT lady said the same thing as me. REST! Things need time to heal.

    Still thinking about a brace. My wife makes a face whenever I mention it.

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 21, 2012 @ 6:24 pm | delete
    Oh and I forgot to say Congrats Mark on your workout. You seem to be making great progress!! Keep it up. =)
  • DebbieHp May 21, 2012 @ 6:20 pm | delete
    Thanks for the advice Mark. I think they having me doing too much also because on PT days I only work out at PT. Thus, I do them one time. The rest of the times I am not at PT I do all of them once, then the ones with weights I do the second round. I think I am going to cut back and just do the vital ones the second round. She told me there were 4 vital ones, I will just do those and see how it goes. I get measured next Wed for my doctors appointment next Friday. Let's hope this stupid arm is either straight (which would be a miracle) or very close so we can quit hanging it.

    Anywho, she says the achy and soreness I am having is totally normal and when I feel that way I should rest. I do that anyway, but it was nice to hear her say it. I guess i am worried if I don't do everything they say then I won't get better.

    So today is the big day. I lose the cane around the house. Use the cane only outdoors. Unless I limp real bad. As long as I am not limping real bad go without the cane. Well, I won't limp real bad if I am wearing my shoes and brace. So I am now cane less. I have to be watched by my husband for a couple weeks or whatever until I am confident I won't fall but I am feeling stronger in that department these days. I think I can do it. =)

    Tom why are you getting paid for your injury with an insurance company? Did you sue someone? or workers comp is the only thing I can think of. Or maybe short term disability. If it through your work I don't see why you couldn't switch doctors. Hmm...

    Well either way hope you get it taken care of and start to feel better soon. We are routing for you. Mark, I would get a brace for uneven ground when your going to be at yard sales and outside in your yard. Otherwise your probably better off without it.

    I had to have it because I dislocated my ankle and it needed to build up. But my PT wants me walking some without it but I am thinking with the cane when barefoot. Getting complicated guys LOL....
  • MarkBnh May 21, 2012 @ 5:26 pm | delete
    Deb, I have always thought PT had you doing a bit too much. Back in my younger days I was a serious cyclist and rode hundreds of miles. Exercise theory tells us that it is not the exercise that actually builds muscle. Believe it or not it is the REST time after strenuous exercise that is needed to rebuild and heal the muscle tissue you have just worked (damaged!). When cycling it was critical to take at least 1-2 rest days a week to rebuild! I think you need to apply this thinking to your exercise routine. Either lighten up or skip a couple of days per week. You don't have to take my advice, but that is my perspective. It seems to be working with my ankle. Glad you are a little better today....at least before PT.

    Tom, I don't know what to tell you. What insurance checks are you talking about? Medical, disability, work comp? I have an insurance background.

    Mickie, the doctor told me not to get a brace so I haven't so far. I'm still thinking about it though. What brand of brace do you have?

    I went to the gym today and did 22 minutes on the bike, 12 minutes on the treadmill, and another 10 minutes on leg press machines. Felt better than last Friday so maybe there is hope...lol.

    Be well. Mark in NH
  • Mickie May 21, 2012 @ 10:26 pm | delete
    It's a Don-Joy. The doc calls it a brace, but it's soft. The sides are stiff, but it's like cardboard inside and not metal. It gives, but it does have enough support to prevent accidentally rolling my ankle.
  • Mickie May 21, 2012 @ 10:39 pm | delete
    http://www.donjoy.com/index.asp/fuseaction/products.detail/cat/7/id/10
  • Tom May 21, 2012 @ 1:46 pm | delete
    I called the ortho office today and the doctor has surgery all day so I asked about tomorrow b4 therapy they said they could try , so I called my accident insurance nurse she said not to go to emergency room because they don't want another doctor involved and having a separate set of orders, she said she will notify them and insist they get me in asap. Now the problem with not adhering to the insurance company my checks will stop. Grrrr. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 21, 2012 @ 10:40 am | delete
    You know thinking about it though. I bet I am achy and sore from exercising so much. Yesterday I cut back and I feel better today. When you are stretching and pushing your body 5 hours a day, it is bound to make you tired and achy and sore. See, I think most people just have the one injury to deal with and about 10-15 exercises a day so they can do that and practice walking around more. After a while you get braver and start wanting to get out of the house etc. You build up endurance by doing things.

    I exercise and then have to rest, I have any more energy left. My husband says I need to exercise and sleep. Exercise and sleep. He says not to worry to much about the rest. I have to stretch everything out and once I do that then I will be able to get around more because I won't be in pain all the time.

    He thinks the more I can do at home exercising the less times I will have to go to PT and the sooner I can feel back to normal and then I can work on getting my energy back. Where I think most people do more than me from the start because they didn't have the extra injury. Maybe it makes a bigger difference than I think it does. ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 21, 2012 @ 8:54 am | delete
    Tom, I think Mark has a point about going to the ER. You should be progressing by now and not having all these issues.

    Well, I am feeling a little better today. Still achy and sore but what else is new. Not sure why I am always achy and sore. I asked my PT person once about it and she said it was from not moving all night. Still, I don't think I should be achy and sore still. I mean it has been almost 3 months since the accident.

    I go to the doctor next Friday I am going to ask him if it is normal. I think it is from all the exercising I do. I eat a banana every day and take vitamins so I don't think it is lack of potassium. I would think just my arm and ankle would be sore but maybe the pain travels and just makes me feel bad all over. I wish I knew.

    Anyway, I take Advil and then pain pills for PT and for sleeping. I hate taking pain pills because they are addictive but I have to for the pain. And I hate taking Advil all the time too. I don't think I should need pain pills or Advil unless I am going to PT but I wake up so sore and achy I have to take something.

    Anyway, hope you get better Tom and Mark I would wear a brace when in the yard or on uneven ground. ----Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 20, 2012 @ 7:38 pm | delete
    Hey guys. Just got up from a long nap. Still achy and sore but not as weepy thank god. ::sigh:: Yep, we are not normal yet and I guess we are going to have our bad days with some good ones sprinkled in there just to keep us going. Glad to hear I am not the only one who gets achy and sore. I was wondering if it was normal.

    Man, Tom I am sorry to hear about your ankle. That does not sound good. Yeah, I think you are right to get a second opinion even if they do get back to you because it just sounds like your not getting better. I don't think there is anything really wrong that they can't fix. I am no doctor but sounds like when you hit it, you might have bruised it pretty bad. Sometimes a bruise can be bad or you could have sprained it even. That would cause reduced ROM. Either way I hope you get some answers soon and can get on track. Sounds like you have enough energy for me and Mark. Dang, I don't know how you do it.

    Sounds like your getting your move going, that is good. Hopefully some of your other issues will be dealt with soon and you can go back to just worrying about your ankle and not a bunch of other stuff.

    Well thanks for both of your responses. I guess we will get through this one way or another. My mom one day said that I would look back on this and laugh. I don't think so....I think one day I will look back on this and be glad it is over. But it is a slow process. However, if I think back to all the stuff I couldn't do before that I can do now, there is a lot of improvement in the past 5 weeks. Hopefully, in another 5 weeks we will be even better. Happy healing guys---Deb
  • MarkBnh May 20, 2012 @ 7:16 pm | delete
    Tom, that does not sound very good to me. I would take myself to the hospital emergency room and demand some action be taken to see what is going on. With a little luck you will be seen by a different OS. Your current doctor has not impressed most of us here I'm afraid to say. This has gone on long enough and has been complicated by your fall last week. Please get yourself checked out ASAP! When I was having my urinary problem after my ankle break, I had to go to the hospital ER twice because the idiot doctors (or their staff) were not available. Believe me, not being able to pee can be a life or death situation. Be sure to tell the ER people you are there because Dr. X wouldn't see you. They hate that...lol.

    I mowed some of my grass today with a walk behind mower....not a riding one. I did okay but tired quickly. I was also worried about uneven ground with my weak ankle. I've decided not to get a brace but sometimes I wonder if I need one. Tomorrow it's the gym for bike, treadmill, ang leg machines. :)

    Tom, please take care of yourself before that new house! We worry about you.

    Deb, hope you are feeling better tonight after some rest.

    Bye for now. ...Mark
  • Mickie May 20, 2012 @ 11:39 pm | delete
    Mark, I highly recommend a brace! I don't use mine in the house, but my yard is so uneven and everywhere I go I am having to walk on gravel, or uneven pavement, or steps. My doc said I would need it for 6 months after. He explained that the nerves just don't send the proper signals to the brain after such an injury, and something as simple as stepping on a pencil can cause the ankle to roll again. It's just not worth the extra risk to go without it, at least for me. It is very lightweight. It laces up like a shoe, then there are two velcro straps that cross over the top of the ankle, under the arch and straight up both sides of the ankle. Finally, there is a wide strap that goes around the ankle for extra support. My only real gripe is that it gets uncomfortable at the top after I have been up for a while because of the swelling. I know it saved me from a possible reinjury more than once!
  • Tom May 20, 2012 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    Hey all, well the os still didn't get back to me on Friday, if they don't return my call again on Monday I'm going elsewhere. So Friday I mowed my lawn on the tractor Saturday we went shopping for the new house and grocery shopping and packing for the move, and today my sons and wife moved some furniture over and I painted some now I'm sitting on the sun porch I took my stocking and splint off and my foot looks worse than it did when I originally broke it!!!! I'm beside my self , I can barely tell where my toes begin. Sounds like we all are having a tough weekend, I'm afraid that something is really wrong , I have a lot less Rom and more swelling and bruising. Well tomorrow will hopefully tell me a lot more. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Tom May 20, 2012 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    Hey all, well the os still didn't get back to me on Friday, if they don't return my call again on Monday I'm going elsewhere. So Friday I mowed my lawn on the tractor Saturday we went shopping for the new house and grocery shopping and packing for the move, and today my sons and wife moved some furniture over and I painted some now I'm sitting on the sun porch I took my stocking and splint off and my foot looks worse than it did when I originally broke it!!!! I'm beside my self , I can barely tell where my toes begin. Sounds like we all are having a tough weekend, I'm afraid that something is really wrong , I have a lot less Rom and more swelling and bruising. Well tomorrow will hopefully tell me a lot more. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • MarkBnh May 20, 2012 @ 2:08 pm | delete
    Hey Deb, I thought you were a little late on Facebook today. Sorry about your down day but I know just how you feel. I felt pretty good on Friday, overdid it a little, and was more sore than usual yesterday. I think that is how it's gonna be for us for a while because we are not normal yet even though we try to act like it sometimes. You are wise to rest this afternoon. After my day Friday, I'm taking the weekend off from all exercises other than normal walking and stairs. I plan to visit the gym first thing Monday morning.

    I wonder if Tom finally got to see the doctor. Tom, let us know when you have a chance. I hope you get some good news soon!

    I'm sitting here watching the ball game and wondering if I can manage to mow a small section of my front yard grass. Hmmmm? I did a little area on the side the other day. Maybe later...lol.

    I hope we all make progress this week. Happy healing and hang in there.

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 20, 2012 @ 1:27 pm | delete
    Hey all. I am a little down today. I felt so good yesterday. I did all my exercises and walked around the house more and was feeling very good and independent and now today I woke up all tired and sore, feeling nauseous and like my allergies are acting up. Just really achy all over. I did my morning exercises and decided to skip this afternoon's exercises and just rest today.

    I feel all weepy and I think that is due to me being so tired. I am in pain with this arm every single day of my life since Feb 22nd. It just never seems to let up. Yesterday it didn't hurt after I took my Advil for the first time ever. I was so happy. Today it is back to hurting again. I guess I had hoped I turned a corner but nope.

    I think it just saps my strength and that is why I am not more active. Some day though it will quit hurting and not hurt anymore. At least that is why I keep on doing these stupid exercises because without them, I will never be normal. Some days I guess it is just easier than others. ----Hope you all are having a better day than me----Debbie
  • koreyama-liggins May 19, 2012 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    @Mickie- yep 18 and 5. My oldest had prom yesterday and i was so happy for her. I know I have some major gappage but when I think about it, I have one leaving for college and one going kindergarten, I am never alone. I lost both of my parents over the past 10 years. I think about them every single day so I know how you feel. You should also post on the facebook site https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/368618886485089/, It's really active and we have a good time on there. We motivate one another and that's what we all need right now:)
  • Mickie May 20, 2012 @ 11:41 pm | delete
    Thanks! I will do that!
  • DebbieHp May 19, 2012 @ 7:33 am | delete
    Mickie, I just want to say that I lost my dad in 2007. My mom and dad had been together since my mom was 15 and she was 65 when he died. It has been almost 5 years and she says she misses him every day of her life but the pain does get dimmer. That first year is the hardest and then you slowly find yourself being able to live a little again. At least that is how it was for her. I think your crashes are normal. My mom went to the doctor and they gave her something for anxiety because she was having panic attacks after his death. She only takes them as needed. Maybe you could get something like that for those bad days? Up to you, what you are going through is normal I believe as she also went through the same thing. Me too actually. My dad and I were very close. First couple of years were very challenging. I still miss him, probably always will but the pain for me is not there anymore. I just miss him sometimes. Different for a daughter than a wife though.

    Mark, I don't think it matters whether you walked too soon without a cane or not. It is just in my PT's opinion that walking too soon stresses the muscles and tendons too much and until I lose the limp she wants me to use the cane. However, she did mention that she wants me to try and walk without it and the limp which is practically impossible so I have decided to mix it up. Some with and some without. But mostly with. I ran that by her and she thought that was a good idea because the ankle does need to be strengthened. I also walk around a little without the brace too. Plus, I am doing a bunch of ankle strengthening exercises. If I were you, I would let my ankle be your guide in if you are doing too much. Listen to your body is something my OS always tells me. Elevate if it swells. Rest it if it hurts to much. Sometimes I think I exercise to much.

    Tom: I worry about you sometimes. I hope they figure out what is going on and fix it soon. Please keep us updated. Maybe that screw lose will turn out to be your whole problem and they can fix that you can move forward again.

    There are days I need to rest but I think we push because we all want to get better so badly. I am glad I have you guys to talk to. My family is not much help in that department and it really helps that I can write a book on here and feel someone is out there listening. Thanks for all your kind words. I so appreciate it.

    Hope you all have a good healing day. ----Debbie
  • Mickie May 19, 2012 @ 1:28 am | delete
    Hello all. I've had a better day today, so no whining this time! (at least not like last night!) Accomplished alot today - signed up two new customers (woohoo!), went shopping for some clothes for my oldest daughter, took care of a couple of other business things, made two cheesecakes... After all that I was pretty dang tired. But after dinner I decided I'm sick of looking at my grass in the backyard knee high, so I mowed (NOT with the riding mower). Am I tired? Yes! Do I hurt? Yes! Not my ankle so much, but my knee again. I think the activity did me some good. I've sorta figured out that I'm not really concentrating on trying to flex and bend my ankle like normal when I walk. That seems to put extra stress on my knee. I think I'm almost locking my knee with each step maybe? Anyway, it seems like I need to just pay more attention to how I'm walking.
    Looking forward to my weekend. Tomorrow morning I'll be driving to visit my daughter and son-in-law, then to pick up my youngest at her leadership conference and have lunch and awards presentation and such on Sunday. Busy weekend! Having lunch tomorrow with a very good friend whom I haven't seen in a couple of years.

    While we're talking about good things, I don't know if I've mentioned it before, but this whole ankle thing has made me so grateful for my oldest daughter. She is 27 and lives with me. Ashley has had epilepsy since age 4, and still has seizures almost daily - not the bad ones, usually she just "goes to Jupiter" for a couple of minutes, as I describe it, and then she's fine. Anyway, she has had her struggles in life with learning difficulties, she will never be able to drive, but I couldn't have asked for a better caretaker while I've been down. She is so kind and compassionate! She has never complained about her situation. She has always just accepted it and smiled. My husband's passing was hard on all of us, of course, but she dealt with it with such grace. It was just amazing. And she seemed to always recognize when I needed something - she knew when to suggest a change of scenery, a break from working, a quick trip out for some fast food... And now with this ankle, it's ice, or a heating pad, or a bottle of water, etc. I am so blessed!

    Mark, I appreciate your suggestion about meds. I have wondered if that might help. I seem to click along ok for a while then I just crash. It's "normal" I'm sure, but it's been a year and it doesn't seem to be any easier. My prayers are with you and your wife. I can't imagine losing a child.

    Tom, thank you also for your kind words. I am glad you have some good news about your mom.

    And Deb, you are my hero! When you get past this ankle and shoulder injury, you're gonna be in the best shape of your life. You are working so hard. Keep it up!

    Korey - 18 and 5? That's quite a gap! My girls are 27, 25 and 16. I have enjoyed my youngest soooo much. She is super smart and has a great sense of humor. I think I was more at ease with her when she was little than with the older girls. The oldest two have turned out great, but my middle one was SO defiant when she was little! Now she is a middle and high school orchestra director.

    Gosh, it's after midnight! Guess I better close for now. Thanks again, everyone, for listening.... Have a great weekend!
  • MarkBnh May 18, 2012 @ 6:38 pm | delete
    Hello everyone. Hope you are ready for another weekend of the wounded warriors. I will attempt the usual yard sales tomorrow morning plus a round of shopping with the wife. That is my Saturday PT on my own...lol.

    Tom, I'm glad to hear the good news about your mom. I wish her continued good luck in her battle. But, I'm sorry to hear you might have a screw loose! Can't you just take a screw driver and tighten it up....you wimp! Sorry, I couldn't resist!!! Seriously, I sure hope they get a handle on your healing problem soon. You have put up with this too long already. Good luck buddy. Keep us posted! We care.

    Deb, I never got that pain in the butt you asked about, nor in the hip. I have felt a few knee twinges but nothing very serious. I'm concerned that your PT doesn't want you walking without a limp. In that case, my limp may never go away! Grrr! I see improvement with my top flex but not much with that tendon issue. I'm worried that it will not heal due to too much use. Oh well....hope for the best. I rode the bike, walked the treadmill, and did 2 leg machines at the gym today. Then went grocery shopping and Walmart. Maybe a little too much?

    Mickie, I know the pain of your loss and you don't need the extra pain from your ankle situation now. But, it will get better with time. My wife found that a low dose of anti depressant medication helped her a lot after the death of our son. Maybe something to consider if you are not on it already. Hang in there and feel free to unload here whenever you want or need to. We will always listen.

    Got to go now. Company tonight. Be strong!

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 18, 2012 @ 6:00 pm | delete
    Korey you are a great mom. I hope your kids appreciate you. I lost my job too so I know how you feel. Now, we have all these doctor bills and no job. My husband is salary so no matter how much he works, he doesn't get anymore money. He makes just enough that we can scrap by but my PT person said I am lucky with all my injuries that I am not working or I may never be able to get back to normal because I wouldn't have the time to do all the exercises I need to do. I exercise around 5 hours a day so that is my full time job right now. That is not including practicing walking and everything else.

    So, I guess I am saying that in order to be what we need to be for our family, we first have to take care of ourselves. That is our main focus right now. So make sure you take care of yourself so you can take care of your kids. I am glad you are home all safe and sound.

    Well folks, I had another physical torture session. Hopefully, it is getting me one step closer to normal. They hung my arm again but I didn't cry this time. She said she won't take me off the cane until I can walk on it without a limp. I should not walk with a limp. If walking without causes me to limp that is no good she said. But she still wants me walking barefoot to the bathroom and short distances just so my ankle will strengthen but try not to limp.

    My ankle is sore as hell so how am I supposed to not limp? Anyone ever have their knee and their hip hurt while learning to walk again? Hoping this is normal.

    So more shoulder exercises today and of course they hurt like hell. She acts like I should be glad. Got you some good exercises today that is going to help that shoulder regain range of motion. She is so upbeat. She is right though. Gotta just keep getting through this and then some day I will be normal.

    Hope you all are happy healing----Debbie
  • koreyama-liggins May 18, 2012 @ 2:14 pm | delete
    Hi Mickie- You are a great dad! and I am with you, I would do anything for my family too. Today, my daughter has prom and my husband worked all night. So what did I do, I drove (which I shouldn't) but things had to get done. Our childrens milestones are so important. I have 2 girls 18 and 5 and if I have to crawl to do anything for them I damn sure will. Also my since my injury, my job let me go, so my husband is picking up the slack and he has done so much, he needs a break. We have to do what we have to do I guess!
  • DebbieHp May 18, 2012 @ 9:36 am | delete
    I just wanted to add, Congrats on the good news about your mom Tom. Glad she is doing better. Cancer is a hard illness to deal with. My mom had it twice, brother had it once, most of my uncles have died from it. I guess it is really in our family. Sometimes I feel like having a whole body scan.
  • DebbieHp May 18, 2012 @ 9:34 am | delete
    Hey everyone, Mickie don't ever feel bad for saying how you feel. That is what this forum is for to get out our anxiety and frustrations. Once we get them out then we need to try and let it go and heal. I am so sorry for your loss. It has to be hard to lose a husband and you are so young. Now, you have the broken ankle. Life can really suck sometimes.

    But then I guess you have to look at all the good stuff too. We are all going to walk again. It may take a while to get to normal. Like we might have swelling and shooting pains and such. I know I still do. Actually both sides of my ankle is bruised constantly. I am thinking it is due to walking with the brace. I don't know. On the up side: I can see veins in my foot again. Forgot they were there.

    I am also glad to hear I am not the only one waking up every day hurting all over. That is starting to get old. I take Advil first thing in the morning to try and combat that so I can move my arm. That sucker really hurts. I will be glad when the day comes and they get my arm resolved. I swear there are times I think she is going to pull it right out of the dang socket. At my last PT I cried. Hopefully, I won't cry this time. I guess if I do, then I just do ...oh well. I even took a pain pill last time. Guess I will this time too.

    Tom, sounds like they are getting to the bottom of your problems. Hopefully, they can get it resolved soon so you can make more progress. I know you have to be frustrated. Maybe they will wind up taking out your screws? Hopefully something will happen soon. I am sure you are sick to death of those crutches.

    Mark, sounds like you are doing really good. Keep hanging in there as you are almost to normal it sounds like. I know all about walking slow. Anyone's grandma could beat me right now. I am getting faster though. My PT person used to be able to type up all my stuff while I made it to my car. Wednesday I was at the door and she hadn't started yet. hehe. Progress!!

    Okay now for our question of the day: Yesterday when I was walking, my butt was hurting while I walked. It felt like the pain was shooting up my leg into my butt. I know that sounds crazy but it is true. Last time I had it happen to where it shot up into my hip was because I was putting a lot of weight on the foot and it wasn't ready. Maybe that is the case now? Anyone have a pain in the butt problem LOL....

    Another PT day for me...gives a whole new meaning to TGIF----Debbie
  • Tom May 18, 2012 @ 8:31 am | delete
    Deb, Mickie, and Mark. I am so sorry for your losses and family illnesses, it really does put things in prospective. I had great news today my mom is doing well and the doctor think they got all the cancer after removing her thyroid. I didn't get to see the os he was out of the office (probably playing golf since it was the first nice day in NH in a while ) I saw the clinical therapists and seemed to think it was fine so he cleared me for therapy, so I started back to walking in the shallow end of the pool and POW I got really sharp pains in my ankle, only in one certain spot , the therapists looked at it and felt around and she seems to think when I crashed my foot down I might of loosened a screw one of them appears to be petruding out. If so that makes two loose screws one in the ankle and the other in my head. I'm now waiting to hear back from the os, I hope he can see me this morning because I have to pick up my son from college today he has his final exam at 12:30 and has to have his dorm cleared out by 4. Mark he goes to Plymouth University way up north. I have to say I will handle whatever the outcome after hearing all the tragic stories you all have dealt with, and being fortunate to have the good news from my mom also being blessed to have all my loved ones around me,and having friend like all of you to go through this with. God Bless!! Happy healing my fellow gimps ;-). Tom
  • Mickie May 18, 2012 @ 12:39 am | delete
    Hey everybody. I don't comment much, but I do read everyone's posts. I feel like such a wimp because my break was so minor compared to what everyone else has had to go through, but today struck a chord with me. I spent a good 5 hours in the car today, driving my daughter to a weekend leadership seminar she was chosen for, then back home. My foot swelled some, but mostly now my knee is hurting again. I guess it's just because I'm not walking correctly since my ankle won't bend like it should, and the long drive was tough. Would do it again and again though - so proud of my kiddo! Anyway, on the drive home of course I was alone, so I guess I was thinking too much, but really had a pity party. Mark and Deb, I can relate as I lost my husband one year ago May 11. Today, as it does sometimes, it all came crashing down on me again. I think I've held up pretty well over the past year, thanks to my three daughters, new son-in-law (my middle daughter got married one month after her dad passed away), my parents and sister. But today, I'm just so sick of not being able to move around like I am used to. I'm 46. I won't say I'm athletic, but before this happened, I really didn't hesitate to tackle any job around the house. I love to work in my yard. It's what keeps me sane. This stupid ankle just makes me feel so helpless. I can be up a couple of hours on it and it looks so awful and swollen I have to elevate. I'm fortunate that my husband was an amazing salesman, and he built a business that is still taking care of me and my girls, but I need to start drumming up some new business. I need to do some face to face contacts, but I can't. My leg starts hurting and swells, and all I can think about is getting home and getting it elevated. When I get up in the morning, everything hurts - my ankle, my foot, my calf, my knee, my lower back... still having some trouble with my elbow too. I'm just sick of it. Really feeling like it's time for me to have a run of good luck. I've had about all the bad stuff I can take. Missing my husband, hurting all over, feeling totally unproductive. Sorry guys, I'm not usually a whiner. This is a good outlet because I can type what I want, and know that you don't have to read it if you don't want to! I have so much to be thankful for, even though so much has gone wrong. Makes me feel pretty selfish to go on a tirade like this. Thanks for listening...
  • Mickie May 18, 2012 @ 12:38 am | delete
    Hey everybody. I don't comment much, but I do read everyone's posts. I feel like such a wimp because my break was so minor compared to what everyone else has had to go through, but today struck a chord with me. I spent a good 5 hours in the car today, driving my daughter to a weekend leadership seminar she was chosen for, then back home. My foot swelled some, but mostly now my knee is hurting again. I guess it's just because I'm not walking correctly since my ankle won't bend like it should, and the long drive was tough. Would do it again and again though - so proud of my kiddo! Anyway, on the drive home of course I was alone, so I guess I was thinking too much, but really had a pity party. Mark and Deb, I can relate as I lost my husband one year ago May 11. Today, as it does sometimes, it all came crashing down on me again. I think I've held up pretty well over the past year, thanks to my three daughters, new son-in-law (my middle daughter got married one month after her dad passed away), my parents and sister. But today, I'm just so sick of not being able to move around like I am used to. I'm 46. I won't say I'm athletic, but before this happened, I really didn't hesitate to tackle any job around the house. I love to work in my yard. It's what keeps me sane. This stupid ankle just makes me feel so helpless. I can be up a couple of hours on it and it looks so awful and swollen I have to elevate. I'm fortunate that my husband was an amazing salesman, and he built a business that is still taking care of me and my girls, but I need to start drumming up some new business. I need to do some face to face contacts, but I can't. My leg starts hurting and swells, and all I can think about is getting home and getting it elevated. When I get up in the morning, everything hurts - my ankle, my foot, my calf, my knee, my lower back... still having some trouble with my elbow too. I'm just sick of it. Really feeling like it's time for me to have a run of good luck. I've had about all the bad stuff I can take. Missing my husband, hurting all over, feeling totally unproductive. Sorry guys, I'm not usually a whiner. This is a good outlet because I can type what I want, and know that you don't have to read it if you don't want to! I have so much to be thankful for, even though so much has gone wrong. Makes me feel pretty selfish to go on a tirade like this. Thanks for listening...
  • MarkBnh May 17, 2012 @ 6:55 pm | delete
    Deb, thanks for the kind comments about my son. Appreciate it. My wife is still taking medication for such a tough loss.

    Sometimes I still have a small limp....especially if I try to walk faster. This is my main goal to work on at the gym. I have pain in a side rear tendon and a little on the top of my foot. Neither one has responded much to therapy so they think it will just need more time and work on my own. I see slow progress but not as fast as I'd like...grrrrr. I walked the mall today with my wife and she had to keep waiting for me to catch up. Will try to do the gym tomorrow.

    Bye for now. ...Mark
  • DebbieHp May 17, 2012 @ 6:29 pm | delete
    Mark, i am so sorry about your son. That had to be really hard. I can't even imagine dealing with that kind of loss. I loss my dad in 2007 very suddenly to a massive stroke. No time to prepare makes it hard too. But we got through it and so it makes me think if I can get through these losses I can make it through a broken ankle. I hope I didn't sound like I was trying to diminish what anyone is going through. This broken ankle thing has really sucked.

    What gets me though is it is not the the only thing we have all had to deal with. It seems like life keeps throwing more at us. I really wish it would stop. I know both you and Tom have gone through other stuff as well. I mean I think the broken ankle is enough already LOL

    So on to brighter subjects. I am so happy about your last PT session. That must feel good. I am hoping balloons float out of the ceiling on my last appointment. I think they should give me a party or something LOL....And you were released by your doctor too right? Man, that is awesome.

    Did you ever lose the limp? I am still limping but not too bad. I do have to work on my walk though. My foot won't bend back right so that makes it hard and because of that my PT says I am turning my foot. So I have to watch doing that so my ankle will bend when I take steps and that will help stretch it out. If I turn my foot then I am compensating for it not bending therefore it is not helping.

    I am curious how did you finally lose the limp? Anyway, yeah I am going to start walking more and more without the cane this week. Just slowly wean myself off and work on stamina in walking more. Feels good I gotta say. Now, I am wanting to walk all the time =) I am starting to get more courageous. Not sure what happened. Just woke up this morning and said I am sick of this. I am walking by myself. Happy healing friends and thanks for listening to all my extremely long posts. ----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 17, 2012 @ 5:59 pm | delete
    Deb, glad to hear you walked by yourself today! I found it was fairly easy to give up the cane when I didn't have to go down the wheelchair ramp at my front steps. Maybe use it away from home now and no cane at home. Way to go girl!

    So sorry to hear about your aunt. It's never easy to face the thought of losing a loved one. I have had to face the ultimate loss of my only son in 2009 when he was only 28 years old. It was a heart attack brought on by some strange auto immune condition that was never diagnosed. I miss him every day and yes, it makes an ankle break seem minor in the grand scheme of things.

    Tom, I hope you get some better news today, but if not, hang in there. You will beat this thing eventually.

    On a more positive note, I had my last formal PT session today! I still need to work on the treadmill and bike at the gym and call PT if I want more stretching, but it's my call. Yay! I think I just need time to heal and set my own pace now. Time will tell.

    Got to run. Busy day today. Heal well!

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 17, 2012 @ 5:37 pm | delete
    Tom, Hopefully you will get some answers today and get some good therapy. Let us know how that goes.

    I got some bad news today. I don't know if you recall, but I had said my aunt had kidney cancer. Well, when the tests came back it turns out it is inside the kidney and outside the kidney but it is currently not spreading. It is a slow moving cancer. But here is the problem, she has so many other health issues including heart failure problems that they are not sure she will make it through the surgery. They are doing all they can to try to see to it that she does but they said they really didn't think she would survive it. However, she can live with cancer so they are doing the operation next Thursday. I can't go because it is so far away and the hospital is so huge there is no way I can walk it or stay there as long as they will be there. Anyway, I was pretty upset about this today because she is my favorite aunt and we have been close my whole life. She is like a second mother to me. But I guess if it is time for her to go there is nothing anyone can do. It is up to God at this point. Whatever he decides I will have to accept but it won't be easy if she leaves us. Anyway, don't mean to bring you all down but kind of puts our injury into perspective at least for me it does.

    Hope all is well with you guys. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 17, 2012 @ 3:48 pm | delete
    Debbie, Way to go !!!!!!!!! Woooohoooooooo. I'm off to see the therapists and the os Tom
  • Debbie May 17, 2012 @ 12:40 pm | delete
    Hello, Just wanted you all to know that I am tired of this injury and decided to get out of bed today and try to live some kind of normal life. So I spent 2 hours doing my exercises and making trips around my house. Anyway, I also made a trip around my house with no cane. I am getting more stable with and without the cane. I am hoping to be cane less soon. But at least now I am walking around by myself without my husband having to be near in case I fall. Feels good to have some independence back. =) ----Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 16, 2012 @ 6:26 pm | delete
    Hey all,

    Okay I survived another PT session. I took a pain pill before I went and thank god I did. She added more weight to the dreaded arm hang and I wound up crying for the last 2 minutes. I was a little embarrassed but what the hell it hurts. I am sitting here now with a heat buddy on the arm and an ice pack on the ankle plus I took 4 Advil. She had me walking all over the place barefoot to help build up the ankle. I don't walk around barefoot so I was kind of freaking out a little bit worrying about turning that ankle.

    Oh, she also told me part of the limp problem is because we can't pull our foot all the way back but also she said I am turning my foot because I can't get it to bend back and so that is my way of compensating. So, she made me keep my foot straight and walk. Much harder so now I am sore.

    ::sigh:: So now I have to add more weight to the arm hang. Up to 2 pounds. She is determined to get me back to normal and lately it doesn't want to freaking move.

    My husband is a really quiet, laid back, programmer type guy. He never has much to say and she tells him he needs to really talk to me when I am hanging the arm to get my mind off the pain. Today he was challenged so it was doubly hard. Those last few minutes are really hard.

    This is going to get easier guys. It just has to. I am really proud of all of you and your accomplishments. I feel like I know you. I enjoy chatting with you on this format because we can type more than on face book.

    I am glad your daughter had a good prom. That is such a nice moment and I am glad you got to participate in it with her. I am also glad you are getting your ankle looked at. It just gives me the willies thinking about landing on the bad ankle. Ouch!!

    Mark you need to be careful. Man, don't want a set back now. You are just doing so good. You don't seem to have the stamina problems. Or maybe you just get around more.

    Liz, you are doing so good. I can't wait to be where you are. You are just amazing and really healing well. Glad your wound is better. I know what you mean by speed. Any grandma out there could beat me now but I am getting faster and braver.

    Yeah I read somewhere it takes a year to get ALL the way normal after an ankle break. Those aches and pains are all a part of hte normal healing process. I know from experience that tendons can take up to 2 years even to completely heal depending on how aggressive you are with keeping up with exercises. The more you work a tendon the better it seems like.

    I think we all just can see normal up ahead of us now and we just want to get there but they keep moving the exit sign. Damn those gremlins. LOL

    As for me, I am going to start doing more walking. I am going to try and walk without a cane soon. But first more cane walking. I wanna take the cane away a little at a time before she just decides to rip it away from me and make me walk out of there without it.

    Okay gotta go eat some chocolate. Caffeine helps with pain...did you all know that? That is why it is in Excedrin. Happy healing everyone----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 16, 2012 @ 6:07 pm | delete
    Tom, glad your daughter had a good time. The weather was so nice last weekend! Those kids were lucky. Wolfboro must have been beautiful this time of year also.

    Let me know when you can walk into a tavern unassisted by crutches or cane and I will meet you and buy you that beer! You name the place. I'm serious!

    Liz, glad to hear someone else is slow on the treadmill....ha ha. I think it's going to help me.....maybe. I may reach 2.0 next time. I was being cautious today.

    Deb probably can't lift her arms to type tonight. She had her PT today...lol.

    I stepped on the edge of two stacked doormats in my garage today and almost turned my bad ankle..grrrrrrr! It's hard to believe how weak we stay for a long time. Be careful! (as Tom found out)

    Happy healing! Mark
  • Tom May 16, 2012 @ 5:09 pm | delete
    Hi. Mark my daughters prom was last Saturday night it was perfect night she had wonderful time as I prewarned her date me and my friends smith and wesson. Lol wegot some pretty pictures at the gazeebo at the wolfeboro docks. I'm leaving now to watch her softball game, had a long day with the appliance delivery men, its odd to be on the other side of the coin since that's what my trucking compandoes Deb and Mark thanks for your concern i think I'm fine but therapy thinks other so my ortho will be in tomorrow so I will pay him a visit b4 therapy to get the ok. Like I said earlier it looked a lot worse than that this past weekend from all the work I did, it just has an added pinching sensation. But the world still spins regardless, so away I go. Happy healing all, and keep up the good work I will be walking soon enough so I can have mark buy me beer
  • Liz May 16, 2012 @ 5:03 pm | delete
    Mark,
    PT has had me doing the treadmill for about a month, but not every session. I started at 1.5 and now I'm now at 2.0. If I were to do a mile, it would take me 40 minutes. I hate the slow pace and being passed by people 30+ years older than me at the gym.
  • MarkBnh May 16, 2012 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    Hello all. Geeze, I thought nobody had time to post all day yesterday and was getting sick of seeing only my last 2 posts. Seems like the site had a problem and they all appeared at once....at least for me.

    Tom, what did you go and do to yourself this time? Sorry to hear about your fall and sure hope you didn't cause any additional damage! Deb is right and maybe you should at least call the doctor and see if they think it's worth checking out. I am amazed you have done as well as you have with crutches. I tried them for about 10 seconds and said NO WAY....haha. I lived in my wheelchair for 8 weeks. I slipped once or twice while moving up and down from the chair, but nothing major. Oh, and I am far from "healed"! The bones may be healed but I sure have a ways to go still. I have trouble getting the limp out of my walk and still feel some pain when I try to flex my bad foot to go down stairs. I also have a bad tendon that aches off and on just doing nothing. I guess it will just time more time and more work to get some of this stuff to feel more "normal". But, I am thankful for the progress I have made.

    Deb, I sure admire your work ethic! I can't even imagine all the pain and effort you have been putting into the PT sessions and at home. I have only been going 2 times a week for 45 minutes per visit. I haven't done much at home other than a few trips to the gym (Planet Fitness). Today I did 20 minutes on the stationary bike and 12 minutes on the treadmill at a slow speed. This was my first workout on the treadmill and I think it will really help me. I concentrated on walking without a limp and flexing normally rather than any speed. I used to do 4-5 speed on the treadmill and today I did 1.6 LOL. Can you say snail pace?

    Tomorrow is my last scheduled PT appointment. She said we can decide on more visits if I want to. Maybe 1 time per week for a couple weeks to work on stretching certain areas. I still have a problem flexing the top of my foot a couple of inches behind the toes....hence the stair issues. Deb, the other PT person who did my evaluation last week said I was at about 90% on that back flex you asked about. Said the rest will come with time. I'm just sick of all the little aches and pains that seem like they will last forever...grrrrrr. I guess that's our lot for a year or so at best and maybe longer.

    Tom, take care or yourself! Has your daughter done her prom on the Mt. Washington yet? I love that boat and lake! We watch her all the time at the Weirs.

    Mark in still rainy NH.
  • DebbieHp May 16, 2012 @ 12:19 pm | delete
    Tom, I think I would call the doctor. You probably just bruised it and aggravated it. Otherwise I would have thought they would tell you to see the doctor or go to the ER. I would probably call the doctor and see if they think you need to come in and have it x-rayed. At least it would put your mind at ease. It is hard to do PT if you think you are injured again. I am sorry you fell. That is always scary. I think that will be my fear for a long time to come. Of course, since the accident I have fallen 2x but luckily have not been hurt. It is hard with all these different things they want us to use we are not used to. Like walkers, crutches, telling you to hop around. I mean if I could do all that I would not be in this shape to begin with. Hopefully, you are okay and you just got a jolt to the ankle. I hope everything turns out okay for you. It seems like you are having a hard time of it lately. I think this whole year sucks personally. So far it is not looking good.

    Anyway, keep us updated on your progress. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 16, 2012 @ 10:34 am | delete
    I'm sorry none of the postings showed all day yesterday. When I was getting ready for therapy I slipped and came down real hard on the bad foot, when I got to therapy they looked at my ankle and refused to allow me to do therapy and sent me home to elevate and ice, that was the first time I had an accident with my crutches in over 120 days of using them I saw a lot more swelling this weekend them after the slip it kind of pinches a bit but not a real lot of pain, so i talked to them today and they want me to ice and elevate all dayand come in tomorrow,unfortunately that's not possible I have to meet the appliance delivery guys at the new house. So I just have give careful and hope its not another break and hopefully just a bruise from the jolt. Im ready to scream, I just need to progress not degress I'm pissed but I'm determined, so as I chuck the middle finger at my ankle off I go. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 16, 2012 @ 9:49 am | delete
    Hey Tom, I am always here. When is your next PT appointment? How has your progress been. I know last time you said you tried one crutch but that you were basically dragging the other foot behind.

    I gotta say when I first started trying to walk it was hard. It was like my brain forgot how. I started out by taking a step no bigger than my foot. I put my bad foot out first then leaned on my walker and scooted that good foot up there. After you do that a few times and it doesn't hurt to bad, then try lifting the good foot instead of dragging or scooting it along. Now, you are taking steps.

    After a while you start walking like normal sort of, one step at a time or should I say one limp at a time. Eventually as you put more weight on the bad foot the limp should go away. I am still limping so I have no idea when that will be but I would imagine since she has me standing on my bad foot only now (ouch) that it will get easier. I still can't do it. I have tried and failed a bunch.

    Anyway, today I visit the house of horrors again on my quest for normal. I am taking a pain pill before my wonderful visit and hope 2 hours goes by quickly. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 15, 2012 @ 8:26 pm | delete
    Hello is there any one out there
  • DebbieHp May 15, 2012 @ 1:16 pm | delete
    Mickie, Sounds like your doing really good. I know I keep my brace on for walking. I would hate to make all this progress and then get thrown back because of a pencil or something equally stupid. Myoflex, I have never heard of it..might have to try that. Wonder if you can take a bath in it LOL...I am sore all over it seems like.
  • DebbieHp May 15, 2012 @ 1:06 pm | delete
    Next day of abuse from her is Wednesday. I swear I used to get all worked up over PT because I hated the pain but I think now I must have gotten used to it to some extent. I don't even care anymore. I just want to get normal and get this over with. That is where I am mentally. Whatever I have to go through then fine let's do it and get it done. She told me to start taking pain meds...LOL...I am thinking ..yeah okay what kind of crap does she have in store for me next? No telling, but I am there for 2 hours of abuse. I swear it does make me better but I wish there was an easier way. If there is, my insurance doesn't pay for it or my doctor doesn't believe in it or something.

    Let's just hope the pain meds don't throw my walking off balance for my next appointment. I know she is really getting aggressive with my arm. If I knew they were just going to yank on it, I could have saved some time and yanked on it myself weeks ago. I told her last time...you sure your not going to pull that sucker out of the socket? I hope she knows what she is doing.

    Oh and they tried to get me to stand on one foot LOL>>>LOLOLOLOL...sorry that was too freaking funny. I couldn't do it AT ALL. Then she says, try it with your good foot and I could barely do it. I told her...I have no balance. She was like switch back and forth between both feet and balance on one foot. We have to work on that. My word folks...what do I have that doesn't need work? I need to lose weight too..but I have put that on hold. It is a get up at dawn full time freaking job just to get my body halfway working right. Cripes!! I am telling ya, I have hardly any free time anymore.
  • DebbieHp May 15, 2012 @ 8:07 am | delete
    Congrats Mark that is really good news!! It is like you are now healed because you don't have to go back to the doctor anymore. I was kind of wondering what the point of my last visit was other than to chat with the doctor. He didn't even look at my ankle. Just prescribed PT exercises for my shoulder.

    The PT person thinks that my shoulder should respond to exercises pretty quickly because she said it isn't really an injury but partially frozen due to being in the brace so long. However, she also told me that she doesn't know if I will ever gain full range of motion of my elbow. She thinks I can get to 5% but maybe never 0. I am thinking you won't be able to tell the difference between the 2 but in order to get to 5% she wants me to start being more aggressive with the exercises and doing them 4x a day just on the arm, not all of them.

