Broken Fibula Healing Time

I broke my fibula playing ice hockey in November 2007. It was a non-displaced fracture so I was in a boot and on crutches for about 6 weeks. I was running lightly by March, and by April I was playing hockey again with the doctor's O.K. I had no pain.

Recently I started training for a marathon, including running intervals at the track. I am starting to feel twinges of pain at rest, and while it is not painful to run, I am conscious of the fact that thrre is some tightness there.

Am I not healed yet?

Should I stop hard training?

If not, what are the risks that I face?

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Broken Fibula Healing Time

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May 11, 2012
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Sports MOM NEW
by:

My daughter (12) was sliding into 2nd base on April 13 (yes it was a Friday) when all of her weight was placed on her right ankle. She broke her fibula. She was first put into a hard cast and then a week later sent in for surgery. She had a plate and 6 screws placed in her leg to repair. The doc also drilled a whole through the plate and the good tibia bone and inserted a band to help hold the two bones together so her ligaments don't stretch apart. She was known weight baring for two weeks in a soft cast. Went back for her appointment and they gave her a boot to wear at 30% weight baring. My daughter is supper athletic and is doing great. Just mild swelling. Only took pain meds for a week following surgery. Is getting great ROM from the ankle, but doesn't have a follow up appointment until June 14. She feels like she could put more weight on her leg but we are both afraid that this could prevent full healing. Any suggestions?

Apr 27, 2012
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non displaced fibula fracture NEW
by: biker

i fell off my bike on a flat road trail and fell on my right leg.the pain was tremendous and i biked back to my car which was 3 miles away drove 15 miles and made it to the ER.It was nondisplaced fracture of the fibula and a lot of soft tissue damage.i was in a splint and crutches for 1 day and the ortho-ped surgeon put me in a air cast boot,weight bearing as tolerated.i went back to work after 4 days.driving with the boot off,minimal pain.after 4 weeks x-ray showed callus formation,i switched to ankle brace.still have a slight limp spinning my bike with no resistence.good luck ya'll

Apr 27, 2012
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Jan 02, 2012
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take care with the boot NEW
by: scott in n.o.

i fractured my fibula just above the ankle at work.after being x-rayed at the company's doctor, i was placed in a walking boot and infomed to keep it completely immobile until i could see an orthopedic in a week. prior to seeing the ortho, the pain rose from a 2 to an 8. i saw bruising and took myself in only to find out that i had developed a blood clot. they say i may not have made it to my appt. had i ignored the pain and symptoms. my ortho has been excellent and i am healing , but just thought i'd put info. out there for others and to implore you that no matter how qualified your doctor is, you know your own body better than anyone and dont let your pride get in the way of asking any and all questions you may have,until you fully uderstand everything about your care.

Dec 29, 2011
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Bimalleolar w/no surgery?? NEW
by: KIM

Dec 13-- broke while playing hockey... Bimalleolar-- spiral fx of distal fib, end of tibia taken chipped off...
boot first week NWB hurt like hell
xrays then, bulky soft cast 2nd week NWB...felt better...
Now 16 days in and back in boot..WB as tolerated..

No surgery recommended as MCS space is 4.3-4.7 and surgery indication is 5.0mm...

Getting second opinion as er doc (diff health system) said surgery as did an ortho friend of mine (doesn't take my ins).....

I play fairly competitive hockey... I'm 41.. mom of 3 teens/college kids ...decent shape (could lose a few lbs) and play 3-4 nights a week...

Not that i WANT surgery--- I think I have ligament damage as well...I want whatever will give me the best stability....

Next xray on 1/4

Dec 21, 2011
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Non Displaced Spiral Fracture of Fibular NEW
by: Mark

Hi guys. on 6th December i was playing football, fell and had a non