    I am going to start hanging my elbow with stronger weights like she does at PT 2x a day. I think that is aggressive enough. I want to be able to say when this is all over, I did the best I could to regain full range of motion and then whatever I end up with is just what I end up with. At least I will know I tried.

    I am having problems getting my ankle to bend back like it should for walking. I think Robb called it his flexion. Anyway, it won't bend back like it should so she wants me to do 10 lunges 4x a day to get that to work better.

    Also she bent the crap out of my shoulder to take measurements and try to get that going. Of course that was just more pain. But raising my arms over my head is a big deal and I can't get mine up all the way so that is another 4x a day exercise. All in all I have 4 that I have to do 4 times a day. I hope all this pain and suffering in PT works. Then at least it will be worth it.

    She says I have to come there 2 hours a day, 3x a week for 2 months. After that she thinks I will be okay. I truly hope so because I am counting the days let me tell ya.

    Walking with the cane is going good. I seem to be wanting to walk more often. I like walking with the cane. It seems easier to me than the walker. I am starting to feel a little more stable. I guess it just takes time.

    Anyway, again, Mark I am glad for you. Are you going for the extra 2 weeks of PT? Sounds like you are almost back to normal....yayyy!! I can't wait to get there myself. Just wish I didn't have so many body parts to work on. But I guess it is like you said, I will get all my problems addressed at once and then I should be good as new lol....hopefully. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 15, 2012 @ 8:03 am | delete
    Hi all, its my 17th ankleversery,16weeks post op. Still on 2 crutches under my arms are bruised since I've been on them since the start. I keep trying to use 1 crutch but not very well but I have been very active on the go most of the day. I have therapy this afternoon I'm looking forward to my torture hoping it will progress me further. The wired thing is I could've had back surgery and been a lot further along. This non stop rain helps the pool but sucks for getting around. Well let me do my exercise and then kick the dog with my crutch. Mark great progress no more ortho what's left at pt jumping from a second story?? My man you is healed!!!!!!!! Congrats maybe we can climb mt Washington together when I catch up to you. Deb when is your next abuse therapy? Sounds like you will be off and running (or walking slowly) very soon keep up the good work. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 14, 2012 @ 6:25 pm | delete
    Mark, Congrats that is so wonderful to hear!! You are doing so good. I think you are only 3 weeks ahead of me. Good for you! Keep in touch with us and cheer us on as we try to make it where you are. Can you bend your ankle all the way back towards you like your supposed to? I think Robb called it his flexion.

    Anyway, my shoulder was on the verge of freezing up so they are working on that now. She bent the crap out of it. Said it shouldn't take that long to work it out since it is not an actual injury but just needs to be worked out.

    She believes I have about another 2 months of PT before I am done if I keep improving as I have been. My elbow may never return to 100% normal but she said we can get it as close as possible. It just depends on how aggressive I am with my exercises. I have decided to buy weights and hang my arm EVERY single day 2x a day for 15 minutes. I started out not doing it at all but then she said I was at a plateau so I started doing it at home on non PT days 2x a day. Once for 15 min and once for 10 min because it hurts so bad I would cry. I must be getting used to the pain because I don't cry anymore but it sure hurts but after I am done my arm feels straighter and that is as aggressive as I am getting.

    I just want to do all I can so I feel like at the end of all this I did what I could to be normal. If my arm is 10 or 5% off from being normal, then I can say I tried. I am 20% right now. Started at 40% 4 weeks ago so if I can half that again in 4 more weeks and get to 10%, then half it again and get to 5% I will be extremely happy.

    OH and 3 more at home exercises were added for the shoulder. 2 more at PT so at PT I have to do 5 total extra which brings me to a grand total of 30. 2 hours at PT.

    Happy Healing all----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 14, 2012 @ 2:10 pm | delete
    Just got back from the OS. It was a quick visit and I don't have to return unless I have a problem that won't go away. Yay! He asked if I had any problems with the hardware then addressed my ongoing tendon issue. After actually feeling my problem area (amazing in itself) he fitted me for an arch support in my shoes to help support the rear tibial tendon which he said is often strained during an ankle break. He said to wear the supports for a couple of months or so. I asked about a brace and he said he does not normally recommend them since they hinder the strengthening process. So, I guess I won't order one on my own at this time.

    He said the gym and home exercises were probably enough now but would approve me for 2 more extra weeks of PT if my co-pays weren't killing me yet...ha ha. I believe I reached my out of pocket max and get 100% coverage now!

    That's my story for today. Happy healing to all.

    Mark
  • MarkBnh May 14, 2012 @ 8:52 am | delete
    Laura, you should join our group on Facebook "Broken ankle, foot, leg survivors". You will find lots of people in the same place as you and some of us ahead of you in the healing process. The posts are shorter but more frequent than here. Tom, has given you good advice. Try to get into a daily routine, catch up on your reading, games, or TV as you pass the time. Do what you can but don't be afraid to accept help from those around you at this time. Before you know it you will up and walking again while continuing to heal.

    Heather, I'm not sure anyone here has experience with bone fragments. However, many on Facebook have had temporary pins removed and it is no big deal. They say it's nothing like the original surgery and a much quicker recovery. I'm sure you will heal quickly for that wedding.

    Debbie, I have the same issue with my foot not bending back enough. My PT says it will come with time. She says I'm missing about 5% on the back motion. I also have days where I seem to go backwards....my foot also swelled more yesterday as I was cooking for the moms and my 83 yr old mom was surprised I still had a limp. They have no clue about this recovery process!

    I see the OS this morning but don't expect much new information. Maybe I will get a few more weeks of PT. Hey, today is exactly 100 days since my accident! Another milestone reached!

    Mark from NH
  • Laura May 15, 2012 @ 8:03 pm | delete
    Thank you Mark. I did go to FB and asked to join. Thanks for the suggestions. You are so positive, which I need to be! Have a good day!
  • DebbieHp May 14, 2012 @ 8:14 am | delete
    Hello all, Welcome new members!! First I want to say I am sorry you all broke your ankle but we are glad you found this site. I remember when I first broke my ankle, how devastated I felt. It was hard letting to of my old life and the things I was used to doing and just lay there with my foot up in the air and my arm in a sling (dislocated my elbow too). I cried a river of tears because I hated my situation and I was very emotional. I think it was because I felt vulnerable too.
    In any event, one day I was crying about it and I just thought to myself. I have to get through this somehow. I can't just sit around crying constantly so I thought the only way that is going to happen is for me to accept that I injured myself. Pretty badly. Yep, I can't do the things I used to do but this is only temporary. It is not forever thank god for that. I will walk again and be able to enjoy life again but first I have to heal and get over this hump. Every day I get through is one less day I have to deal with this injury and one day closer to being normal. I didn't do anything to deserve this and neither did you. I have no idea why this happened to us. But it sure has taught me patience and I have the utmost respect for the permanently disabled.

    My suggestion: Get into a routine of some kind. I used to get up everyday and play spider solitaire, then do jigsaw puzzles on jig-zone.com. Then I would read these boards and get on Facebook. There is a group over there called broken ankle/leg/foot survivors. Just search for them in groups and ask to join. They will send you a response.
    Then it would be lunch. After lunch I would read and sometimes fall asleep. Taking naps is always a good time passer. Then I would wake up and play my Sims game....yeah I play the sims. It helps pass the time and get my mind off my injury.

    Just do anything and everything you can to get your mind off your injury. Your life has changed but not forever. You will get better and you will get through this. And yeah it does suck. I also lost my job but I really don't want to work for people who can't understand and in some ways I am glad not to have to worry about getting back to work but can take my time and focus on getting better.

    I broke both sides of my ankle, I have a plate and 7 screws plus a pin on the other side. I also dislocated my ankle and my elbow. The arm hurts pretty bad, worse than the ankle actually. Today I woke up with it all swollen for some reason. It is bent and they are trying to force it straight at PT....that is loads of fun let me tell ya. Also, found out my shoulder is messed up due to my elbow having to be in a sling for so long. Since I was unable to move my shoulder parts of it froze so now I am sure that will be loads of PT fun getting that unfrozen.

    Anyway, my point is ....this does suck but it will get better. I was in a cast 4 weeks ago and today I am walking with a cane. Slowly but still walking. Probably next week I will be walking with no cane because my PT person is crazy. Eventually, that will lead to walking normal again but it will take time as my foot doesn't want to work like it used to .

    Anyway, I hope something I said helps....hang it there...it gets better. I know that might not help you right now but it is not forever.
  • Tom May 13, 2012 @ 11:22 pm | delete
    Hi Laura, are you unable to sleep cuz you are stuck laying oyour back and can't get comfortable? If so try putting your good leg on the bed then a pillow the your injured leg on top of the pillow laying on your side and a few pain meds helps . As far as being frustrated you are in the begining stage of healing and the harsh reality of it is a necessary evil in the healing process, with that said try to embrace this time as some "me" time read some books you've been wanting to read watch some movies you've thinking about watching, discover why you pay so much for your cable bill and discover the channels you didn't know you had, or crossword puzzles, and most importantly your laptop and use this site to talk with others who know what you are going through, it helps a lot. The best thing to do is set a routine for yourself to keep your days in order. Once you get your cast it is a good idea to do some exercises like wiggling your toes and lift your leg up to keep ahead of you're recovery this way your muscles are active as much as they can be while in a cast. Before you know it weeks will pass. But i assure you use this site a lot we are usually able to answer each others questions and you know your not alone in this injury. I hope this helps some. Get some sleep this is the one time in your life where its acceptable because the best healing happens when you're asleep We all are happy to have you as a fellow gimp in our little family. ;-). Tom
  • laura May 15, 2012 @ 8:00 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for your response. I didnt think about laying that way. I will am going to try that tonight. I am a tummy and side sleeper. The good thing is I am not in any pain. I do have jerks just when I get to sleep and wakes me up. I do think it is a good thing to get into a routine. I am going to start tomorrow on that one too. I have already been doing exercises the PT told me to do. Thanks so much for your advice. Have a beautiful day.
  • heather May 13, 2012 @ 11:05 pm | delete
    Hi all. I rolled my ankle march 3. Went to ortho 2. Weeks ago and its got a small bone that broke off and floated into a nerve?? I cant wear any heels without shooting pain! Anyway. I am scheduled for surgery june4. To remove bone particle. What do i need to expect as doctor was non-chalont about it! I am single mom with a 2, 5,7, yr olds and i have a wedding to be in october! (3in HEELS) they will come off after ceremony for sure! He says i will walk fine by then, but i am nervous bout the surgery! Any help advice? Thanks! Heather, pennsville, nj
  • heather May 13, 2012 @ 11:04 pm | delete
    Hi all. I rolled my ankle march 3. Went to ortho 2. Weeks ago and its got a small bone that broke off and floated into a nerve?? I cant wear any heels without shooting pain! Anyway. I am scheduled for surgery june4. To remove bone particle. What do i need to expect as doctor was non-chalont about it! I am single mom with a 2, 5,7, yr olds and i have a wedding to be in october! (3in HEELS) they will come off after ceremony for sure! He says i will walk fine by then, but i am nervous bout the surgery! Any help advice? Thanks! Heather, pennsville, nj
  • Laura May 13, 2012 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Hello I broke my ankle and had surgery 2 weeks ago. So frustrated and sad about not being able to get around. I so miss everyday life! : ( I am having a hard time relaxing and sleeping at night, even though I am so tired! Any suggestions? I know things will get better, I need to think positive! I have also had the flu for a week! grrrrr! Any suggestions would be appreciated. Take care.
  • koreyama-liggins May 14, 2012 @ 1:29 am | delete
    Hi I broke my ankle 3 week ago and I know exactly how you feel. I go to the doc on Tuesday to get my hard cast put on and get this I have to wear it for 6 weeks! I have a daughter who has prom on Friday and a 5 year old and since I was only at my job for about a month, I got let go.Its really depressing but I have just accepted it. I can't change any of this but its still sucks. It will be over before we know it, I am making sure the one bill that gets paid is he internet, cable and cell, I must stay entertained:) Hang in there!
  • koreyama-liggins May 14, 2012 @ 1:29 am | delete
    Hi I broke my ankle 3 week ago and I know exactly how you feel. I go to the doc on Tuesday to get my hard cast put on and get this I have to wear it for 6 weeks! I have a daughter who has prom on Friday and a 5 year old and since I was only at my job for about a month, I got let go.Its really depressing but I have just accepted it. I can't change any of this but its still sucks. It will be over before we know it, I am making sure the one bill that gets paid is he internet, cable and cell, I must stay entertained:) Hang in there!
  • Laura May 13, 2012 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Hello I broke my ankle and had surgery 2 weeks ago. So frustrated and sad about not being able to get around. I so miss everyday life! : ( I am having a hard time relaxing and sleeping at night, even though I am so tired! Any suggestions? I know things will get better, I need to think positive! I have also had the flu for a week! grrrrr! Any suggestions would be appreciated. Take care.
  • Tom May 13, 2012 @ 9:27 pm | delete
    Hi all, I guess its swollen ankle day, I worked in the yard on crutches then my wife and I painted at the new house getting ready for move day so I just got home and wow Is my ankle swollen!!! Ice and elevation. Mickie glad youhad your brace on boy we sure are fragile now just as long as we are careful we could still do live our life while recovering. Deb that cane must make you feel so close to walking independently, so now I know why you are making progress cuz what you call a day off is walking with your cane and getting stronger even though your in pain great job!!!!!! Happy healing my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Mickie May 13, 2012 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Was walking around the yard today, thinking how good my ankle felt and that I felt I could probably be comfortable walking without the brace. Not 30to seconds later I stepped in a soft spot in the yard and it threw me off. If not for the brace my ankle would have rolled! My doc said the nerve and ligament damage would keep my brain from knowing what to do for about 6 months and something as simple as stepping on a pencil could cause me to roll my ankle again. I am a believer! So thankful I had it on and it did its job. Swelling today but seems like maybe not as bad? Was walking almost normal this morning. An elderly friend suggested putting myoflex on my ankle to help with the morning stiffness. I used aspercreme last night and I believe it really helped! Sorry you had trouble today Debbie. I think it is just that way. Some good days and some bad. Sure wish I was back to normal. I miss long days outside doing yard work, believe it or not. It helps me keep my sanity.
  • Mickie May 13, 2012 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Was walking around the yard today, thinking how good my ankle felt and that I felt I could probably be comfortable walking without the brace. Not 30to seconds later I stepped in a soft spot in the yard and it threw me off. If not for the brace my ankle would have rolled! My doc said the nerve and ligament damage would keep my brain from knowing what to do for about 6 months and something as simple as stepping on a pencil could cause me to roll my ankle again. I am a believer! So thankful I had it on and it did its job. Swelling today but seems like maybe not as bad? Was walking almost normal this morning. An elderly friend suggested putting myoflex on my ankle to help with the morning stiffness. I used aspercreme last night and I believe it really helped! Sorry you had trouble today Debbie. I think it is just that way. Some good days and some bad. Sure wish I was back to normal. I miss long days outside doing yard work, believe it or not. It helps me keep my sanity.
  • DebbieHp May 13, 2012 @ 7:57 pm | delete
    Ankle made a liar out of me today and swelled so I was all about elevating and icing today. I walked a bunch around my house today. I like walking with this cane for some reason. Sometimes I am really steady, like later in the day but when I first get up I guess I am a little shaky. Weird experience with the ankle today too. Sometimes I would get up to walk and it was fine, no pain WOW, then the next time OUCH..it would be sore. So odd. Swelling seems to not have anything to do with whether it hurt or not. I woke up with the swelling. It went down now though. Wish my foot would bend right when I walk but it doesn't. I have a slight limp especially when it is sore. It won't bend back far enough like it should..you guys having this problem too?

    Tom you are an inspiration. All day today when I didn't want to walk because I was sore, I would get up and walk anyway and say, "I will not be held hostage to my injury anymore."

    Also, since I now know my shoulder is due to not moving it. I have been moving the heck out of it. I did some shoulder exercises and it feels better. Not a constant pain anymore.

    Now, that I am feeling better tomorrow is PT day and well....probably be sore tomorrow again but it is all worth it to be normal.
  • Tom May 12, 2012 @ 11:22 pm | delete
    Hey Rob u made me feel better atleast I don't have hobbit feet just a gorilla leg. Deb, keep on trucking sounds like your doin great with the cane, I tried 1 crutch today only got about 2 steps in dragging my foot but its something. Mark I think a wig would be safer solution to hair growth, there was a lot of yard sales today but I couldn't stop because we were running around doing final prepay for my daughters prom she looked beautiful they held it on the mount Washington cruise out of woleboro on lake Winnapauskee. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 12, 2012 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    Sorry Mark, Yes it is DeRoyal (the brand name of my brace). Mine is black. I sincerely hope my legs don't get any hairier. It would just mean more shaving. LOL Mark about your head. I don't think I would try that out if I were you.

    Hobbit feet? LOL Robb. Yeah hopefully the hair growth will taper off or fall out later or something. That is so strange.

    I will be glad when my walking gets better. I know it has only been a few days with the cane and I am more steady now but still not confident. If I just look straight ahead and don't think about it I can get into a rythm and it is all good. The ankle is not swelling much so I guess that is good. I don't elevate anymore and I took a big nap today with no elevation and if it wasn't for my arm life would be good. I could sleep normal but I have to have a pillow to rest the arm on. Oh well, getting there at least.

    Have a good mothers day everyone and a good evening ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 12, 2012 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    Sorry Mark, Yes it is DeRoyal (the brand name of my brace). Mine is black. I sincerely hope my legs don't get any hairier. It would just mean more shaving. LOL Mark about your head. I don't think I would try that out if I were you.

    Hobbit feet? LOL Robb. Yeah hopefully the hair growth will taper off or fall out later or something. That is so strange.

    I will be glad when my walking gets better. I know it has only been a few days with the cane and I am more steady now but still not confident. If I just look straight ahead and don't think about it I can get into a rythm and it is all good. The ankle is not swelling much so I guess that is good. I don't elevate anymore and I took a big nap today with no elevation and if it wasn't for my arm life would be good. I could sleep normal but I have to have a pillow to rest the arm on. Oh well, getting there at least.

    Have a good mothers day everyone and a good evening ---Debbie
  • Robb May 12, 2012 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    Tom, this is going to sound like a funny response, but I have an absurd amount of leg hair on my bad leg. I had very sparse hair on the tops of my feet before (as evidenced by my good leg) and now I have what looks like the beginnings of hobbit feet! I think this is just from being enclosed for so long, but it should disappear as time progresses.

    How is your ROM coming along? I asked Debbie about hers and also regarding any long screws she may have, do have something similar?
  • MarkBnh May 12, 2012 @ 5:02 pm | delete
    Tom, I have not noticed much extra hair on my bad leg.....maybe a little but not very noticeable. I have no clue what would cause that other than what Deb said with the extra blood flow. Hey, if I break my head maybe some hair will grow on my bald head! Rofl!

    Deb, you still didn't confirm the brand name of your brace. Is it "DeRoyal"? At least I know it's the gel model. I wore my cheap little Walmart fabric support at yard sales today. It may help a little but not much. I did okay. It's all the shopping my wife does after that bothers me more. Lots of walking! I have minimal swelling tonight so maybe a little progress. The dance last night was okay but I didn't get off my chair of course. At least I had a good excuse this time. Real men don't dance.

    Rob, I don't have those connecting screws either. I have the plate on one side and 2 screws on the other. I know others on Facebook had similar temporary screws like you that were removed.

    Have a good evening all. ....Mark
  • DebbieHp May 12, 2012 @ 3:10 pm | delete
    I hurt my right leg last year when I fell over a construction sign. I was looking for an address for an interview and didn't see the metal rods facing the sidewalk. My leg got pretty bruised up but otherwise I was okay. I went limping into the interview 5 minutes late and needless to say I did not get the job.

    What I did get and still have is a dent in my leg and a bruise. The bruise has gotten smaller with time but it is still there and for some reason on that one patch more and I want to say darker hair grows there. I can shave my legs and the next day I can already see growth just in that one area. I think it has to do with more blood gets to that area due to the bruise? I don't know but I think it is weird.

    Did you or is your leg pretty bruised up due to falling and now sudden weight bearing? Because suddenly you are getting a bunch of blood flow to that leg and I am wondering is this is what is causing the hair growth. LOL. The things we have to deal with. ---Debbie
  • Tom May 12, 2012 @ 11:21 am | delete
    Hi all, Got an odd question for all of you , since I've gotten my cast off about 9 weeks ago till now I have had a noticeable if not disturbing amount of hair growth on the leg which had the broken ankle almost double the amount than the other leg, I normally don't have a lot of leg hair which makes it that much noticeable. Has anyone else experienced this? Mark I have a different insurance company, but they do ask 1001 questions at the same time (besides this site) have been the most helpful with my recovery. Deb I leave my home around 10am everyday and run errands all day long by myself during the week by the time I get home I am more tired than sore I think I just got use to being sore that I don't notice it anymore unless its the night before a rainy day. But I've been so busy with a move coming and so many other things I don't try to think about how long its been. I am sorry to hear about your aunt , my mom had to go for another surgery this week she has thyroid cancer they didn't get it all out 2 weeks ago so they by the grace of God got it all this time . I hope everyone's healing well and good spirits have a good day to all my fellow gimps. Also happy mothers day to all whom it applies. Tom
  • DebbieHp May 11, 2012 @ 8:50 pm | delete
    Mickie: I had surgery on March 1st and I don't have much swelling but what I do have become uncomfortable after about 3 hours of it hanging down. I have no idea when it stops as it is different for everyone. Some people report having it months later. I think it just gradually goes away or at least that is what I was told.

    Robb: My hardware will stay in my foot for life unless it starts to cause me pain. I have a plate and the screws go through my plate into my bone of my fibula but not all the way to the tibia. I do have a problem with my flexion as my ankle will not go back all the way. I was told this is common and the last thing to return to normal. I have heard that getting the screws out helps a great deal for some people.

    Mark: The brace I have is really pretty comfortable as the sides are made of gel. I find it comfortable to walk in with shoes on. I have problems walking barefoot as this point because the bottom of my feet are very sore. Probably from all the weight bearing this week. I am not allowed to walk without the brace so I can't compare. I went from a cast to this brace but I thought with the gel on the sides it feels pretty good but maybe if I was wearing nothing and then had to wear the brace I would feel differently. Sorry, I can't be more help there.

    Thank you for your comments about my stamina. I am feeling great now that I have eaten dinner and rested. All back to semi-normal again. I guess your right I just have to build up.

    Mickie: That is great!! I wish I was more brave because I can walk without the cane I just get nervous about it because my balance is so off. I tend to stumble and it scares me. I have been walking around the house short distances with no cane to try to get used to it. But it is hard to get used to the cane, extra weight bearing and walking without the cane all at one time.

    Mark: Hope you have fun at the dance. =)

    Hey Tom: How are you doing? Are you sore from all that activity?
    -----Debbie
  • Mickie May 11, 2012 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    I have been wearing a small brace for about two weeks now. Walking on my own without crutches! It is such a liberating thing, but I do sorta stumble along like I am drunk, especially when I am tired. But after 1/2 hour on my feet the swelling starts to get super uncomfortable. How long will I have to deal with that? I broke my fibula March 1, no surgery, NWB 6 weeks in a boot.
  • Mickie May 11, 2012 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    I have been wearing a small brace for about two weeks now. Walking on my own without crutches! It is such a liberating thing, but I do sorta stumble along like I am drunk, especially when I am tired. But after 1/2 hour on my feet the swelling starts to get super uncomfortable. How long will I have to deal with that? I broke my fibula March 1, no surgery, NWB 6 weeks in a boot.
  • Robb May 11, 2012 @ 8:20 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie, thanks for the info. I always hear pins versus screws, do you know what the difference is? I have no idea! For everybody else, I have two long screws (or pins) going through my fibula and tibia, the doctor calls these syndesmotic screws. I think they're really messing with my ROM, but I have to wait till the 30th to get them out... .

    Anybody else have these type of screws and would be willing to share their experience with me?
  • MarkBnh May 11, 2012 @ 6:25 pm | delete
    Debbie, sounds like you had an ambitious day! Yes, it is normal to have little stamina now. We've been doing next to nothing for 8 weeks or more. I was the same way on my first walk through the grocery store and sat in the car for the rest of my wife's shopping stops. It gets better each week I notice. Also another reason why I try to hit the gym when I can. You will get stronger!

    I bought a cheap fabric ankle support at Walmart today to use at yard sales tomorrow. Debbie, do you have that DeRoyal ankle stirrup? It looks almost too stiff to walk with normally. I was thinking of ordering one depending on what the OS says Monday. I notice that they have an air model and one without air feature...same price. Sorry about your aunt, Deb. I hope she does well. My neighbor just donated a kidney to his brother in law. He is a generous man!

    Going to a 50s dance tonight run by my Lions Club. Guess who will NOT be dancing??? Ha ha. I just hope I can sit that long without my foot up.

    Have a pain free evening! If not...pass the drugs please. Lol. ....Mark
  • DebbieHp May 11, 2012 @ 5:13 pm | delete
    Robb, Not sure about LONG screws but yes I have a plate and 7 screws on the left side of my left ankle, plus on the other side of my ankle I have a big long pin holding it together somehow.

    My ROM is good except I can't get my ankle to bend backwards all the way. It is making is difficult to take a real step so I am forcing it which is why my ankle is so dang sore.
  • Robb May 11, 2012 @ 5:05 pm | delete
    Debbie, it's great to hear that you're progressing so much. Hows your ROM coming along? My flexion is terrible still. Out of curiosity do you have long screws in your ankle connecting your fibula to your tibia?
  • DebbieHp May 11, 2012 @ 4:50 pm | delete
    Hey Tom,

    Good for you on the exercises and everything. Maybe now you will get somewhere. Just listen to your body and when you feel like you have pushed to far, rest. I mean it is good to push some but also rest or your going to be so sore you can't move.

    Mark, The brace is for uneven ground. I can take it off to exercise and sleep. I need to wear it to walk and for outside. He wants me to take it off to sleep to help build up my muscles around my ankle. Not sure how sleeping will help but maybe you heal in your sleep?

    My aunt was diagnosed with kidney cancer yesterday but it is contained so once they remove her kidney she should be okay. they are testing the function of her other kidney to make sure she can handle it.

    This year is not boding well so far. Hope the second half gets better. I guess it is all up hill from here huh? ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 11, 2012 @ 4:45 pm | delete
    Hey all, So today I woke up feeling pretty decent and decided to do things like normal. Wet my hair, dry it standing up instead of sitting down, actually look in the mirror while getting ready, brush my teeth like a normal person standing up in front of the sink instead of on the toilet.

    Anyway, just basically trying to get back to doing things like I used to. Went to the doctor, walked in there with the walker as instructed by my PT person. Cane is only for home usage.

    So, I talked to the doctor about my arm. He did an x-ray, bones are great so he had me lift it above my head, asked me if I could get it around to my back (no, oh did i say no....i meant hell no). He concluded that because my arm was immobile in a brace for so long it lost mobility. So now, he has written me a script for PT on my shoulder.

    So another body part is going to be worked out. I currently work out my ankle, wrist, and elbow. Now, my shoulder will be included in the mix because I am starting to lose range of motion with it. Anyway, he ordered another 4-6 weeks of PT. Also said some of my shoulder muscles and tendons are frozen up due to the brace. The bicep swelling he said is from the elbow injury.

    Anyway, I just got home a little while ago and I am here to tell ya. I am very tired. My muscles ache, my ankle aches, my whole arm hurts and I am very tired. What is wrong with me? I mean this is crazy. One little outing and I am dying over here. I wound up taking a pain pill because my arm hurts so bad.

    I think I am resting today. No exercise for me. But man, is this normal? I guess my stamina has been compromised from all those weeks in a wheel chair? My doctors office is a pretty far walk though. The hallway there has 2 sets of benches on the way for people that need to rest I guess. It is longer than my house at least 2x as long. Maybe I need to push my ankle more? I don't know. But that baby is sore now and resting. Oh no more elevating at night if I don't want to. No more elevating period unless I swell.

    Someone tell me being this tired is a little bit normal? Of course as I type this I am starting to feel a little better. Oh and we also went to the store. I sat in the car but I haven't seen the outside of a store in ages. ----Debbie
  • Liz May 11, 2012 @ 4:34 pm | delete
    Mark,
    When she had me doing both leg squats, I was pressing 75 pounds. She also had me balance on my good leg on the trampoline. After a minute or so she had me stop. Can't wait for my bad leg to be strong again.
  • MarkBnh May 11, 2012 @ 10:21 am | delete
    Tom, sounds like some progress! I like your attitude. Hey, is that insurance nurse from US Healthcare? I spoke to a caseworker there named "Jan". I am done with her now but she was pretty thorough with all her questions.

    The step heel exercise you mention is similar to one they have me do on an incline board. It stretches the calf muscles. I never got the steel tool thing even though they said they might do that. I see different gals and there is little consistency.

    Liz, I don't think I could do all that on my heathy ankle! Good workout.

    Deb, you are getting braver! Keep up the good work. I'm still limping at times and not going down steps normally which is starting to aggravate me. I see the OS Monday but don't expect much from him. Maybe I can get a "free" brace from my insurance....lol.

    Happy healing! Mark
  • Tom May 11, 2012 @ 9:02 am | delete
    Hi all, well I had therapy first thing they did was used some stainless steel tools to try to break up the scar tissue by scraping the dull edge of these tools over my calf , my foot top and bottom then over my scar on my ankle,ouch , she said next appt she will increase the pressure. From there we went into the pool which they usually lower me down in a chair, yesterday I walked down the stairs with no crutches just the railings woohooo. I then worked in the shallow end of the pool which is a big increase in the amount of WB. I did my walking exercises then I did squats I held the squats for twice the time she told me too then I stood on my toes and held that for twice the time, then I had to stand on the bottom stair with more than half of the back of my foot hanging off and had to press my heal downward which I really felt the pull in my calf muscle which hurt so good that too I held for double of the time asked. I guess my call to the insurance company nurse worked she promised me she would puts fire under there arse. That was the first time I left there feeling some progress, I also have been pressing down hard on my foot every step I take I am f*&%# tired of held hostage from this injury I am in control now its been115 days I don't want to see that number increase much more without walking!!!!!! Happy healing my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Liz May 11, 2012 @ 2:44 am | delete
    I miss standing in the shower. Because of my wound I am still sitting on the shower bench with my leg hanging out. I am almost healed, but will need the bench again when the metal is removed.
    My new exercise at PT is back against the wall, feet away from the wall, lift toes until I'm standing straight. I do this about 5 times. I also rotate between the elliptical, treadmill, and bike for 5 minutes each. Then leg press machine doing bad leg squats at 50 pounds and heel raises (bad leg only) at 45-50 pounds. I also have to balance on bad leg on the trampoline. Finally I do stretching on a wedge both with legs straight and then knees bent. Its hard to fit this in 30 minutes and starting next week, I get to do more at home since I only have PT once a week now.
  • DebbieHp May 10, 2012 @ 8:25 pm | delete
    Okay so I stood up for part of my shower...lol...progress. ---Deb
  • MarkBnh May 10, 2012 @ 12:53 pm | delete
    Interesting that they told you the same thing! I know the shower thing was kind of my final step toward almost being normal but nobody suggested it to me. My shower chair was big and hard to fit in the tub and stand up also so I just got rid of it and prayed. The tub mat did slip once....grrrrr! Not good.

    No PT for me until next Tuesday. I just got home from doing the bike at the gym and some errands. Now that I'm better I needed some parts to fix one of our sinks. LOL no good excuse for being lazy now.

    Tom, how was PT today? Did you give them hell? Happy healing to all.

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 10, 2012 @ 12:53 pm | delete
    OH and for anyone interested: My new exercise this week is leg squats. Stand with your feet shoulder apart, then squat as if you are sitting in a chair with your butt out, make sure your knees do not go over your feet otherwise your knees will hurt. Need to do 30 of these. It strengthens the whole leg. ---Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 10, 2012 @ 9:29 am | delete
    Yeah standing in the shower is what my PT person said to try next LOL..funny you should mention it too. She said to leave the shower chair in there and just stand for part of the shower at first to gain confidence. She said you can stand. You just walked. I know but the shower is kind of scary. We will see because I am going to take a shower today. Will let you know how that goes. ----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 9, 2012 @ 6:58 pm | delete
    Well it's about time Deb! Just kidding! Congrats on reaching a major milestone. One progresses quite quickly once you put your mind to it. I'm glad the PT person told you to try it sooner rather than later (listen up Tom). I would suggest you only walk with good shoes on for now....not barefoot. I assume you are also in that ankle brace? Hey, your arm gets a rest this way also.

    I went to PT today also and worked on the same stuff but added some extra weight to some exercises. Today was my last day with the best PT lady I've had since she was only filling in for one on vacation :(. At least she is the one submitting the report to my doctor for my appointment on Monday. She will suggest a few more visits and a light brace for heavy weight bearing days. I think my yard sale hobby scares her! Ha ha.

    Enjoy your new freedom Deb. You have earned it! Next step....standing in the shower! (still makes me nervous but I do it)

    Mark
  • DebbieHp May 9, 2012 @ 6:37 pm | delete
    Okay folks, you are NOT going to believe this. My PT asked me to try using a cane today right when I got there. I was a little freaked out but said okay I will try it and she showed me how to use it. Now, I think I have told you all how uncoordinated I am so I was walking around trying to use this cane and she said, "You are not using that cane right, just drop it and walk" So I did and guess what......I WALKED!! with NOTHING!!! Even she said she couldn't believe how stable I was. She said, "Wow I really didn't think you could do it" I just looked at her and shook my head. If she didn't think I could do it then why tell me to do it!! LOL...anyway so now I am practicing walking with nothing and using the cane if I get tired. Walking with nothing is scary as hell. I was holding my arms out like a little baby and she made me put them down. If I go out I still need to use the walker for distances. Man, 4 weeks this Friday out of the cast, 10 weeks post op and walking with nothing. I mean I feel a little wobbly but I am walking. Okay gonna go walk some more...::sucks up some courage:: -----Debbie
  • DebbieHp May 9, 2012 @ 2:01 pm | delete
    For anyone interested, here are my exercises I do at home given to me by my PT for just my ankle. The rest are for my arm.

    Ankle exercises: x10 (10seconds each) To stretch the ankle
    a)Pull your foot upwards
    b)Push downwards
    c)Rotate inwards, then outwards without rotating your leg
    d)Ankle circles = 30 counter clockwise , then clockwise
    e)Spell alphabet with big toe - Capital letters, printed
    f)Weight shift from one leg to the other leg, putting only 30% of weight on bad foot (I am not sure how much weight you can bear) I suggest getting a book the same size as the scale so you are on even ground and shift weight back and forth unless you are full weight bearing. This really helps calves and endurance for standing. Do it for 5 minutes.

    Towel stretches (These are really good ones according to PT a must) x10 for 10 seconds each.
    a)Place towel at ball of foot and pull towards you
    b)Place 1/2 towel under your foot, then tent other half over your toes, pull back then pull down - This loosens the toes for walking.

    Sitting: Raise heal pointing toes up, hold for 10 seconds, x30, Then up raise up on toes hold for 10 seconds lower heal slowly back down x30 (Later like now after 2 weeks of these, then week 3 she had me doing these standing with no brace)

    Still sitting put either some marbles or a pencil on the floor, with bad foot try to pick it up with your toes for 3 minutes. After 2 weeks she raised this to 5 minutes.
    These were added week 3:
    1) Standing Calf Stretch- lunge forward , 10 for 10 seconds
    2) Sitting with your left foot crossed over your right stretch your toes forwards and backwards for 3 minutes.
    3) Place your foot off the edge of the bed rotate foot towards ceiling and down, flip sides x30ea
    Week 1-3: Practice weight bearing and started using a walker while taking small steps. First time I tried I could only take 4 steps so the next day I had to work up to 5 steps. I kept adding steps. I worked up faster than that though once I got the hang of the small steps. Week 1 and 2: 30% weight bearing. Week 3 and 4: Weight bearing as tolerated. Now, I have a walker with wheels and I am taking actual steps one foot in front of the other. Today we are supposed to try a cane because the idea would be to practice steps with the cane and then use the walker as main mode of movement but eventually ( her eventually is like in 2 weeks we want to be on the cane and off the walker)
  • MarkBnh May 9, 2012 @ 2:00 pm | delete
    Tom, I don't think the boot is left or right but it does come in different sizes. I am only a 9.5 shoe size so it may be too small for you. Too bad. The gal asked for my shoe size when she fitted me for the boot.

    Hey, hope you make it onto that show! Will you plan on driving to NYC? My wife and daughter went to the Martha Stewart show in NYC and came home with bags of free stuff given to the audience!

    I just got home from PT. She asked me if I thought I needed any more visits after next week. I really don't know but told her to ask the OS for 2 more weeks = 4 extra visits. Heck, I see people on Facebook going for 75-95 visits! I'll just hit the gym more later or exercise at home.

    Have a good healing day and remember RICE! (rest, ice, compression, elevate)
  • Liz May 9, 2012 @ 5:53 pm | delete
    Mark,
    I'm on about 30 visits of PT. I go down to once a week starting next week. I'm not sure if that will change after my surgery to have the metal removed (my OS idea, not mine).
  • Tom May 9, 2012 @ 12:17 pm | delete
    Hey all again thanks for more great advice. Deb I feel so bad about my whining after reading all that you have to deal with, I have did some WB today and it feels good it is sore but I don't mind it. I have therapy tomorrow and I am going to demand they be more aggressive. Hey Mark I do have hardware a plate and six or seven screws, I am size 12 and it is my left foot that is injured now that I think about it u had said you had to remove your boot to drive so we have opposite ankle sides, is there a left and right boot or do they fit either or? Hey remember we were talking about game shows, well I sent on an application for who wants to be a millionaire and they contacted me and I have an audition at the end of the month NYC woohooo that will be an adventure. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • MarkBnh May 9, 2012 @ 10:55 am | delete
    Tom, I agree with everything Deb said in her last post. It's time to just start doing it! Use the PT people for some guidance but there is a lot you can do on your own at home. I have also read that bones actually heal faster when they are bearing some weight. Go gradual as you can. I never did the bit with the scale but it sounds like a good idea to me. My dumb doctor just told me to go walk as I could stand it so I didn't know any better about using the scale to measure progress.

    I forget, did you have surgery with hardware put in your ankle or not? I think the hardware gives you more support to start walking sooner. If no hardware, you have to be a bit more careful that the bones are healed enough to support your weight as I understand it. Most of us on here and Facebook seem to have lots of hardware! LOL We may set off the metal detectors at airports if not titanium.

    I also agree that if I were you I would buy a walking boot or ankle brace on my own to use as I start full weight bearing. MIne was a 2 piece "Aircast walking boot" which went on with velcroe. It came with a little pump to inflate with more air if needed to snug it up. I didn't use the air feature much and was out of it in a week or two. Deb has put a link to the ankle brace she has. I am still thinking of buying that brace for walking on uneven ground now and then. Tom, what is your shoe size? As I recall, you are in NH. I could loan or sell you my boot! haha I sure hope I don't need it again anytime soon.

    Well, I'm off to PT again at noon today. My foot is feeling pretty good today so now they can mess it up for the rest of the day...grrrr. I think I'll skip the bike at the gym today since that didn't do me much good after PT on Monday.

    Deb, I still have to enter that dumb code word also. Then it takes a long time to post. ......Mark
  • tom May 9, 2012 @ 10:08 am | delete
    Just a spelling error when I was talking about people on tv it should have said when I see someone start to slip I cringe. O do this from my smart phone with a spell checker .....it doesn't help when my smart phone or myself aren't very smart. Lol. Tom ps to all of you that are on here as guest don't you feel silly spelling put the security words like this one is botworm , I hope you all know about the security word of I just look crazy right now.
  • DebbieHp May 9, 2012 @ 10:07 am | delete
    Tom,

    You may have to go out on your own and buy a brace or a boot to help support your ankle while you begin to weight bear. What is PT doing for you? They should have some exercises and things for you to do at home as well as a progressive program for getting well. It almost sounds like you have no support. They have walkers there they can let you borrow or try out. You can rent one at Walgreens or buy one for 40 bucks at Amazon. I would start bearing weight. One thing my PT people have me doing is weight shifting with a scale. You can't do it with a digital scale. But you stand on the scale and put a book on the good foot side so the scale and book are even. Then you shift your weight back and forth to see how much weight you are putting on the foot. Start at 30% of your weight and work up slowly. Bones heal from using them or so I have heard. Once you are at 30% of your weight, start walking with the crutches. Take very small steps at first. Start with the bad foot and then shuffle that good foot up there. When you feel pretty good about that and are not hurting, then start picking the good foot up and moving it forward. Now, you are walking some. Anyway, that is how I started out. I also wear an ankle brace that looks like this http://www.dme-direct.com/deroyal-confor-plus-stirrup-ankle-splint

    Anyway, hope that helps. Maybe talk to your PT person about what the doctor said and see what she suggests to help you along. Hope you start improving soon Tom.....Keep us posted. ----Debbie

    I thought when I joined this site I wouldn't have to put in a security word no more but still have to. Bleah
  • Tom May 9, 2012 @ 9:51 am | delete
    Hey guys thanks for the support. It is just very frustrating, especially since i sit with the os and he stares at the computer and asks me what I do for work every time i see him which has been about 8 times, it just makes me feel like a part at a production factory, but boy when he was trying to convince me to get the surgery he knew my name, family,job,and underwear size!!!!! Mark as far as weight bearing he wants me to get there progressively so own going to press down more and more each day until I can't take it they keep telling me the bone is not fully healed but I still would like the boot I think it would make me a lot braver. This whole thing really messed with my courage I went from 47 years of being absolutely fearless to fearing everything that may cause an injury to me or someone else even people on tv of I see someone start to sloppy cringe and look away saying there's an ankle breaker. I hope everyone has a great healing day thanks for the advice my fellow gimps. ;-). Tom
  • Liz May 8, 2012 @ 11:47 pm | delete
    Tom,
    I can't believe you are still on crutches at 4 months. At 4 months (2 weeks ago), is when I started walking with nothing full time. My tibia isn't fully healed as of last x-ray (April 2) and OS still told me to FWB. I hope you get some answers soon.
  • Liz May 8, 2012 @ 11:34 pm | delete
    Thursday is my last 2x a week PT. Starting next week I go down to 1x a week. She wants me to continue with the ankle exercises at home and do the elliptical, treadmill, bike, and leg press machine at the gym.
  • MarkBnh May 8, 2012 @ 10:35 pm | delete
    Deb, yes it appears that all of us have some issues with our doctors. I won't get into how they messed up my prostate diagnosis! Yikes.....32 days with a urinary catheter as well as a cast on my ankle. Trust me, the cast was the easier of the two!

    Now you have me wondering how I was able to walk relatively soon after cast removal. I'm thinking it is a combination of 2 factors. First, I had good circulation from doing a lot of cycling in my past and had recently done a lot on the gym bikes and treadmill work. Second, I have a pretty good tolerance for pain and maybe was too dumb to feel it...ha ha. Actually I think the doctor said "full weight as tolerated".......just to be fair. I interpretted that as "walk"!

    Hope your shoulder feels better soon. Mark
  • DebbieHp May 8, 2012 @ 9:58 pm | delete
    Yeah, I just wanted to add that the situation with my arm is really making me mad at my doctor. I go see him Friday and I am going to have a discussion about my shoulder. It was better today than it has been in a long time but still hurting. This morning it was pretty good but I still had to take Advil. I don't know, maybe I need to give PT some time to work but I am still going to discuss this shoulder and I want some answers as to what is going on with it and what they intend to do about it.

    So far, I bring it up and I get no answers. Well, we are going to have to deal with your elbow and your ankle first then see if there is something going on with the shoulder if it continues to hurt. Well, it has been hurting for 2 months now and quite frankly I am tired of it.

    I don't understand why they didn't do an MRI right off to see if there was something wrong with the shoulder. So, I also have some frustration going on with the doctor.

    Mark, I think your doctor was nuts just as mine was to tell us to just get up and walk. I am shocked you were able to do that. It must have been some kind of miracle because I couldn't hardly bear weight on my foot at first. It was all tingly and hurt. I had to keep slowly putting weight on it day after day each time I got up until it was easier and easier but it has taken me 3 weeks to get to the point where I am 3/4 weight bearing and then you know the crazy exercise routine she had me on.

    Of course, I have cut some out for exercise part 2 and it has helped a lot. I feel much better and I think I will heal better too. You can't heal if you are constantly tired from exercising all the time.

    ::sigh:: I guess we will all get well eventually in spite of some of the stupid stuff we have to deal with.
  • koreyama-liggins May 8, 2012 @ 8:05 pm | delete
    Hey everyone, 1 week after surgery and just counting down those days! I hope everyone is doing ok:)
  • MarkBnh May 8, 2012 @ 7:01 pm | delete
    Tom, I feel your frustration with the medical profession and I don't blame you. From one on the outside it doesn't sound like the doctor is on top of your situation which is not surprising given the state of modern medicine. They stare at their computer screens and forget a live patient is in front of them. Grrrr....don't get me started on this topic.

    You seem to have some conflicting information about where you are in the healing process. If it were me I would work with the PT people to start full weight bearing ASAP. Your ankle will hurt but will let you know when it's done too much. A walking boot might be your best friend for a short time as you wean yourself off the crutches. It supports the weak ankle muscles as you start to walk. I went right from a cast to the aircast walking boot. Your next step might be the boot with one crutch. I used a walker then a cane instead of crutches. I only used the boot for a week or so because I wanted to drive. Each step gets your bad ankle more used to weight bearing and walking. My doctor just said "The bones are healed, here's a boot, go walk now. See you in 4 weeks to evaluate your PT". Not much help! Then his office has cancelled and moved back my appointment twice now! I see him next Monday after 6 weeks instead of 4.

    Let us know how you do please. Like I said, I'd work with the PT folk and pester the doc by phone only if really necessary. Good luck.

    Mark in NH
  • DebbieHp May 8, 2012 @ 6:52 pm | delete
    Tom,

    I am starting to think you need to find another doctor. I know at this point you hate to change but maybe you need a second opinion about the stress fracture. It sounds like you had one but they don't want to admit it for some reason. Also, I would ask for a copy of your records to be sent to you. I would try to find another doctor and see what he says. This guy doesn't seem to be helping you.

    I asked my PT person if I could get a stress fracture from bearing too much weight because your story freaked me out a little and she said no because my bones have fused and are completely healed. She said they didn't want me FWB right from the beginning because it traumatizes the foot and leg muscles, tendons, etc. I can't full weight bear now because it hurts to much. You have to feel confident that your bones are healed or it will be hard mentally for you to make progress and part of this recovery is mental.

    Your doctor is making you crazy and is not helping your situation so I guess you could get a second opinion from someone and see what they say. I don't know what to tell you to do honestly. But I am starting to wonder about your doctor. Also, based on your doctor's report, it is up to the PT people to come up with a plan to get you moving. Exercises at home and at PT. I think there is some kind of miscommunication somewhere with the PT people and the doctor. Either way you need to get some help. 16 weeks post op is to long to not be working those muscles. Let us know what happens...keep us updated-----Debbie
  • Tom May 8, 2012 @ 6:22 pm | delete
    I forgot to mention the therapist told me I'm past the boot stage and not ready for a walker, I just can't win, they also was told I should be more active ..... Anybody who reads my bog knows I am always doin something. Tom
  • Tom May 8, 2012 @ 6:13 pm | delete
    Well I came out more confused than b4 I went. So first therapy for a revaluation which is my therapist but not the one who works with me and tells me I should be bearing more weight, I follow to the letter what the therapists that does the hand on tells me to do, whom she gets the orders from him who he receives orders from the ortho.....so the therapist ask me why I'm not further along so following protocol I told him to ask the ortho and himself. So I brought up the stress fracture and he tells me the ortho said there wasn't one, only the bone appeared not to be healing fast as it should and that it was brittle (the ortho told me there was one last visit and my wife was with me that visit and heard him say it not to mention that he sent the report to my accident insurance company and they told me about the stress fracture and there the people who loose the most cuz they r paying me) so they r gonna start soft tissue therapy and more aggressive therapy,he then writes a report for the ortho and gives it to the secretary and has her walk me over to the doctors side of the building and gives it to the doctors nurse I then have xrays taken and wait 45 mins for the doctor to come in and ask me why I'm still on crutches (here we go again) so I said great does that mean I can go for it ht said I should've been walking without anything by now and I am way behind I asked about the stress fracture and he just ignores me and goes on about my bone looking brittle cuz I haven't been FWB grrrr so I asked him again about going for it and he tells me no do it progressively so I don't get a stress fracture!!!!! I am losing over $3000 a week profit from my business having o.e less truck on the road every week and I just want to kick him but I don't want a stress fracture lol. So another story of the medical field covering for each other, or is it me? Someone help make sense of this. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Lisa Clark May 8, 2012 @ 6:31 pm | delete
    So let me get this right...the Ortho said you had a stress fracture and to only PWB. But the PT said there was no stress fracture and asked why you weren't farther along. So, next Ortho appt you ask the Ortho and he would not even answer whether you had a stress fracture or not. They all want to know why you aren't further along yet you need to be careful so you don't get a stress fracture, past the boot stage but not ready for a walker!!!!! What the heck??? What a pain in the arse this must be for you. Next time ask to see the xrays. My doctor always shows and gives me copies (on paper) of my xrays. I am lucky and glad I have a good DPM and PT. Good luck Tom. Do what your body says you can. Everyday do a litle more. Lisa C.
  • Debbie May 8, 2012 @ 12:30 pm | delete
    Hey Tom,

    Your weight bearing right? I know last I heard they had you in a pool walking but I couldn't remember if you were weight bearing yet. Partial I think if memory serves? Anyway, I would definitely ask about a walker with wheels so you don't have to use your arms to pick it up.

    If you are still non weight bearing I would ask about a knee scooter but I think you are beyond that.

    What would be great for you but maybe not covered by insurance is a rollator. Those things are awesome because the wheels pivot when going around turns and they have a little seat on it so if you get tired you can flip it up and sit down. So, really just depends on what your doctor says today about how much weight you can bear on your foot.

    But at least see about getting a walker to ease up your shoulder pain especially if you are partial weight bearing.

    Please let us know what happens------------

    Oh as a side note: I have to give my walker back to my aunt because she had a stroke. So now, I am waiting for my doctor to call to see if they can get me a new walker. My aunt is okay but has no insurance until July so she can't get a walker. Always something happening seems like. This is not shaping up to be a very good year so far. ------Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 8, 2012 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    Tom, do you still have too much pain to use a walker or cane? I went from wheelchair to walker and never did the crutch thing. I would ask for a walking boot or ankle brace and try to ditch the crutches ASAP. But, I'm not your doctor. Good luck today! ...Mark
  • Tom May 8, 2012 @ 10:37 am | delete
    Hi all, today is week 16 ankleversery and I have been on freakin crutches the whole time, I have a revaluation today with therapy and my surgeon that will tell me a lot, the problem with using crutches for so long besides the obvious pain and inconvenient element they have prevented me from gaining any balance and from walking straight up instead of slightly bent over, I am suprised I haven't had back problems from walking hunched over. I hope I get some good news from the ortho today since last month where he found the new stress fracture. I will update you when I getback home. Does anyone have a suggestion if I should ask for some different equipment. Thanks. Tom
  • Debbie May 8, 2012 @ 8:50 am | delete
    Thursday will be 10 weeks post op for me. Out of the cast a little over 3 weeks. Yeah my arm hurts today but in a different way now that we used weights. I am hoping the weights help that is if this woman doesn't kill me first. It really did feel like my arm was going to fall off. I mean it was so weak last night I could hardly pick up a paper plate.

    Yeah, I think there is a fine line between over doing and exercising the right way. I am just not sure where that line is...what PT calls a good stretch hurts to me. She said if you don't hold the stretch at least 7 seconds you are getting no benefit from the workout. Something to think about when your doing stretching exercises at home.

    It is hard to judge for me because I am always sore it seems like. Arm and ankle. Of course, both are being pushed. My arm they are trying to get straight and my ankle more weight bearing. I will be glad when this is all over with to tell you the truth and I don't have PT no more.

    Liz, they are probably going to wait and see how you respond to taking your metal out. It is nice you are down to once a week. I can't wait for that day.
  • Liz May 7, 2012 @ 10:10 pm | delete
    This week will be 13 weeks of PT for me. I don't know how long I was prescribed for. PT has said that I will go down to once a week and have more exercises to do at home, but not sure when they are going to that since there is talk of my metal coming out.
  • MarkBnh May 7, 2012 @ 8:50 pm | delete
    Yes, we did some step stuff my last two visits. Going down steps normally has been a problem but was better today. I was also surprised when she said not to push for more time walking. More strain can mean slower healing? Doesn't sound right to me but I guess I get it. It's a fine line we walk between exercise and over use. I don't hurt much at PT but seem to feel it that evening....ouch tonight.

    I am now 4.5 weeks out of my cast. Yesterday was 13 weeks since surgery. This is a long process but look at how far we have all come.
  • Debbie May 7, 2012 @ 8:12 pm | delete
    Have you worked on steps yet? She told me I am not far off from using nothing to walk. Not as far as I think. I was told I get 9 weeks of PT. This is week 4 so I guess we will see where we are at at week 9. She told me I would be amazed at what we can accomplish by then. She is such a slave driver, I believe it. She is tough. She asked me how my arm felt after PT. I said it feels like it is going to fall off my body. She said good!! that means you got a good work out LOL.....okay then. Yeah I hate when they yank on stuff. They have yanked my ankle back a few times and twisted my wrist around..ouch. She said I could take pain pills before i come if I want to. I am not sure it is worth it. I do take Advil before I go....4 of them.

    I have this big circle thing I try to use for balance. I have to make my foot move it in circles and then side to side and up and down. I have a really hard time moving it correctly. It has a ball on the bottom. I would imagine I will some day be standing on it trying to balance like your doing.

    How many weeks have you been out of your cast?
  • MarkBnh May 7, 2012 @ 7:14 pm | delete
    I have had 3 different PT people and they are all a little different. They all do the typical ROM exercises but have added more weight this week. One does some manual massage on the sore areas (I like that!). Another one kind of forced my whole ankle up a couple of times while my leg was strapped to the table! Lately they have made me do lots of stretching and balancing exercises on the bad ankle. Balancing all your weight on the bad ankle is tough, but that is what you need to walk on uneven surfaces.

    I am only scheduled for 3 more sessions....total of 12 over 6 weeks. Wonder if the doc will give me more?

    Ankle is sore tonight. I did 21 minutes on the bike at the gym after therapy. Time to rest and elevate. ...Mark
  • Debbie May 7, 2012 @ 6:32 pm | delete
    Mark- Yeah the ankle brace is to keep the ankle from turning from side to side. I remember my doctor telling me that now that you mention it. I take it off for my exercises to strengthen my ankle muscles.

    What do you do at PT? Sounds like you did most of your stuff on your own.
  • Debbie May 7, 2012 @ 6:23 pm | delete
    Mark, Thanks that certainly does help and makes me feel a little better. I mean sounds like you were more adventurous and took more risks and it paid off. I think my doctor and PT person are being a little more cautious but we all heal at our own rate. I also could not use crutches and am not allowed to use the walker unsupervised, especially since today I got wheels. I can actually walk taking real steps. I am so excited. It is the first time since the accident but it really feels weird and of course things are hurting. Next time she wants to try a cane.

    I think I am doing okay as is. I can't drive yet due to my arm. We will see what the doctor says on Friday. Last week I was 20 degrees from normal. She finally gave me some bicep exercises which I think may help my shoulder. She thinks the shoulder is due to the elbow injury. Just like when you first start to walk you have pain in your knee for example. You didn't hurt your knee but pain travels.

    I have had tendonitis in this shoulder forever and it would act up now and then but nothing major. I got PT for it years ago. When I fell of course, I fell right on this shoulder so the tendon feels weak. When I used to relax my arm, it would feel like my shoulder was falling. Hurt like hell. It doesn't do that any more thank god but now it hurts. I am thinking it is a weak tendon. The only way I got it to quit hurting before was to use weights.

    Also, I had a little chat with her about my exercises and she said that the ones that are the hardest to do I need to do them 2x a day, the rest I can do 1x a day. So, I am cutting half out for round 2.

    Anyway, today was scary but it turned out good. I have a love hate relationship with PT. I hate it because it hurts my arm like no tomorrow but when I am done it feels better and I am making good progress. =)

    LOL..today this lady next to me had my PT person because her's wasn't there today. I heard her telling my PT person...Man you are such a taskmaster. Geez. I thought Lady you have no idea. I heard Christina (my PT person) say, Well you want to walk without that cane don't ya? That means we have to push. Poor old lady. I know when I come home from PT I am worn out. That is why on PT days, I exercise one time a day.

    Anyway, I have rambled on long enough----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 7, 2012 @ 3:10 pm | delete
    Debbie, Maybe I'm not a good example but I also went right from the wheelchair to a walker. I tried crutches in the hospital and they said "not for you" LOL. I refused to fall again because of crutches! Unlike you, I could use both arms for support from the beginning. Also, my doctor skipped right over PWB and WBAT and went right to "full weight as soon as you can". So, I didn't know any better and just figured..."ok, I can walk now". As soon as I used the walker, I stopped using the wheelchair and just slowly walked around the house. Oh, I also had a walking boot for extra support. After a day or so, I saw that nice elbow cane my wife had used and figured it was worth a try. To my surprise, I could also walk with the aid of the cane and the walking boot. I used this combination for about a week as I recall. Oh, I had been in a hard cast or splint right up to the 8.5 week point when the doctor told me to go forth and walk. So, I did have muscle atrophy in my calf and other areas.

    Anyway, at about 9.5 or 10 weeks I could only fit into one very loose pair of walking shoes and started wearing those around the house instead of the boot. I still used the boot if I went out and the wife drove. When I finally got sick of her driving I said, "that's enough of that.....I'm going to try driving. Foot feels okay for that". I practiced on my quiet dead end street and parking lot and had no problems. When I drove to therapy the next day she said "Oh, the doctor said you could drive as soon as you can safely qpply enough pressure to the pedals". DUH....day late and dollar short. I said, "good, I just drove here alone". LOL

    I don't think I used the boot after that day, and gave up the cane soon after that. For a while I needed the cane to go down the damn wheelchair ramp at the front door but we finally got rid of that too. I've been walking on my own ever since week 10 I believe. Just lucky I guess. However, still going to PT and still have muscle and tendon pain that they want me to get rid of. She thinks I may have done a bit much this weekend. Oh well....

    Oh, I asked my PT about an ankle brace today and she said that it is both good and bad. It hinders the strengthening process but also helps if you are out and about on uneven ground. She said I might like one if we continue to do yard sales due to the uneven surfaces and yard areas. I may get one like yours Deb but will wait until I ask the Doc on Monday.

    That's my story as best as I can remember. Tough to get old and lose the memory....hahaha. Happy healing. ....Mark
  • Debbie May 7, 2012 @ 1:03 pm | delete
    Question for everyone out there: I just started using a walker like a couple weeks ago. I was PWB, then last Monday I was WBAT. If all goes well after this week and my doctor's appt Friday I will be FWB. At this point I am bearing everything but about 35 pounds of my full weight on this ankle. However, I am not leaving the house still.

    Mostly, I sit in bed as my home base since I don't own a recliner and then do my 2 walks around the house for exercise, plus I now get up for all my meals and bathroom duty. So, I have increased my walker usage a lot in the last few weeks. However, I am not fixing all my meals or doing anything else except walking and focusing on trying to put all my weight on that foot. I am also pretty slow but am able to take longer strides vs those little steps I was taking in the beginning.

    My question is: Is that how you all were at first? I mean I know my situation might be a little different because I went from wheel chair to walker in a day. Whereas maybe you guys were getting around on crutches, then boot or something so maybe you were struggling from day 1 with the cast on. I was just wondering if I am doing enough activity.

    My ankle is sore I can tell ya but today it is better since I rested it. I think I do more today and will have to due to it is PT day. I rest before I go to PT because they are going to push hard.
  • Debbie May 6, 2012 @ 10:09 pm | delete
    Liz, I am glad you had a good day and your speed will come with time. I know how you feel about speed though. I have to be the slowest human on a walker known to man. My PT person said we need to work on it. I don't walk much at PT which I think is weird. Mostly she stretches me which hurts. My arm is what really gets to me the most though. I still take a pain pill at night to sleep. I didn't last night and my arm keep waking me up hurting. The PT people said sometimes a dislocation can hurt worse than a break. Well, I also dislocated the ankle but it doesn't throw the fit like this arm. Mostly it is my shoulder but they don't want to address it yet because they said they can only work on so many body parts at a time. LOL....anyway, so once the arm gets straightened out literally (it is at 20 degrees and needs to be at 0) then they can start in on the shoulder. I have a doctor's appt on Friday and I intend to talk to him about it. 2 months and it hurts every day, some times constantly. Today was constant until now for some reason. God, some days I wonder if this injury will ever get better. When is the pain going to stop. Have I not suffered enough!!! Sorry lost it there for a minute. ::sigh:: Frustration sets in at times.

    But hey this weekend was a red letter weekend because I made it to the bathroom all by my self without no one in the house. I am not allowed to use the walker unattended yet but I was a rebel and went for it today...2x.

    I guess me falling outside the PT place with the walker left an impression which is why I can only use it while my husband watches. Also probably due to my arm being weak. Who knows.

    Anyway, I am glad you are getting better and you are recovering and life sounds pretty normal for you and I think that is wonderful. You sure deserve it. I wouldn't worry so much about speed, it will come, just be careful walking that is the main thing.

    This injury is really teaching me some patience, how to take one day at a time, and many other things. But those are the 2 biggest. Oh and how to test my limits. How to get over fear of falling again..that's one I haven't figured out yet.

    Anyway, I always ramble on here.,,,Night my fellow ankle friends----Debbie
  • Liz May 6, 2012 @ 7:12 pm | delete
    Debbie,
    I took a few ibuprofen and elevated. My leg still feels a little tired, but definately taking it a lot easier today. Surprisingly it did let me sleep. It was nice to have a day like yesterday. Can't wait for the day when I can keep up with everyone else and they don't have to wait on me to catch up.
    -Liz
  • Debbie May 6, 2012 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    Korey, I hear ya on the beauty shop. After I got my cast off that is what I did. I cut all my hair short so I could wash it easier with my bum arm. I am not sure if I like it but it is easier. I woke up feeling down too, like I have a head cold or something. Tomorrow is a PT day and I don't want to be sick for that.

    Anyway, I have often wondered if that happened to me because I would have died driving to work LOL. Because my injury happened right before I left for work. Either way here we are so I guess we need to deal with it. Sometimes I get tired of it though. Sorry I am not the best cheerleader today.

    Anyway, time to get myself up and eat some lunch, practice putting some more weight on my sore ankle. Use the walker some more. One thing about having a sore arm is, you tend to put more weight on the feet so your arm doesn't have to support your weight.

    I don't know about you guys but I sure wish I hadn't gained 10 pds while I was in the cast ....but I guess in the grand scheme of things it's not that much more weight for my ankle to hold since it only holds half of it. Well at least while standing. I think walking it has to bear it all.

    Lunch time....happy day to all ....debbie
  • koreyama-liggins May 6, 2012 @ 11:43 am | delete
    So up this morning and feeling a little down. I think back to that faithful day 2 weeks ago. I always wonder if this happened to me because maybe that following day, I was suppose to get in a fiery car crash? I don't know but I am waking up thankful and 5 weeks from now, this cast will be off. The first thing I am going to attempt to do, is go to the beauty shop! I look horrible:)
  • TexasGal May 8, 2012 @ 6:19 pm | delete
    I doubt you look "horrible" but know how you feel ! Make that appt at the hair salon, it will make you feel SO much better !!
    I looked like a WILD woman when I was able to get my hair cut ! It had been 3 months since my last appt (before my accident) I got it cut shorter so I can just wash and dry. My stylist gave me an extra conditioning on the house, so it was a real treat.
  • TexasGal May 8, 2012 @ 6:19 pm | delete
    I doubt you look "horrible" but know how you feel ! Make that appt at the hair salon, it will make you feel SO much better !!
    I looked like a WILD woman when I was able to get my hair cut ! It had been 3 months since my last appt (before my accident) I got it cut shorter so I can just wash and dry. My stylist gave me an extra conditioning on the house, so it was a real treat !
  • MarkBnh May 6, 2012 @ 10:29 am | delete
    Tom, I wish I had a riding mower. My yard is fairly small and I just have a walk behind mower. Needless to say, I have not cut the grass yet but I am starting to think about it...ha ha. Sounds like you did well!

    Deb, hope you feel better soon. I have PT tomorrow also. I remember how happy I was to be able to sit at the kitchen table to eat rather than use the wheelchair at the table. Every step like that gives us more hope. I never did eat in bed like you. Eeeeek...crumbs in bed! Ha ha. I'm glad I can also cook now since my wife is not the chef in our family! I got tired of frozen meals!

    Happy healing to all. Mark
  • Debbie May 6, 2012 @ 9:37 am | delete
    Sounds like you did a lot Liz, wow..at least you are now out there doing things and enjoying life again. Your life isn't all about your ankle and injury which is great. It may hurt today but I would rest it and hopefully it will be better tomorrow. I would elevate and ice. Seems to help.
  • Debbie May 6, 2012 @ 9:12 am | delete
    Tom: Sounds like you are coming along, I guess water therapy is helping now? Are you using crutches? Are you pwb yet? You have a lot going on, but it sounds like it is all going to be over with at one time, then hopefully all you will have to deal with is the ankle, which is enough.

    It seems all of us have had to not only deal with our injuries but other things too. I know I listed my issues some time ago. I am almost glad they fired me from my job because at least I don't have to worry about getting back to some job. I can take my time and heal. My husband doesn't make great money but we can survive if we budget. I think he has to go back into the office starting in June so hopefully in another 4 weeks I will be more self sufficient. I have just started getting around on the walker but he still makes my breakfast, lunch and dinner. I don't eat in bed no more. I use the walker to go into the living room or kitchen to eat. I actually sat on the couch yesterday for the first time since the accident. Yayyy. My couch is kind of low so it was hard before but I had no problem getting myself up from it now. Day by day I try to increase how much I walk around doing more and more for myself so I am not so dependent.

    I woke up this morning with a head cold I think. I have post nasal drip and really don't feel good so there is not going to be a lot of exercising going on today. Mostly I think I will be taking some cold medicine and laying around. Tomorow is good old PT so I don't want to be sick for that.

    I swear as if having this injury isn't enough and all the other crap we been through. Now, it is a head cold...really??? Anyway, we will all get through it.

    Happy Healing---Debbie
  • Liz May 6, 2012 @ 3:45 am | delete
    My leg is kinda mad at me tonight. I did a lot of walking on it. Since it was Cinco de Mayo, I went to a event that was being held. Since there was a car show in the parking lot, I parked across the very busy (40mph) street. Needless to say, I walked my fastest to get across so I wouldn't get hit, but still not as fast as the company I was with. Then I walked around the car show and all the booths that were set up. About an hour later I got to make the trek back to my car. Then I walked my dog at the park (I went there for a birthday party). Saturdays is also my night to go grocery shopping. So another 2 hours of walking. I'm trying to relax and watch tv, but my leg won't let me get comfortable. I don't see me getting a lot of consistant sleep tonight.
  • ED (Emilie) May 5, 2012 @ 9:29 pm | delete
    well guys.... I will join you in your competition since I knew each single item price at Price is right during week 5! This is when it hit me that I had a lot of free time on my hand. I guess we all need to find something on TV to keep our mind going. I made the 8$ that we are paying for Netflix all worth it. It's even free for the first month so I strongly suggest it.
  • Tom May 5, 2012 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Hey all, when I bought my new house they left the riding mower I got it started and the clutch is on the side my broken ankle side I was gonna use a crutch to push it but o tried with my foot it was hard to press then b4 u know it i Moses a couple of acres woohooo my ankle is bruised and sore but I did it then did some shopping at walmart but I cheated and used the motorized cart anyway one small step for me and one large step for lawn care!!! Mark ill outbid u on the price is right and I have won so much money on who wants to be a millionaire. Haha. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. ;-). Tom
  • Tom May 5, 2012 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Hey all, when I bought my new house they left the riding mower I got it started and the clutch is on the side my broken ankle side I was gonna use a crutch to push it but o tried with my foot it was hard to press then b4 u know it i Moses a couple of acres woohooo my ankle is bruised and sore but I did it then did some shopping at walmart but I cheated and used the motorized cart anyway one small step for me and one large step for lawn care!!! Mark ill outbid u on the price is right and I have won so much money on who wants to be a millionaire. Haha. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. ;-). Tom
  • kliggins May 5, 2012 @ 7:37 pm | delete
    I am so glad that my family was able to take my baby to Chucky e Cheese today, The day i got hurt was a week before my daughters birthday, my 18 year old is april 29th and my 5 year old was on April 30th:). The older girl went out with friends so she was ok, the baby had to wait for when Dad was off. She just got back and is so happy. I do hate I wasn't there but just having her and the family do regular family stuff again and not so much focus around the ankle gives it a sense of normalcy:)
  • MarkBnh May 5, 2012 @ 6:51 pm | delete
    Deb, I have you beat. I already confessed to watching Let's Make a Deal and The Price is Right most every day. Can't sink much lower than that! I did also manage to read a few crime novels. I think you were more creative than me....ha ha. ..Mark
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 6:06 pm | delete
    Okay I am going to make a confession. When I was stuck in bed for 7 full weeks and couldn't do anything, I surfed the internet ALOT. I lived on this site and facebook. Anyway, I now know all the names of everyone in the band NSYNC. I know where the initials come from (last letter of each of their first names). I know their greatest hits and all their names LOL....I just found looking at music videos and watching people dancing lifted my spirits. I started with Michael Jackson because he was such a gifted dancer and i like the line dancing type stuff he does. Anyway, then it progressed to boy bands. Okay nothing I am proud of, but turns I really do like Nsync so there you have it. Boredom at it's best LOL...thought maybe you all would get a kick of it my little story. ---Happy Healing folks---Stay strong, this too shall soon pass---Debbie
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 6:06 pm | delete
    Okay I am going to make a confession. When I was stuck in bed for 7 full weeks and couldn't do anything, I surfed the internet ALOT. I lived on this site and facebook. Anyway, I now know all the names of everyone in the band NSYNC. I know where the initials come from (last letter of each of their first names). I know their greatest hits and all their names LOL....I just found looking at music videos and watching people dancing lifted my spirits. I started with Michael Jackson because he was such a gifted dancer and i like the line dancing type stuff he does. Anyway, then it progressed to boy bands. Okay nothing I am proud of, but turns I really do like Nsync so there you have it. Boredom at it's best LOL...thought maybe you all would get a kick of it my little story. ---Happy Healing folks---Stay strong, this too will shall soon pass---Debbie
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 5:43 pm | delete
    If what Mark says doesn't work try this http://www.facebook.com/groups/368618886485089/442479852432325/?notif_t=group_comment.

    But typing in broken ankle/foot/leg survivors into search and the group should pop up, then you ask to join it.
  • MarkBnh May 5, 2012 @ 4:15 pm | delete
    Kliggins, just type "broken ankle" into the search box and the group comes up right at the top of the search results. Then, you must ask to become a member from the group leader and she will respond shortly.
  • kliggins May 5, 2012 @ 3:23 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie, I was trying to find the facebook group you suggested but I can't. is there a way to search to get to it?
  • MarkBnh May 5, 2012 @ 3:06 pm | delete
    Tom, I went right from 8 weeks in a splint or hard cast to an "aircast walking boot". (look on Google) At this point the OS said I could be full weight bearing as tolerated. The boot is in two pieces and the front velcrows in place after you slip the rear part under the foot. Then, you can pump it up with more air if needed to make the whole thing a tighter fit. It mostly supports the ankle while learning how to walk and support weight again. Its bigger than the ankle braces that a lot of folks seem to get. Some people get the aircast boot instead of a hard cast but I was not so lucky. Tom, it may help you just before you start to walk on your own. I only used it for about a week myself because I wanted to drive my new car ASAP and the boot made that impossible....ha ha. I managed to drive okay at 9.5 weeks after surgery. The OS told my PT that as long as I felt I could apply adequate pressure to the brake pedal that I was okay to drive. I drove to PT before she told me that. LOL (I did practice in a parking lot first)

    Sandra, you are lucky you can remove your boot cast 2 hours a day. I had a non removable cast for 8.5 weeks. If you get a shower seat as Deb suggested at least you can take a nice shower to clean up and improve your mood. I did sponge baths for 8 weeks also....ugh! Trust me, we all know what you are going through right now....helplessness, boredom, depression, and the whole bit. I totally agree with Deb about trying to get a new routine in place for the next 6-7 weeks. I would get up early, make my own breakfast in the kitchen, then settle into the recliner to do some reading before the morning TV shows. I'm now an expert at Lets Make a Deal and Price is Right! Then it was lunch, some afternoon reading or TV, and on to dinner. A doctor appointment meant a treat to get out of the house! Anyway, you get the idea. Time will pass and you will heal! I didn't have too many visitors to tell me it was "nothing". grrrrr Good thing.

    Tom, it sounds like you are taking each of your many issues in stride as best as possible. Keep up the good attitude! I just hope you can ditch the crutches soon and use a boot and/or cane to get around. I sure felt good to lose the wheelchair and get rid of the wheelchair ramp to my front door. Today the wife and I did about 10 yard sales, then walked around Home Depot and Wal Mart! I couldn't have done that much just 2 weeks ago. I limped a little at times, then at other times walked almost normally. It's strange how it comes and goes with me now. Still healing I'm sure. I thought about doing the stationary bike at the gym again, but wimped out after the morning walking...ha ha.

    Deb, I'm proud of your efforts the last few days. Keep it up and you will be walking in no time. Just listen to your body and if you get too sore and swolen, back off and rest for a day or so. I actually skipped my exercises several days when I felt I needed to rest and heal. The PT people are not always the best judges of progress.

    Guess I've rambled on enough here. I actually got on my iPad's bluetooth keyboard so I could type quicker and easier. Happy healing to all and "Hola..Cinco de Mayo!"
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 3:03 pm | delete
    Tom, I have an air cast and it looks like this http://www.dme-direct.com/deroyal-confor-plus-stirrup-ankle-splint

    I guess it could be considered a splint or a brace. I never had a boot and I am walking with it but I am also using tennis shoes. I can't hardly walk barefoot. I bought some tennis shoes one size to big to wear with the brace and it really helped me to be able to walk. Maybe it would help you too. I don't know. Look at my splint and see if it similar to yours. ---Debbie
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 12:32 pm | delete
    Liz, I am sorry you didn't have more help. I am sure that was very hard. I guess you just struggled around. The people you live with should have been more helpful. I am sorry that they weren't.

    My husband helps me a lot. I am now trying to increase walking around the house. It is hard because I was in the wheel chair for so long and now I am walking around so I am not sure how much to do. I just increase every day and am trying to become independent again. Today though my ankle really hurts. It is very sore. However, my arm hurts a little less. Looks like they are going to take turns. ----Debbie
  • Tom May 5, 2012 @ 10:58 am | delete
    Hey I never got a walking boot maybe that will help my progress I've been on crutches since Jan 18th I went from hard cast to a dumb little splint does it help a lot? Tom
  • Tom May 5, 2012 @ 10:50 am | delete
    Kliggins, we have all felt that way b4 it is hard especially if u were very active b4 I worked a lot of hours a week running and doing the physical work to my business pretty much worked ate and slept then pow nothing... It's humbling,when you went from everything to needing help with the simplest task like grooming or even carrying a cup of coffee so the guilt sets in and you feel like burden to the point of needing something and goin without cuz u just asked for something a few minutes b4 that .....well guess what for remember the vows for better for worse, a children's turn to help the parent, a friend in need is a friend in deed, or family first cuz I'm sure you have or would do the same thing for them. The burden you feel is natural which usually turns to depression that's what this sight is for so when your feeling negative be positive,when your feeling weak be strong, when your feeling helpless ask for help!!!! We here are all connected due to our injury so read the stories and know your not alone and write comments cuz we all will listen and understand. Soon you will find your able to do more things for yourself as the healing continues weather u figured it put your self or u learned it from this sight. So start healing and each day will be one day closer to recovery. Hey Mark you have made great progress u go boy ur my hero great job!!!! Deb wow u have also came along way I admire all the torture u have dealt with at therapy and working your way through 2 injuries at the same time. Sandra welcome to our wacky little world of broken ankles and plates and screws. As far as me my daughter got her hair colored with streaks ( whatever that is ) the dress last week just shoes and nails left b4 prom next weekend, my mom had the surgery Wich was 4 hours long and is starting recovery, this weekend we are moving some stuff and painting at the new house Wich we have to b moved in by June 1st and the out of state funeral early in the week all wrapped around therapy... Look out world here I come ;-) happy healing my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Debbie May 5, 2012 @ 9:29 am | delete
    Hi Sandra. Welcome to the site. There is also a group on facebook called broken ankle/leg/foot survivors if you would like to join there as well. I post in both places. I post my longer stuff on here.

    I am sorry to hear about your injury. I know it really sucks as I was there not long ago. I just got my cast off 3 weeks ago. I posted on here and on facebook constantly or I think I might have lost my mind. There are a few things that helped me. First, I would get a shower chair. I am still using mine and they are nice when you can't stand and shower. Many people with a cast on have used shower bags (they sell them for casts at the store) and can hang their leg outside the shower.

    For middle of the night bathroom duties some people found a bedside commode a nice thing to have.

    Other people found when they were NWB, that a knee scooter was nice to be able to get around easier. I couldn't own one because I dislocated my elbow and couldn't steer it.

    The only thing you can do in your situation right now is try to stay as busy as possible and keep your mind off your injury as much as possible. Get into some kind of routine. Like for example: Read in the morning, play spider solitaire, play video games, watch movies. You can do all that on a lap top in bed if you have one. Just try and get through it. Count the days until you get your cast off. It will get here sooner or later and then things move pretty quickly.

    I know how you feel though. I cried a river of tears throughout this thing. I hated feeling so helpless. It just sucks and no one really understands. It is a very frustrating injury but hang in there because it really does get better.

    Remind yourself it is only temporary...I said that to myself every day and some days it helped and other days I wanted to scream.

    I also put a pillow behind my back so I could kind of lay on my side, pillow between legs and then my pillow for the elevated cast. Plus extra pillow for my arm to rest on. I was surrounded by pillows. I had to have help using the bathroom and since I tend to get up to go in the night, we finally got a bedside commode. My husband got tired of running me to the bathroom in a wheel chair except for you know the other duty. Plus he works from home so it was hard for him to quit working and help me all the time. If he is away from his pc for more than 10 minutes it throws him off the site.
  • Sandra May 5, 2012 @ 8:16 am | delete
    Hi my name is Sandra, and I broke my ankle and had surgery 2 weeks ago. Had the plate and screws, how many I didn't ask. I will when I see surgeon 30 May. I have never been so helpless in all my life. Sleeping is just impossible :( I have 2 pillows under my leg and laying on my back. I have never cried so much either :( People just don't understand !!! Oh yo will be fine, if I hear it one more time I will snap. lol I am in a boot cast now and can have it off 2 hours a day, and have to move my toes back and forth. That is it. I am using a wheel chair, those crutches are ready to go out the window...lol It is great to read all these post, and understand you are not alone. Any ideas are greatly appreciated :)
  • kliggins May 5, 2012 @ 3:30 pm | delete
    Hi Sandra, My name is Korey and I broke my ankle last week. I know exactly how you feel and I am doing whatever I can to keep my spirits up some how. The week I broke my ankle, I was let go from my job, my daughter has prom in 2 weeks. The only family I have is my immediate family. We were also in the process of moving so most of the furniture was put in storage so when it was time to move in a few months, it would have been easier. Well, that wasn't a good idea:) I am on here all the time because I find its easier to get through things when you speak with those who are going through it with you and understand what we are going through.
  • TexasGal May 8, 2012 @ 6:50 pm | delete
    Hi Sandra, I know what you are feeling, just hang in there !! Cry all you want (I did) I think it helps ! It IS hard to feel helpless and your world is turned upside down. I had a bi- fracture of the ankle plus dislocation, from a bad car accident in January. My car was totalled, got hit by a teenager who never slowed for a stoplight. I have 2 plates and 12 screws in my ankle, it's been a hard road back ... but YOU can do it too ! I've been at work for several weeks now, part time and I'm doing OK. I was in a hard cast for 5 wks then the air boot for 7 wks. I hated crutches too, used the wheelchair as much as I could. Got a walker when I was ok to start PT. Then a cane. I have a small ankle brace to wear during the day now. I still have a limp but its getting better !
    Tips: Get a cushion for your wheelchair. A seat elevator for the toilet really helped. A friend loaned us a potty chair for the early weeks, a real lifesaver at night. Get a shower seat. A wedge pillow for your leg, and a backrest type pillow for your back in bed. Bottled water is a lot easier than juggling cups etc You're not alone, there are lots of fellow ankle-breakers here !!
  • Sandra May 5, 2012 @ 8:16 am | delete
    Hi my name is Sandra, and I broke my ankle and had surgery 2 weeks ago. Had the plate and screws, how many I didn't ask. I will when I see surgeon 30 May. I have never been so helpless in all my life. Sleeping is just impossible :( I have 2 pillows under my leg and laying on my back. I have never cried so much either :( People just don't understand !!! Oh yo will be fine, if I hear it one more time I will snap. lol I am in a boot cast now and can have it off 2 hours a day, and have to move my toes back and forth. That is it. I am using a wheel chair, those crutches are ready to go out the window...lol It is great to read all these post, and understand you are not alone. Any ideas are greatly appreciated :)
  • Liz May 5, 2012 @ 2:47 am | delete
    Debbie:
    Before my injury I cooked for my parents and brother. I also do the grocery shopping. During my 1st month of NWB I received help cooking and my brother did sometimes clean the house. As I got stronger (PWB, WBAT, and now FWB), I received less and less help. I told my PT that I don't get help cooking or cleaning anymore. I don't even get help with my exercises anymore. She told me at least I can do it alone again and that is good. Sometimes I miss the help and I wish I had someone like the spouses that I read about.
    -Liz
  • Debbie May 4, 2012 @ 10:26 pm | delete
    Mark, I have an air cast and it looks like this http://www.dme-direct.com/deroyal-confor-plus-stirrup-ankle-splint

    I wear it all the time except when doing my exercises because my doctor told me to. I am going to ask next Friday if I have to wear it all the time or can I start taking it off. When I first got it I was Partial weight bearing but now I am weight bearing as tolerated until after next week then I will be full weight bearing.

    The PT person wants me up to 3/4 of my weight by Monday so I am pushing to get it up there. I keep standing on a scale and rocking back and forth and trying to get it higher so I know what it feels like to put that much weight on it and then I try to increase. I am even trying to stand on one foot now and then to get a feel for my weight. So yeah I keep pushing it even though it scares me a little. But they have assured me my bones are healed and it is just getting my muscles and stuff stronger now. Supposedly taking off my brace and doing my exercises will help make my ankle stronger. I am supposed to bear as much weight on it without the brace as possible while standing according to my PT person but I am not supposed to walk without it.

    I don't have a lot of swelling either. I am starting to see my veins on my foot again. Mostly my foot just turns purple.

    Okay gonna take some pain relief and go to bed. Have a good night. ----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 4, 2012 @ 10:01 pm | delete
    Good work Debbie. I think I only took a few steps on my first attempt. Progress will come faster for you now. Do you have a walking boot? I used it for a few days to get my ankle used to weight bearing. Then only when out of the house, then not at all. You have to keep testing your limits.
  • Debbie May 4, 2012 @ 8:16 pm | delete
    Congrats on your progress Mark!! I can't even imagine walking around a grocery store. I can't imagine doing anything normal right now although I think I am getting closer. Today I stood by my bed and just barely touched my walker with one hand like it was a cane and took 2 small steps. I was pretty happy. Maybe I really can walk with a cane soon. We will see. This is a weird injury. One day can make all the difference. ------Debbie
  • Debbie May 4, 2012 @ 6:16 pm | delete
    Kliggins, I broke my ankle and dislocated my elbow so I was bedridden except for my side potty and whenever my husband wanted to transfer me from bed to wheel chair. I couldn't even wheel the chair on my own because I couldn't put weight on the elbow. So, I felt really helpless.

    It is really hard to go from being an active healthy adult to a disabled adult where you depend on everyone. A wheel chair would help you so I hope you get one but if your house is anything like mine it is still hard to navigate some areas without help. I have a small house and turning into the bathroom was hard. My husband had to literally lift the back of the wheel chair up and turn it to get me in there.

    A few times where he had to be gone for hours, we asked my mom to come watch me and she didn't want to. She said she didn't think she could handle it but that she would come because when she had cancer twice I was there for her. ( I was the only one there for her). So I felt like she came but only because she "owed" me not because she wanted to.

    There are family members that I am not talking to anymore because of the way they treated me during this injury. I have a nephew that refuses to talk to me because of something I supposedly said about his mother when her and my brother were going through a divorce. When I was injured, he basically said he didn't care. I wasn't the only one that had stress and he was tired of people using their problems to play the victim. It really pissed me off because we are talking about someone who is 27 years old..not a kid and I didn't say anything bad about his mother. I said she was controlling which is the truth. It's not like I called her names.

    Anyway, sorry to get off topic there but yeah my daugther said she didn't have time to come out here and help me out because she was too busy. MAYBE she could come once a week if that. And then there was the whole issue of gas which I offered to pay. This was when we mentioned I "might" need someone to take me to PT.

    Luckily, my husband Mike's work has been great about my accident and he is currently working from home and can take me to all my appointments. It has made me and him closer but there are some family members I am not real happy with. Well, most of them. So I do know how you feel.

    What I tell myself is this: They don't realize the seriousness of what we are going through. Most people don't realize what goes into breaking an ankle and how devastating it can be. They don't understand what you are going through at all. They figure oh well you broke your ankle, no biggie, you will heal in a few weeks and BAM when the cast comes off you can walk and will be good as new.

    My mom even suggested that I was going to look back on this and laugh someday. I told her if she thought that then she had NO idea what I was going through.

    So, it isn't that they don't love you although there are days you wonder. It is just they don't get it. They don't understand. And let's face it, some of them might be just down right selfish. But we can't worry about all that. I mean it is what it is right? We have to deal with our injury and focus on getting better and doing what we can when we can for ourselves.

    Ask yourself this: If the shoe was on the other foot would you be there for them? You know you would so don't worry about being a burden or whatever. Blow it off and just worry about what you can do right now today to feel better.

    Because each day is one day closer to normal. Hope some of that helps and Happy Healing!! -----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 4, 2012 @ 12:36 pm | delete
    Good afternoon Deb. Sorry to hear that you woke up sore today. It has been raining here for 3 days! I had a good PT session yesterday and did more and new stretching and balance exercises. I walked the entire grocery store this morning with just a very slight limp. I'm determined to lose the limp soon.

    You are correct about the multiple battles most of us face. Mine was a urinary and prostate issue brought on by the ankle surgery. I had prostate surgery while still in a cast for the ankle. The way I looked at it, I could get both problems dealt with at the same time! No place to go but UP.....literally. For a while I told everyone I had a new slogan.."can't walk, can't pee". Ha ha. Now I can do both!

    Kliggins, I sure hope you get a wheelchair soon. Being able to get around a little sure helps and takes the strain off your family a little. Check with the local veterans and Lions Clubs also. They often loan out medical stuff. I know my Lions Club does. Keep us posted. ....Mark
  • kliggins May 4, 2012 @ 12:23 pm | delete
    I know that this is a strain not only on the patient but the family as well. Have any of you ever felt like such a burden? Have any of you had family seem to be upset or don't want to help you? If you have experienced anything like this, what did you do to get through it?
  • kliggins May 4, 2012 @ 11:25 am | delete
    PT is suppose to visit today. I am hoping they will bring me a wheelchair so I can get around more. I would feel a lot better being able to go back and forth to the kitchen, and getting some independance back.
  • Debbie May 4, 2012 @ 10:03 am | delete
    Good Morning my fellow ankle breakers. How is your day going? I woke up very sore today and my ankle says it is going to rain LOL...wonder if I am going to be a walking baromter now? Sure enough, I looked at the forecast and there is rain in our future today.

    I was just looking over many of our posts and was thinking how for many of us our broken ankle is not the only challenge we are dealing with. I thought I was the only one with not only the broken ankle but other issues, guess I am not alone there.

    We will all get through this eventually. It just is going to take prayer, patience and a lot of hard work. Hope you all have a good day today. Happy Healing----Debbie
  • Debbie May 3, 2012 @ 9:02 pm | delete
    I highly recommend a bedside commode. It is a life saver in the middle of the night when you don't want to be trying to either use crutches in the dark or attempt to wheel yourself in the bathroom. I used a bedside commode for peeing only and the other I went to the bathroom with my husbands help using a wheel chair to get there. We rented a small wheelchair as my house is only 1064 square feet and we have one very small bathroom. My doctor wrote the prescription and the insurance covered it. Look up under your insurance policy about necessary medical equipment. It should be covered.

    I am also sorry to be so graphic but we wound up buying one on amazon for 30 bucks to put over the commode because as Mark said it was easier because of the handles. Like I said the other was done what is now referred to as the big bathroom.

    I still use the bedside commode at night because we have 2 dogs and dog toys and crap and I don't want to be trying to put on tennis shoes and walk in a walker in the middle of the night when I am all groggy and stuff. I won't risk another injury and my husband doesn't care, he just pours it in the toilet rinses it out and sprays it with disinfectant. No big deal.

    Another thing I highly recommend is a shower chair. I couldn't live without mine. Makes taking a shower pretty safe and it feels wonderful. Of course, you will need some shower bags or something right now to keep your cast from getting wet. I sponged bathed until I got my cast off because we had shower doors and they had to be taken off to fit the shower chair.
    My husband didn't have time to do it as after I broke my ankle we too had a boat load of stuff going on to deal with. Just to give you an idea: Shingles blew off the roof, lawn mower broke down, dog fell off the bed and had to be taken to the vet (thank god for the bedside commode as I was alone for hours) and remember I also had a dislocated elbow and an arm that still hurts...anyway, we had dogs throwing up too because one got into some chocolate. It was a big freaking mess around here. One thing after the next. Cars breaking down, etc. Oh our TV went out during that time when I was in a cast. What a mess. Oh and let us not forget I got fired from my job due to my lack of being able to do it. They didn't even wait for the doctors prognosis.

    Things are better now that I can get around on a walker but I still use the commode over the toilet. It is just easier because our toilet is so low. It came with a splash guard and was 30 bucks on amazon.

    Anyway, that is what worked for me. Hope you can at least get a wheel chair. You must get up every 2 hours during the day to keep your blood moving. You have to stay somewhat active that is why the wheel chair is important. Also, for doctor visits too. Your arms get sore using crutches I bet.

    Anyway, good luck to you all. Tom, I am also sorry about your troubles but I can relate. When it rains it pours. I also had to get something for my nerves as I started having chest pains and the doctor said it was because my heart was panicking due to stress.

    If all else fails ask PT if you can borrow a wheel chair until you can find one at a yard sale or something. They let me borrow a walker.
  • MarkBnh May 3, 2012 @ 6:19 pm | delete
    Kliggins, I had a narrow wheelchair that was a life saver for me. It fit into our small bathroom where my wife fit the raised commode over the toilet. She cut the bottom from a plastic bucket and taped the bucket to the commode seat! Not pretty but I could go from the wheelchair onto the toilet commode using my arms and 1 leg and still flush. The arms on the side of the commode made this possible. Privacy and not washing the commode is a wonderful thing! Sorry to be so graphic.

    We have a small house and had bought a narrow "travel" wheelchair at a yard sale last year. It fit through narrow door openings and was my savior for 7 weeks. I did not use crutches at all and found the walker too much work. I could wheel around the kitchen and stand on my good leg to reach the cabinets. Some folks love a
    "knee walker" which can be rented online for about $30 a week. It's important that you get out of bed and move around as much as possible. A wheelchair is also handy for medical visits. We also had to get a temporary wooden ramp for our front entry steps....ugh. (son and a friend built it quick and cheap).

    I'm just sharing what worked for me. We all have to do what we can to survive this injury. I'm walking unassisted now with a plate and 8 screws total. Surgery was on 2/5/12......Super Bowl Sunday! Hang in there!
  • kliggins May 3, 2012 @ 6:58 pm | delete
    Thanks for all of your helpful tips. I am trying to move around because just laying in bed, although a must, will not help in the total recovery. I have to move. Just laying in bed is not only depressing but is driving me nuts! I am glad that you are doing well, I read your stories and I know everyone is different but man, I hope I can heal half as fast as you:)
  • kliggins May 3, 2012 @ 6:59 pm | delete
    Thanks for all of your helpful tips. I am trying to move around because just laying in bed, although a must, will not help in the total recovery. I have to move. Just laying in bed is not only depressing but is driving me nuts! I am glad that you are doing well, I read your stories and I know everyone is different but man, I hope I can heal half as fast as you:)
  • kliggins May 3, 2012 @ 4:13 pm | delete
    LOL Tom- there is nothing like timing! Luckily, we did the major shopping and got the dress and shoes, stuff like that but its the little stuff that need to be done and Im a little pissed that I can't play a big role.My home nurse came today and she was like where is your wheelchair, where is your bedside commode(the thought of that thing grosses me out)? I told her I asked pt and they told me it was not covered, ?? I am just laying here, taking care of everything that is going on, and I'm doing ok. Like I said previously, this site helps so much. Yeah I can talk with my hubby(who is being great) but its so much more comforting to speak with someone who knows what we are going through!
  • kliggins May 3, 2012 @ 4:13 pm | delete
    LOL Tom- there is nothing like timing! Luckily, we did the major shopping and got the dress and shoes, stuff like that but its the little stuff that need to be done and Im a little pissed that I can't play a big role.My home nurse came today and she was like where is your wheelchair, where is your bedside commode(the thought of that thing grosses me out)? I told her I asked pt and they told me it was not covered, ?? I am just laying here, taking care of everything that is going on, and I'm doing ok. Like I said previously, this site helps so much. Yeah I can talk with my hubby(who is being great) but its so much more comforting to speak with someone who knows what we are going through!
  • MarkBnh May 3, 2012 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    Wow, you sure have a lot on your plate right now! I wish you the best of outcomes on all fronts. I feel guilty in that my biggest worry right now is when I'll be able to mow the grass...ha ha. I guess being older and recently retired has some advantages.
  • Tom May 3, 2012 @ 11:08 am | delete
    Hi kliggons congrats you made it home, we have some stuff in common last week I took my daughter to the mall prom dress shopping of course being the dad I didn't realize this entailed looking in every store on the mall then back for the second relook tour all on crutches, us guys do one stop shopping nothing which includes these mall places...... Wow, anyway I also am moving by June 1st and I have to get my 5th wheel camper to our seasonal site and set it up by the middle of may and an out of state funeral in a few days all this while my mom is having major surgery today, besides that not much going on. But guess what we all find a way to giter done as will you by the grace of god and xanax. But you find out who your true friends are... Bit I am sire we will all laugh when this is in our rear view mirrors, just remember take care of your recovery first and the other stuff will work itself out. Have faith and stay positive. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • Debbie May 3, 2012 @ 7:09 am | delete
    Kliggins,

    I am so glad you are getting to come home. Yeah it takes a few days for the pain to let up. I think I took pain meds for about 2 weeks, but like I said I could have stopped after a week. However, I still take them for my arm at night to sleep but I don't need them for my ankle. I could take tylenol or advil for ankle pain. I don't really have much ankle pain at all so eventually things get better.

    Wow, moving is a big job. Just take it easy and go slow. Don't do to much. Take good care of yourself. Are you by yourself or do you have a husband? I know you mentioned a daughter. Hopefully, she can help you out. Glad you are in less pain!! Keep us posted. ----Debbie
  • kliggins May 2, 2012 @ 11:06 pm | delete
    I am finally home. I am having home health visiting me tomorrow and pt coming to the house soon. I am noticing that the pain is subsiding slowly. I am able to go longer periods without taking my meds. Before I broke my ankle, here is what I had going on, moving, getting my daughter ready for prom and did I mention MOVING!! Well, like they say, the show must go on. I am confident everything will work out for the best:)
  • Debbie May 2, 2012 @ 6:25 pm | delete
    Yeah it sounds like they are being conservative with me but I think that is also because I couldn't get around with anything due to my arm. I am going to talk to my doctor next week about this shoulder. I think it could be due to the accident because it seems like in some ways it has improved.

    I just got back from PT and the arm torture and it actually feels better. She said the more we do it the quicker we can quit doing it so looks like I am going to start with the arm torture at home too. At least if I have to cry I can do it LOL. It was better today though. Didn't hurt so much. I wonder if that is because it didn't rain and was warmer today.

    So my new goal is to increase walking with the walker, try to bear up to 150 pds on the foot ( I weigh 175 ::blush:: gained a tad during my 6 weeks of non bearing) and pretty much ditch the wheel chair. Next week she is going to start me on a cane.

    I was like WHAT?? I am not even used to the walker yet. She said you can keep the walker but we want to just TRY the cane okay?

    Good grief. I am on week 3 of no cast and look how far that got me progressing. Sometimes I feel like we are moving really fast but I guess that is because I was so immobile for so long...well since Feb 22nd. This is week 3 of PT which I started the next week after they took off the cast.

    Yeah I think those older guys are made of sterner stuff. I am a big baby compared to them that is for sure. They probably just asked for a stick and some whiskey to get their ankle set.

    Happy Healing -----Debbie
  • MarkBnh May 2, 2012 @ 3:13 pm | delete
    Thanks Deb. Actually I just got the cast off at 8.5 weeks. The OS put me in an aircast walking boot that I forgot to mention. I probably used the walking boot for about 10 days for stability before I ditched that too. I know I started driving at about 9.5 weeks so I was mostly out of the boot by then.

    As you said, we all heal differently. I thought I was going slow until I read other stories online. The reason I say this is because I have 2 elderly male relatives who broke their ankles in their 80s and it barely seemed to slow them down! They are both WW II veterans so maybe they are tougher than we are...ha ha.

    It sounds like your doctor is taking good care of you by being conservative. My OS waved goodbye and said "see you in 4 weeks". His office has since pushed my appointment back twice so now I am up to 6 weeks follow up. I'm a little upset about that. My PT now runs out the same week I see the OS. Maybe I'll be done with PT by then!

    Happy healing and keep those cards and letters coming.
  • Debbie May 2, 2012 @ 2:28 pm | delete
    Wow Mark, so you were able to bear your full weight on your foot when he said you could right off the bat? Dang. I am weight bearing as tolerated right now at 9 weeks tomorrow. I won't be full weight bearing for another 1.5 weeks. Just got to wbat Monday so 2 weeks from this past Monday. I am working on getting full weight bearing. I can get about 115 to 120 pounds max on that foot before it starts to really ache. I want to wait until I see the doctor on May 11th (next Friday) to push it too hard. I am guessing that is why he wants me to come in then too, probably xray it and then see where we are before it makes me put full weight on it. I tried standing on the bad foot only this morning...not a good plan.

    Man, 8.5 weeks is only a couple weeks out of the cast unless you were out of a cast sooner. Funny how different everyone's progress is....well that is awesome. Now, if you can get the limp fixed you are on your way..Congrats!!!
  • MarkBnh May 2, 2012 @ 1:45 pm | delete
    Yes Debbie, I am not using a cane or anything else. I haven't used anything for a few weeks now. When the OS said I could FWB at 8.5 weeks, I used a walker in the house for a day or two, then tried a cane. My wife had a nice elbow cane that we bought in Europe last year which allows for more support than a hand cane. (haven't seen them around here) I used the cane for a week or so mostly to go down the wheelchair ramp that was still at our entry door. When the ramp went bye bye, so did the cane!

    I just had my 12 week ankleversary but still have a slight limp. I think the PT diagnosed my problem yesterday so now I can work on it. I have tightness in my lower calf muscle and rear tendons. I'm doing the "hold up the wall" stretch to work on it.

    On a positive note, I went to the gym today and did 20 minutes on the stationary bike! (no treadmill yet!). Progress!

    Sorry to hear about the arm torture Deb. ouch! I hope they get that under control soon! The ankle stuff is bad enough.

    Kliggins, glad to hear of your progress. It's always nice to leave the hospital. Get ready for some long boring days, but it will be over before you know it. Hang in there.
  • Debbie May 2, 2012 @ 12:34 pm | delete
    Yayyy Kliggins =) Things will keep getting better from here. Everyday we get better in every way.

    So Mark you are not using a crutch or anything anymore? I am about 2.5 weeks behind you. She told me my next step would be a cane but I am hoping she gives me a couple more weeks with the walker. I haven't gotten the hang of it yet ----Debbie
  • Debbie May 2, 2012 @ 12:23 pm | delete
    I think alot of your recovery and pain depends on the severity of the injury. I broke my ankle falling over a dog gate so I didn't fall very fall. I guess I landed it on it wrong but landed on my shoulder first which is why I am surprised I didn't break my shoulder or arm. My arm was hyper-extended so that is the reason for the dislocation of the elbow but I digress...I broke my ankle at the bottom of my fibula but it was one clean break and then on the other side I broke another ankle bone because I have a pin that magically holds it together...also a clean break. Whereas some people have several breaks and have shattered their ankle ect. Also recovery times are different for some people.

    Either way, I do think this is a long and painful recovery process but there are stages. The hardest one for me in a lot of ways was wearing the cast because I was so limited in what I could do. I still am but at least now I can walk in my walker and get out of this bed once in a while.

    My main pain now is my arm. They are trying to make it go straight and I am about 20 degrees from that now. So they are really pushing to try to get it straight. It hurts like everything when they make me put my arm over the side of the table out in the air and then they weight it down with hot towels, plus tie a weight on my wrist. I go through this hell 3x a week. Today is another day of it. I have to stay like that for 15 minutes and last time it took everything I had not to cry.

    The ankle pain is nothing in comparison. I don't have much pain or swelling so I guess I got lucky or I am not to that point yet. I can't wait to get past the walker and be able to put more weight on the ankle. But it hasn't been that long that I have been going to PT ..this is my 3rd week. My doctor scheduled me for 9 weeks. So we will see where I am at that point.

    Anyway, my whole point to this post was to try and encourage everyone to hang in there. Time will pass and we will all improve in our own time. I just wish it would get here already sometimes LOL...Debbie
  • kliggins May 2, 2012 @ 12:15 pm | delete
    So hoping to get home today. I am glad I found this site. The pain is getting better and I am starting to feel a little confident.
  • kliggins May 2, 2012 @ 12:15 pm | delete
    So hoping to get home today. I am glad I found this site. The pain is getting better and I am starting to feel a little confident.
  • MarkBnh May 2, 2012 @ 8:43 am | delete
    I am always surprised to hear about the pain right after surgery. I had minimal pain and only got Vicodin right before bedtime in the hospital to help me sleep in that awful position. Guess I was lucky.

    Tom, I hope you continue to see gradual improvement. This is a tough injury to recover from and some seem to progress faster than others. I'm still walking with a limp and going to PT twice a week. Time is our best friend I'm afraid.
  • Debbie May 2, 2012 @ 7:04 am | delete
    Glad to hear from you Kliggins!! Sorry you are still in the hospital but good to be getting more pain meds if you need them. The first few days is the worst of it then it should start to subside. Hang in there!! Hope you feel better soon. =) ----Debbie
  • kliggins May 1, 2012 @ 10:14 pm | delete
    Well I am still at the hospital which is great. The pain sucks so they are suppose to up the dosage.
  • Debbie May 1, 2012 @ 9:51 pm | delete
    Tom, My ankle is black and blue all the time because of heavy bruising. It turned very purple when I was at PT and was bluish and black for a while yesterday but it is fine today. I think it is just the blood getting to it. Your ankle had to set longer than most and hasn't had much blood getting to it. Now you get a rush of blood from walking on it and more weight being put on it so I think that makes a difference. I doubt you had another set back but I can see why you would worry. I think it is perfectly normal. We are all worried about hurting ourselves again.

    At my PT she wanted me to stand on my ankle with NO brace. I was freaking out so she only had me doing it a little while. Turns out I can stand on it with no brace but I didn't like doing it. She wants me to do it so the muscles around the ankle will get stronger. She says as long as it is braced those muscles don't have to work. She added more exercises again. I now have to stand on my toes 30x and then lean back on my heal 30x with no brace. I can't do 30 toes raises, it hurts to much so I did 25. I am getting better at walking with the walker now that I can put 120 pounds on the foot. It didn't hurt doing but it aching now. I walked all around in a big loop in my house today. I am pretty happy about that. Of course my house isn't that big 1064 square feet but still I was pretty happy about it. Total I think I walked 200 feet today at least. Being able to bear weight on that foot helps as I don't have to use my arms as much.

    I am glad you are progressing Tom but it sounds like your ankle might be mad at you. Please let us know how your doing. I hope all goes well at the next session but I am thinking that color changing is normal. My advice is to elevate and ice. If it isn't better by tomorrow, call the doctor and see if it normal. Ease your mind because half of this recovery is in our mind. Fear for me is the biggest thing. I am afraid of falling and injuring myself again...all normal but I have to get over it. My ankle will hold me up, I hope .....Debbie
  • Tom May 1, 2012 @ 9:18 pm | delete
    Hi all, I hope everyone is healing well. Kliggins good luck with your surgery all of who had the surgery most of us have the same advice I just want to say the surgery is the easy part, just be ready for the blocker to wear off you will feel your surgery then but if you take everyone's advice to stay ahead of the pain for the few days and you will be fine. Unfortunately I did not find this sight till after my surgery and I got caught without taking my pain need when the blocker wore off ouchhhhhhh!!!!! Well It'smy 15th ankleversery 14 weeks post op, still on crutches and still have the purple ankle when I put down, I just got back from therapy doing my pool therapy I advanced to going from chest high to waist high water it was tough but it didn't hurt toll I got home so I went to ice it and my ankle is black and blue. I don't think that's a good thing I don't think I could handle another setback. I will wait to see how it looks tomorrow. Happy healing all my fellow gimps. Tom
  • tim May 1, 2012 @ 6:26 pm | delete
    I broke my ankle in June 2010. I can tell you that the healing process is long and painful. I have finally accepted that I'll always have some problems with it. I fell off my bike and had a triple break and dislocation. I had a plate and eleven pins,9 on one side, two on the other. The first two weeks were the worst pain as I developed cellulitis(not sure if it was a reaction to the plate/pins) so I had to have my cast cut off and was re admitted for another week to have anti biotics intravenously. I was finally discharged taking 39 tablets a day, on crutches where I could not put any weight on ankle so only had bed baths for three weeks till I could get a waterproof leg cover (they are fantastic), stairs, toilet, doors, shower, carrying a cup even!...everything you take for granted is a tall demanding task to overcome, it does get easier although it is Very easy to fall in to depression, I was virtually unable to move properly for 6 weeks so used to sit on sofa all day with a kettle by my side and milk and a bottle to go to the toilet in because my wife was at work and I couldn't get up stairs unassisted.after 6 weeks I had the cast cut off and staples removed and had a walker boot for another 3 months while I learnt to walk again, every step at first was painful, the best advice I could give is go to Physio as soon as possible and follow all the advice to the letter,I bought some kit so I could carry on the exercises at home,I also went to the baths nearly everyday after the cast came off because my able wasn't strong enough to do the exercises out of water at first. it is almost two years after the accident, I will never run again, a quick cross of the road is very painful, I can still ride my bike and fell walk, there is a price to pay though with a lot of pain for days after but I'm determined to not let it stop me. Stay positive, don't expect a miracle recovery and be happy that you didn't bang your head as hard as you banged your ankle.
  • tim May 1, 2012 @ 6:26 pm | delete
    I broke my ankle in June 2010. I can tell you that the healing process is long and painful. I have finally accepted that I'll always have some problems with it. I fell off my bike and had a triple break and dislocation. I had a plate and eleven pins,9 on one side, two on the other. The first two weeks were the worst pain as I developed cellulitis(not sure if it was a reaction to the plate/pins) so I had to have my cast cut off and was re admitted for another week to have anti biotics intravenously. I was finally discharged taking 39 tablets a day, on crutches where I could not put any weight on ankle so only had bed baths for three weeks till I could get a waterproof leg cover (they are fantastic), stairs, toilet, doors, shower, carrying a cup even!...everything you take for granted is a tall demanding task to overcome, it does get easier although it is Very easy to fall in to depression, I was virtually unable to move properly for 6 weeks so used to sit on sofa all day with a kettle by my side and milk and a bottle to go to the toilet in because my wife was at work and I couldn't get up stairs unassisted.after 6 weeks I had the cast cut off and staples removed and had a walker boot for another 3 months while I learnt to walk again, every step at first was painful, the best advice I could give is go to Physio as soon as possible and follow all the advice to the letter,I bought some kit so I could carry on the exercises at home,I also went to the baths nearly everyday after the cast came off because my able wasn't strong enough to do the exercises out of water at first. it is almost two years after the accident, I will never run again, a quick cross of the road is very painful, I can still ride my bike and fell walk, there is a price to pay though with a lot of pain for days after but I'm determined to not let it stop me. Stay positive, don't expect a miracle recovery and be happy that you didn't bang your head as hard as you banged your ankle.
  • KathyH May 1, 2012 @ 1:00 am | delete
    Kliggins.
    Don't worry. You should start healing after surgery. The first couple of days is the worst. Just take your meds and stool softener so you don't get constipation. Don't let your pain pills lapse for the first few days. Keep your foot proped above your heart and use ice if you start to swell. I am almost six days out from my surgery. I didn't take stool softener and had constipation man was that painful. Now I take a pill along with the pain pills. My doctor told me I would take longer to heal because I also am taking predisone for antirejection for a kidney transplant. We'll see. Tomorrow I see my ortho doc for the first time since my surgery. I fell on ice and twisted my right foot 180 degrees. Setting it back wasn't too great, but I told myself I still have my foot, I can deal with the pain. I'll find out how bad my foot is tomorrow. Good luck on your surgery, I'll pray for you. Take care. KathyH
  • KathyH May 1, 2012 @ 1:00 am | delete
    Kliggins.
    Don't worry. You should start healing after surgery. The first couple of days is the worst. Just take your meds and stool softener so you don't get constipation. Don't let your pain pills lapse for the first few days. Keep your foot proped above your heart and use ice if you start to swell. I am almost six days out from my surgery. I didn't take stool softener and had constipation man was that painful. Now I take a pill along with the pain pills. My doctor told me I would take longer to heal because I also am taking predisone for antirejection for a kidney transplant. We'll see. Tomorrow I see my ortho doc for the first time since my surgery. I fell on ice and twisted my right foot 180 degrees. Setting it back wasn't too great, but I told myself I still have my foot, I can deal with the pain. I'll find out how bad my foot is tomorrow. Good luck on your surgery, I'll pray for you. Take care. KathyH
  • KathyH May 1, 2012 @ 12:43 am | delete
    Kliggins, The surgery isn't too bad. Just remember, you will start to heal right after this happens. I broke both sides of my ankles and my foot was 180 degrees after I fell on ice, April 12th. Got my leg set in the emergency and had surgery on the 18th. I've been on percoset since then. Don't let the pain return before you take a pill and take a stool softening pill with each set of pills or you will get a bad case of constipation. Tomorrow I will see the ortho doc for the first time since I had my surgery. I've been using wheel chairs downstairs of my house and crutches upstairs in my bedroom. Thank God for laptops and kindles. I thought I could do my hobbies but concentration was very hard the first week while on meds. I'm on non-bearing for my right leg but sometimes I overworked and couldn't help but lean somewhat on my right leg. Hurt a lot but better than falling. TV gets boring after the first 2 days. I went to work half -days with my wheel chair a couple of days. I relize I just have to take it easy and plan better so I don't overdo it. I guess I am OCD, can't help it. Just take it easy the first week at least, pain will go down, as time passes by. Good luck. KathyH
  • KathyH May 1, 2012 @ 12:43 am | delete
    Kliggins, The surgery isn't too bad. Just remember, you will start to heal right after this happens. I broke both sides of my ankles and my foot was 180 degrees after I fell on ice, April 12th. Got my leg set in the emergency and had surgery on the 18th. I've been on percoset since then. Don't let the pain return before you take a pill and take a stool softening pill with each set of pills or you will get a bad case of constipation. Tomorrow I will see the ortho doc for the first time since I had my surgery. I've been using wheel chairs downstairs of my house and crutches upstairs in my bedroom. Thank God for laptops and kindles. I thought I could do my hobbies but concentration was very hard the first week while on meds. I'm on non-bearing for my right leg but sometimes I overworked and couldn't help but lean somewhat on my right leg. Hurt a lot but better than falling. TV gets boring after the first 2 days. I went to work half -days with my wheel chair a couple of days. I relize I just have to take it easy and plan better so I don't overdo it. I guess I am OCD, can't help it. Just take it easy the first week at least, pain will go down, as time passes by. Good luck. KathyH
  • Debbie Apr 30, 2012 @ 12:47 pm | delete
    Kliggins, I was in the same boat. I broke my ankle and fell between my TV stand and the fireplace. A couple inches either way and we could be talking a head injury to boot. I felt the same exact way you do right now. I was bummed out to say the least. I had to wait a little over a week for surgery and then I felt like the real healing could begin. Like I said it stung and I took my pain pills and it wasn't bad. Just don't let the pain pills wear completley off and you will be fine. I had a dislocated elbow so I was bed ridden. I couldn't even use crutches or a walker or the wheel chair because I couldn't roll it with my bad arm so my husband rolled me around the house in the wheel chair. It sucked, I am not going to lie about it but I tried to keep busy. I read books, I surfed the internet (thank god for my husbands lap top), I played spider solataire, I played sims 3, I cried alot and complained on this site. Oh and also you can visit facebook there is a group called broken ankle/foot/leg survivors and join. Many of us post over there. I post in both places because it keeps me busy.

    The thing that helped me the most was I finally decided after much complaining and crying and feeling very sorry for myself that there was nothing I could do about my situation so I may as well accept it and try to get into a new routine. So I got up everyday hurting all over (still do by the way) and once the pain of my cast got better did leg lifts to keep what muscles I could strong, I worked out my arm. I wiggled my toes a lot and tried to stay positive. I still struggle with it. I don't cry anymore but I still struggle with staying positive and pushing myself. My PT person pushes me and scares me with the stuff she wants me to do but 2 weeks ago I was in a cast and today I can walk with a walker. I am up to walking 200 feet a day and will probably increase now that I am weight bearing as tolerated.

    All I can say is: The pain will go away, take your pain meds, the surgery isn't too bad and once my pain lessened, my ankle did feel better. It felt more stable and it didn't hurt as much as before the surgery. Give it a couple weeks and you probably won't even be taking pain medicine no more. I mean every one is different of course. Some people said they took them for less days then that.

    I still take them to sleep because of my arm. Anyway, good luck today. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. It is a short surgery so it doesn't take long. I didn't wake up hurting to bad and they are quick to give you something to make you stop hurting.

    Please let us know how your doing.
  • kliggins Apr 30, 2012 @ 11:23 am | delete
    I can't believe the situation I am in. Being laid up with a broken ankle for the next 2-3 months really is bumming me out. But it could've been worse. The way I fell and where i landed, I could've easily bump my head and got knocked out, even though I am not too mobile, I am here! I am hurting but here. I have to be at the hospital today at 12:30 pm and have surgery at 2.Once that's done, then the real healing will begin. My oldest daughter goes on prom May 18 and her graduation is 6/16. I plan to be not to mobile for prom but I should be fine for grad.
  • Debbie Apr 30, 2012 @ 8:16 am | delete
    Hey Josh,

    Thanks for stopping by. I hope by August I am where you are today. I know I have a lot of work before I get there but I broke my ankle Feb 22nd so I am about 2 months behind you. It has gotten better but today I am weight bearing as tolerated. I have to start putting more weight on the ankle. I tried it out yesterday and today it is sore which seems to be the story of my life now. I will be glad when the day comes that i don't wake up hurting any more.
  • Debbie Apr 30, 2012 @ 8:12 am | delete
    I know it probably too late as you are most likely already having surgery but I didn't think it was too bad. They tried to numb my ankle by doing a saddle block but only half of it worked but I think that was due to the idiot doing it. He really was an idiot. Afterwards, it did hurt some but they gave me a shot in the leg and some pain medication, then a perscription so it wasn't too bad. Just stay ahead of the pain. I took Advil and Tramadol. Like I would take Advil and then 3 hours later take Tramadol. I never let either one wear off all the way because I didn't want the pain to start but it is no worse than what you have already been through. In spite of the pain, I felt like in some ways my ankle felt better. The worst of the pain is in the 1st, 3 days and then it lets up. Mine more just stung and felt like someone had it in a vise grip but it wasn't unbearable because I took my pain medication. After about a week it really wasn't bad and I let up on the pain meds. After 2 weeks I could have quit taking them altogether but I would take one at night for sleeping. My problem has mostly been my arm that I dislocated. My ankle is sore from working it out but not unbearable.

    In my case I feel surgery was worth it. They told me I had a choice but strongly suggested surgery because he said it wasn't set right. The bones need to be able to heal smooth to avoid arthritis and mine were not so even though he said I had a choice, I don't think I did. Anyway, it is not that bad. Of course, it hurts but nothing you can't handle. No where near as bad as the break and the trip to the hospital. Good Luck, I am sure you will get through it just fine. Let us know how it goes.
  • kliggins Apr 30, 2012 @ 12:04 am | delete
    I have surgery tomorrow. I know I am going to be in so much pain. I am afraid but I know it has to get done. For those who had surgery, how did you feel afterwards, was it excruciating pain? Also, does surgery allow for quicker healing?
  • Josh Apr 29, 2012 @ 9:24 pm | delete
    Wow lots of new faces on this site. I remember the days of frustration lying on back with leg in the air. This may help I broke my ankle tri-mal on Jan 7 no weight bearing for 12 weeks although I started testing my limits after 10. Now almost 5 months post op and am walking, running short distances and can even jump up and down. Range of motion is almost where it was prior to surgery, which I thought would never happen. Good luck to all,
  • Debbie Apr 28, 2012 @ 8:11 pm | delete
    Hey Tom, Glad those exercises are working for you. Didn't your PT person give you any to take home yet? I have 23 exercises to do between my arm and my ankle. Takes me 2 hours, no lie. I spend 4 hours a day exercising so I should be getting better LOL....

    Mark, thanks for your kind words and sharing your stories. I like hearing how other people are doing.

    I wish you all the best and please keep us updated about your progress. I know many of us post here and on facebook. I am debra on facebook but on here you can say more. Although I am pretty chatty on there also.

    Stay well and keep being careful ...maybe some day we will get over this fear of falling. Happy Healing -----Debbie
  • MarkBnh Apr 28, 2012 @ 3:23 pm | delete
    Debbie, thanks for the kind words! Yes, it wasn't the best of vacations but at least it was not our first trip to Hawaii. Plus, we got 10 days out of 21 in before the accident. Last night was the first time I could force myself to look at the photos we had taken while there. We had a "Hawaii Night" with our best friends and viewed the photos on the large screen TV. I did not look happy in my hospital bed in Hawaii (Yes, my wife had to take a few photos there as well). I can finally start to laugh about it now after almost 3 months.

    I too now live in fear of falling. I am so extremely careful while walking that it's almost ridiculous. Of course I still don't have full balance back yet. My biggest fear of taking the first stand up shower was my balance....not the weight bearing. I do okay, but am still very careful! I walked around a few yard sales today and my eyes were on the walking surfaces more then the goods for sale.

    Yes, we seem to have the bargain basement type of PT. I'm not even sure if mine is helping me much. I think the home exercises and just getting out and walking as I can stand it do just as much good for me. Tom gets his deluxe PT just about 45 minutes from where I live. Maybe I should go where he goes....ha ha ha. Tom, I went to Exeter Hospital and now do PT in Kingston, NH at one of the hospitals affiliated locations.

    Debbie, I know about those "bad" days and had a few of them myself when I had both a cast and urinary catheter at the same time. NO FUN! But, even a bad day now is better than those days! You also have the double whammy with both the broken ankle and the arm problem. You have my sympathy. When I was in the ER in Hawaii, another tourist came in with both a broken ankle and a broken wrist from the same fall on a trail. Made me feel "fortunate"! At least I could push a wheelchair around and use both arms to push up onto one leg when needed. It can always be worse I guess.

    Stay positive everyone. Better days are ahead for all of us. ......Mark
  • Debbie Apr 28, 2012 @ 2:59 pm | delete
    Just an update: My arm is better today for some unknown reason but I don't care why..just going to be glad. I also am weight bearing as tolerated on Monday so I put a little more weight on it today to test out the waters because the doctor said to wait 2 weeks and Friday was 2 weeks but my PT wants me to wait till Monday. Anyway, I was happy that I could put 100 pounds on it with no pain. I walked halfway around the house. I am not walking everywhere with the walker yet but I am picking some spots and going there every day then increasing a little each day.
  • Debbie Apr 28, 2012 @ 2:56 pm | delete
    Wow Mark what a horrible vacation. I am sorry to hear of your problems and extra surgery. That must have been rough. Sounds like you have been through the mill but you are doing good now and have a great attitude. I salute you for that sir. My attitude some days really sucks.

    I try to stay positive but yesterday I was in a bad place. I also fell in front of my PT place with my walker. Luckily I was not injured because it was more of a slip and I was able to control my fall but it scared me to death. Then half the building ran out to make sure I was okay. How embarrassing. Falling of course has become a new fear. I have fallen like 5x in the last year, 2x since I broke my ankle. I try to be careful but I tend to be a klutz which I think is something I will be working on is balance in my PT sessions. They are going to do a balance test once I get full weight bearing. Stand me on one foot...LOL ...my bad foot of course.

    Oh and I am with you I am not getting the "deluxe" therapy either. It is just good old fashioned whoop your butt therapy. Here let me grab your sore elbow that was dislocated and pull the crap out of it and see if we can straighten that baby out. Hell, I could have done that myself LOL....And no massages or nothing afterwards either. It's like okay now that you are as weak as a kitten see ya next time. Good luck getting out to the car, don't fall again yuck yuck yuck. But she is helping me and I guess that is what matters. I am getting better. Just like you sometimes I feel like I am getting ripped off. Where are my electrodes, massages, whirlpool baths and stuff!! LOL
  • Tom Apr 28, 2012 @ 10:44 am | delete
    Debbie, Hey I'm Impressed with your progress I was reading your logs from march and you've came a long way...I also been using your at home Rom exercises they come in handy keeps me busy on my non physio days I think I have improved Rom cuz of it ;-) I hope your arm feels better. Keep up the good work. Tom
  • Tom Apr 28, 2012 @ 10:35 am | delete
    Hi Mark, sorry about the scrambled message I write from my so called "smartphone" it has auto spell check and it makes up it own words. My ortho office is at seacoast ortho in somersworth and my therapy is in the building behind the ortho office. I had my surgery in Dover. So you live near our beautiful sea coast which is also very scenic. I'm just looking at my purple foot, I better go elevate it, hope u heal soon I look forward to hearing from you neighbor. Tom
  • Tom Apr 27, 2012 @ 8:09 pm | delete
    Hi Mark, sounds like you had rough one, but you were walking faster than I and you about 15 years , I also had a setback I got a stress fracture around week 10 but the tea reason I'm writing is because I'm from NH also, wasn't sure of we are in the same area we might share the same doctors I live in the lakes region near Winnapausakee. How about you? Tom
  • MarkBnh Apr 27, 2012 @ 8:27 pm | delete
    Tom, I have followed your entire story on here. I was sorry to hear about your stress fracture.....dumb doctors. Sounds like you are getting better PT than me though. I live in the Seacoast area just south of Exeter. The lakes region of NH has always been my favorite part of the state and I have many happy memories of summer vacations on the big lake!

    I hope you continue to heal quickly. Keep in touch. Mark
  • MarkBnh Apr 27, 2012 @ 4:55 pm | delete
    While enjoying a vacation in Hawaii I slipped on a pine cone and needles at the side of the road and heard that awful snap as my ankle broke on both sides. This was on Feb 4, 2012. Luckily some locals knew where to direct the ambulance and I took a 45 minute ride to the hospital on Kauai,Hawaii. The ankle was dislocated and broken. The ER doc snapped it back into place and I had surgery the next morning. Oh, the surgery was on Feb 5 (Super Bowl Sunday). As an added complication, my enlarged prostate couldn't take the stress and I totally stopped urinating the day of my surgery. I also ended up with a catheter and a leg bag for the long flights home. I survived the 13 hours of flights home to New Hampshire and started seeing my urologist and orthopedic surgeon back home. The prostate issue has been worse than the broken ankle with the catheter in a total of 32 days! I had prostate surgery on March 20th. After a two week recovery period, the urinary problem was finally fixed and I could concentrate on healing my broken ankle. I was in a fixed splint for the first 2 weeks, then 3 weeks in a solid cast, then the last 3 weeks back in the splint due to the prostate surgery. (They were afraid of swelling during the other surgery). Finally, on April 4th I had the last splint removed (at 8 1/2 weeks) and the OS said the bones had completely healed. I was placed in an aircast boot and given the go ahead for full weight bearing as I could stand it. He also set me up for 6 weeks of PT twice a week.

    I was pleasantly surprised at how soon I could start walking on my own. FIrst, I used a walker to test my bad ankle in the boot. After a day of this, I tried an elbow cane that my wife had used last summer for a bad knee. In another couple of days I was walking on my own in the boot. Before I even started PT I was walking on my own without a boot or cane! After my wife took me to my first PT appointment I got clearance to drive and started to drive there on my own. So, I guess I was back to driving at 9.5 weeks. So far, so good.

    Now, for the less than positive news.....my progress seems to have come to an abrupt halt. I am still walking slowly and with a limp due to sorenees in one area of my ankle. I also still get a lot of swelling by the end of each day and can only fit into one pair of loose fitting shoes. The PT people are working on it but so far I see little change. Its on the inside lower part of my ankle bone just above the heel. They think it may be a tendon issue and are trying to stretch it out in various ways. Time will tell I guess. I'm trying to remain optimistic since I've done so well up to this point. Oh, I am not getting the "deluxe" PT that some of you report. No water treatments, massage, or manual manipulation. Just the stretching and exercise type of stuff. I am wondering if I am being short changed in this area??? I see the OS the week after next so I will asking about it.

    For those of you just starting this journey, please know that it gets better with time and you can't rush the process. Most of us had to sit around and depend on others for 6-12 weeks while the bones healed. I am 62 and just retired so at least I didn't have work to worry about. It was just difficult to live in a wheelchair for 8 weeks and become an expert on daytime TV and book reading! I could never manage crutches or do much on 1 leg with the walker. I also lost my appetite and about 10 lbs! It is such a great feeling when you can finally stand up again, start to drive, and take a shower in the standing position! Only those of us who have been here know what I mean.

    I know I have a ways to go but looking back at what I have been through shows me that all of us can do it! Happy healing to all. It's been a pleasure reading all your stories. I'll post back if I have anything else to contribute.
  • Debbie Apr 27, 2012 @ 8:23 am | delete
    I know my ROM in my bad ankle is horrible compared to my good one. It is funny trying to pick a pencil off the floor with my bad foot. I can easily do it with my good one. My bad ankle is also really skinny next to my good one.

    Luckily my calves and thighs aren't in too bad of shape thanks for leg lifts while in the cast. I wish when I was in my cast I would have bent my toes more. She bends them and boy does that ache. It is because they are so stiff sitting there for 6 weeks.

    But I will tell you what hurts me the most is my arm. I don't know if something else is wrong with it or it if it is just muscle and tendon issues or what. They won't even address it right now because they know it is not broken or dislocated so my ankle and elbow are most important is what they tell me. They believe it is my muscles and tendons and it will correct itself from PT. I can tell you that it hurts constantly. I put heat on it all day and take advil. I hope it lets up soon. Some days it seems to let up a little but this morning it was cold and it doesn't like the cold and it really hates PT. LOL....I am glad today is Friday.

    Avac, about that weird shooting pain. I have heard people on facebook say they get that. Not sure what they did about it. One lady went to a neurologist. Another person said it went away on it's own and was from being more active. I know I get shooting pains up my shins now that I am walking more. I used to get nerve pain that shot down my leg every time I got up but that went away after about 2 weeks. Anyway, hope you get it resolved.

    Happy Healing everyone-----Debbie
  • Robb Apr 26, 2012 @ 11:35 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie,

    Thanks for the suggestions! I tried them all out and I was depressed to see how terrible my ROM was when compared to my good leg, but hopefully some of these exercises will help strengthen my ankle a little before I go in for PT myself. It sounds like you're in great hands though despite how tiring it all is, so keep me posted on your recovery!

    Avac, I had some crazy pain, but it was because I was being more active on my surgically repaired ankle (took it out of the boot to bike and walk around a little around the house). Seems obvious, but are you increasing the load on your leg? It really surprised me to how much pain a little bit of work caused me.
  • avac Apr 26, 2012 @ 9:09 pm | delete
    Hi, everyone
    I'm 10wks postoperative. Been doing PT for 4wks, in a cast boot & use my crutches sometimes around the house. I'm experiencing sharp pains rushing thru my leg. The ankle is healing but, the Ortho doc can't explain why this is happening. He now wants me to see an anesthesiologist. Have anyone else experience this..thanks. And happy recovery to everyone...:)
  • Melissa Apr 26, 2012 @ 8:55 pm | delete
    Hello all!

    Welcome to those who are new! We have all been there and know how it feels! It may seem so far away now, but the time will pass and you will be on the road to recovery in no time!

    For those who have been on here, sounds like all is well. We are all recovering in our own ways!!

    I was 6 weeks no weight bearing. Thank goodness for PT. Tomorrow I will complete my 2nd week and she already has me down to no crutches and just the boot. I figured it would take a lot longer. Now I need to get into my shoe more. I can get on a tennis shoe (leaving the laces very loose) and do wear it at home. Therapist said I could try some parking lot driving this weekend! Kind of scared about that!

    Take care and keep in touch!
  • Debbie Apr 26, 2012 @ 8:13 am | delete
    Robb,

    Ankle exercises: x10 (10seconds each) To stretch the ankle
    a)Pull you foot upwards
    b)Push downwards
    c)Rotate inwards, then outwards without rotating your leg
    d)Ankle circles = 30 counter clockwise , then clockwise
    e)Spell alphabet with big toe - Capital letters, printed
    f)Weight shift from one leg to the other leg, putting only 30% of weight on bad foot (I am not sure how much weight you can bear) I suggest getting a book the same size as the scale so you are on even ground and shift weight back and forth unless you are full weight bearing. This really helps calves and endurance for standing. Do it for 15 minutes.

    Towel stretches (These are really good ones according to PT a must) x10 for 10 seconds each.
    a)Place towel at ball of foot and pull towards you
    b)Place 1/2 towel under your foot, then tent other half over your toes, pull back then pull down - This loosens the toes for walking.

    Sitting: Raise heal pointing toes up, hold for 10 seconds, x30, Then up raise up on toes hold for 10 seconds lower heal slowly back down x30

    Still sitting put either some marbles or a pencil on the floor, with bad foot try to pick it up with your toes for 3 minutes.

    Those are what I have for my ankle, the rest are arm exercises. I have been to 4 PT meetings and the first group I got at the first one. 2nd group at second one, 3rd group at 3rd one. 4th exercise with the marbles at the 4th meeting. First week I went T, Thur. Then I went M,W. They are all important but don't do them all at once at first. Start with the first group then every other day add the next group, just like you were at PT. Go easy. If something hurts stop. It shouldn't really hurt but you should feel a nice stretch. The toe ones kind of hurt in my opinion but the rest don't.

    My arm exercises is what hurts. Anyway, there you are, that should tide you over until you are ready to go and none of those should hurt you if you can ride a bike. They can all be done at home.

    Kliggens, I know EXACTLY how you feel. My job didn't even wait for my doctors prognosis and let me go due to me not being able to perform my job and I was working like 30 hours a week so I was part time and can't do anything. It was a low blow and I cried for hours over it. But then I decided any company that was that mean to kick you when your down like that is a company I don't want to work for. I mean even if they took you back now, every time you got sick or your child got sick or something happened you would be terrified of getting fired. I don't think you are really getting on everyone's nerves, it probably just feels that way because you have to ask for help to do things now. It is hard to go from an independent person to an invalid in one day. You have to give yourself time to adjust to your new situation and get to a place where you can accept what has happened. My best advice: Take good care of yourself, sleep often, read, go to jigzone if you like puzzles, they are online and fun to do, keep a journal of how you feel and all your progress and try really hard to remember this is temporary, your family will survive this. You have no choice. I am deeply sorry this happened to you but do what you can for your daughter and I bet she will appreciate and understand. It is at this time that you will find out what people are made of. Some will stand by you and others won't care. You will find yourself crying for no reason at times or at least I did because this situation sucks. But it does get better over time. Please try and get into some kind of routine and do the above stuff, try to keep your mind busy while you recover. In the weeks to come your going to need to focus on yourself for a while and everyone will have to understand that.

    There is a group on facebook, called broken ankle/foot/leg survivors. Feel free to join. They are a good group. Alot of helpful information on there.

    Oh and the best purchase I ever made was a shower chair. Also the bedside potty was a life saver because I also dislocated my elbow and was bed bound and wheel chair bound. Couldn't drive the stupid wheel chair with my bum arm. I am now almost 7 weeks post op and am slowly getting around with a walker. I have been out of my cast for one week so making good progress and you will too. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Hang in there. -----Debbie
  • kliggins Apr 26, 2012 @ 12:38 am | delete
    I broke my ankle on Monday and will be getting surgery on Friday. In that short amount of time I was terminated from my job because I was only there for about a month and can't hold my position, I have to cancel my daughters birthday plans and I am getting the strong sense I am getting on everyone's nerves. My daughter has prom coming up and I cant play a huge part of getting her together for. I was suppose to work overtime for the next few weeks and we were finally going to get caught up. Why the hell did this have to happen>
  • kliggins Apr 26, 2012 @ 12:37 am | delete
    I broke my ankle on Monday and will be getting surgery on Friday. In that short amount of time I was terminated from my job because I was only there for about a month and can't hold my position, I have to cancel my daughters birthday plans and I am getting the strong sense I am getting on everyone's nerves. My daughter has prom coming up and I cant play a huge part of getting her together for. I was suppose to work overtime for the next few weeks and we were finally going to get caught up. Why the hell did this have to happen>
  • Robb Apr 25, 2012 @ 5:33 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie,

    I unfortunately could not get a PT appointment until May 7th, which is almost 2 weeks away! My doctor has cleared me to bike and walk around a little without the boot (afraid I'll snap the long screws if I do too much), but I'm getting antsy and wanted to know if you could share some of the stuff you've been doing in PT! Would you mind letting me know some of the exercise you're performing that you think are most beneficial and that i could do pretty easily at home/at a gym? Thanks so much!
  • Debbie Apr 25, 2012 @ 9:31 am | delete
    Speaking of which, someone was talking about looking at facebook comments to see how far they have come. I keep a journal. I have been since this started so I could monitor my progress. It is funny even now to read about stuff I said there was NO WAY I could do and then the next day I was doing it LOL. Amazing.
  • Debbie Apr 25, 2012 @ 8:09 am | delete
    I am almost 8 weeks post op, 1.5 weeks out of the cast. I wish I could get pool therapy too. It sounds great but I don't think they have it where I go. I think it all depends on if your insurance pays for it. I believe I am at the PT of hard knocks and tough love. So far they work me out pretty good and send me home. No massages, hot packs or electrodes. I come home bone tired, crawl into bed and take my pain meds. My husband usually heats up a heat buddy for me, makes dinner, we eat and I try hard not to fall asleep until 9:00pm. Every time I go they have me doing something new so my work outs are getting longer and longer. Eventually, she says some of them will get too easy and then I can take those out of the program. Currently, I work out 4 hours a day if I do my work out both times a day as prescribed. On PT days she suggests I only do the difficult ones as right now they are the most important so that I make sure I do them 2x every day. Of course, you have to remember I am working out my arm and my ankle.

    The ankle seems to be doing good and I am making good progress but my arm is dealing me a fit. It quit throbbing finally and now I have 2 finger tips which decided to go numb. I hope that straightens out today. Maybe I just slept on it wrong. I hope so.Although I woke up with it that way in the night and thought by morning it would be okay but they are still numb. Always something to worry about it seems like.

    Oh and they cleared me to walk all over the house now but I can't do it so I do my 2 walks a day and one extra one. I figure I will keep increasing until I am walking everywhere again. Anyway, that is my current story, Today is another PT day. Can't say I really look forward to them but they are really helping so I have to suck it up and keep on going.
  • Debbie Apr 24, 2012 @ 7:31 pm | delete
    Sparcs, I am sorry to hear you are on your own. I hope you didn't break your driving ankle and that you can get around. I know some places deliver grociries but with your income problems I don't know if you can do that. You can look up how to PT at home if you can't afford to go. Or you can try and afford just one or 2 sessions to get the exercises. Mostly the first week is range of motion and they had me practice walking partial weight bearing. The second week has been about stretching and some strengthening. I also dislocated my elbow so that is something else I am working on. I have exercises that last 2 hours a day and I have to do them 2x so that is 4 hours a day which doesn't leave much time for anything else. Yours shouldn't be that bad but there are videoes on the internet to help with PT on your own. I wish you the best of luck and hope you are making it okay. Keep us posted on your progress.

    Glad to hear everyone else is doing well. Tom good to hear you are up and around again after your stress fracture. That might slow you down behind Liz more than 3 weeks. Please don't rush yourself. We will all get there in our own time sooner or later.

    Robb, I have not ridden a bike but I have heard other people say they have but I would call the doctor and get that cleared before you do it. You don't want to set yourself back.

    Take care all and happy healing-----Debbie
  • Robb Apr 24, 2012 @ 11:23 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie, thanks for the note, you're right. I don't want any set backs since I'm apparently on the positive road to recovery!
  • Robb Apr 24, 2012 @ 11:23 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie, thanks for the note, you're right. I don't want any set backs since I'm apparently on the positive road to recovery!
  • Debbie Apr 24, 2012 @ 7:31 pm | delete
    Sparcs, I am sorry to hear you are on your own. I hope you didn't break your driving ankle and that you can get around. I know some places deliver grociries but with your income problems I don't know if you can do that. You can look up how to PT at home if you can't afford to go. Or you can try and afford just one or 2 sessions to get the exercises. Mostly the first week is range of motion and they had me practice walking partial weight bearing. The second week has been about stretching and some strengthening. I also dislocated my elbow so that is something else I am working on. I have exercises that last 2 hours a day and I have to do them 2x so that is 4 hours a day which doesn't leave much time for anything else. Yours shouldn't be that bad but there are videoes on the internet to help with PT on your own. I wish you the best of luck and hope you are making it okay. Keep us posted on your progress.

    Glad to hear everyone else is doing well. Tom good to hear you are up and around again after your stress fracture. That might slow you down behind Liz more than 3 weeks. Please don't rush yourself. We will all get there in our own time sooner or later.

    Robb, I have not ridden a bike but I have heard other people say they have but I would call the doctor and get that cleared before you do it. You don't want to set yourself back.

    Take care all and happy healing-----Debbie
  • Robb Apr 24, 2012 @ 7:14 pm | delete
    Dear All,

    Thank you for your kind words regarding my last post.

    I am officially 7 weeks post op today! I had a check up appointment with my ortho and he said I was healing great and that I'm on track to have my hardware removed in 5 weeks! Until then I'll have to still walk in a boot, although unassisted.

    My ortho said I could walk around my apartment with no boot, but is weary because I might break my screws (aside from 5 screws and a plate in my fibula, I have two long screws connecting my fibula and tibia together). Do you guys know how fragile these screws are? I'm wondering if I can start riding a stationary bike, but I forgot to ask him, are any of you guys working out on a bike with screws still in your legs?
  • avac Apr 26, 2012 @ 9:18 pm | delete
    Robb,
    Don't worry it would take a lot to for the screws to come out. I'm 10 wks postoperative. And part of my pt therapy is riding the exercise bike for 10 min. Hopes this helps..:)
  • Tom Apr 24, 2012 @ 7:10 pm | delete
    Liz so I'm 3 weeks behind you I hope I progress as much as you I just got back from therapy and I'm still doin pool therapy chest high. O think I'm a lot behind you but it is encouraging to see that ill get there. Tom
  • Liz Apr 24, 2012 @ 10:31 pm | delete
    I progressed the most in the last month I feel like. You have an advantage. I'm not able to do pool therapy due to a wound on my ankle. I went back to all my posts on Facebook and wrote down all my accomplishments. I highly suggest it. You will notice that you are probably doing a lot more than you think you are.
  • Liz Apr 24, 2012 @ 4:10 pm | delete
    Tom:
    Today is my 4 month ankleversary for the injury and tomorrow is my 4 month ankleversary for the surgery.
    -Liz
  • Liz Apr 24, 2012 @ 2:53 pm | delete
    Just got back from therapy. Feels like each time they have me do something new to see how much I can do. Using the resistance band, I had to stand on bad leg while kicking with my good leg in all four directions, 10 x each. Then I did the leg press machince and pressed 65 pounds with both legs and 45 pounds with bad leg. Also went 1.8 on the treadmill so a little faster than my 1.5 from last week. Feel like I got a workout, but no pain :)
  • Tom Apr 24, 2012 @ 3:59 pm | delete
    Liz, that's great news, good job h when did you have surgery? You have a lot more progress than me I'm 13 weeks post op. Tom
  • sparcs Apr 24, 2012 @ 11:20 am | delete
    Sitting in my recliner with my ankle in a cast, hopefully for just another 2 weeks I cant thank you enough for telling your story. I broke my ankle on March 25, 2012, the next day I went into surgery and came out with 3 plates and 11 screws. The surgeons prognosis was no weight bearing for 8 to 10 weeks. I'm determined to get back on my feet sooner but still being in a cast exercise is almost out of the question. I can completely relate to your use of crutches and getting around. I'm self employed and had to let my health insurance lapse, now the hospital bills are coming in, my bills to date total over $51K. I don't think I will partake in PT unless I can start generating some income to pay as I go. As life goes I have suffered 3rd degree burns over my face, arms and chest, broken my arms and wrist multiple times but this has to be the most debilitating. This time though I'm on my own, at age 58, kids are grown, wife passed away so its not getting any easier.
  • Tom Apr 24, 2012 @ 9:27 am | delete
    Hi all, glad to see all the healing everyone's experiencing. Welcome to couple new healers to the site, today is my 14th ankleversery 13 weeks post op I have physio twice a week I wish it was more,I'm still doing water therapy, I'm suppose to start 75% WB it doesn't hurt to put pressure on it but it is still very very stiff right on the top of my foot where it curves into the leg. The only pain I have is on the other side of my break which I find odd but the therapist tells me is a phantom pain, it sure as hell feels real to me. My foot still turns purple when I have it down.I like the idea of caregivers day my wife has been dealing with me along with working a full time job, she deserves a dozen roses made of gold and a month long vacation but I hope she will be ok with a card and going out for a nice dinner. Debbie and Ed I had like 14 staples and my scar is nasty the scar itself is a dark red 7 inch thick line and it is like a tan color and swollen around it also it is numb except when it rains I can feel the heads of a couple of the screws. Stacy you've been through a lot thank goodness you're finally nearing the end, I hope all goes well. Happy healing to all my fellow gimps keep up the hard work and determination, think positive and make sure you always have an extra set of batteries for your remote!!!! ;-)
  • Debbie Apr 24, 2012 @ 8:12 am | delete
    Yeah my ankle around my scars are really swollen. It doesn't hurt so I don't worry about it too much. I try to ice every time I exercise but other than that I don't do anything. I figure it just has to heal. Plus my foot is all bruised up pretty bad. The ankle especially but the top of my foot is kind of red. I think that is normal. If you are really worried about it then I would call the doctor.

    They gave me a compression sock at PT and that seems to be getting the swelling down. Ask your PT person if it is normal. How is the walking going? Does it hurt? Are you partial or full weight bearing? They cleared me for walking around now just in the house with my walker. I am partial weight bearing so I have to watch how much weight I put on the foot. I find that my arms are really sore from the walker. Well, I am sore all over but especially my arms.

    Yeah, I will join in and do something special for my husband. He has been great all these weeks. I am not sure what I would have done without him. I am not cleared to drive so maybe I could send him an e-card or something.

    Stacey I am sorry to hear about your problems. That whole story sounds horrible but at least you are getting better now. I am glad to hear that and am terribly sorry you had to go through all that. I hope they figure out the problem
    soon. If it is a tendon then maybe some PT can fix that if they focus on that area. I hope so, you have been through enough.

    Elizabeth did the doctor ever get back to you? I hope you are doing better after resting your ankle.
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 23, 2012 @ 10:42 pm | delete
    Since I removed my cast last Monday, I started to walk but the swelling is just incredible. At one point that last Saturday I was ready to go to the emergency. My foot was a bright red and it was really bad each side of my scar. Did any of you experience somethinglke that around your scars???
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 23, 2012 @ 10:42 pm | delete
    Since I removed my cast last Monday, I started to walk but the swelling is just incredible. At one point that last Saturday I was ready to go to the emergency. My foot was a bright red and it was really bad each side of my scar. Did any of you experience somethinglke that around your scars???
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 23, 2012 @ 10:22 pm | delete
    You know we have Presidents day, Valentines day, administrative assisstance day, grandarents day, mothers day, fathers day etc.

    I declare Friday April 27th as Broken Ankle Caregivers day!!

    On Friday Lets all make sure our significant other / caregiver know how much we appreciate ALL that they have done and are doing for us while we recover. Send them a special card, plants, balloons, flowers or something. My Spouce / caregiver deserves a whole month - but a day would be nice. What do you all think? From now on April 27th will be known as Broken Ankle caregivers day !!
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 23, 2012 @ 10:40 pm | delete
    We all have to admit that we would have find those 6 weeks way longer without our spouse/caregiver.I know my hubby was the best one and my twins were just amazing!!!

    I have no problem to do something special this Friday since it's my husbands bday and since I watch so many TV during those 6 weeks, I decided that our TV was not big enough so I went for an upgrade. ;)
  • Liz Apr 24, 2012 @ 3:51 pm | delete
    .I only had help for the month that I was NWB. As soon as I was able to drive, my aunt stopped taking me to the store and appointments. My mom and brother did the cooking. The more weight bearing I became, the less help I got. Now that I am FWB, I don't get any help, it is like it was before my injury.
  • Elizabeth Apr 23, 2012 @ 3:43 pm | delete
    I slipped on my carpet at home on February 17th and dislocated my ankle and broke my fibula. They couldn't do anything for the dislocation, so i had surgery on February 23rd and had a plate and 7 screws put in for the broken fibula. I couldn't seem to make the crutches work for me (I almost fell numerable times), so i got a knee scooter. What a life saver! Two weeks later they took my stitches out and put me in a boot, but no weight bearing for another 4 weeks. After a few more weeks I went back to work at 6 hours per day for two weeks and then full time. I had an appointment on April 10th and the doctor told me i could start putting weight on my foot as tolerated, but to keep my boot on for another 4 weeks so as to not re-injure myself. I still used my scooter at work for the first week, while walking with the crutches in the evening and on the weekend. Last week I came to work with two crutches, but then started getting cockier and used only one crutch towards the end of the week. Now my leg and ankle are aching horribly. I'm back to taking my Norco for the pain as the ibuprofin is not cutting it. I hope i haven't re-injured myself. I stayed home from work today and have put a call into my doctor, but they haven't gotten back with me. What fun......
  • Elizabeth Apr 23, 2012 @ 3:43 pm | delete
    I slipped on my carpet at home on February 17th and dislocated my ankle and broke my fibula. They couldn't do anything for the dislocation, so i had surgery on February 23rd and had a plate and 7 screws put in for the broken fibula. I couldn't seem to make the crutches work for me (I almost fell numerable times), so i got a knee scooter. What a life saver! Two weeks later they took my stitches out and put me in a boot, but no weight bearing for another 4 weeks. After a few more weeks I went back to work at 6 hours per day for two weeks and then full time. I had an appointment on April 10th and the doctor told me i could start putting weight on my foot as tolerated, but to keep my boot on for another 4 weeks so as to not re-injure myself. I still used my scooter at work for the first week, while walking with the crutches in the evening and on the weekend. Last week I came to work with two crutches, but then started getting cockier and used only one crutch towards the end of the week. Now my leg and ankle are aching horribly. I'm back to taking my Norco for the pain as the ibuprofin is not cutting it. I hope i haven't re-injured myself. I stayed home from work today and have put a call into my doctor, but they haven't gotten back with me. What fun......
  • Lisa Clark Apr 23, 2012 @ 3:12 pm | delete
    Hi everyone. It's Lisa C. and as of this Wednesday I will be 8 weeks post op and only 2 weeks left of PT. I am getting anxious as I still can't get my ankle to move up towards me as well as I can side to side or downwards and I still walk with a limp and most of the time my ankle is still so swollen I look deformed. As of last week I am out of the boot completely and was given a brace to use as needed. I must say the brace feels great but it leaves my ankle super swollen. I usually put it on when I know I'll be walking around a lot. I put it on slightly loose to make room for swelling but after about 1/2 hour I can feel it digging into my skin. I went shoe shopping yesterday for some decent flip flops or flat sandals with good support but I could not fit my gimpy foot into anything. Doctor said to expect this kind of swelling for clearly up to a year. My pain is minimal now except for when I push myself to much and I still can't seem to get my big toe to go with the flow of the rest of my foot. Hoping this isn't a problem. Has anyone else experienced this? Even when I walk I have to literally make my big toe go with the direction of the rest of the foot or it just stays up a bit.
    I hope everyone is doing well.
  • Mickey33 Apr 23, 2012 @ 2:57 pm | delete
    Hi I'm Stacey. I broke my ankle the day before Easter last year (2011). Broke the fibula in half, splintered it in 3 spots above the break, broke off the back bottom of the Tibia and tore out the ligaments...just walking on a small slope (talk about bad luck) :( Had surgery to insert 5 screws and a plate a week after. Was in a cast for 4 months-no walking. Yea, It was very upsetting when I could not even carry a cup of coffee to the table. The crutches were difficult to say the least. I was so sore the first week I resorted to crawling through my house on hands and knees just to avoid using them. I am not a sit still kinda person...always on the go with my kids and their soccer. I don't sit still well so it was a pretty difficult time for me. Oh yea, and I fell once before the surgery and again about 2 weeks after. Both times I just laid there and cried for a good 20 minutes I was in so much pain. with my cast cover on, had to use a walker in the shower just so I could steady myslef and not fall again.
    So then the cast comes off -Got a boot for another 3 months with a little walking after 2 months. Went through 3 months of PT. Then hit a snag. PT said there was something preventing my ankle from getting better...still could not bend it up at all-no matter what they did...had to walk sideways on stairs, curbs, slopes, etc or I would fall down. Was also having some pain due to the hardware-one screw was poking out at a weird angle. Went back to Dr. and he sent me to a specialist. He said the hardware had to come out as the tendons were rubbing over the screws causing the pain and swelling. Had a CAT scan and found additional damage that was not previously known...part of the tibia had begun to heal but could not heal fully due to a section that was crushed. Plus, tons of scar tissue and some bone fragments. Said he might have to rebreak the tibia section that broke off and partially healed and screw it back in. SOOO, The day before Thanksgiving, I was back in the hospital having operation #2 to fix all of that. Dr. said it took him over 2 hours just to clean out the scar tissue. Took out all the hardware (YAY), took out the bone fragments and left the tibia alone. He said messing around at the back of the ankle like that was dangerous and it wasn't worth the risk. (worst case-you lose the entire foot) I thanked him for leaving it alone. :) So now, I'm 21 weeks post-op (for the 2nd time). Let me just say that after the 2nd operation, I was up and walking crutch free in 2 days! It was amazing-it felt SOOO much better. I mean, sure it hurt from surgery and all, but it was just a relief. I was okayed to begin walking/excercising again about 6 weeks ago. I am now able to walk with very little limping unless I've overdone it. It still swells and gets very sore most evenings and every morning it takes a few minutes before I stop limping. Seems that my ankle is going to be forever bigger than the other non-injured one. Dr. said that's normal. Also the cold temps are killing me. I have to wrap my ankle almost nightly some weeks. And there are days that I have to wrap it becasue of the pain. But in the past month, I've started having a shooting pain on the outside of my ankle that takes my breath away and drops me to the ground. Very short-lasting only a few seconds. Specialist is sending me in for MRI again as he thinks I have some tendon damage as well (he said that can show up from 1-3 years after a traumatic injury) FANTASTIC!. So I go in this week for the MRI then see Dr again to discuss results. Well, as I say, go big or go home, right? If you're gonna do something, do it well-LOL I think this time I did it TOO well. But you have to keep looking at the bright side. every day it gets a little better. It just takes time. after more than a year, I'm still trying to deal with mine. One day at a time.
  • Lisa Clark Apr 23, 2012 @ 3:15 pm | delete
    Wow Stacey. Well it seems this time around you are doing very well and hopefully your MRI comes out okay. Too bad we couldn't get an award or something for doing things big huh? LOL. I wish you the best of luck and let us know how your MRI turns out. LISA C.
  • Debbie Apr 23, 2012 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    Welcome to the site Jessica!! Sounds like you are doing good. Getting out of the house is always nice. I would really like to get out and see someone besides my Pt person or my doctor. I know that day is coming but just a ways off still.

    Oh and I would like to also recommend a shower chair to anyone who doesn't have one. I love mine and wouldn't be taking a shower without it.

    When I started PT they asked me how many times I had fallen over the past year. I almost needed an extra sheet LOL...anyway, they plan to do a balance test on me once I am full weight bearing. I could be going to PT a long time if they plan to get rid of my klutzy ways. I have been that way my whole life. Luckily I had never broken anything. Until now---Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 23, 2012 @ 9:05 am | delete
    Christina, I was just where you are not long ago. Actually, I still kind of am since I can only practice walking 2x a day. I fell and broke my ankle and dislocated the elbow so I was on complete bed rest for 7 weeks total. I had to wait a week for surgery during which time my ankle hurt pretty bad. I hated my situation and cried often. I was pretty bummed out. It is hard to go from a healthy active adult to being bed ridden. I finally decided there was nothing I could do about my situation and that time would heal me and until I could get my cast off and start PT I may as well just accept my situation. I had to try to get into a new routine and learn how to get around with my husbands help. He had to learn how to help me without hurting me. After the ankle surgery, my ankle hurt pretty good for 3 days and then it started to let up. After about a week I could have stopped using the pain pills but I didn't want to because they took whatever aches and pains I was having completely away. Then, I just had to wait 6 weeks for them to take off my cast. I also was non weight bearing on my arm too so I was in a wheel chair and in bed. Sometimes I would juts bust out crying for no reason. I think out of frustration. Anyway, you have to try and find something to do with your time to keep your mind off your ankle. I played spider solitaire, read books, watched movies, posted on sites like this (thank god for my husbands lap top). There is a face book group called broken ankle/foot/leg survivors- on a quest for normal that you can join. See if this link will work http://www.facebook.com/groups/368618886485089. If not you can join. It has helped me a lot to talk to others going through the same thing.

    I still need help to do many things. I have only been out of my cast for a week. I am in PT and life is getting better. It will get better for you too. Try to remember this is only temporary. That helped me a lot.

    Anybody out there that wants to join the facebook group is welcome. Again here is the link http://www.facebook.com/groups/368618886485089. Hope you post there too. I post in both places. Helps keep me sane.
  • Jessica Apr 23, 2012 @ 8:54 am | delete
    Hello Everyone! So glad I found ths website! I'm 3 weeks post op today! Had 1 plate and 2 screws put into my ankle. I'mgoing a little stir crazy, but it's getting better! It's so good to read about everyone else's experience's, cause I had no idea what to expect...first break in my life! Patiently waiting for May 11th follow up appt. with Ortho Dr. Hopefully I can put weight on my ankle after that. Will start pt then too. Thank the lord for my husband, cause without him, I dont know what I would do!I'm naturally clumsy, and have fallen a few times on crutches and once on my knee scooter(my fault, moving too quickly). I do highly recommend a knee scooter... it makes it easier to get around. I even cruised around Target the other day! What a treat to get out of the house!
    Had my first excursionn this weekend. One of my best friend's got married, and what a beautiful day that was becoming, until the dreaded pain and swelling started up at the reception. Even tho I was just sitting at a table, I think having my foot down for so long really did a number on me. But was worth it!
    Good luck everyone wit your healing!
  • Jessica Apr 23, 2012 @ 8:54 am | delete
    Hello Everyone! So glad I found ths website! I'm 3 weeks post op today! Had 1 plate and 2 screws put into my ankle. I'mgoing a little stir crazy, but it's getting better! It's so good to read about everyone else's experience's, cause I had no idea what to expect...first break in my life! Patiently waiting for May 11th follow up appt. with Ortho Dr. Hopefully I can put weight on my ankle after that. Will start pt then too. Thank the lord for my husband, cause without him, I dont know what I would do!I'm naturally clumsy, and have fallen a few times on crutches and once on my knee scooter(my fault, moving too quickly). I do highly recommend a knee scooter... it makes it easier to get around. I even cruised around Target the other day! What a treat to get out of the house!
    Had my first excursionn this weekend. One of my best friend's got married, and what a beautiful day that was becoming, until the dreaded pain and swelling started up at the reception. Even tho I was just sitting at a table, I think having my foot down for so long really did a number on me. But was worth it!
    Good luck everyone wit your healing!
  • Debbie Apr 23, 2012 @ 8:46 am | delete
    For all you going to PT: I am required to do my exercises 2x a day as tolerated. On PT days I don't do them because when I go to PT she puts me through the mill and I am tired when I come home. Do you guys do your exercises on PT days too?
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 22, 2012 @ 5:21 pm | delete
    Hi Christina, this is Cindy from Iowa. I broke my ankle and had surgery on Feb 1. I have a plate and 8 screws - 2 of which will be removed on May 1. I also had a lot of pain, some days will be worse than others. I can't say for sure what your treatment plan will be but I will share my story.

    After Surgery I was non weight bearing for 6 weeks - I did not consider it complete bed rest - as I made myself get out of bed every day and move to the living room. I used a walker to get around - hoping from place to place. used a wheelchair as well. I slept alot - but i tried to make sure that I got out of the bedroom so I would not get depressed.

    2 weeks after surgery they removed the staples and I got out of the cast, but was placed in an air boot style cast that I could remove only to take a shower.

    At 3 weeks I went back to work part time - it was great to get out of the house.

    6 weeks after surgery I was allowed to start walking and weigh bearing as tolerated.

    At 9 weeks I was allowed to drive

    I am now 12 weeks (as of Tuesday) post op, I wear the boot at work for support, and I am in sneakers the rest of the time. I still use one crutch.I still limp and I swell each day. I need to elevate and ice my ankle yet every night.

    Physical therapy will be an important step in your recovery. I suggest purchasing a shower chair. Even when i had the cast I would sit in the shower and hang my leg out of the tub, pull the curtain over it and I could at least take a shower and not a sponge bath. I think I was at 8 or 9 weeks when I stood to take my first shower - it was AWESOME.

    Take one day at a time. We have all experienced what you are experiencing. This group is a good group fullof lots of support and suggestions. There is also a group on facebook that is really good as well. The broken ankle on a quest for normal group.

    Hope you heal well, and the time will go by fast. Get soem good books, and movies to watch - you will have time to read and watch them now.....

    Good luck
  • christina Apr 22, 2012 @ 3:16 pm | delete
    Hello my name is chistina, I just broke my ankle 1 week ago & still haven't had surgery. I do how ever have a cast but the pain is awful, my doc told me to keep my foot elevated and wants me in complete bed rest! So I guess I was just wondering what comes after surgery? Will I have to be in complete bed rest? Not going out & unable to do anything is just driving me crazzy :(
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 22, 2012 @ 2:05 pm | delete
    Hello again.

    So far so good today -

    Debbie - yes I still limp - have a good pair of sneakers that seem to work well for me - and when the ankle gets tired i put the boot on at work. Pt told me to start weaning myself from the boot. I do my excercisis all the time when I am sitting in my chair. my ROM is pretty good - all except the movement of pulling my toes towards me. I do the towel excersice that you talk about - I am hoping that once the screws come out the movement in that direction will get better.

    Melissa - Yes i will have some down time with the screw removal. doc told me to expect non weight bearing again for 3-4 days, and then back to progressing forward. Some days it seems like we take 3 steps forward 1 step backward with this injury. I agree with you when I started walking - it took a lot of concentration to put weigh on that foot - but it does get easier. I am still working on trying to get my foot turned in - getting out of the boot has helped that alot. I walk much better in my sneakers than I do in my boot.

    Workers Comp is starting to fight me on the PT sessions - says I don't need them anymore. I have 3 session left on the first approval so we are stretchign those put so i have 2 left after the screw removal. and then we are hoping they will approve more. Any suggestions on how to get them to approve more PT?

    Have a great Sundya everyone.
  • Melissa Apr 22, 2012 @ 12:04 pm | delete
    Hello everyone!

    I am 7 weeks post op. I have 1 week of therapy done! I went from no weight for 6 weeks to now walking with a boot and crutches. My therapist wants me to be putting as much weight on it as I can. I am trying, but sometimes find myself not doing it because it is easier. It doesn't cause any pain, it just requires a lot of thought when walking. It is like I have to think about what I am doing. I guess I am being trained how to walk again! I have ankle and leg exercises to do at home. I am going to therapy 3x a week. She got my tennis shoe on my foot on Friday and wants me to practice walking with a shoe at home. That requires even more thought, since I am getting used to rock of the boot. What a fun, long process this is going to be!! :)

    Debbie--as if the ankle isn't enough and you have to deal with your elbow and shoulder too!! Sounds like you are making a little progress everyday! Good for you!

    Cindy--yes, sounds like things are going well for you. After getting the screws removed, will you have to allow some healing time or will you still get to do as much as you are now?

    Wendy--I agree with the others that maybe you should get a second opinion. I can't believe after 5 weeks that you are just supposed to get up and walk!!

    Robb--sounds like you are doing well. The PT exercises will likely get a lot of motion back for you.

    Liz--walking Wal-Mart is a big accomplishment!! Yay for you!

    Wishing everyone a happy healing Sunday!
  • Debbie Apr 22, 2012 @ 10:07 am | delete
    Hey everyone,

    Melissa: My doctor said the same thing to me as for as to just get up and walk (he is crazy in my opinion) but then hastened to add for me to only put 1/3 of my body weight on the foot so most of my weight has to come from my arms when I take a small step which hurts due to my elbow dislocation He also fit me with a brace for support when I walk.. Anyway, in PT she told me to do lots of range of motion exercises with my ankle, like in circles,point foot up toward me, point toes, do the alphabet in caps (printing not cursive) only moving the ankle and side to side. It is normal to have problems bringing the ankle toward you. PT day 2 she told me to get a towel and start pulling the ankle toward me to get more range of motion out of it. Also, she has me doing some exercises to help my toes bend correctly where you get a towel and put part of the towel under your ankle then drape the towel over your toes, pull back on the towel, then pull down for 10 seconds, 10x. They hurt but make my toes bend which needs to happen to walk correctly.

    I really think you need some PT and if your doctor refuses or whatever, I would get a second opinion, an x-ray and have that doctor order PT. If you don't want to do that then my only other advice would be to look around on the internet and do your own PT. All of my exercises for my ankle are 10x (count to 10 while you do each one using Mississippi as a second) done 2x a day. All these things help you to walk. Let us know how it goes.

    I use a walker and make sure you are taking small steps. I have a 2 foot stride normally and tried that the first time I walked and there was NO WAY. Plus I am only walking 2x a day, otherwise I am still in a wheel chair. I think I have to be full weight bearing before the wheel chair is gone. I have been in a wheel chair since day one because of my elbow problems, I couldn't use crutches.

    Cindy I am really happy for you, things are progressing so well. Almost sounds like your living a normal life again. That has to feel good. How is walking without the boot? Do you limp? I was just wondering, it would be weird to have no support around the ankle in the sneakers only.

    Robb, that flexion thing is normal. They say that is one of the hardest things to get back. So I wouldn't worry about it, just keep trying it will come back especially once you start PT. They have a bunch of exercises to help that come back.

    As for me I took 18 steps yesterday and the tendon in my shoulder decided to throw a little hissy fit, had me almost in tears it hurt so bad. Funny, how my ankle should be the problem but my biggest pain is the tendon I think I hurt during the fall. I dislocted the elbow but I hite the shoulder hard coming down. I had tendonitis before the accident so I bet this damaged again or something. I am hopeful PT brings it back. Today I am still sore but between my arm and my ankle I work out 4 hours a day. 2 hours a session mostly all stretching exercises. I might have to start multitasking on some of these to get them done sooner or pretty soon I will have no fee time. LOL..----Debbie
  • Liz Apr 22, 2012 @ 1:47 am | delete
    I walked around Walmart twice today!!!!! No motor cart for me anymore. It feels good to be almost normal.
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 21, 2012 @ 11:39 pm | delete
    Hi Everyone -- it's been a while since I have been here. I am now just about 12 weeks post op. Anxiously awaiting for May 1 - the day when i get the 2 long screws removed. I am doing well. 80-90 % full weight bearing -- using 1 crutch when I am in a group. At home I get by with out the crutch. Still limp. I wear my boot at work, but I am in a good sneaker the rest of the time. Starting to wear my sneakers at work a little -- but ankle gets sore around mid morning so then I go to the boot to finish the day. Swelling is still there - although it goes down each night - actually starting see wrinkles in my toes again - and starting to get a glimps of the veins on top of my foot - of course these are visible only early on in the day as I start to swell once i start my day. Put in my first full week at work last week - even had a little overtime. So i do believe there is hope and I will get back to normal. Just takes time. Happy healing to all!!
  • Wendy Apr 21, 2012 @ 10:26 pm | delete
    I broke my ankle 7 weeks ago. The first week was the most painful week ever with all of the swelling. I didn't have to have surgery and was put in a cast for only 2 weeks. The surgeon then wrapped my ankle for 2 weeks. I am not able to use the crutches. I have fell 2 times already on my foot. My leg and foot is so weak that I can only get around with a wheelchair. I have been trying to put pressure on my foot and I started to use the walker the other day. I made it through the house like a turtle and it felt great. My surgeon said at week 5 for me to just get up a walk. I told him he was crazy and that I need to know what to do. He said to just walk. Okay, I know how my foot, ankle, and leg feels and I've lost muscle mass and it is weak. I've asked him if I need some kind of wrap for support while I'm walking, he said no. I've asked him to tell me some exercises to help...he gave me no answer. According to the hospital and his staff, it was a horrible break. Any suggestions on getting myself walking again? I'm going crazy not being able to do alot of things. I have a 4 year old that is very active and I want to be able to do things with her again.
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 21, 2012 @ 11:17 pm | delete
    Hi Wendy. I am just about 12 weeks post op. I have a plate and 8 screws. I suggest a second opinon and x-ray to make sure that the break has healed correctly. I would see if you can get some Physical Therapy ordered -- that will help with Range of motion and strengthing. USe the walker for support and you will gradually get to crutches. I was non weight bearing for 6 weeks and then had to gradually work into full weight bearing. I have been walking now for just over a month. Stgarting out with small slow steps. I am around 80-90% full weight bearing now. I still use 1 crutch to get around - but each day gets better. I still swell ALOT each day - and I am told to expect that for quite some time. To gain some range of motion - do circles with your foot, make the alphabet with your foot. there is a great group on facebook "broken Ankle Quest for normal" join that group - very supportive and lots of suggestions. The group ranges from new breaks to 1+year out - so alot of experience there as well. Happy healing!!
  • Robb Apr 21, 2012 @ 3:21 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I'm glad to hear about your improvements! I am about 7 weeks post op come Wednesday and will have another follow-up appointment on Tuesday to discuss PT and have an xray to make sure everything has healed correctly (wish me luck)!

    I've been walking with a CAM boot and no assistance for about a week now, while it is an enormous victory, the boot itself is a pain and when I don't have it, I'm forced to revert back to the crutches, ugh... .

    My flexion is pretty bad, I'm not sure how to improve it, I have some solid side-to-side movement, though I cannot point my toes toward me. For all you starting PT again, do you find that the flexion is the hardest part to get back? I'm worried!

    I'm a little bummed as while I am improving, the doctor said I will not be able to walk without the CAM boot until after I remove my hardware which will be in late May and early June. Then it's another few weeks of bed rest until I can get two shoes on, and who knows how long after that till I can get my strength back.

    Keep me posted on all your progress, it's great to hear.
  • Debbie Apr 21, 2012 @ 9:08 am | delete
    Hey Linda,

    Thanks for stopping by and that encouraging report. Wow, walking all over Disney is great news!! Do you still have swelling? Yeah, I am improving more now that I have started PT. Yesterday was my second appt and she stretched the heck out of me. I am sore all the time but I take some advil and it seems to help. Right now I am mainly working on ROM and practice walking as I am partial weight bearing.

    LOL..I am 52 and couldn't run before this accident so I have no desire or care if I can run again. Walking is all I care to do. Can't wait for that day to come.

    Thanks for the encouraging news. =) ----Debbie
  • Linda from Ohio Apr 22, 2012 @ 10:56 pm | delete
    Debbie, You are heading in the right direction! When you are full weight bearing and doing pt progress will speed up. Every dr is different. I was no weight for 14 weeks then full weight bearing. Now 14 months later I have some swelling once in a while and pain if I have had Avery busy day up and down stairs. The only time I ever limp is when I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.
    In a few months I am sure you will be walking without pain :)
    I will keep up with your improvements Blessing
  • Linda from ohio Apr 21, 2012 @ 12:30 am | delete
    Hi all! I am an "oldie" - I got my plate and screws and pins on feb6 in 2011. It has been a year and 2 months. I was non weight bearing for 14 weeks,
    I am 55 and followed all of the dr orders. I completely understand how you feel.
    But once you start pt it seems you improve every day. The most improvement I had was a week in a vacation home with a pool. I exercised everyday in the pool - even just walking back and forth and my ankle improved Dramatically! Could not believe how much the pool helped.
    Recently went to Disney world (I never thought I would ever be able to go to Disney again). I could do everything! I do have a little trouble going down stairs, and I can not run. But I thank the Lord I am almost normal
    I am so grateful to live a normal life again. My 14 weeks in bed seem never ending but it got better. I watched entire tv series....Ali Mcbeal, Numbers, Lie to me, Csi, and many others. Trust me when I say that once you start to walk it improves daily....with a few setbacks. I never want to forget what it feels to be bedridden
    You will walk again and have abnormal live.. Prayers and blessings Linda in Ohio
  • Debbie Apr 20, 2012 @ 9:15 pm | delete
    Hey Liz,

    Congrats on the treadmill. Are you walking with no assistance now? If you are that is pretty awesome even if you feel you are slow. I am dead slow on a walker LOL.
  • Liz Apr 21, 2012 @ 12:32 am | delete
    Debbie,
    I take my cane with me incase I need it, but I don't always use it. Still feels weird to walk unassisted. PT calls it my security blanket or pacifier.
    -Liz
  • Liz Apr 20, 2012 @ 5:07 pm | delete
    I tried twice last night and still don't see my post, so I am going to try again.

    Used the treadmill at PT for the first time. I walked 5 minutes at 1.5mph and then backwards for 4 minutes at 0.5mph. That is about half from where I used to walk. I know it's going to take time, but I'm tired of being passed by people 30+ years older than me.

    Melissa: I have been doing PT since beginning of February, so about 10 weeks.
  • Debbie Apr 20, 2012 @ 8:33 am | delete
    Anyone else still think about their break. Sometimes it runs through my head but not as often as it used to. Right now, I am mainly focused on PT. I took 8 steps yesterday but my arm is paying for it today. My arm actually hurts worse than my ankle. It is really sore for holding my body weight up to use the walker. Man, you really find out just how out of shape you are when you start moving around. I have only just been out of the wheel chair now a week. Well, I am still in most of the time but trying to do more on my own and using the walker 2x a day but I guess my muscles will be sore since for the past 7 weeks I have done nothing but lay in bed with my foot propped up. Those tendons in my shoulder really hurt though. Otherwise PT is going good but I have only been once. I go again today. Hope things are going well for all you out there. -----Debbie
  • Curt Apr 18, 2012 @ 9:51 pm | delete
    One final note, stick with the PT for as long as possible. I'm a bone head but those exercises are the most important thing for you to get back to normal. Range of motion is what call it which makes me say "whatever i'll start walking when I'm ready". But if during your PT and at home you continue, you'll speed your recovery up exponentially.

    Curt
  • Curt Apr 18, 2012 @ 9:49 pm | delete
    @ Debbie - Hi there Debbie :) I haven't determined that I won't totally regain feeling in my foot. I was given that vague two year time frame (big time frame) :) I'm just presuming that if I cant feel a chunk of my foot at 7 months it may never return and was told that from the wound specialist and surgeon. Essentially, I was told that i will regain full mobility and be fine but because of the nature of my break (I saw the bottom of my foot staring at me) I definitely had some nerve damage and it may or may not fully regain feeling. Either way though it's not impacting me but instead just is weird :) Swelling is my main issue and while not a big deal with a 16 mo old son it can be irritating at night when it aches.

    On to you now..I remember it all and it's no fun. I had the moon boot, a walker, crutches, a wheel chair. My advice would be to just laugh about it take your meds and enjoy daytime television which isn't all that exciting I must say. I'm 29 but now, thanks to Judge Judy, am a self proclaimed attorney at law as I've watched about 100 hours of her show. You have probably already experienced the leg bag or condom as I call it for showers and you know how difficult they are. Here's a funny story...I had a plastic cheap lawn chair in my stand up shower and my wife is helping me out and of course, soap tends to make things slip. Well my entire lawn chair broke into about 10 pieces as I lay stuck in the shower. How's that for embarrassing. The good news is we can laugh about it and we know we'll be walking again. The best feeling you're going to ever feel which I suspect will be within a month or so (was like 12 weeks for me) was your first journey out to dinner with nothing. Enjoying a cocktail and having dinner unassisted. It's coming soon so hang in there.

    On a final note, this injury sucks and I hope none of you experience an equivalent injury again. :) Have a great evening folks.
  • Debbie Apr 18, 2012 @ 9:09 pm | delete
    HI Curt,

    Thanks for sharing your story with us. I don't think it was negative just truthful. It takes a long time for tendons, ligaments, nerves, etc to heal when you have an injury. I am 52 and have had surgery before and I know it takes time but glad you shared because sometimes we forget how long these things take to really heal up.

    Personally, at this point, I just want to be able to walk again. I couldn't run before the accident but I am an older person and don't really care about joining sports or anything at my age. I am almost 8 weeks post accident and 7 weeks post op. I have a plate and 7 screws on one side and a pin on the other.

    This has been and continues to be a tough injury to deal with because of the limiations. Today I walked albeit very slowly 6 whole steps. I was thrilled and almost cried tears of joy. I am partial weight bearing, wbat in 2 weeks. PT is hard but worth the results because I will walk again some day.

    I am glad to hear you can do everything you used to do because you had a pretty severe injury. I am glad you can walk and everything.

    When did you discover you had nerve damage. I worry about that sometimes but I have a finger that was operated on last July and I still don't have all my feeling back in that. So 9 month ago. I am thinking my ankle was a much more serious surgery so I don't expect to have my feeling in it for probably at least a year or maybe longer.

    So, I found your post encouraging and stay positive. Thanks for sharing your story as we could all use a lift. I love to hear people are walking again. =) ---Debbie
  • Curt Apr 18, 2012 @ 6:31 pm | delete
    And on a more positive note as I just realized how depressing my post was, I'm actually doing really well. Able to do everything I was able to do pre break with the exception of a triathlon but let's call a spade a spade, I wasn't planning on being a runner :) So to put a positive spin the message below, i'm back to normal with swelling and scars long story short.

    Curt
  • Curt Apr 18, 2012 @ 5:54 pm | delete
    Hello folks - Long time no post. I wanted to give everyone a quick update. I broke my tibia/fib and had a dislocation, have a plate and 11 screws...9 on exterior of ankle and 2 on interior. Needless to say I broke everything mid September 2011. So 7 months in here's what I have to report

    Bad news
    - Scars are still visible but healed
    - I still do not have a lot of feeling in parts of my foot (extensive nerve damage)
    - My foot puffs up still including now as I write this and aches
    - The bottom of my foot is still tender walking bear foot on tile for example when puffy

    Good news
    - I can walk fine without a problem
    - I starting going to the gym and tried using an Eliptical trainer with no problem (some weird noises, pop pop pop)
    - Leg compression sock and advil do the trick along with some ice once in a while if it gets out of control at night
    - A solid pair of good tennis shoes are critical (don't skimp spend some money)

    It will get better. It's just going to take time. Don't rush. I'm young but according to my surgeon for those of you with nerve damage, give yourself up to 2 years before you can say you won't feel areas of your foot again. Also, don't count on the swelling to dissipate for approximately 12 months. If anyone has experienced better results please share if your injury similar as I could use a boost. This forum is a blessing in disguise.

    God bless
  • Debbie Apr 17, 2012 @ 10:18 pm | delete
    Okay so after much crying and carrying on, I went to PT today and it wasn't bad AT ALL. Those of you out there who are about to begin therapy, please do not be afraid. It was not bad. She did not expect me to do the impossible and she didn't hurt me. No one grabbed my ankle and twisted it around or nothing. If she thought I could do more, she would gently push my ankle a little more, barely anything and certainly did not cause me pain.

    I took 4 steps with a walker. The first 3 were not bad, the 4th one hurt like hell. Pain vibrated from my ankle up to my hip and around my back so my guess is I put too much weight on the ankle and didn't use the walker correctly. But remember I have the one bad arm so it is different for me. You won't have this happen to you. I am just telling you my experience.

    One word of advice. Do what you can at you first PT but don't do too much. Like now that I have taken 4 steps, she expects me to go to 5 next session which would be Friday this week. Well, the way I look at is the devil in hell wants ice water but he might not get it. We will just see over the next few days as I try again to walk.

    I need to do all my exercises 2x a day, 10 reps each and most are all range of motion except of course the walking. I was real happy with the fact that my elbow didn't pop out of joint as I had feared LOL...that can't even happen unless I hit it super hard..so that was a stupid fear.

    Anyway, again if you are just starting PT and are afraid, I was terrified, it is not that bad. Just don't try to do more than you think you can so your goals aren't too high. It isn't supposed to hurt that bad. It might hurt a little but nothing a tylenol won't take care of and even with my one bad step experience the pain went away as quick as it came so nothing lasting.

    Good luck out there!! Keep us posted ...congrats to Liz and Tom on your improvements. Glad to see you guys are doing so good. You earned every step that is for sure. Keep up the good work and some day this is all going to be a bad memory.
  • Melissa Apr 17, 2012 @ 8:34 pm | delete
    Well, my first PT appt. today went pretty well. I am using 2 crutches and putting my bad foot down. No more walker and no more wheelchair for me!! Not really any pain everything just felt tight and the fact that I was nervous to feel pain. I have 2 more appts. this week and am supposed to do my exercises 2-3 times a day. Boy, is it difficult to write the alphabet with my foot!! I guess that is why we have to practice these exercises!! That massage did feel good on my foot. I am looking forward to that again tomorrow!!

    Well, hope everyone is healing nicely. Sounds like therapy is working for those who are going. I hope it goes well for those who are just starting!!

    Liz--that sounds like great news. How long have you been going to therapy?
  • Liz Apr 17, 2012 @ 7:13 pm | delete
    Went to PT for my appt and they had me walking up and down the stairs just one foot. I was able to do it!!!!!! Also noticed I'm not really using the cane so they had me walk without it. So at 15 weeks, I don't have to use anything to walk!!!!
  • Tom Apr 17, 2012 @ 8:18 am | delete
    Hi all, its my 13th ankleversery. 12 weeks post op, I'm still on 2 crutches and today I start 50% WB my Rom has improved in every direction except bringing my foot up towards my leg but I can push it down like pressing a gas pedal almost 100% I'm about 50% side to side. Still purple when I have my foot down, but my swelling has decreased. Therapy is a scary thought but once you begin its not bad at all just let your therapist when pain begins and they will respect you. They slightly massage and stretch my foot I do have a lot of pain on the top of my foot but then I have an hour of pool therapy Wich is great because I'm able to walk w/o crutcheslike a big boy!!! It's slow progression but thankfully it IS PROGRESS!! I see a few of you are about to begin therapy. So embrace therapy it will be your first tea feeling that you are getting better and there is a great sense of pride when you do new things at therapy. Happy healing and be brave my fellow gimps!!!! ;-). Tom
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 16, 2012 @ 7:34 pm | delete
    Hi all,

    I just removed my cast today!!! The doctoris saying that everything is healing ok! One big relieve!!! My foot really looks weird and my leg is way smaller then my other leg. It's almost like it's not my leg but it feels good.

    I'm starting physio next Thursday. This is scaring me a little bit but I know it's for my own good!!
  • Debbie Apr 16, 2012 @ 7:14 pm | delete
    Physical Therapy starts for me tomorrow. Wish me luck!! Hope it doesn't hurt to bad but whatever the case may be at least I am on the road to healing. ---Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 15, 2012 @ 3:46 pm | delete
    I got an email from someone about they were getting their cast off tomorrow and was hoping their scar healed up. I am no doctor but I would think it has. My doctor didn't say nothing about me getting it wet so I went ahead and took a shower. I didn't actually wash the incisions I just let the soap and water run over it. Oh and don't forget all this was done with a shower chair which if I didn't have I would have not been able to stand and take a shower. I don't think I am allowed to stand without my brace yet.

    Anyway, you will love getting the cast off. Just be prepared for tons of dry skin. I took a shower and I still have it on my legs for some reason and on the one arm I had to wear a brace on. Odd....anyway good luck. I am sure you will love getting the cast off. I am glad to see it gone.
  • Debbie Apr 15, 2012 @ 10:28 am | delete
    Hey everyone,

    Sounds like me and you Melissa are in the same boat. Yes, they are sending me to PT but they were supposed to call but I haven't heard from them yet. If I don't hear something by Monday I will be calling them. I am sure PT will give us more confidence as far as weight bearing.

    Yesterday I was only able to put 20 pounds on my foot due to fear. Today I was able to put 40 on it but it felt like I was standing on something hard on my heel. I wonder if that is normal. At first I thought it was the brace but I looked and there is nothing on the bottom of the brace.

    There is no way on god's green earth that I feel like I can take even one step right now. I tried twice and no go. I don't think I got the hang of how to do it which is something PT will also help with.

    Plus I have the additional elbow that feels very weak to deal with. My left arm has a hard time weight bearing since I was not allowed to do it till now. It shakes like crazy which makes me unstable trying to walk. I have a tendon that runs all the way up my arm to my shoulder that screams when I put weight on it. So that is just an additional struggle.

    I have to admit, I sat down and had me a good cry this morning because my doctor says I can walk but I am too afraid to put that much weight on my foot. Then, I sucked up my courage, went into the bathroom and put 40 pounds on that scale. 10 pounds away from the 50 he says I can bear.

    Please god, don't let me cry in PT. I am so emotional these days.

    Yeah i don't have much swelling either, yet, but like you I am thinking it will increase as time goes on. I also don't have much pain which is remarkable. I do get shooting pains in the hardware and like I said when I put that much weight on it, it felt like I was standing on a rock with my heel. I hope all that goes away eventually.

    Welp, on to the next step. PT and on to getting back to normal. Oh and I took a shower yesterday if I haven't already mentioned that and soap and water felt so very good on my leg and ankle...all over. It was wonderful.

    Talk to you all later, Hope things are going well. Keep us posted. I love reading your posts.
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 15, 2012 @ 1:44 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie,

    It felt great to read your post today. I am removing my cast tomorrow and I will have to go through what you are going through right now next week.

    One thing I am afraid is that my scar is not healed correctly. Were you able to put water on it right away or your had to cover it in the shower??? My feet is starting to itch right now so I can't wait to have this leg washed!!!

    I am starting work on the 16th. If I stay in here one more day... they are going to send me to the loonie bin!!! I will then be 7 week post op and my hubby work in the same building as me so I guess I will survive!!!
  • Melissa Apr 15, 2012 @ 9:37 am | delete
    Thanks everyone for the information of putting 25% weight. That make sense. I have a digital scale so it didn't work. I may just wait a couple more days and work with PT on it--I start on Tuesday. I did try to do some gentle touches with my foot, but it seems difficult to use it for walking yet. I love being able to take the boot off and try to get my leg looking normal again. I really don't have much swelling, but I suppose that will get worse again when I start using it more. I just wish the incisions were completely healed. They seem to bother me more than anything. The doctor told me not to put anything on them and that they would heal better that way. My skin feels so tight there.

    Debbie--sounds like you got good news at the doctor. Are they sending you to therapy too? That is amazing that you are using your foot to stand already! I'm sure that feels great!

    Well, hope everyone has a good day!
  • Debbie Apr 14, 2012 @ 9:53 pm | delete
    LOL Liz. Today I stood for the first time. It seems like I could put more pressure on this foot but I am cautious so I am taking it slow. But I was actually standing while holding onto the bed but hey it's still standing and yeah I did feel taller. LOL...I am only 5'1.
  • Liz Apr 15, 2012 @ 2:16 am | delete
    I used to make my food sitting in the wheelchair, only standing for a few seconds to grab something out of reach. Now while I'm making food or doing dishes, I feel taller. I'm only 5'4" I feel like I should be measured again. If we can shrink as we get older, why can't we grow?
  • Liz Apr 14, 2012 @ 7:45 pm | delete
    Anyone else that used a wheelchair feel taller now that you are standing?
  • TexasGal Apr 16, 2012 @ 2:35 am | delete
    I know I sure do !!
    I'm 5'-9" and even though I've been standing and walking for a few weeks now, it still feels Weird ! Sometimes I look down at the countertop or table I'm in front of, and it doesn't feel right !
  • Debbie Apr 14, 2012 @ 8:03 am | delete
    Hello again,

    Well, I weighed myself this morning and found out I gained 10lbs. Yipee =( So now I have bear more weight on my poor foot. Also, I do not have a regular scale they are all digital so my husband will have to buy a cheap one so I can see how it feels to bear 30% of my weight. Man, I am the heaviest I have ever been. Figures.

    I am also happy to see my leg but I was shocked to see that it is not that much smaller than my other one. I have lost some muscle and when I tried to put some weight on my foot to walk, that was a joke. I can't walk. My leg feels weak like it won't hold me up. Oh and my leg was pretty hairy, full of white stuff and just not pleasant to look at. My foot doesn't look all that great either but better than I would have thought. Looks like the hair follicles on my leg are much bigger than they should be. Not sure what happened there.

    Anyway, there is not going to be any walking. My doctor has lost his mind. Right now I am just trying to bear a little weight on it and even then afterwards my hardware hurts. Also the ground feels weird because my foot is partially numb. Maybe I should be thankful for that huh?

    So happy healing all ...----Debbie
  • samantha Apr 17, 2012 @ 12:01 am | delete
    I'm scared I still need to have my cast for 2 more weeks and hoefull I can walk on it with the air cast, at least. Though, i'm afraid of the PT of, how that's gonna go, but anything to be able to walk normally again.
  • Debbie Apr 13, 2012 @ 6:52 pm | delete
    You guys are not going to believe this but I went to the OS today. I am 6 weeks post op and they removed my cast and put me in an air brace. It is really small. It wraps around my heel and goes up my ankle then Velcros around. Under it they want me to keep it wrapped with an ace bandage. My X-ray looked awesome and the doctor wants me to start walking a little. Says he is ordering me crutches and a walker because I said I don't think I can walk on crutches. Until I go to PT I have neither, waiting for them to call. Anyway, he tells me I can walk without nothing. The man is insane. Says I can bear 30% weight on this foot now and arm too. Told me to take my arm brace off because I don't need it. He says I am Healed...bones are all healed up. I took a picture with my phone. Unreal. So no boot. I can wear shoes with this brace. Unreal.

    This brace is so light, I love it. So comfortable. I have been bearing a little weight on this ankle and plan to shower tomorrow. I hardly have any white stuff on my leg. My leg is a little weak though and doesn't feel like it can support my weight.
  • Debbie Apr 13, 2012 @ 9:19 am | delete
    I found this on a web site about partial weight bearing that might help.

    What my PT did which really helped was to have me stand on a scale. For example, I weight 120 pounds and so 25% of my weight is 30 pounds. My PT had me stand on the floor and then put just my operative leg on the scale to get an idea of what 30 pounds of pressure felt like. You will move a lot slower when you are PWB, but it really is for a good reason.
  • Tom Apr 13, 2012 @ 7:52 am | delete
    Hi all, to figure 25% you take your weight divide it by 4 then get your scale and push your bad foot on it until that weight appears example I weigh a little over 200 pounds so I pushed down on the scale until it went to 50 pounds, you will be suprised how little pressure it takes to 25% I think you'll go past the desired number when you first press down. Just be careful not to overdo it as I found out at my 11 week post op appt on tues where I found out I had a new stress fracture listen to your body a little more than your doctor they can only guide you I did FWB because he told me o should even though I felt a lot of pAin o thought that was the norm now I know my body knows best. Happy healing. Tom
  • Debbie Apr 13, 2012 @ 7:14 am | delete
    HI all, Well, since it is the crack of dawn, actually I don't even think it is light outside yet as it is 6:05 in the am and I have been up since like 4am staring at the ceiling waiting for my husband to wake up so he can retrieve the mountain of pillows I use in bed throughout the day.

    I have wondered the same thing about weight bearing. I mean how the heck can I tell if it is 25% so I am going to ask my doctor that very question today and get back to you all on what he says.

    I guess my feelings are normal as I am happy to get this stupid cast off but also wondering what PT will be like. I am excited to go the next step because it is progress and one more step closer to normal but am also a little nervous about it too.

    LOL, I have been lifting my leg in bed too but not anything close to 50 to 100 times a day. I figure most people in a cast would be on crutches and since I am not I lift my cast about 10x a day and hold it for at least 5 seconds. My leg shakes like crazy. I can also wiggle my toes and have feeling in them again. My nerve shooting pain is pretty much gone with an occasional twinge.

    I take Caltrate that you can chew up and it comes in all kinds of flavors. I find it to be easier on my stomach. I have such a sensitive dang stomach. I can't take percocet or vicodin because it really makes me sick. They finally gave me Tramadol which is awesome but not as strong so it doesn't always completely take the pain away but works better than tylenol or advil.

    Last time I was at the doctor he said I will only put enough weight on my foot to balance myself. I am going to ask about the 25% thing because there is no way we can tell.
  • Grace Apr 13, 2012 @ 10:40 am | delete
    Hi Debbie, as Tom said you get your scale and put your foot to measure your 25 %, in my case I took it slowly, since I was afraid of putting too much weight on it, I would sit on my rocking chair with the weight in front and pushed my foot on the scalle, since it felt strange and it also hurt a little it took me about 11 days. By the way you have to weght the boot you will using. Ahh and my digital scale wouldn't measure under 8 pounds and I didn't know if it was becuse of the plastic of the boot, later found out it was becaise of the small pressure I was doing, so a friend lended me a normal scale and with that scale I started measuring weight, doing presure exercises first sitting then standing .
    Good luck
    Grace mackay from Monterrey mexico
  • ED (Emilie) Apr 12, 2012 @ 9:02 pm | delete
    Hi all,

    I was wondering the same thing... how on earth can you know when you are at 25%!??!? I am getting my cast remove after 40 days in the cast.

    I sooo want to walk as fast as I can but am I ever scares. I have been lifting my leg in bed about 50-100 times a day and I can wiggle my toes as much as I want. Now I can put my big toe at a 90 degree angle wich at the beginning I couldn't.

    For the bowel movement, you have to eat a lot of fibre since the pain medecine doesn't help us but the Calcium supplement either. Those Calcium pills are killing me. My stomach really doesnt like them.

    I hope you guys have a wondeful week!!
  • Melissa Apr 12, 2012 @ 8:38 pm | delete
    Hello all!

    Debbie--I was given stool softeners after my surgery when I was taking the pain meds. It does not make it completely normal, but definitely helped. Good luck tomorrow.

    I did got my cast off yesterday and into a boot. The boot is actually much bigger and heavier. It is nice to see my foot and leg (well not really nice since it is purple, hairy, wrinkled, skinny, and no muscle left). I guess it is progress. I start therapy on Tuesday. Dr. said I can start 25% weight on Saturday (that is the official 6 week mark). Kind of scary and confusing--how exactly do you put on 25%? They told me to start with some gentle toe touches. Excited and nervous for PT. I guess that is my latest news.

    Good to hear from everyone. Sorry to hear about your set back, Tom.

    Take care!
  • Debbie Apr 12, 2012 @ 6:54 pm | delete
    Nurse Debbie, thank you for your story. It sure helps to know someone else who has gone before us is now walking again. You know, no one ever talks about the bowel moment thing. Pain pills seem to cause a problem. I hate to ask but I am just gonna put it out there. Does someone have something they take that works gently (no cramping) daily to make it easier to go to the bathroom? Once I start PT I expect to have to start pain pills again and they give me problems. I would like to be more prepared this time. Thanks, Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 12, 2012 @ 1:10 pm | delete
    Annette, I am assuming you are under the care of an Orthopedic Surgeon or a medical doctor? If you have a cast on your arm and a cast on your leg, I would think you need to rest it so the bones can heal. But you should listen to your doctor. Did you have to have surgery?

    I broke my ankle and dislocated my elbow 7 weeks ago and I am have been non weight bearing on both since then. In other words, no weight on the broken ankle or arm. I am sitting around with my foot up on a pillow and my arm in a brace. I can't get around without my wheel chair and then can't roll it due to my arm. So I depend on my husband to help me around. I would think you would be doing the same. Since it was your right ankle I don't even see how you drove to the store.

    Talk to your doctor about what activities you should be doing. Make sure you don't overdo and wind up in worse shape. I am not sure what a trolley is but hopefully it allows you to get around without hurting yourself. Good luck in your recovery and keep us posted on your condition.

    Tom: Glad you are at least able to continue with pool therapy since part of getting better is getting those tendons and ligaments to work.

    It is amazing to me that we walk around our entire lives and then we don't use our muscles for 6 weeks and BAM, they don't work like they used to or not at all and we have to struggle like the dickens to get back on our feet. Literally.

    I don't know about the rest of you because I have been through a lot in my life. I have had folks tell me I should write a book. Heck, I just might. Anyway, I have to say this is one of the worse things I have ever been through except dealing with the death of a loved one. And even that was more taxing emotionally. This hits everything, physical and emotional. Your really find out who cares about you and who doesn't when you have to depend on others to do things for you. I have regretfully found out I have 4 people I can depend on, one lives out of state and 2 are in poor health so that pretty much leaves one. Pretty sad. I have even had family members who haven't even asked how I am doing and when pressed said I was using my injury to be a victim. I wasn't the one pressing by the way. My work fired me from my job because I was part time. I mean, man people can be cold. I have found more solace and compassion on this site among strangers.

    Well, happy healing everyone...I will post tomorrow about my new boot most likely. I am less anxious about it thanks to you guys. Writing on this thing keeps me sane. =) ----Debbie
  • Debbi Apr 12, 2012 @ 1:09 pm | delete
    Hi I had a Tib Fib ankle Fracture and Dislocation Dec 16th 2011 and am back walking doing 12 hour shifts as an RN 3 days/week. It helps me if I do warm water soaks/stretches then ice elevation after work and I wear good tennis shoes and support hose. I have a plate and 11 screws. I draw the alphabet with my foot, and force movement. I still have pain and medicate after work with stronger meds and use over the counter meds, prayer, and just push through the pain at work. You have to do your exercises. I have a good calcium Vit D rich diet, honey, and lots of water. I wear a brace on the ankle every now and then. I have to go in June to get the big pin removed. It really hurts when it rains. The knee scooter was FABULOUS for getting around, and I went to my daughter's wedding 2 weeks after surgery with the cast. Find creative things to do with your time, catch up with family, write cards, and try to get out of the house. I sat in the window and got 20 min of sun daily, listened to music, and made an effort to get dressed, and put on lipgloss daily just to keep in routine. Get a routine, don't get lazy. Keep healthy snacks by bed, and do keep a regular bowel movement!!!! Nurse Debbie
  • Annette Apr 12, 2012 @ 11:28 am | delete
    Hi I'm Annette I'm 70 this year, and two and a half weeks ago I triped in the garden and fractured my right ankle and my left wrist so now I have two lovely pink casts , and today I walked around Asdas store leaning on my trolley no crutches as I can't use them with my Brocken wrist not bad for an old one .... I just hope I do not delay the healing proses so the question is use the ankle or rest it. Thanks
  • Annette Apr 12, 2012 @ 11:28 am | delete
    Hi I'm Annette I'm 70 this year, and two and a half weeks ago I triped in the garden and fractured my right ankle and my left wrist so now I have two lovely pink casts , and today I walked around Asdas store leaning on my trolley no crutches as I can't use them with my Brocken wrist not bad for an old one .... I just hope I do not delay the healing proses so the question is use the ankle or rest it. Thanks
  • Tom Apr 11, 2012 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    Hi all, Kevin not all people heal the same and the injuries are different along with the age factor.... I am 47 and in good physical health I pushed myself mentally and physically and at my 11 week post op appt with my os found out I pushed myself into a stress fracture from too much WB too early so now I'm set back 4 to 6 weeks. I'm happy it worked for you, It's just not good advice for everyone. Debbie yah It's time to load the dvr up again. As far as the pool therapy its great I'm able to walk without crutches in chest high 92 degree water. My foot is back to normal color when I get out and it feels great until the next day but as we all now know nothing comes easy. Happy healing all. Tom
  • Grace Mackay Apr 12, 2012 @ 2:06 am | delete
    we the club of broken ankle tibia fibulas should really be the ones educating the comunity about the big amount of variables involved (type of fracture, age, weight, athletic condition, etc) in the healing process, making each case unique in timelines, and similar in many others (no weight bearing for?) so we most respect others on their healing process, since I truly believe not everything is in our minds.
    I have a spiral fracture of tibia fibula ankle of right foot , owner of one plate 9 screws plus two other screws on the tibia ankle joint. On the beginning My dr told me that i would be no weight bearing for 1 month. But when the dr appt came after the xray he said I needed a cast (my first 30 days I used a boot) for wels 5 to 9 and NWB. He said a tiny part of my tibia needed to be protected from movements. So we all heal differently.
    Now I am 7 1/2 months post fall surgery.i'm glad to be walking almost without a limp, have been to 78 therapies. Still hurts in some movements while walking.
    So tom its good that dr catched the stress fracture, because at the end we want to be well.
    Good luck be patient
    Grace
  • Trishy Apr 11, 2012 @ 7:58 pm | delete
    Hi Liz,

    Manuka honey from New Zealand is what you want. It's used here ( in Australia) in major hospitals to treat wounds.

    And to Debbie...re: the cam boot. I found the boot was very uncomfortable, because its so rigid. The cast is moulded to your shape, whereas the boot is its own shape and you have to adapt to it. It just takes a bit of getting used to. But it certainly protects the ankle.
  • Kevin Apr 11, 2012 @ 6:38 pm | delete
    Hi Guys,

    Today is my 5th week out of my cast and im 1 week off the crutches. I am improving day by day slowly but surely. I have started my strenght exercises today and hope to see much more progress in the next week.

    For any one following my blog posts, i will continue to post every wednesday on my progress.... NEVER BE AFRAID TO GO TO HARD FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. I found that the best exercise and to help restore power and strenght is to actually put the weight bearing on your foot, maybe prehaps 5 to 10 mins every half hour, dont get to attached to the crutches or to depend on them to much.

    It is all within in the power of your mind and self beleive. If you want to walk, you will walk. Never be afraid!

    Good luck to all
  • Kevin Apr 11, 2012 @ 6:38 pm | delete
    Hi Guys,

    Today is my 5th week out of my cast and im 1 week off the crutches. I am improving day by day slowly but surely. I have started my strenght exercises today and hope to see much more progress in the next week.

    For any one following my blog posts, i will continue to post every wednesday on my progress.... NEVER BE AFRAID TO GO TO HARD FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. I found that the best exercise and to help restore power and strenght is to actually put the weight bearing on your foot, maybe prehaps 5 to 10 mins every half hour, dont get to attached to the crutches or to depend on them to much.

    It is all within in the power of your mind and self beleive. If you want to walk, you will walk. Never be afraid!

    Good luck to all
  • Kevin Apr 11, 2012 @ 6:36 pm | delete
    Hi Guys,

    Today is my 5th week out of my cast and im 1 week off the crutches. I am improving day by day slowly but surely. I have started my strenght exercises today and hope to see much more progress in the next week.

    For any one following my blog posts, i will continue to post every wednesday on my progress.... NEVER BE AFRAID TO GO TO HARD FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. I found that the best exercise and to help restore power and strenght is to actually put the weight bearing on your foot, maybe prehaps 5 to 10 mins every half hour, dont get to attached to the crutches or to depend on them to much.

    It is all within in the power of your mind and self beleive. If you want to walk, you will walk. Never be afraid!

    Good luck to all
  • Kevin Apr 11, 2012 @ 6:36 pm | delete
    Hi Guys,

    Today is my 5th week out of my cast and im 1 week off the crutches. I am improving day by day slowly but surely. I have started my strenght exercises today and hope to see much more progress in the next week.

    For any one following my blog posts, i will continue to post every wednesday on my progress.... NEVER BE AFRAID TO GO TO HARD FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. I found that the best exercise and to help restore power and strenght is to actually put the weight bearing on your foot, maybe prehaps 5 to 10 mins every half hour, dont get to attached to the crutches or to depend on them to much.

    It is all within in the power of your mind and self beleive. If you want to walk, you will walk. Never be afraid!

    Good luck to all
  • Debbie Apr 11, 2012 @ 5:23 pm | delete
    Robb: I just have to comment on your post. I think you are doing so fantastic after only 5 weeks. I know this injury is frustrating but you are doing really good and have made a lot of improvement in a very short length of time. I envy your progress so hang in there and you will be walking without crutches before you know it.
    My injury is driving me crazy right now because I have the added problem of a dislocated elbow so I can't use crutches because I am non weight bearing on my left arm and left leg. I am still in a cast after almost 6 weeks. I finally get this cast off on Friday and my doctor is going to get me a knee scooter because my arm should be good enough to steer at that point. I just hope i don't tip the dang thing over.

    Liz: I saw a show about honey bees recently and they say it has healing properties. Something about how it turns to wax and is supposed to help keep water out and it also has some extra healing properties too. I think it will help you. I really hope so. You have been through the mill with that wound.

    I gotta say one thing: This injury really does test your patience especially on those days where you are so tired. I am tired because I didn't sleep well last night. I am still sleeping partly on my back with a pillow propped behind me so I can kinda lay to the side but then I get sore from being in one position.

    I also have a tendon in my shoulder that is really hurting lately. I have to talk to my doctor about that although each time I go there they don't seem too concerned with the arm. Mostly they focus on my ankle. Maybe PT will fix up the arm.

    I will be glad when I can get around. Sorry Tom that you got set back. It must be frustrating to make some progress and now your back to watching TV again. Well, hopefully soon we will all get well and things will get better.

    I am trying to think that time will go by and as it does, I will get closer to normal. Can't wait for that day. Heck, I can't wait to take a shower and walk to the bathroom at this point. I am so tired of that wheel chair over there. I just want to burn it. It's rented or I would give it some thought.

    Anyway, happy healing everyone. Sorry for the long rant. Not in the best of moods today. ----Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 11, 2012 @ 4:49 pm | delete
    Robb: I just have to comment on your post. I think you are doing so fantastic after only 5 weeks. I know this injury is frustrating but you are doing really good and have made a lot of improvement in a very short length of time. I envy your progress so hang in there and you will be walking without crutches before you know it.
    My injury is driving me crazy right now because I have the added problem of a dislocated elbow so I can't use crutches because I am non weight bearing on my left arm and left leg. I am still in a cast after almost 6 weeks. I finally get this cast off on Friday and my doctor is going to get me a knee scooter because my arm should be good enough to steer at that point. I just hope i don't tip the dang thing over.

    Liz: I saw a show about honey bees recently and they say it has healing properties. Something about how it turns to wax and is supposed to help keep water out and it also has some extra healing properties too. I think it will help you. I really hope so. You have been through the mill with that wound.

    I gotta say one thing: This injury really does test your patience especially on those days where you are so tired. I am tired because I didn't sleep well last night. I am still sleeping partly on my back with a pillow propped behind me so I can kinda lay to the side but then I get sore from being in one position.

    I also have a tendon in my shoulder that is really hurting lately. I have to talk to my doctor about that although each time I go there they don't seem too concerned with the arm. Mostly they focus on my ankle. Maybe PT will fix up the arm.

    I will be glad when I can get around. Sorry Tom that you got set back. It must be frustrating to make some progress and now your back to watching TV again. Well, hopefully soon we will all get well and things will get better.

    I am trying to think that time will go by and as it does, I will get closer to normal. Can't wait for that day. Heck, I can't wait to take a shower and walk to the bathroom at this point. I am so tired of that wheel chair over there. I just want to burn it. It's rented or I would give it some thought.

    Anyway, happy healing everyone. Sorry for the long rant. Not in the best of moods today. ----Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 11, 2012 @ 8:39 am | delete
    Tom: Sorry to hear about your stress fracture and that you had to pull back. I guess the stress fracture will heal on it's own? Yeah these doctors always have a time line for when you should be doing this and that but some people take a little longer to heal. Age is a factor they need to take into account too. I am 52 years old and highly doubt I am going to mend as fast as a 30 year old.

    Even when I was younger I healed slower than most. My body just takes its own sweet time. Anyway, hope you are doing better now and will recover soon from the stress fracture. I hope I get pool therapy. They say that is the best and less painful. -----Debbie
  • Liz Apr 11, 2012 @ 3:37 pm | delete
    Because of my wound on my ankle I still am not able to do pool therapy. I read the honey speeds the healing, so here is to hoping for soon.
  • Debbie Apr 10, 2012 @ 8:30 pm | delete
    Hey all, This is Debbie (Debra from FB) Thanks for posting. I am glad to hear that things do get better and people really are walking. Sometimes you just have to wonder if this all really does come to an end.

    It is really weird but as I get closer to Friday and getting this cast off and a boot on, I become less afraid. I am not sure why. I guess I just keep thinking about how I want to take a shower. I just hope I am ready for what comes next. I think a lot of how hard this all is depends on your expectations. I don't expect to get a boot on and start walking contrary to my mothers beliefs that this is what will happen. I am just hoping to be able to balance a little better and put that foot on the floor with hardly any real weight on it without it hurting like hell.

    My doctor said once we get on the boot he just wants me to use it to balance a little bit but not put any real weight on it.

    I have a question though. Does it hurt to have the cam boot on? Why? Maybe because you can move your foot around more? I have heard more than one person say they hated the boot because it hurt to wear it more than the cast.
  • Tom Apr 10, 2012 @ 7:09 pm | delete
    Hi all, its my 12 week ankleversery I had my 11 week post op appt with my os and I went there via 2 crutches and he scolded me telling me I should be FWB and he is releasing me back to work with no restrictions so I asked him to look at my foot he told me he would take another xray so after that he didn't show it to me but he came in with a different attitude saying everyone heals differently and perhaps I was not ready for the WB I was doing and I have another stress fracture and that I need to pull back to 25%WB. So another step backward but it just goes to show you are the best judge of how much you should do!!!!! So I am continuing physio in the pool won't be ready for land therapy for a little bit. So hopefully it will heal properly until then back to the recliner with my leg propped up and my remote in my hand and my laptop on my lap. Happy healing all. Tom
  • Liz Apr 11, 2012 @ 3:33 pm | delete
    I get an xray at each visit to my OS so he looks at it before he comes in with new instructions. I'm not 14 weeks and have been using the cane for 2 weeks, but I was 2 crutches until then.
  • Liz Apr 11, 2012 @ 3:43 pm | delete
    Oops just noticed my typo. I'm at 14 weeks :)
  • Robb Apr 10, 2012 @ 3:46 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I hope you're doing well. It's been a while since I've posted but I wanted to share my recovery and questions with you all!

    Currently I'm 5 weeks post op, I've had a plate and 5 screws to correct a break in my fibula and two long syndemsotic screws to reduce my ankle displacement.

    It's honestly been a really grueling 5 weeks. I've never felt so frustrated in my life. I've been trying to occupy my day with work, though I still find my thoughts filled with anger, depression and fear. The good news though is that I was given a CAM boot last Tuesday and was told that I can transition to weight bearing. For all of you planning to get out of your cast soon, I will tell you it is extremely painful. I wished so badly to be back in the cast! My ROM is pretty bad, some side to side movement, but no dorsiflexion even after a week of moving it around. I won't start PT for another 2 weeks, but I've been able to transition to one crutch and walking with the boot, though my nights are filled with soreness and frustration that I still have to use both crutches to get out of bed, etc... .

    For those of you in a CAM boot or transitioning out of it, how much ROM did you have? Should I be worried about this lack of dosiflexion? I've been attempting to stretch it every night, but it seems like no progress is made.

    For those of you still recovering in the cast, I wanted to share my experience just to let you know that there is hope, it's just gradual. Don't be frustrated when you realize you can't walk right away after the cast is off, we need to take it slow and remember not to get our hopes up too much.

    Keep me posted on all your progress.
  • Liz Apr 11, 2012 @ 3:40 pm | delete
    I have been out of my boot for 6 weeks and I still don't have a lot of ROM side to side or pointing toes down.
  • Lisa Clark Apr 11, 2012 @ 3:46 pm | delete
    Is there something we are supposed to wear after the boot comes off and what shoes are best? I don't know but yesterday my Physical Therapist had me try this new exercise where I put my hands up against a wall with my left foot in the back and my right (bad ankle) up close to the wall and I am supposed to bend my left ankle, right ankle at the same time pushing forward. I am having a hard time with these because it is very painful. Right now the side of my bad ankle/foot hurts so bad. Not sure why. My ROM is getting better and I drove a little on Monday. If I sit and just let my ankle dangle...it hurts badly. Uggghhhh. Am I doing something wrong? It seems I am in more pain now than I have been since this happened.-Lisa
  • Debbie Apr 9, 2012 @ 9:02 pm | delete
    Kevin,

    Thanks for your story. I am getting my cast off this Friday and will start PT next week most likely. I think many of your fears are all normal and have been felt by us all and expressed here on this site.

    It is the successes of people who go before us that give us encouragement and hope that our lives will get better as we lay in bed day after day with our legs propped up wishing we were once again whole and normal.

    It is stories about people who walk again that make us feel it will happen if we believe in ourselves and keep on keeping on. The days will pass and someday we will walk again. In the meantime, we gain encouragement from people like you.

    Thank you!! I wish you continued success in the healing process. Please keep us posted on your progress.
  • Kevin Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:15 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I fractured my Fibula on the 25th Jan this year at a college function. I was submitted to ER that night and was kept as i was to under go an operation the following morning. I will have you know i am a proud owner of a plate and 9 screws to my right ankle. I then spent 6 weeks in a cast and i never felt as lost in all my life. The simple things in life became so hard and i felt down alot of the time but as you grow used to the injury you can manage.

    I got my cast off on March 7th and i never felt so scared in all my life when the physio got tackling me that same day. The ankle was so stiff and weak and the pain was surreal. I started on early movement exercises and was to the physio again a week later. As the days went in , i was able to get alot more movement in when ever i could. I could only really put 25% weight bare on the foot but within 1 week of getting the cast off i found a huge improvement.
    I am still currently seeing my physio and i am not 4 weeks out of my cast. I met with my OS Wednesday last and he was happy to see me lose the crutches.
    I am however walking full weight but a very bad limp. I also continue to keep my foot up as it swells alot.

    I feel for me anyway, that the key is to believe you can walk and go for it, i am pushing myself each day and i am now cycling to help my whole leg. You really have to work hard at it and dont be afraid to do it.
  • Kevin Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:15 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I fractured my Fibula on the 25th Jan this year at a college function. I was submitted to ER that night and was kept as i was to under go an operation the following morning. I will have you know i am a proud owner of a plate and 9 screws to my right ankle. I then spent 6 weeks in a cast and i never felt as lost in all my life. The simple things in life became so hard and i felt down alot of the time but as you grow used to the injury you can manage.

    I got my cast off on March 7th and i never felt so scared in all my life when the physio got tackling me that same day. The ankle was so stiff and weak and the pain was surreal. I started on early movement exercises and was to the physio again a week later. As the days went in , i was able to get alot more movement in when ever i could. I could only really put 25% weight bare on the foot but within 1 week of getting the cast off i found a huge improvement.
    I am still currently seeing my physio and i am not 4 weeks out of my cast. I met with my OS Wednesday last and he was happy to see me lose the crutches.
    I am however walking full weight but a very bad limp. I also continue to keep my foot up as it swells alot.

    I feel for me anyway, that the key is to believe you can walk and go for it, i am pushing myself each day and i am now cycling to help my whole leg. You really have to work hard at it and dont be afraid to do it.
  • Kevin Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:13 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I fractured my Fibula on the 25th Jan this year at a college function. I was submitted to ER that night and was kept as i was to under go an operation the following morning. I will have you know i am a proud owner of a plate and 9 screws to my right ankle. I then spent 6 weeks in a cast and i never felt as lost in all my life. The simple things in life became so hard and i felt down alot of the time but as you grow used to the injury you can manage.

    I got my cast off on March 7th and i never felt so scared in all my life when the physio got tackling me that same day. The ankle was so stiff and weak and the pain was surreal. I started on early movement exercises and was to the physio again a week later. As the days went in , i was able to get alot more movement in when ever i could. I could only really put 25% weight bare on the foot but within 1 week of getting the cast off i found a huge improvement.
    I am still currently seeing my physio and i am not 4 weeks out of my cast. I met with my OS Wednesday last and he was happy to see me lose the crutches.
    I am however walking full weight but a very bad limp. I also continue to keep my foot up as it swells alot.

    I feel for me anyway, that the key is to believe you can walk and go for it, i am pushing myself each day and i am now cycling to help my whole leg. You really have to work hard at it and dont be afraid to do it.
  • Kevin Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:02 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I fractured my Fibula on the 25th Jan this year at a college function. I was submitted to ER that night and was kept as i was to under go an operation the following morning. I will have you know i am a proud owner of a plate and 9 screws to my right ankle. I then spent 6 weeks in a cast and i never felt as lost in all my life. The simple things in life became so hard and i felt down alot of the time but as you grow used to the injury you can manage.

    I got my cast off on March 7th and i never felt so scared in all my life when the physio got tackling me that same day. The ankle was so stiff and weak and the pain was surreal. I started on early movement exercises and was to the physio again a week later. As the days went in , i was able to get alot more movement in when ever i could. I could only really put 25% weight bare on the foot but within 1 week of getting the cast off i found a huge improvement.
    I am still currently seeing my physio and i am not 4 weeks out of my cast. I met with my OS Wednesday last and he was happy to see me lose the crutches.
    I am however walking full weight but a very bad limp. I also continue to keep my foot up as it swells alot.

    I feel for me anyway, that the key is to believe you can walk and go for it, i am pushing myself each day and i am now cycling to help my whole leg. You really have to work hard at it and dont be afraid to do it.
  • Kevin Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:02 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I fractured my Fibula on the 25th Jan this year at a college function. I was submitted to ER that night and was kept as i was to under go an operation the following morning. I will have you know i am a proud owner of a plate and 9 screws to my right ankle. I then spent 6 weeks in a cast and i never felt as lost in all my life. The simple things in life became so hard and i felt down alot of the time but as you grow used to the injury you can manage.

    I got my cast off on March 7th and i never felt so scared in all my life when the physio got tackling me that same day. The ankle was so stiff and weak and the pain was surreal. I started on early movement exercises and was to the physio again a week later. As the days went in , i was able to get alot more movement in when ever i could. I could only really put 25% weight bare on the foot but within 1 week of getting the cast off i found a huge improvement.
    I am still currently seeing my physio and i am not 4 weeks out of my cast. I met with my OS Wednesday last and he was happy to see me lose the crutches.
    I am however walking full weight but a very bad limp. I also continue to keep my foot up as it swells alot.

    I feel for me anyway, that the key is to believe you can walk and go for it, i am pushing myself each day and i am now cycling to help my whole leg. You really have to work hard at it and dont be afraid to do it.
  • Debbie Apr 8, 2012 @ 7:48 am | delete
    Happy Easter Everyone!! Hope you have a good day with family and friends.
  • Debbie Apr 6, 2012 @ 2:05 pm | delete
    Hey Helen: Sorry to hear about the flu. Hopefully, you are feeling a bit better today. Those first days back to work have to be tiring. Your body has taken a hit so it is understandable that the first germ that comes around it would hit you hard. Hang in there, eat some soup, above all: Rest and feel better.

    Hey everyone, I am feeling my old self again after a couple of rough days. My nerve pain in my foot is better so I am happy about that. The weather has cooled off here so that may have made a difference. We will see. I took some tylenol this morning and that helped with some hardware pain on the sides of my ankle.

    I am learning to live one day at a time and not worry so much about future things that I have no control over. I am looking forward to my cast coming off next week and right now I am focused on working out my arm and taking care of myself the best I can. I have gotten a little braver lately and can actually use the potty chair all by my lonesome now. It is a little scary at times because I am still NWB and pulling up the pants is a challenge with my bad arm but since I have regained some use of it that is getting easier.

    Plus, I have to learn to do things for myself. Next week I hope to be more independent once I get my scooter. We will see.

    Keep me posted on your progress. Love hearing from all of you and thanks for keeping my spirits up when I was really low. Gods Speed.
  • Helen Apr 5, 2012 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Hi everyone: First week back to work, very tired first day and ankle ached like crazy. Day 3 I had to call in sick, flu hit me, awful. I was home 4 months and not so much as a sniffle. See how tomorrow goes, if I will make it to work. Wishing everyone a good recovery.
  • Debbie Apr 5, 2012 @ 5:47 pm | delete
    Hi guys, After reading all your posts I do feel better. I am just going to have to take this one day at a time. I have tendonitis in my shoulder and after over 10 years it still hurts from time to time because I didn't do PT like I should have. I learned from that. Of course, now that shoulder is getting worked out and is very sore but I live my life normally and I am sure I will again.

    Thank you for your encouragement today. I do feel better. I finally think I realized that it doesn't matter how long it takes. This is what it is ..nothing I can do to change it so let's just keep taking this journey together and we will all get better ONE DAY AT A TIME. ---Debbie
  • grace Mackay Apr 5, 2012 @ 3:16 pm | delete
    hi Debbie and all other:
    Don´t get down, things do get better.
    We only write and answer with the truth,
    I fell august 21st 2011, I spiral fractured my tibia/fibula/ankle, so my fibula broke in diagonal all my ligaments turned around etc. I´m the proud owner of one plate with nine screws plus 2 screws on my tibia ankle. I spend the first month with the black boot with the doctors promise that I would start partial weight on day 30. That didn´t happened on that day he put my foot on a fiber cast, no weight bearing without telling me how long, after 5 weeks I went back to the black boot and started partial weight bearing on November, and being able to FWB by nov 25th 2011. After that I have been improving , I started therapy at home by drs instructions after he took the cast off, putting my foot in warm water twice a day and doing the up and down movements, side to side, and circles on november, then he said start gradually walking and gave me permission to drive until I could walk without croutches so that I would be able to use the brake. Started formal pt when I could walk without croutches (nov 25) I am still doing pt, have done 77 pts they are great. I am a happy person even though my foot still swells and hurts. By the way I have been sleeping without pillows for one and a half months. I´m walking with hardly any limp, but haven´t been cleared by dr to run or jump jet. I have graduated stairs going down carefully. I can carry one glass on each hand and go up or down the stairs. So I´m grateful for being able to do all these normal milestones, even if it still hurts. The front of my foot is still asleep, I do move toes but they still feel strange, dr says maybe a screw is touching a nerve. I don´t take any pain medicine since the cast was taken off. I couldn´t manage the cast, dr had to take one out and put it again.
    Well this is a long ordeal and we must do it in a good way. I don´t stop my days. They are full of activities. I did followed my drs. orders, I stayed home for 12 weeks, did not put weight until he approved, but when he gave green light I haven´t stopped, people think I´m perfect, because I try not to limp even if it hurts, so when they ask I tell them it still hurts and swells, but life goes on.

    good luck, follow drs instructions, since every case is different, be patient, take the help offered by others, do grocery shopping by internet, watch all the tv series you like (I haven´t returned to them since driving again), do pt, don´t be affraid of it, pt has the objective of improving movement, and decreasing pain.

    P.D. I did get frustrated between week 1 and 10th, thank God it did got better. It´s just a long road, and it takes time to adjust to it.

    bye
    Grace Mackay from monterrey mexico
  • Grace mackay Apr 5, 2012 @ 6:46 pm | delete
    Hi just to make thoughts clear ( since I think I may confuse if someone would understand that my cast cast came off before it did:
    First I Used for one month the boot
    Then had a fiber cast for 5 weeks
    Then the black boot again for 4 weeks
    Started partial weight bearing around week 10
    By the way, I fractured my right foot and in the same fall I sprained the left ankle And then (3 weeks after the initial fall) I strained my shoulder when going into abathroom (my guest bathroom which is down stairs, where my walker didn't fit
    Bye again
    Good luck every one, enjoy resting, keep foot elevated
  • Debbie Apr 5, 2012 @ 11:30 am | delete
    You know I think what gets me down is I read stories about people who are 7 months and 1 year out and they are still saying they have swelling and pain. I guess I worry that this is going to be forever. I am sorry if I am bringing you all down today. I have had a really bad couple of days. I will get over it. Thanks for listening - Debbie
  • TexasGal Apr 5, 2012 @ 1:05 pm | delete
    Hang in there Debbie ! I've had those same fears when I read about people who are having long term problems. It won't be forever but my Dr. said to expect swelling for months, it is the last thing to repair itselfand won't really improve until full walking resumes.
    Ive had plenty of those BAD days too ... sometimes they just seemed to hit me all of a sudden, after good days. If you can, try to get out in the sun and fresh air whenever you can. It really helped me before, and now I can use the walker to CAREFULLY go sit out on the patio and get some sunshine. We all need that Vitamin D !
  • Lisa C Apr 5, 2012 @ 1:16 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie.
    We all have these days and we understand.
    My DPM told me I would have swelling and pain up to a year and not to be alarmed. It's one of the first things he told me right before surgery. It's normal after the break, the surgery and getting back to walking.
    Keep your smile going and remember it does get better.
  • Kate Apr 10, 2012 @ 6:08 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie (Debra from FB?), I was as scared as you, but take heart. I am 16 weeks post op, walking with no cane, no crutches, and just minimal residual swelling. I limp a bit when I have to walk a lot, but my ROM is coming back. I can walk up stairs without holding a railing, and working on downstairs(much harder!!). I think one thing that has helped my recovery was really and truly resting and elevating for those first NWB 6 weeks. Keep listening to your body, and don't hold your frustration in! This is one of the hardest things I have ever endured, and it does get better. :)
  • Kate Apr 10, 2012 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    Hey Debbie (Debra from FB?), I was as scared as you, but take heart. I am 16 weeks post op, walking with no cane, no crutches, and just minimal residual swelling. I limp a bit when I have to walk a lot, but my ROM is coming back. I can walk up stairs without holding a railing, and working on downstairs(much harder!!). I think one thing that has helped my recovery was really and truly resting and elevating for those first NWB 6 weeks. Keep listening to your body, and don't hold your frustration in! This is one of the hardest things I have ever endured, and it does get better. :)
  • Debbie Apr 5, 2012 @ 10:44 am | delete
    It is great to hear of all of your improvements. It gives me hope that some day I will start to improve too. I try really hard to stay positive and focus on the little improvements here and there but it is hard. Lately I have been throwing myself quite the little pity party. Guess it is time to try and pick myself up from the boot straps as they say and get moving on working on my arm and focus on the positive.

    Next Friday this cast comes off and I get the boot. I am looking forward to that. This cast is starting to really get on my nerves because I can't reach my leg. Plus I want to take a shower. 6 weeks of sponge baths are getting old.

    I was not just afraid of PT but terrified of it and I am getting closer to that time when I get the boot, PT and all the rest. Recovery will begin and while I am so looking forward to that, it also scares me too. But many of you that have gone before me say it is not so bad. So, I am going to go with that and hope for the best. Just the thought of putting any weight on this foot runs chills up my spine but I will have to if I ever want to walk again.

    Plus, I think sometimes it is hard to hear about people who are 7 months or even a year down the road still having swelling and discomfort but maybe that is because they want to be all the way normal and are just not quite there yet.

    The recovery from this injury takes time and patience and some days I just don't have patience...god knows I have time. Too much some days.

    Anyway, I am excited for all your improvements and next week I will join the boot club LOL.....also the knee scooter. I will keep you informed of what that is like
  • TexasGal Apr 5, 2012 @ 3:27 am | delete
    Hello Fellow Ankle-breakers,

    Wow I'm truly so glad to have come across this blog ... I've really enjoyed reading your posts. I just wish I'd arrived here sooner !!
    I'm now in Week 10 after a Bi-malleolar fracture, I was in a bad car wreck on 1/19/12. I had surgery on 1/27/12 and have plates on both sides, 7 screws on the outer ankle and 5 on the inner. My OS says they will stay in, my ankle was badly broken.
    This is definitely the toughest, hardest thing I've EVER been through in my life !! I knew it was going to be HARD, but didn't imagine how long and tedious and frustrating. SO TOUGH being housebound, and so limited in what you can do, even with lots of help from my DH and our daughters when they can.
    I had a fiberglass cast on for 4 weeks (until I couldn't stand it anymore) so they put me in a cam boot for 2 more weeks of NWB and that thing seemed to weigh more than the cast did ! I went back and got a different cam boot, now I am gradually increasing WB and in my 3rd week of PT. I can tell PT is really helping my ROM ... but my foot still feels weird and partially numb at times and it is STILL really painful to step on the foot, mostly my heel. Not so bad when in the boot, but without it at PT is still bad. Using a walker now and want to get to using a cane. I used a wheelchair for the 6 wks of NWB, and crutches some in tight places like the bathroom but I hate the crutches.
    I know I'm making progress... but it's still quite hard to imagine actually walking soon without a walker, getting back to work and driving again. I just want to get somewhere back close to NORMAL !!! Thanks
  • TexasGal Apr 5, 2012 @ 3:27 am | delete
    Hello Fellow Ankle-breakers,

    Wow I'm truly so glad to have come across this blog ... I've really enjoyed reading your posts. I just wish I'd arrived here sooner !!
    I'm now in Week 10 after a Bi-malleolar fracture, I was in a bad car wreck on 1/19/12. I had surgery on 1/27/12 and have plates on both sides, 7 screws on the outer ankle and 5 on the inner. My OS says they will stay in, my ankle was badly broken.
    This is definitely the toughest, hardest thing I've EVER been through in my life !! I knew it was going to be HARD, but didn't imagine how long and tedious and frustrating. SO TOUGH being housebound, and so limited in what you can do, even with lots of help from my DH and our daughters when they can.
    I had a fiberglass cast on for 4 weeks (until I couldn't stand it anymore) so they put me in a cam boot for 2 more weeks of NWB and that thing seemed to weigh more than the cast did ! I went back and got a different cam boot, now I am gradually increasing WB and in my 3rd week of PT. I can tell PT is really helping my ROM ... but my foot still feels weird and partially numb at times and it is STILL really painful to step on the foot, mostly my heel. Not so bad when in the boot, but without it at PT is still bad. Using a walker now and want to get to using a cane. I used a wheelchair for the 6 wks of NWB, and crutches some in tight places like the bathroom but I hate the crutches.
    I know I'm making progress... but it's still quite hard to imagine actually walking soon without a walker, getting back to work and driving again. I just want to get somewhere back close to NORMAL !!! Thanks
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 4, 2012 @ 10:50 pm | delete
    While doing the ROM excersises like the cirlces and the alphabet do any of you ever feel like your ankle is binding and then sort of clicks? what is this? Was at the doctor yesterday and my 2 long screws are still in tact and they say x-ray looks good. screws come out in a month -- may 1st. Thanks
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 4, 2012 @ 7:49 pm | delete
    Hello everyone. I had a good day today!! Drove to work for the first time in 2 months - and I arrived alive - and so did everyone else on the road. I was a little nervous driving out of the drive way this morning - tried moving the foot from gas to brake several times before hitting the road.

    I made it 7 hours at work - ankle a little sore - but tolerable.

    I elevated and iced the ankle during my lunch hour. My boss walked in my office when i had it elevated on my desk also while I was doing the alphabet with my ankle - the look on his face was priceless!! I told him this is what workmans comp pays for!! we both laughed - good to be back!!

    Melissa - glad your day went well too. I too was very tired the first few days - I think our body has to get used to the new normal. You live in the quad cities - we are only 2 hours apart - when we get better and more mobile - we should get together for lunch / drinks sometime. I hear the Iowa machine shed is a good place to eat.

    Thanks to eveyone else - good support group here - great place to share experiences and know that we are not alone.

    Have a great evening / day!!!!
  • Melissa Apr 4, 2012 @ 6:53 pm | delete
    Hello all!

    Well, I made it through the first day at work. I stayed a full day. I am very tired now! I feel like a need a nap. I was seated pretty much the whole day. Used my wheelchair for longer distances and walker to get around in my classroom. I put my foot up on a chair for most of the time. I was a little swollen today when I got home. Took an ibuprofen and have my foot elevated now. I'm going to do it again tomorrow and then I will have 3 days off. Everyone at work was so helpful, but it still bothers me to have to get help. I definitely hate asking for help!
    Debbie--I agree this is very frustrating at times! Some days are good and some not. I feel that I can still cry at almost anytime.
    Tom--That makes sense about our feet turning purple. So again, once we start weight bearing again then all will be better!
    Cindy--congrats on the driving! That is probably one of the main things I dislike about going to work--getting rides there and back!
    Lisa--sounds like PT is going well for you. How exciting! Any little bit is a big accomplishment!
    Liz--thanks. Yeah, I should at least be doing some strength exercises, but haven't. Good for you! My arms should be getting a good workout right now anyway, right?

    Well, wishing everyone a good night!

    ~Melissa
  • 38Steinway Apr 4, 2012 @ 5:09 pm | delete
    Hello All:

    First I want to thank everyone for the positive encouragement I've received from this blog. It's helped so much with my recovery because so many of my thoughts and fears have been addressed here. I fell on Jan. 1, and had a tri-malleolar fracture. Had surgery Jan. 5, and from looking at the x-ray, looks like I have 2 plates and about 9 screws. I'm a 65-year old woman, so was very worried about healing. At time of surgery was told NWB for 12 weeks and it's the right ankle so I couldn't drive! But went back to the doc 9 weeks post-op and he said I could be PWB starting at 25 percent first week, 50 percent second week, etc. It's been almost 4 weeks and I'm out of my boot, walking with one crutch, and tried walking without it at last PT appt. I can do it, but wouldn't do it at grocery store or across parking lot, etc. But for all of you who are "newbies", there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it's not a train!

    I also was dreading the pain of PT, but was absolutely amazed to experience none! Yes, there is some discomfort after the session, but nothing a Tylenol won't cure. And my increased ROM after each session makes any discomfort totally worth it. My PT sessions have probably been my biggest help during this healing process. I had lost a lot of confidence after falling, and just one session with the PT let me get my confidence back.
  • Debbie Apr 4, 2012 @ 4:08 pm | delete
    Thanks Tom, I got a good laugh out of that and I really needed a laugh today as the old depression started to kick in again. Happens once in a while. I thought it was gone but snuck up on me today. Found myself having a good cry once my husband hit my good ankle with the wheel chair. I started blubbering about how I can't stand no more injuries and what not...totally lost it.

    Looking back I know I over-reacted. Just got kinda down today so Tom thanks for that laugh.

    Whoever was in my email that had 3 PT sessions and are already down to one crutch: A BIG Congrats!! Wow, that is just amazing. I am so happy for you. Even if it is really slow going it has to feel good to be on 2 feet. Glad you didn't fall off the table LOL....-----Debbie
  • Debbie Apr 4, 2012 @ 9:52 am | delete
    Hello everyone,

    Does anyone else have issues with their foot turning purple when it is not elevated for a while? I am almost 5 weeks post op and yesterday I was pretty happy that I was able to sit in my wheel chair for almost 4 hours and my ankle felt fine but when I looked down I saw it was purple so I elevated it again.

    Man, this injury is frustrating sometimes. You think you are getting better and then more weird things happen. I am still have weird nerve pain and tingling and what not. Sometimes I actually think the hair on the my legs inside my cast is staticey and so it itches. I guess this is all common just irritating some days.

    Okay so off not to think or obsess about my ankle. Going to focus on something else. - Debbie
  • Tom Apr 4, 2012 @ 3:46 pm | delete
    Hi Deb, I'm 10 weeks + post op and when I have my foot down it still turns purple the only time it doesn't is at pt when I walk on it in the pool I was told this will continue to happen until I FWB all the time. That is the only way to pump the blood uphill its funny cuz I told the is about it but when ever I was in his office it wouldn't do it now the same thing when I'm at pt but atleast she explained it was normal for someone my age (47) so fear not my friend your not turning into Barney ;). Happy healing. Tom
  • Debbie Apr 4, 2012 @ 9:52 am | delete
    Hello everyone,

    Does anyone else have issues with their foot turning purple when it is not elevated for a while? I am almost 5 weeks post op and yesterday I was pretty happy that I was able to sit in my wheel chair for almost 4 hours and my ankle felt fine but when I looked down I saw it was purple so I elevated it again.

    Man, this injury is frustrating sometimes. You think you are getting better and then more weird things happen. I am still have weird nerve pain and tingling and what not. Sometimes I actually think the hair on the my legs inside my cast is staticey and so it itches. I guess this is all common just irritating some days.

    Okay so off not to think or obsess about my ankle. Going to focus on something else.
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 3, 2012 @ 9:36 pm | delete
    I get to drive!!!! I get to drive !!!!!!!!
    Increasing my hours at work to 32 - Mon, Wed, Fri full days, Tues & Thurs 1/2 days.

    Doc said that I could remove the boot enough to drive a little - 5 miles from my house - which gets me to church, work, grocey store, bank, etc. Still need to wear the boot for support at work.. - said to start working myslef off the boot and into a shoe. Need to work with PT on that but he also said that because that at times when i am at work I am on me feet 10-12 hours with stairs and a ramp that I need to be in the boot for support for several months.

    I talked to him about the wedding - and sort of the same story - on my feet more that day - better safe than sorry - so be prepared for the boot - and if it turns out that I don't need it - all the better - but at least i won't have my hopes up only to be let down. So good news for me today!! Back to the doc May 1 for screw removal. Each day gets better!!
  • Debbie Apr 3, 2012 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    Yeah I can't respond to email either. Not sure why. Glad to hear everyone is on their way to healing. Sometimes it seems like a long road and other days it seems like wow, I remember just last week when i couldn't do _____(fill in the blank).

    In my case, I think there are days when I am just sick of the struggle and want it to all go away. Other days I accept this is the way it is and am determined to get better.

    Either way, I am going to get better. 10 more days until I get my cast off. Not that I am counting or anything LOL....Friday the 13th, how appropriate. Talk to you all later, Hope you doing well....Debbie
  • Tom Apr 3, 2012 @ 6:11 pm | delete
    Hi all I hope all is well with everyone. It's my 11 week ankleversery(as Kristin calls it ;) 10 weeks post op I had my second day in the pool at pt walking in the water, It'shard to walk normal my body dips when I step with the bad ankle I can't walk straight up , has anyone else had this happen? I'm still only PWB on land still very swollen. Its sore now but worth the progress. I'm glad to read of everyone's progress it just seems so far away to be rid of crutches or dragging my butt up and down stairs. Good news I drove myself back and forth to pt I felt like a big boy I'm lucky it was my left ankle injury. Well 1 day closer to recovery all!!!! Yaaaaaaaaah happy healing all.
  • Lisa Clark Apr 3, 2012 @ 1:55 pm | delete
    Hi Melissa,
    (is it just me or is anyone else not able to come back to the reply you get via email)?
    My hardware has to stay in. The only way my doctor will take it out is if it causes me extreme unbearable pain and that would only be the large screw I believe. My PT told me due to the hardware I will most likely only be at 90% once all is said and done. I may have to go back in a couple of years because I apparently severely damaged all my cartilage between the bones to the point where I hardly have any left. If this causes me pain then he will need to fix that. I say he should've just fixed it while there! LOL. Save me another surgery. Right? Hehehe.

    How did it go at work? That's what I did. I took my wheelchair and crutches and pretty much just sat here and did my work. Good thing my job is done mostly at my desk. I found filing out in mfg and releasing orders to be a challenge. The first week everyone helped me but then after it was like oh you again? Do it yourself. So I take my time and deal with it well. I was supposed to be driving this week but my ROM still isn't good enough. Still very stiff. And boy does it hurt where my incisions were. I don't know if its' from the boot rubbing on them or what but it hurts more now than it did before. I have been putting Jajoba Oil on them daily and it's been helping the flaking.

    Good luck Melissa and let me know how you did at work.

    Lisa C.
  • Debbie Apr 3, 2012 @ 1:38 pm | delete
    Melissa,

    Great news about going back to to the doctor next Wednesday to get a boot. I am going next Friday to get a boot. Can't wait to get this bloody cast off. Does yours itch inside? I got a comb I sometimes stick down in there to scratch but I try to be careful because the skin is so dry I don't wanna bleed. I am so excited about getting the cast off but trying not to get my hopes up to high in case they say..oops not time yet.

    Wow, going back to work eh? Good for you!! I am sure it will help you feel more normal but I would be prepared to be tired. Are you going back half days at first? I am sure it will be fine. Let us know how your first day back goes.

    One more day down and one more day closer to healing ....whoo hoooo!!

    LOL my security word was gag toes...sure fits..mine are bone dry and all flaky lol.
  • Melissa Apr 3, 2012 @ 1:25 pm | delete
    Hello All! Glad to hear of everyones' success stories. We are all getting better everyday!

    Cindy--I live in the Quad City area. That is good that you have a couple more months of healing before the wedding. I am not to that point and would agree with Debbie that you should be prepared with all of your "equipment". Better be safe than sorry. Never know--a lot could heal and change in 60 days! Great news of the standing in the shower!

    Lisa--Your recovery sounds like it is progressing very well! I can hope for that news when I go back to the doctor. I go next Wednesday to hopefully get my cast off and put into a boot. Do you know if you will have any of your hardware removed?

    Debbie--I keep praying for the healing of your arm so you can be more independent! It sounds like you are getting there. I know what you mean about protecting the ankle. My husband has bumped mine a couple of time too--luckily it didn't hurt, but it is the point of it. I sometimes still sleep on the couch just so he doesn't accidentally bump into it with all of his tossing and turning!

    Kristin--Happy 4 months! That must feel good.

    Merry--You have a pretty amazing story! Can't believe you were walking in Vegas after only about a month and a half. That is great! I did have to cancel my vacation to Mexico because my accident happened 1 week before we were leaving! I was really depressed about that at first, but I'm over it now. There is plenty more time to take vacations.

    As for me, I am going to go back to work tomorrow. Mostly out of boredom. I am tired of sitting here watching TV and being on the internet all day. I will be taking my wheelchair and walker so I don't think it will be bad. I figure as long as I am seated for most of the day it won't be that different than being at home. I am used to sleeping in a little bit so tomorrow I will actually have to set my alarm. As you all know, everything seems to take twice as long to do so might take me awhile to get ready.

    Wishing all a happy day!
    ~Melissa
  • Liz Apr 3, 2012 @ 11:11 pm | delete
    Congrats on going back to work. I started going to the gym Mon, Wed, and Fri and that helps me with the boredom and getting the muscle back :)
  • Liz Apr 3, 2012 @ 11:11 pm | delete
    Congrats on going back to work. I started going to the gym Mon, Wed, and Fri and that helps me with the boredom and getting the muscle back :)
  • Lisa C Apr 4, 2012 @ 3:54 pm | delete
    Well yesterday was my 3rd PT session and the massage and stretching were brutal. Good news is I am now able to get around just using 1 crutch and for only a few minutes I can get around using no crutch at all. I am as slow as a turtle but I can do it. I even got out of the shower without using the crutch. I was told to start driving today but only parking lots to get used to it again. I must say I am nervous. The PT said up up up. He wants me moving as much as I can bear. I did almost fall off the PT table though (trying to catch my pillow) and it was a good laugh. Even the assistant laughed and said, hey whooooaaaa don't fall off the table now. Hahahahahahahahahaha. I am so happy to be more mobile now. It hurts a times and that's when I slow down or sit down and elevate.

    How was work Melissa???
  • Debbie Apr 3, 2012 @ 7:46 am | delete
    Merry: I think it is great how fast you healed. You are doing really good =) It is nice to hear a success story. It gives me encouragement during my casting period.

    Kristin: Glad to hear you are doing good. Wow, what a break it sounds like you had and here you are 16 weeks later and walking. Amazing!! It gives me hope to hear stories like yours.

    Thank you guys for these good stories because some days I could really use a boost as I am sure the rest of us could.

    My injuries are healing, sometimes it feels like a snails pace but I am making progress on my arm. The first week, I made tons of progress and it was great but now it has slowed down some but I am still getting more and more range of motion back.

    I don't feel as depressed as I used to when this first happened. I guess because I do see a light at the end of the tunnel. I only have 1.4 weeks to wear my cast and then I get the boot and I start PT. It sounds like once you get to that point things move along a littler faster recovery wise. I am not looking forward to the pain (that is probably the thing that scares me the most) but I am looking forward to being able to do more and getting back to some kind of normal life again.

    Oh also good news!! Our TV is now fixed ...yayyyy!!!! hehehe pretty happy about that.

    Hope everyone has a good day today...happy healing !!!
  • Kristin39 Apr 3, 2012 @ 6:55 am | delete
    Hey all. Today is my 4 month ankleversary, and I just wanted to put a little light at the end of the tunnel. I had a tri-mal spiral fracture, and tore all my ligaments. I have a plate on my fib, two pins in my tub, and a temporary screw holding the two together until my ligament is totally repaired. I was nwb for 8 weeks, and pwb for 4 after that. I lost the boot for good a week ago, and am almost clear to go back to work. I can't believe I was out this long, but I do have to be on my feet 8 or 9 hours a day. I still have some pain, but mostly I'm just aware if the difference in the ankle. It's nice to be driving for the last 4 weeks, and to be getting back in the gym to get some muscle back. Good luck to all you newbies. It does get better, and totally speeds the process once you are weight bearing.
  • Merry Mc. Apr 2, 2012 @ 8:43 pm | delete
    Hi Everyone. This isn't directed at anyone, but I wanted to share my story. It seems there are so many horror stories about broken ankles, and they were all I found when I broke my ankle on January 12, 2012. I'm not writing to minimize everyone's experiences, but rather in hopes of encouraging others. I know how it feels to be so disheartened, feeling helpless, scared and in lots of pain.

    So - here it goes. I had a slip and fall on some ice outside my office on January 12th.I went straight to the ER where I was initially told I only had one fracture. After much debate with the doctor (I live in a small town), he sent the pictures to an orthopedic surgeon located two hours south of my community. Sure enough, there were two fractures. The ER doc told me I "might" need surgery and wanted to send me in an ambulance. I wasn't willing to do that (or pay for it), and eventually he agreed to send me home with some pain meds, a back slab and a promise I'd "turn myself in" to the hospital the following morning. That night at home was absolutely awful. I was surprised by the pain, and had some crazy nightmares from he medication. I don't think I slept at all. The next day I went with a friend to the hospital, and I was the only one who didn't know for certain I was having surgery. I had a consult with the surgeon pretty quickly, but had to wait all day to have surgery. The doctor initially told me I'd have two pins and a pretty short recovery time. When I woke up, and after we finally had my pain under control in recovery, I was told I'd actually received 5 pins and a plate. Due to shortage of beds, I was discharged and sent home at about 11:00pm. My Dad picked me up and took me to my parents house an hour and a half further away from my home (I live alone) to recuperate. Well - there's nothing more humiliating being a single, independent 30 year old who's staying with her aging parents. Sigh. I had a hard time there, I had to use crutches to get everywhere - like up two flights of stairs to the bathroom. And, I had an awful time withdrawing from morphine....was I ever ITCHY! After a few days I got to go home to my house (no stairs!). I was happy to be home, but that's when the reality of being alone, off work and stuck on the couch set in. I think I did become depressed. I have great friends who came by, fed me, entertained me and helped with the day to day things I took for granted. All I wanted to do was carry a glass of water across the kitchen!

    At this point I was in a plaster backslab, on crutches and waiting for a follow up appointment scheduled for January 24. I struggled through the pain, taking some pain meds, but the ones prescribed by the surgeon were the ones that had previously given me nightmares so I stuck to OTC stuff. The hardest things were crutches - I have a newfound empathy for those on crutches, they hurt every part of one's body! And bathing. Thankfully I have a removable showerhead, and eventually I figured out the best thing to do was sit in the tub when it was empty and clean myself with that.

    I went back to the surgeon and was told things were looking good. I was given a walking boot, but told no weight bearing for "a couple weeks", but to take the boot off and stretch the muscles (the beginning of a million ankle circles). It was soooooooo nice to be able to clean my foot. The surgeon also told me to start physiotherapy asap. He told me to come back in 4 more weeks. 4 weeks was the day I was leaving to go to Las Vegas for a family wedding. I asked the surgeon what to do to make myself as healthy as possible before the trip. Other than physio, he said "lay off the caffeine, take in lots of calcium, stop smoking and stop taking pain medication, as anti inflamitories can interfere with healing. I had no idea about that one!

    I went back home and did my best to follow the doctors reccommendations, but to be honest I was feeling quite sorry for myself, and did continue smoking. And more than once I had the girls over and drank too much wine. What can I say - I'm only human!

    I went for my first physio appointment on February 2nd. I was hoping I'd be able to put some weight on it, but was sadly disappointed. By this point I'd stopped sleeping in the boot, or wearing it anywhere except outside my house. I did stay non weightbearing and used my crutches full time. The physo told me that my referral said no weightbearing for 4-6 weeks! What the heck? I was so disheartened. But, I went to three appointments a week, practicing mostly ankle circles.
    I was so worried about getting around in Las Vegas that I began looking into renting a scooter or a wheelchair. I'm notoriously stubborn, so cancelling my trip wasn't something I was willing to do. I did return to work (desk job) 10 days post op, mostly out of boredom - the doctor had given me a note for 6 weeks. I wasn't driving, and was getting rides everywhere (no public transportation, or taxi's where I live). it was so hard. I also started developing lots of side effects to the crutches - sore wrists, shoulders, back and numb ring fingers. But, I kept on.

    I grew frustrated later on in February, and tried stepping on my foot, in the boot (about 5 weeks post-op). It didn't hurt, so I kept doing it. Just a couple steps with crutches. Then I cheated a bit more and carried plates, or coffee, accross the kitchen. The physio told me it was a bad idea, but I did it anyhow. On February 18th I went to a social in my small town, had too many drinks and went dancing. On my boot. Oh dear. And it didn't hurt. I'm certainly not condoning this behaviour, but if you slip, there's a chance it won't be the end of the world!

    I went back to the surgeon on February 21 (5.5 weeks post-op) and he set me free! I came in on crutches, wearing one shoe and one boot. He said "throw the crutches away and you don't have to wear the boot, but you can if you want". Yeah right! I was 2 hours from home, and went straight to the shoe store! I bought a pair of good quality hiking boots and took my first tentative steps. It hurt. My heel hurt the most, but my ankle didn't feel good. But, by the end of the day I was getting around pretty well. I gave away the crutches and boot that evening and never looked back! But wow, was I swollen!

    I went to physio the following day and got serious about recovery. And on February 25th I left for Las Vegas. I walked the whole time! In my hikers, and yes slower than most, but I WALKED! I had incredible swelling at night, but otherwise I did just fine. I even got a pedicure (the esthetician was gentle, and completely understanding as she'd had a surgical broken femur two years prior).

    When I came home from Vegas I kept on with physio, and had some close calls on our snow and ice, but went back to my life. I started working, and driving, and being independant and it felt great.

    Now I'm 11 weeks post-op and feeling awesome. I'm still going to physio 3x week an working hard. Most of my vertical movement is back, but the plate is on the outside of my right ankle, and that's limiting me that direction a bit. But, not much. I took my first running steps this morning! And, on Saturday night I went to a dance in heels. Two inch heeled boots, but much better than the flats I'd been wearing :) And, the next day I had no swelling. I'm going back to have the plate removed in the fall (9 months post-op if all goes as planned), and my life won't be limited between now and then. My biggest weakness is that when I'm not wearing shoes (invest in good runners or hikers) I limp, especially down the stairs.

    So, know there's hope out there. Good luck to all of you!
  • Cindy Apr 2, 2012 @ 9:44 pm | delete
    Thanks for the encouraging words!!! It is good to hear that there are good stories as well. We all need to push ourselves and we all heal at a different pace, and deal with experiences differently. You had a goal of VEGAS, and I have a goal of a wedding. Keep up the good work!!!
  • Liz Apr 3, 2012 @ 11:06 pm | delete
    Merry,
    I stayed with my parents for a month till I was able to drive and PWB. It was very hard because I had been the one taking care of them and now they were taking care of me. I'm 13 weeks and things are getting back to the way they were.
  • Merry Mc. Apr 2, 2012 @ 8:42 pm | delete
    Hi Everyone. This isn't directed at anyone, but I wanted to share my story. It seems there are so many horror stories about broken ankles, and they were all I found when I broke my ankle on January 12, 2012. I'm not writing to minimize everyone's experiences, but rather in hopes of encouraging others. I know how it feels to be so disheartened, feeling helpless, scared and in lots of pain.

    So - here it goes. I had a slip and fall on some ice outside my office on January 12th.I went straight to the ER where I was initially told I only had one fracture. After much debate with the doctor (I live in a small town), he sent the pictures to an orthopedic surgeon located two hours south of my community. Sure enough, there were two fractures. The ER doc told me I "might" need surgery and wanted to send me in an ambulance. I wasn't willing to do that (or pay for it), and eventually he agreed to send me home with some pain meds, a back slab and a promise I'd "turn myself in" to the hospital the following morning. That night at home was absolutely awful. I was surprised by the pain, and had some crazy nightmares from he medication. I don't think I slept at all. The next day I went with a friend to the hospital, and I was the only one who didn't know for certain I was having surgery. I had a consult with the surgeon pretty quickly, but had to wait all day to have surgery. The doctor initially told me I'd have two pins and a pretty short recovery time. When I woke up, and after we finally had my pain under control in recovery, I was told I'd actually received 5 pins and a plate. Due to shortage of beds, I was discharged and sent home at about 11:00pm. My Dad picked me up and took me to my parents house an hour and a half further away from my home (I live alone) to recuperate. Well - there's nothing more humiliating being a single, independent 30 year old who's staying with her aging parents. Sigh. I had a hard time there, I had to use crutches to get everywhere - like up two flights of stairs to the bathroom. And, I had an awful time withdrawing from morphine....was I ever ITCHY! After a few days I got to go home to my house (no stairs!). I was happy to be home, but that's when the reality of being alone, off work and stuck on the couch set in. I think I did become depressed. I have great friends who came by, fed me, entertained me and helped with the day to day things I took for granted. All I wanted to do was carry a glass of water across the kitchen!

    At this point I was in a plaster backslab, on crutches and waiting for a follow up appointment scheduled for January 24. I struggled through the pain, taking some pain meds, but the ones prescribed by the surgeon were the ones that had previously given me nightmares so I stuck to OTC stuff. The hardest things were crutches - I have a newfound empathy for those on crutches, they hurt every part of one's body! And bathing. Thankfully I have a removable showerhead, and eventually I figured out the best thing to do was sit in the tub when it was empty and clean myself with that.

    I went back to the surgeon and was told things were looking good. I was given a walking boot, but told no weight bearing for "a couple weeks", but to take the boot off and stretch the muscles (the beginning of a million ankle circles). It was soooooooo nice to be able to clean my foot. The surgeon also told me to start physiotherapy asap. He told me to come back in 4 more weeks. 4 weeks was the day I was leaving to go to Las Vegas for a family wedding. I asked the surgeon what to do to make myself as healthy as possible before the trip. Other than physio, he said "lay off the caffeine, take in lots of calcium, stop smoking and stop taking pain medication, as anti inflamitories can interfere with healing. I had no idea about that one!

    I went back home and did my best to follow the doctors reccommendations, but to be honest I was feeling quite sorry for myself, and did continue smoking. And more than once I had the girls over and drank too much wine. What can I say - I'm only human!

    I went for my first physio appointment on February 2nd. I was hoping I'd be able to put some weight on it, but was sadly disappointed. By this point I'd stopped sleeping in the boot, or wearing it anywhere except outside my house. I did stay non weightbearing and used my crutches full time. The physo told me that my referral said no weightbearing for 4-6 weeks! What the heck? I was so disheartened. But, I went to three appointments a week, practicing mostly ankle circles.
    I was so worried about getting around in Las Vegas that I began looking into renting a scooter or a wheelchair. I'm notoriously stubborn, so cancelling my trip wasn't something I was willing to do. I did return to work (desk job) 10 days post op, mostly out of boredom - the doctor had given me a note for 6 weeks. I wasn't driving, and was getting rides everywhere (no public transportation, or taxi's where I live). it was so hard. I also started developing lots of side effects to the crutches - sore wrists, shoulders, back and numb ring fingers. But, I kept on.

    I grew frustrated later on in February, and tried stepping on my foot, in the boot (about 5 weeks post-op). It didn't hurt, so I kept doing it. Just a couple steps with crutches. Then I cheated a bit more and carried plates, or coffee, accross the kitchen. The physio told me it was a bad idea, but I did it anyhow. On February 18th I went to a social in my small town, had too many drinks and went dancing. On my boot. Oh dear. And it didn't hurt. I'm certainly not condoning this behaviour, but if you slip, there's a chance it won't be the end of the world!

    I went back to the surgeon on February 21 (5.5 weeks post-op) and he set me free! I came in on crutches, wearing one shoe and one boot. He said "throw the crutches away and you don't have to wear the boot, but you can if you want". Yeah right! I was 2 hours from home, and went straight to the shoe store! I bought a pair of good quality hiking boots and took my first tentative steps. It hurt. My heel hurt the most, but my ankle didn't feel good. But, by the end of the day I was getting around pretty well. I gave away the crutches and boot that evening and never looked back! But wow, was I swollen!

    I went to physio the following day and got serious about recovery. And on February 25th I left for Las Vegas. I walked the whole time! In my hikers, and yes slower than most, but I WALKED! I had incredible swelling at night, but otherwise I did just fine. I even got a pedicure (the esthetician was gentle, and completely understanding as she'd had a surgical broken femur two years prior).

    When I came home from Vegas I kept on with physio, and had some close calls on our snow and ice, but went back to my life. I started working, and driving, and being independant and it felt great.

    Now I'm 11 weeks post-op and feeling awesome. I'm still going to physio 3x week an working hard. Most of my vertical movement is back, but the plate is on the outside of my right ankle, and that's limiting me that direction a bit. But, not much. I took my first running steps this morning! And, on Saturday night I went to a dance in heels. Two inch heeled boots, but much better than the flats I'd been wearing :) And, the next day I had no swelling. I'm going back to have the plate removed in the fall (9 months post-op if all goes as planned), and my life won't be limited between now and then. My biggest weakness is that when I'm not wearing shoes (invest in good runners or hikers) I limp, especially down the stairs.

    So, know there's hope out there. Good luck to all of you!
  • Debbie Apr 2, 2012 @ 8:15 pm | delete
    Lisa: I am still in a wheel chair because of my messed up elbow but in a couple of weeks they said I could use a knee walker which I am really excited about.

    To the lady who said something about me getting sick leave. I live in the USA and as far as I know there is no sick leave for part time people. I tried to call my employment office today but they are so bogged down that the telephone company won't even let you stay on hold. You automatically get disconnected. I plan to fill out a claim which will get rejected because you have to be able to work to get benefits which I can't. Then, there is a waiting period to reapply once you are rejected, but if I don't apply I worry that they will ask me why because you are supposed to as soon as you are fired/laid off. I think I will try to call again earlier tomorrow and if that doesn't work then I will try to fill out the form and see if it says anything about injuries.

    To the lady who is 61, I am with you honey. I just want to walk again. I never could run even before the accident. Right now just shuffling to the bathroom would be a miracle.

    Good luck Liz I hope that works out for you. Sounds like you are doing good but just need a little longer to heal. I know I am slow healer and June is a ways off still so maybe it will heal by then especially now that you are FWB. I think bones get stronger by use just like muscles.

    On a side note: I was in my wheel chair and my good old hubby wasn't paying attention and hit the side of my cast on the kitchen table. Now, it feels weird. Like there was a piece of gauze or something in there that got jarred loose. Anyway the cast feels weird now. However, nothing hurts or anything so I guess it okay. Just scared me to death. Man, he needs to watch where he is going. I told him this is why he doesn't get to drive my car. ::sigh:: Sorry just had to vent. I know he is doing a lot for me ...but sometimes he is just not careful...he was paying attention to the dogs.
  • Liz Apr 2, 2012 @ 4:35 pm | delete
    Saw the OS for my 3 month post-op. Good news first: I am now able to FWB. Bad news: My tibia is still not healed. He said that if it's not healed by my next appointment (5 months post-op in June), that he might take out the plate. He didn't seem too concerned about the scab.
  • Lisa Clark Apr 2, 2012 @ 1:25 pm | delete
    Hi.

    I'm not sure who just sent me the reply because when I click on the link it does not take me right back to my post.

    I would not call me a walking wonder just determined. I want to drive again so badly. I hate depending on others to drive me around. So I mentally have to say you can do it...then I will do it. I love my DH dearly but I sure do hate commuting with him. LOL. I like my morning drive in to work...alone. As far as going up and down the stairs, my butt was getting tired. Now if only I could use only 1 crutch to walk but I still can't bear full weight on my ankle...it's still too stiff and my heel is still so sensitive...I must say it's the heel that hurts the most. After all is said and done I will need hand and wrist therapy for sure! Using crutches wreaks havoc on your hand and wrist joints that's for sure.

    All of us are different in healing and I am sure some day soon you will be where I am. Heck, just using the walker is progress in itself. When I first got injured I just strictly used my wheelchair because I had fell a few times using my crutches. So I think you are fairing along greatly.

    Good luck to you.

    All smiles :)
  • Debbie Apr 2, 2012 @ 1:04 pm | delete
    Wow Lisa that is amazing that you can do that much 6 weeks post op. I would be happy to bear some weight on my ankle and do range of motion exercises. I am still in a cast at almost 5 weeks post op. I have leg cramps while still in the cast. I do leg lifts while in the cast and that seems to have helped tone down the leg cramps so I am thinking the more you use your leg as time goes on, then those should let up but perhaps someone with more experience can tell you more.

    I am also Bimalleolor (sp?) with 1 plate, 7 screws and a pin on the other side. I have a hard time imagining just making it from my bed to the short walk to the bathroom with a walker not to mention stairs and one crutch and all that.

    You sound like a walking wonder. I hear tea and banana's help leg cramps due to the potassium. Good luck with your PT, sounds like your doing great!!
  • Lisa Clark Apr 2, 2012 @ 12:47 pm | delete
    Hi Everyone. It's Monday (again) and I completed my 1st week of PT going on week #2. I am able to go up and down the stairs now (with the help of 1 crutch and hand railing and wearing my boot) and this is exciting. I wanted to know if any of you have experienced the bad leg cramping once you started using your foot/ankle/leg more??? Walking this morning proved to be very painful due to leg cramping. It's fine when I'm sitting down and my leg is bent but when I am trying to walk the leg cramps come on strong. I can bend my ankle now (not much I guess to a non-injured person but I know you all can feel the excitement of any movement at all. I am supposed to be able to drive this week but I think I need one more week of PT before I can do this. We will see. I hope everyone had a great weekend and let me know if any of you have experienced these leg cramps after starting PT and more movement. I am almost 6 weeks post-op. Bimalleolor Ankle Fx., 1 plate and 7 small screws and 1 large.

    Take care.

    Lisa C.
  • Liz Apr 2, 2012 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    I am 13 weeks post-op and I did experience the pain after starting WB. Still get pain if I over do it.
  • Debbie Apr 1, 2012 @ 6:00 pm | delete
    Cindy,

    How many weeks post op are you? Personally, I would plan on being in the boot if it gives you comfort because you will be on your feet more than usual I am assuming. I would also bring back up devices if you still use them such as crutches, walker, cane or whatever. You could leave them in the car but you will have a reception to get through. Anyway, I am only 4 weeks post op so I have no experience but that is my thoughts anyway.

    BTW, I think I said something to you on facebook but congrats on the stand up shower, I think your husband is a doll to make you that certificate...how cool!! One more step toward being normal. I am so happy for you =)
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 2, 2012 @ 7:55 am | delete
    Hi debbie - I am 9 weeks post op. And I agree - i will be on my feet alot more than normal that day - so i think for support I will be in the boot -- better to be safe than sorry. I am just hoping that maybe i can walk down the aisle with out it. I know that I will proabably not need my crutch for the ceremony as I will have my male partner to "lean on" All I can do is one day at a time and hope for the best. One thing i know for sure - No Matter what i will put my ankle and those needs first...I need my ankle for the next 60 years !!! Also THANKS for all the support on here and facebook. It is soo nice to read that we are not alone....total strangers..connected at the ankle.
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 1, 2012 @ 3:42 pm | delete
    Thoughts and opinions please!!
    I am in a wedding in 2 months - will i be out of this boot and off crutches by then? I am starting the alterations on the dress this week. My seamstress tells me she will do everything but the hemming and do that the week of the wedding when I know what shoe I will be in. If I am still in the boot - she is going to make me a "pretty cover" for it
  • Cindy Iowa Apr 1, 2012 @ 9:04 am | delete
    SUCCESS for me this morning!!! I stood up to take my shower today for the first time...what a great feeling!!! My husband rewarded me with a "certificate of achievement" and told me "Good job honey now do it agian tomorrow" it was almost like I went potty the first time on the potty chair when i was 2... It was funny but I have found that you need to find some humor in this recovery process - because if you can't laugh at it -- you will cry !!!

    I will rest most of the day today -- have a great Sunday everyone !!
  • Debbie Apr 1, 2012 @ 8:22 am | delete
    Liz: Thank you for telling me about this because that is why I have not applied for unemployment due to them saying I have to be available to work. Once my doctor releases me I bet I can apply for unemployment. I am going to. Thank you so much for that information.

    Also to any of you out there that have a student loan. I temporaily deferred mine. One less bill to pay. Just wanted to put this out there as a reminder.

    Linda: Thanks for stopping by with your wonderful words of encouragement. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever walk again and I hear stories like yours and I am thrilled. In my heart of hearts I know I will walk again, it is just sometimes I have my moments.

    I am happy that they said I can now move my arm down all the way straight if I want...now if the dang thing would just go straight. It is bent. I tried using a weight to pull it down and so far no go. Every time I get in my wheel chair I am going to hang a weight on it to try and straighten this baby out because this arm is my ticket to independence. =)
  • Debbie Apr 1, 2012 @ 8:21 am | delete
    Liz: Thank you for telling me about this because that is why I have not applied for unemployment due to them saying I have to be available to work. Once my doctor releases me I bet I can apply for unemployment. I am going to. Thank you so much for that information.

    Also to any of you out there that have a student loan. I temporaily deferred mine. One less bill to pay. Just wanted to put this out there as a reminder.

    Linda: Thanks for stopping by with your wonderful words of encouragement. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever walk again and I hear stories like yours and I am thrilled. In my heart of hearts I know I will walk again, it is just sometimes I have my moments.

    I am happy that they said I can now move my arm down all the way straight if I want...now if the dang thing would just go straight. It is bent. I tried using a weight to pull it down and so far no go. Every time I get in my wheel chair I am going to hang a weight on it to try and straighten this baby out because this arm is my ticket to independence. =)
  • Helen Apr 2, 2012 @ 4:25 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie: I may have missed some of the letters but when I read yours about EI, I wanted to tell you that if you are sick or had an injury, you are not available for work and so therefore that comes under sick leave with EI benefits. I am not sure where you live but I am in Canada and was able to collect for 15 weeks under sick benefits, just said I was not available for work. Of course you need a Dr.'s note. Hope you have success with this. BTY I am going back to work tomorrow and was wondering if anyone else is still tired a lot. I am and was wondering if this is because of the surgery. I was once told that it can take up to a year for people to get over the surgery part. (tired).
  • Liz Apr 1, 2012 @ 1:35 am | delete
    Debbie,
    I don't know if I mentioned this to you. I worked at a daycare when I was injured on Christmas Eve. I called my supervisor the day after Christams and it was decided to lay me off so that I can collect unemployment. The law here states that if you are unable to work, you can't collect unemployment, so I had to wait a month till the doctor released me. My boss at the daycare told me to talk to her when I'm not on crutches anymore. I went to talk to her after my 2 month appointment that I will be on crutches for awhile longer, I found out she had filled my position. She said to call her when I'm off the crutches and she will let me know if there is a spot available. Luckily I am receiving unemployment now.
    -Liz
  • Linda Mar 31, 2012 @ 10:59 pm | delete
    Hi all! I am an "old timer". I am a year and 2months since surgery. I check on this site so I remember how far I have come and how grateful I am to be walking! If I have any advice : follow doctors orders....it really pays off in the long run. I was14 weeks non weight bearing. But once you start pt ...recovery moves much quicker
    I am doing well not 100 percent but close. Full recovery is about a year. I just went to Disney world and walked 11 hours a day for 7 days:)
    I am also 55 so I feel I am doing great
    I pray blessing and healing for all of you. It does get better
  • Pattie Apr 2, 2012 @ 11:51 am | delete
    Thanks for poating this Linda..I am 7 weeks post op and am going to begin PT on the 10th. Somehow I have trougle envisioning myself walking again, but I really want to! I am 61. I only want to be able to do what I did before slipping on the ice...and dislocating fracturing the ankle..and that's walk, stoop, do some worknto help on our acreage. You give me hope! Thanks!
  • Pattie Apr 2, 2012 @ 11:52 am | delete
    Thanks for poating this Linda..I am 7 weeks post op and am going to begin PT on the 10th. Somehow I have trougle envisioning myself walking again, but I really want to! I am 61. I only want to be able to do what I did before slipping on the ice...and dislocating fracturing the ankle..and that's walk, stoop, do some worknto help on our acreage. You give me hope! Thanks!
  • Cindy Iowa Mar 31, 2012 @ 11:09 am | delete
    Cindy in Iowa - this site is the best. I wish I would have found it early on in my recovery. It is soooooo nice to hear everyone's story. At least you can read that someone else is experience the same as you WE ARE NOT ALONE!! that is a good feeling for me.

    Melissa - What part of Iowa - I am in Dyersville - near the Field of Dreams movie site. Mine is also the right ankel - I am glad that I could help you with keeping the leg in -- I am getting better with mine thnaks to PT and the excercises. The screws that have to be removed are the 2 long ones that go through both bones. I had to ask my doctor too. because i have never heard of anyone having them removed and he kept telling me that I would need to. It has something to do with your ligements and stuff.

    Debbie - you should at least be entitled to partial unemployment -- if you have a history of solid 30 hour weeks - you could get some unemployment. I also had a hard time using the crutches. In the beginning I was ina wheel chair and walker - my wrist was messed up to - that seems to be healing well. There is an attachment that you can put on the walker that allows you to rest you arm and you actually use your forearm to bear the weight - not sure if that is an option for you with your injured elbow. Once you can get to weight bearing - the crutches will be MUCH easier.

    I am off to my nieces bridal shower today - thank goodness for family that drive me places - it is nice to get out of the house.

    I too have a great husband - times like this you realize if you have a keeper and i do !! 18 years in and he is the best !! He does laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping - funny thing - i think since he started the grocery shopping our grocery bill has gone down -- he is a get in, get it done type of man - and there is never anything extra if it's not on the list - he doesn't buy it.

    Have a great day everyone!!
  • Melissa Mar 31, 2012 @ 10:09 am | delete
    Debbie--It sounds like you are healing well. That is great that you are able to use your arm/elbow a little more. With all the talk of FMLA, I decided to look it up. I found that companies have to offer it if they have 50 or more employees. Then employees had to have worked for 12 months. I can't believe it is just not offered by everyone. Not like you wanted this to happen!!
    I have not used my shower seat yet. My husband needs to put it together. The brand is AquaSense. It is just a basic seat with legs.

    Cindy--I am from Iowa too! We are about a month apart from our injuries--mine was on 3/3. I have now been trying to keep my foot/leg straight after reading your post. I tend to let it rest out or to the right since it is my right ankle. Thanks for the advice!

    A lot of you are talking about having screws removed. After my surgery they told me that they will stay in unless I have problems. I am curious to talk with the doctor about that again just to make sure.

    I am excited to get out of the house tonight. Going to play trivia for a fundraiser. It is the little things that excite me these days!
    ~Melissa
  • Debbie Mar 31, 2012 @ 9:01 am | delete
    Michelle,

    Sounds like you are really doing good handling your injury. You have a really good attitude and are doing a lot of things to remain independent. I think that is awesome. I am thankful that my house is all on one level and don't have those stairs to climb. I think it is great you can work from home. My husband is able to do that and I am forever thankful.

    I have no idea how some people use crutches. I am too big of a klutz for crutches. I have no coordination. My dislocated elbow is finally in good enough shape that he said I could start wheeling the wheel chair now.

    I also have to find a weight to hang from my arm when in the wheel chair so my arm will straighten back out. I guess it is all a process.
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 5:30 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie,
    How is your dislocated shoulder? After breaking my ankle I woke one morning to a searing pain in my right shoulder (same side as my broken ankle). It was so bad I couldn't lift my arm at all. I remember laying in bed with tears rolling down my cheeks from the sheer pain. I didn't even cry when I broke my ankle just tried to keep myself from fainting!

    I thought what am I going to do it was 4am i needed to go to the toilet so with the help of my husband and the forethought of hiring a commode he was able to swing me somehow onto the Loo!

    I then called an ambulance as the pain was so bad! I ended up back in hospital for 4 days. My shoulder wasn't broke or dislocated but very inflamed and swollen. All caused from tripping over the feet of my wheelchair while on crutches landing on my broken ankle over stretching my arms as I landed into the wheelchair.

    I can't imagine your pain of an actual dislocated shoulder. I tell you what it makes you forget completely about your ankle!

    You have to be so careful with the other working parts of your body that over compensate for your injury. I was sitting in my chair a couple of nights ago spinning lettuce in the lettuce spinner woke up couldn't hardly move my elbow! So they taught me in hospital to treat this with Panadol, anti inflammatory, ice and complete rest!
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 5:37 pm | delete
    Debbie,
    Sorry just read your status update glad to hear your shoulder is getting better. As far as nerve feelings go I get them in where my scars located not often but when it happens it can hang around for a couple of minutes of an electric sensation.
  • Debbie Mar 31, 2012 @ 8:54 am | delete
    I went to the doctor yesterday for my arm and he said my elbow is healing nicely. I should be able to start bearing some weight on it in 2 weeks at the same time I get my cast off and boot on. Which means I can start using a knee scooter. Yayy ...so in 2 weeks I might be mobile again...Also PT will begin. But he says I have been doing a great job on my arm. I can now roll my wheel chair if I am not on carpet. Yayyyy...things are improving. I can see some light now at the end of the tunnel, very excited. Now, if the nerve pain in my foot would let up..life would be good. Of course, he says the same thing everyone said, it is from my foot waking up after surgery.

    Oddly enough though it is right where my mortons neuroma is in my foot (nerve between your toes that gets squished because I walk with my left foot turned out). Normally I wear orthotics or just put a pad on my big toe when I walk and all is well. Since I am not walking, this really shouldn't be an issue but I have noticed all my other toes are fine but my last couple are still kinda numb.

    If I shift a certain way or get up to go to the bathroom and the cast shifts a certain way, it feels like it is hitting that nerve...ouch!! - Debbie
  • Debbie Mar 31, 2012 @ 8:37 am | delete
    Cindy, Thanks for trying to help out with the FMLA. I worked for Solution Consultants for 7 months before the accident. The company I worked for employed 15 employees. I have no idea whether they carried FMLA because I had no benefits. I didn't even get paid for holidays. It was a work and you get paid kind of job. If I didn't work I didn't get paid. I do think I should look into something though because it doesn't seem right that they can just fire me because I was injured.
  • Trishy Mar 31, 2012 @ 4:07 am | delete
    Hi Kulwant,
    Great to hear you're doing so well. I sometimes find myself now, almost walking without a limp and the swelling isn't nearly as bad as it was just a few weeks ago.
    It's so exciting! Best wishes!
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 12:05 am | delete
    Hi everyone I'm Michelle from Australia and like you all have suffered an injury and have taken some comfort in reading all your stories. I'm currently 2 weeks out of plaster after 8 weeks of hopping about. I broke three bones and dislocated my ankle my fibula bone was splintered along with a bone in my ankle. I've had two physio sessions which were not as daunting as i thought. I had my accident on the 20th jan 8 weeks in plaster, screws to be taken out on the 7 may and then a few weeks after this should be able to fully weight bear. I'm only allowed 50% currently. My ankle is extremely stiff when pushing my foot upwards there is hardly any movement. I have big elastic bands to strengthen my ankle and have a set of exercises to perform daily including the alphabet.
    I'm in a boot which helps support my ankle when walking around. I use a walking frame as I feel more secure on this as I'm not the most agile person. Physio tried me on crutches at my last session and encouraged me to try and do a stair. This I found difficult as 1. I haven't used crutches 2. My accident happened on a stair case. I also had to place more weight through my injured ankle and crutches while lifting my good leg high enough to step up. It all looks so easy when demonstrated by a person without the injury.

    I'm lucky enough to work from home and am alone most days. My saving grace has been the wheelchair this has given me independence i would never get on crutches or frame. I have small children and working Hubbie I'm able to make dinner in the wheelchair put washing on hang it up, do the dishes all while in plaster! If your at home feel restrained GET A WHEELCHAIR!

    I still have a long journey in front of me with not being able to fully weight bear until the 2 large screws in the base of my ankle are removed in early may. My desk at work is located up 20 stairs so I still don't know how long it will be before I return to work.

    My house is on three levels I haven't been able to tuck my 3 year old and 9 year old in for over 2 months which I miss. My Hubbie gets a little frustrated at times with all the running around. Everything is tested your relationship, friendships, family and resilience!

    This experience has opened my eyes up to never ever look on an injury lightly and that I will be there to help in anyway I can.
  • Trishy Mar 31, 2012 @ 4:03 am | delete
    Hi Michelle,

    Welcome. You'll find lots of help here. That's a complicated break you've had. I'm in Australia too, in Sydney. Where are you?
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 7:45 am | delete
    Hi Trishy I'm in melbourne... Yes I did a pretty good job! This site has given me so much information :)
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 7:46 am | delete
    Hi Trishy I'm in melbourne... Yes I did a pretty good job! This site has given me so much information :)
  • Michelle Mar 31, 2012 @ 12:05 am | delete
    Hi everyone I'm Michelle from Australia and like you all have suffered an injury and have taken some comfort in reading all your stories. I'm currently 2 weeks out of plaster after 8 weeks of hopping about. I broke three bones and dislocated my ankle my fibula bone was splintered along with a bone in my ankle. I've had two physio sessions which were not as daunting as i thought. I had my accident on the 20th jan 8 weeks in plaster, screws to be taken out on the 7 may and then a few weeks after this should be able to fully weight bear. I'm only allowed 50% currently. My ankle is extremely stiff when pushing my foot upwards there is hardly any movement. I have big elastic bands to strengthen my ankle and have a set of exercises to perform daily including the alphabet.
    I'm in a boot which helps support my ankle when walking around. I use a walking frame as I feel more secure on this as I'm not the most agile person. Physio tried me on crutches at my last session and encouraged me to try and do a stair. This I found difficult as 1. I haven't used crutches 2. My accident happened on a stair case. I also had to place more weight through my injured ankle and crutches while lifting my good leg high enough to step up. It all looks so easy when demonstrated by a person without the injury.

    I'm lucky enough to work from home and am alone most days. My saving grace has been the wheelchair this has given me independence i would never get on crutches or frame. I have small children and working Hubbie I'm able to make dinner in the wheelchair put washing on hang it up, do the dishes all while in plaster! If your at home feel restrained GET A WHEELCHAIR!

    I still have a long journey in front of me with not being able to fully weight bear until the 2 large screws in the base of my ankle are removed in early may. My desk at work is located up 20 stairs so I still don't know how long it will be before I return to work.

    My house is on three levels I haven't been able to tuck my 3 year old and 9 year old in for over 2 months which I miss. My Hubbie gets a little frustrated at times with all the running around. Everything is tested your relationship, friendships, family and resilience!

    This experience has opened my eyes up to never ever look on an injury lightly and that I will be there to help in anyway I can.
  • Debbie Mar 30, 2012 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    I wish I was covered under FMLA but I was only 30 hours a week so I am pretty sure they can fire me. Don't you have to be full time to get that?
  • Cindy Iowa Mar 30, 2012 @ 10:20 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie - THis is Cindy from Iowa and here is a commonly asked question on FMLA. I work in the HR department for my company. I do not know your exact situation but the 30 hours does not disqualify you from FMLA - but maybe you do not meet some of the other critia. To make sure - contact your Wage and hour division. I broke my ankle at work - slipped on the ice - so I have a whole Workmens comp issue that I am dealing with as well.

    Eligibility for FMLA Leave
    Q. I have 12 months of service with my employer, but they are not consecutive. Do I still qualify for FMLA?
    A. You may. In order to be eligible to take leave under the FMLA, an employee must (1) work for a covered employer, (2) work 1,250 hours during the 12 months prior to the start of leave, (3) work at a location where 50 or more employees work at that location or within 75 miles of it, and (4) have worked for the employer for 12 months. The 12 months of employment are not required to be consecutive in order for the employee to qualify for FMLA leave. The regulations clarify, however, that employment prior to a continuous break in service of seven years or more need not be counted unless the break in service is (1) due to an employee’s fulfillment of military obligations, or (2) governed by a collective bargaining agreement or other written agreement.
  • Cindy Iowa Mar 30, 2012 @ 10:24 pm | delete
    Cindy from Iowa again - here is a link that should help answer your questions on

    Fhttp://www.dol.gov/whd/fmla/finalrule/NonMilitaryFAQs.pdfMLA.

    here is another goog site

    http://www.dol.gov/whd/fmla/
  • Debbie Mar 30, 2012 @ 9:02 pm | delete
    I am not sure who posted that they can't fire me but they did and can because I was part time and therefore had no benefits. I was working 30 hours a week and so I had no FMLA. At least I think that is how it works. I really need to contact my employment office but since I was part time I believe they can do what they want.

    Thanks for the tingling tip. I talked to my doctor today and he said it was normal to have these sensations since my foot is waking up after surgery.

    I got some really good news today. He said in 2 weeks the cast should come off and I will get a boot plus I am going to get a knee walker. By then he said I should be able to bear some weight on my arm so a knee walker would work great for me and then I can start PWB and PT. Yayyyy!! A light at the end of the tunnel.

    He also said my arm is progressing nicely so I am happy I will be able to start bearing weight in a couple of weeks to use the knee walker. How exciting. I might start becoming mobile in 2 weeks. -Debbie

    I am going to start putting my name after each post because in my emails I can't tell who each of you are and everyone is so nice and supportive I would like to say thank you to all of you for your constant encouragement and support but sometimes I don't know your names when I post.

    How is the shower chair from walmart working out? Mine will be delivered next Friday I am pretty excited. What kind did you get? Is it the kind that hangs partially out of the shower and part in the tub?

    I got my pain meds filled in case I need them. I talked to my doctor about Advil and he said it was fine to take it.
  • Melissa Mar 30, 2012 @ 4:56 pm | delete
    Hello Everyone! Sounds like everyone is recovering in their own way. Interesting to hear the different stories of recovery. I suppose there are many different ways to break an ankle therefore, many ways to treat and recover!
    Just completing my 4th week at home! I am really getting antsy to get back to work. I think I am going to try it next week. I think if I go with a wheelchair and walker I will be fine. I am a special education teacher and really miss my kids! I believe my staff will work with me so that I can be seated most of the time. It is just the standing for very long that bothers my foot. It quickly swells and turns purple.
    After reading the advice from most, I ordered a shower chair on Wednesday and it was just delivered today. Quick shipping from Wal-Mart and right at $30, not bad!
    It sounds like after therapy (which won't be for at least another 1 1/2 weeks) I should be prepared to be a little sore. Better save some pain meds for those times! Right now I am not taking anything except for 800mg Ibuprofen once in a while and they seem to make me really tired. I have been using them once during the day to take a nap (mostly to pass the time) and then at night. The doctor suggested taking them for inflammation.
    Well, hope everyone has a good weekend!
  • Rene Mar 30, 2012 @ 10:39 am | delete
    I'm 2 and 1/2 weeks from accident and one week from surgery. I was taking very little pain medication. I went to rehab for first time yesterday. Well, that really woke my leg up! I needed pain meds later in the day. I did not find the actual rehab painful just the aftermath. I had a 7:30 am appt. I slept 3-4 hours deeply yesterday afternoon.
  • Debbie Mar 30, 2012 @ 8:58 am | delete
    HI everyone. Sounds like you are all doing great. Yep I ordered my shower chair and it should be here next Friday.

    Do any of you experience nerve pain, tingling that sort of thing in your foot? Sometimes if I slide my cast a certain way I get a nerve pain in my toe. Ouch. I don't take pain meds during the day but I do at night so I can sleep. This weekend I was thinking of going without but now I am having these weird pains in my foot.

    I am wondering if the foot is waking up from surgery. My toes are not as numb as they were. I am 4 weeks post op today ..whoo hooo. 2 more weeks and the cast comes off.

    Not to be negative but I bet after I get this cast off, the real work is going to begin and I wonder if I will need those pain meds then.

    Did any of you find once you started working your foot out that you needed to take pain medication or did tylenol or advil work for you? I read somewhere that Advil slowed down bone repair?? Not sure if this is true so I think I will stick with Tylenol?

    Anyway, you guys sound like your all doing great. Robb: I looked up some isometric exercises but one of them said to put your foot on the floor and bear weight (not a good plan if we are non weight bearing). I do 10 leg lifts as this was one of the exercises and also toe crunches where you squeeze your toes and hold for 5 seconds then spread them out for 5 seconds, suppose to do this 10x. I do these 2 or 3 times a day.

    Today I have a doctors appointment for my arm so I will show him the exercises I have been doing to make sure they are okay.

    Helen: You give me hope. I really hope I am doing that good in 12 weeks or so.

    Steve: I bet you will be dancing in no time. Sounds like you are making progress and that is what is important even if it is small progress. Are you walking yet?
  • Cindy Mar 30, 2012 @ 3:41 pm | delete
    Hi Debbie - Yes i did have some of those tingling episodes, but they do get better. I actually have one spot on my incision that when my little toe itches, i need to itch it there - sort of funny to me because when my dad lost his leg several years ago - he had the same thing - his little toe always itched and it wasn't even there. I do have a nerve that they had to "repair" and it needs to reconnect - and i read somewhere that it takes a year for a nerve to grow an inch. When you get the cast off - you will want to "de-senseitize" (spelling) the incision area by gently massaging the area. My Physical Therapy told me that and it has helped ALOT with the tingling. Hope this helps you.
  • Cindy Mar 30, 2012 @ 8:25 am | delete
    Hello everyone,
    I broke my ankle on Feb 1, 2012. I am now 8 weeks post op. I have a plate with 8 screws - 2 will come out at 12 weeks. It has been a long road. I reccomend a shower chair. Even if you are in a cast -- you can still sit in the shower and let your leg hang out. I spent the first 6 weeks in a non weight bearing cast / air boot. Had the best luck with a walker. At 6 weeks I was allowed to start weight bearing....those first steps HURT...I started physical therapy at 6 weeks that has helped a great deal!! I am on 2 crutches - back at work 1/2 days. My work picks me up and takes me home. My biggest suggestion to all of you.....If you are sitting wuth your leg elevated -- make sure you are keeping the leg straight and not letting it turn to the side from the weight of the vast / boot. I did not do that and now my leg is turned out. PT is workign with me to get it turned back in. I wish i would have thought of that when i was sitting aroud for 6 weeks. so MAKE SURE TO KEEP THAT LEG TURNED IN / STRAIGHT...... ny nest dr appt is Tuesday April 3rd - hoping to get released to drive to / from work. will keep you posted.
  • Ann Mar 30, 2012 @ 12:37 pm | delete
    I broke my ankle on Feb 4, 2012. In a hard cast for 6 wks. In boot now for 2.5 weeks. Still having really bad swelling in foot, ankle & leg. I did not have surgery.
  • Ann Mar 30, 2012 @ 12:37 pm | delete
    I broke my ankle on Feb 4, 2012. In a hard cast for 6 wks. In boot now for 2.5 weeks. Still having really bad swelling in foot, ankle & leg. I did not have surgery.
  • Cindy Mar 30, 2012 @ 8:25 am | delete
    Hello everyone,
    I broke my ankle on Feb 1, 2012. I am now 8 weeks post op. I have a plate with 8 screws - 2 will come out at 12 weeks. It has been a long road. I reccomend a shower chair. Even if you are in a cast -- you can still sit in the shower and let your leg hang out. I spent the first 6 weeks in a non weight bearing cast / air boot. Had the best luck with a walker. At 6 weeks I was allowed to start weight bearing....those first steps HURT...I started physical therapy at 6 weeks that has helped a great deal!! I am on 2 crutches - back at work 1/2 days. My work picks me up and takes me home. My biggest suggestion to all of you.....If you are sitting wuth your leg elevated -- make sure you are keeping the leg straight and not letting it turn to the side from the weight of the vast / boot. I did not do that and now my leg is turned out. PT is workign with me to get it turned back in. I wish i would have thought of that when i was sitting aroud for 6 weeks. so MAKE SURE TO KEEP THAT LEG TURNED IN / STRAIGHT...... ny nest dr appt is Tuesday April 3rd - hoping to get released to drive to / from work. will keep you posted.
  • Helen Mar 29, 2012 @ 9:38 pm | delete
    Hi everyone: I went to physio on Tuesday and he said if all goes well one more visit should do it. I have to get a bit more strength lifting my foot up and down. I did some cleaning yesterday, took down curtains, cleaned windows, up and down, up and down, several trips to basement. I felt fine, but today I certainly made up for it, I could hardly move. Goes to show you how out of shape I am. I have to do more walking but the weather turned cold so I am waiting for warmer weather. I cannot believe that I am going back to work after16 weeks, the time did go pretty fast once I got through the first month or so. Good luck to everyone on ;your recovery.
  • Robb Mar 29, 2012 @ 5:49 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I'm 3 weeks post op today! I dislocated and shattered my fibula and I have one plate with 5 screws and 2 additional big screws.

    My pain is fine, I haven't taken any pain medication for about 2 weeks now and I have been able to move my toes and do some touch down weight bearing on them (although I have a fiberglass cast that bears most of the weight when I do so).

    Next Tuesday my doctor said I should be getting a boot and may be able to start weight bearing. The doctor didn't say anything about any torn ligaments, but in your experiences is there a way to tell if I do or not? Given that my pain has really subsided how painful do you think it will be when I can weight bare with the boot? Do you all recommend any isometeric exercises that could do now to help me in the process come Tuesday?
  • Robb Mar 29, 2012 @ 5:49 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    I'm 3 weeks post op today! I dislocated and shattered my fibula and I have one plate with 5 screws and 2 additional big screws.

    My pain is fine, I haven't taken any pain medication for about 2 weeks now and I have been able to move my toes and do some touch down weight bearing on them (although I have a fiberglass cast that bears most of the weight when I do so).

    Next Tuesday my doctor said I should be getting a boot and may be able to start weight bearing. The doctor didn't say anything about any torn ligaments, but in your experiences is there a way to tell if I do or not? Given that my pain has really subsided how painful do you think it will be when I can weight bare with the boot? Do you all recommend any isometeric exercises that could do now to help me in the process come Tuesday?
  • Steve K Mar 29, 2012 @ 3:36 pm | delete
    Hi All,

    Just wanted to share my experience. I slipped on ice walking into work on 1/20/12. I broke the tib and tore the ligaments and got the plate with 7 screws along with 1 big screw which I was told will need to come out.
    I spent 6 weeks in a cast and wearing a boot for 3 weeks now. Was told to only put 25% weight on it. I'm still using crutches. I can feel my leg getting stronger each day but I don't know what it will be like when I try to walk normal. It doesn't feel like it will be easy. My next appoint is on 4/5. Hopefully I will start my PT soon. I heard it really helps.
    Hope everyone is recovering well. Would like to be able to take the wife out dancing soon.
  • Trishy Mar 29, 2012 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Hi Steve,
    The temporary screw you have will need to come out before you can begin FWB. Another person on this site( Hi Kulwant! If you're still around) and I both had temporary screws removed at about the 12 week mark. The temporary screw is there because you tore your ligaments. It holds the two bones in alignment, allowing the ligaments to heal in the right position.Its not wise to FWB until that screw comes out because you could do some damage. The screw removal requires a general anaesthetic, but is a very simple and quick procedure. However , it holds up proceedings somewhat because it causes new swelling and the holes then left in your bones have to heal. I have a plate with seven screws and my temporary screw was removed on the 25 th of January. I feel like I'm really starting to make some progress now....at last. Best wishes and good luck with it all!
  • Cindy Mar 30, 2012 @ 8:08 am | delete
    Thanks for the info Trishy..I have 8 screws & a plate. I need to have 2 of them removed - at the end of April. It is good to read that after they come out that the walking will get better.
  • Cindy Mar 30, 2012 @ 8:09 am | delete
    Thanks for the info Trishy..I have 8 screws & a plate. I need to have 2 of them removed - at the end of April. It is good to read that after they come out that the walking will get better.
  • Kulwant Mar 30, 2012 @ 5:32 pm | delete
    Hi Trishy! I don't come on here very much--the face book page is much easier to use. Anyhow, things have been going well since the removal of the screw! I'm two weeks post screw removal and walking with a limp. Hopefully the limp will subside soon. I can't walk very far or very fast but things are much better than before.
  • Lisa Mar 29, 2012 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    Hi Everyone!

    Well, yesterday was my first PT session and it was not as bad as I thought it would be. The PT took measurements, had me move the ankle (which proved to be very minimal movement), applied heat and massaged it for about 5 minutes. I was actually able to move it a bit more after heat and massage. He showed me a few home exercises, iced it (not my favorite part) and did electrical stimulation for 10 minutes. Now I didn't realize how numb my ankle still was until they put the E/S machine on. She put a pad underneath my back and because I couldn't feel it on my ankle I kept telling her to put it higher..she kept asking, are you sure? LOL. It wasn't until about 5 minutes into the E/S I finally started feeling it. Today I am a bit sore and it feels a bit more swollen but it's all expected. He also mentioned not to be worried if I feel it cracking. It's a good thing he said. It's your ligaments and muscles waking up from a long nap.

    I have 3 more weeks in this boot and right now we are focusing on moving the foot up and down so I can start driving again. The doctor said I could start next week but unless we get the foot moving (to where I can break quickly if I need to) then I might have to wait. Still not much weight bearing. By the time it's all said and done he said I will be back to about 90% use of my ankle but only because of the plate and screws. Good news is I will be able to do all the things I did before. It is going to be a long road but I will be back to Walking soon.

    I hope everyone is doing well and we are one day closer. Yayyyyyy.
  • Debbie Mar 29, 2012 @ 10:19 am | delete
    Thanks for your awesome success story Angelina. Gives the rest of us hope that there is really light at the end of the tunnel and maybe not that far off. 3 months doesn't sound that long really. It used to but now I am realizing that it is not forever. We will all be walking eventually. I can't wait for that day =). I am quite sure when it happens you will all know it LOL.....
  • Debbie Mar 29, 2012 @ 10:04 am | delete
    Good Luck Ava. Let us know how the appointment goes. Maybe he will send you to PT next.

    I have mortons neuroma (it is where a nerve between my toes is being squeezed because I don't walk completely straight, I kind of turn my foot which is totally common. Most people don't walk completely straight) in my foot between 2 of my toes. I had this condition before the accident. If I don't wear inserts it causes nerve pain between those toes. For some reason that is acting up today. Shouldn't be because I haven't walked in weeks. I guess it is common to get weird aches and pains from time to time.

    However, I am thinking this is something I should mention to my ortho doctor tomorrow when I see him about my arm. I will probably need some kind of inserts to wear whenever I start walking again.

    Hope everyone has a good day today. One step closer to healing. Yayy.
  • Debbie Mar 29, 2012 @ 10:04 am | delete
    Good Luck Ava. Let us know how the appointment goes. Maybe he will send you to PT next.

    I have mortons neuroma (it is where a nerve between my toes is being squeezed because I don't walk completely straight, I kind of turn my foot which is totally common. Most people don't walk completely straight) in my foot between 2 of my toes. I had this condition before the accident. If I don't wear inserts it causes nerve pain between those toes. For some reason that is acting up today. Shouldn't be because I haven't walked in weeks. I guess it is common to get weird aches and pains from time to time.

    However, I am thinking this is something I should mention to my ortho doctor tomorrow when I see him about my arm. I will probably need some kind of inserts to wear whenever I start walking again.

    Hope everyone has a good day today. One step closer to healing. Yayy.
  • Angela Mar 29, 2012 @ 9:27 am | delete
    Good morning everybody. I'm 3 months post opalmost four. I have 8 screws and a metal plate. I broke and dislocated my ankle a real bad break. I'm back in shoes Hallelujah! actually I'm wearing ankle boots that lace up in a tan/taupe my son's teenage girlfriends picked them out LOL... I can wear short dresses and long, skinny jeans and leggins they are very comfortable and I don't look half bad LOL... My doctor said I don't have to go to PT, I'm a dancer he told me to continue with my dance stretches, weight train, elliptical and swim all of which I have at home. I still get tired I use my cane when I get tired as well as at my son's basketball games. I'm back to work, heck I even have a date this weekend. I'm not back to dancing my doctor said give it another month. There's light at the end of the tunnel.... I'm so glad I followed my doctors oreder to the letter.... Angela
  • Angela Mar 29, 2012 @ 9:27 am | delete
    Good morning everybody. I'm 3 months post opalmost four. I have 8 screws and a metal plate. I broke and dislocated my ankle a real bad break. I'm back in shoes Hallelujah! actually I'm wearing ankle boots that lace up in a tan/taupe my son's teenage girlfriends picked them out LOL... I can wear short dresses and long, skinny jeans and leggins they are very comfortable and I don't look half bad LOL... My doctor said I don't have to go to PT, I'm a dancer he told me to continue with my dance stretches, weight train, elliptical and swim all of which I have at home. I still get tired I use my cane when I get tired as well as at my son's basketball games. I'm back to work, heck I even have a date this weekend. I'm not back to dancing my doctor said give it another month. There's light at the end of the tunnel.... I'm so glad I followed my doctors oreder to the letter.... Angela
  • Tom Mar 29, 2012 @ 7:44 am | delete
    Rend is suppose to be. Rene
  • Tom Mar 29, 2012 @ 7:41 am | delete
    Rend out really depends on the type of break you have my ortho office specializes in sport related injuries they do a lot of work for all the Boston pro sports teams. With that said they kept me in a hard cast with no WB or ROM untily 7 weeks post op I am 10 weeks post accident and I just started PWB and ROM last week and pt this week I am 47 and WAS very active but the good news no matter the injury or progress nor the amount of time we are ALL 1 day closer to walking today!!!!!! Yeaaaaaaa woohooo something positive for us all to celebrate happy healing all and put on a smile if only for a moment,its the best medication of all ;)
  • Ava Mar 29, 2012 @ 12:27 am | delete
    So, it's 6wk post-op. I'm in a removable cast, 2 screws 1plate. I have wend myself off of pain meds. Ankle is stiff but, I still do ROM per ortho request. Get sharp pains time to time. Not going to allow this get me down. Finally go see ortho tomorrow. I'm very anxious cuz unsure of the next step.. Wish me luck & my prayers goes out to you all.....:)
  • Debbie Mar 28, 2012 @ 9:57 pm | delete
    Hey Rene,

    Congrats on the new air cast. It is awesome you can shower in it. My ankle was dislocated and broken and it was broken on both sides of the ankle which is why my OS said he wanted me to stay in a cast for 4 weeks. I was in a splint for 2 weeks and before that in a splint awaiting surgery for 1.2 weeks. Right now I have had the cast on for 2 weeks so another 2 weeks for me in a cast. He said if I had only broken it on one side it would be much easier to deal with.

    I think when you get the cast off depends on your injury. I am also 52 so glad to hear I am not the only person in their 50's trying to recover.

    Congrats Kristine on your recovery. Sounds like you are doing really good. I do wonder how painful this is going to be to walk on and if I will be able to start shuffling along right away or will I have to wait a while. Sounds like most people are partial weight bearing in the beginning. I can't even imagine walking on this ankle right now. The thought makes me shudder. Thanks for the heads up. How bad did it hurt? Did you start walking on it right away?
  • Rene Mar 28, 2012 @ 9:16 pm | delete
    I am 2 weeks past my accident (3/14). Broken ankle x 2. One plate. 5 screws.
    I saw my surgeon yesterday and was instructed to start rehab. I traded my boot in for an air cast, whack I am much better about wearing while awake. I can also remove my ace and shower. I only have steristrips on my 5-6 inch incision.
    I keep looking to see what kind of breaks people are having that have required pretty long stints in casts. Maybe my doc is aggressive. Not sure. He's very sports medicine oriented.
    Good luck to all. I'm glad I'm moving forward quickly and wish you the same.
    P.s. I'm 50 years old.
  • Kristin39 Mar 28, 2012 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Hi all! Yesterday my civilian doctor cleared me to go back to work and my Army Reserve unit. Now I just have to wait for active duty Army to release me. I'm allowed to walk without the boot now, but put it on this afternoon when I had pain in my tibia. I'm at 16 weeks. For those of you getting the casts off soon, realize that you may get some pain. I was fine for the first day, and then miserable the next. Be prepared to use your meds to get ahead if the pain.
  • Helen Mar 29, 2012 @ 9:41 pm | delete
    Hi Kristina: I think we were close to the same time we broke our ankles. Amazing that it has come to an end, although we will be stiff for a while. Good luck going back to work.
  • Debbie Mar 28, 2012 @ 10:54 am | delete
    Arrgggghhh!! My leg is itching inside my cast so bad today. I have had this happen before but for the last 2 hours it just won't go away. I finally took a comb and stuck it down in there to scratch it a little. Good grief.

    I also have a canker sore. Lord, does it ever end? A few weeks ago, I guess I bit my tongue in my sleep or something and I had like 5 sores on my tongue which finally went away. I gargled with Listerine every day and that helped a lot.Now, here I am with the canker sores.

    I am glad you are all here too. I would go crazy without all of you. I love reading your posts.

    Have a great day....one day closer to normal =)
  • Melissa Mar 28, 2012 @ 9:23 am | delete
    Well it sounds like a few of us are in about the exact same place--within days of each other! How crazy!
    E D and Emilie--Are you back to work at this point? How did your accidents happen?

    Hope everyone has a good day!
  • Debbie Mar 28, 2012 @ 8:31 am | delete
    Hi everyone. I am in the same boat as you guys too. I should get my cast off April 13th. I think it hurt when they put my foot at a 90 degree angle. She kept pressing on it and saying let me know how bad that hurts or if the pain lets up. So she would press on it and then wait for it to let up. I was sure we wouldn't get it right and I would be hurting with the cast on but we got it right finally.

    I really loved my cast in the beginning because it was lighter than the other cast but now that I have had it on for 2 weeks almost, I am ready for it to come off and go to the boot.

    It was weird having the cast off when they took x-rays too. I am with you guys I feel real protective of my ankle. The best part of the whole thing was they washed my leg with real soap and water. That felt really good.
  • E D Mar 27, 2012 @ 6:55 pm | delete
    Hi everyone,

    I need to say that if this site ever goes offline... I will go crazy. I am looking forward to read each post and it makes me feel better to know I am not the only one going thru this.

    Yesterday, I had my stapples removed and they now have my last cast. I will have this one until April 16th. I am half way done but is it ever going slow! When they removed the stapples I squeezed my husband hand so hard that the tip of his fingers were white. It is probably different for everybody but jeez that hurt! Poor hubby!

    I am really happy that all of us are having small victories and that we are getting closer and closer to eventually walk again.

    I wish us all the best!!!
  • Melissa Mar 27, 2012 @ 9:54 pm | delete
    E D-I did not enjoy getting the staples out either! I think a lot of it was in my head and I worked myself up about it. I think I will just be very sensitive about my ankle from now on. Getting my cast was ridiculous too. He wanted me to sit on the bed with my legs hanging down and I was to relax my foot and leg--well that was difficult to do. He put on the cast and then found out it was only at 70 degrees instead of 90. They cut the cast off and put it on again! That time they had me lay on my stomach and an assistant pushed my foot down to a 90 degree angle.
    When was your accident? It sounds like we might be in similar situations. I got my staples out last Wed. and should have this cast off April 11th (hopefully).
    Take care!
  • Emilie Mar 27, 2012 @ 10:26 pm | delete
    Dear Melissa... I had the same experience as you. They put my bed in the air with my leg hanging in the air. The wanted my to put my foot at a 90 degree angle... but I couldn't. The doctor was in an out of the room and he was watching every step the technician was doing. After a while, they both told me to just relax and the tech put his leg under my toes. From there it went really smoothly.

    You are not the only one concern about your ankle. When it was in a cast I was fine but as soon that they removed it, a weird feeling came up and I was really concern about everything that was near my foot. You can be sure that after my kids, that ankle will be the thing that I will protect the most.

    My accident happened on the 7th of March and I had surgery on the 10th. I was really surprise that they actually count the time for the cast from the time that the accident happen and not when the surgery took place.I am having my cast removed on the 16th ( I hope!!!). I am really following you by a few days...
  • rene Mar 27, 2012 @ 1:51 pm | delete
    I am almost 2 weeks post accident and 5 days post surgery. I am only wearing my boot a couple hours a day. We wiii see what my surgeon has to say abbout that at my appt today. I feel so much better with it off. I sleep 10 hours a night only getting up 1-2 times for the bathroom. I found a comfortable position(s) and don't seem to move much. I took pain med at 10:30 last night and not again until noon today. So I think I'm doing really, really well. I'm using an office Thais to scoot around the house. Crutches are exhausting and feel less secure. I have a step down into the shower. I sit on a plastic aerobics bench and stick my foot outside draped by the curtain. My showers are the highlight of my day.
    I appreciate reading everyone's info. It helps!!
  • Debbie Mar 27, 2012 @ 5:45 pm | delete
    Rene,
    I hope your doctors appointment went well today. Sounds like you are doing really good. Sleeping a lot must be our bodies way of healing because I am sleeping more than usual that is for sure.

    Melissa:I am right there with you. I am 1.5 weeks in the cast. I get it off if all goes well around April 13th. OMG Friday the 13th, well isn't that just appropriate LOL.

    Tom: Sounds like you had a good PT experience. Congrats on taking another step toward recovery =)

    I hope they do that pool thing to mean when I go for PT, assuming my doctor sends me that is...I have gotten to where I don't like to assume but I have talked to people that have had that type of therapy and they say it is wonderful so sounds real good Tom.

    Myself, I am doing a lot of reading today, puzzles ect since our TV won't be fixed until maybe Monday. At least that is when they are coming to look at it. Been very quiet around here. I even took a 2 hour nap this afternoon.

    Hope everyone is having a good day!! I go to the doc Friday for my arm. Kinda dreading it but every step we take is one step closer to healing right?

    I think I am doing pretty good with the arm. I got some exercises off the net and have been doing them. Hopefully, my doctor will approve. I can't straighten my arm all the way yet but getting closer. I am using it much more now and have mastered the pottying alone...yayyy....Pretty happy to be gaining some independence.
  • Melissa Mar 27, 2012 @ 10:24 am | delete
    Victoria--How long have you had the air cast with partial weight bearing? I am not to that point so I don't know about the cracking.

    Liz--Happy 3 months!! Do you still wear a boot at this point?

    Tom--Good luck at the appointment. Since you are at 9 weeks, have you been in a boot for awhile?

    Debbie--Yes, I am in a cast. Tomorrow will be 1 week in the cast. I go back after 3 weeks. Great job with your potty accomplishment!! It is the little things!
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I am a stay at home mom. I have four children. Three girls one boy. I have been selling on ebay since 1998 and created my first lens in 2007. I ha... more »

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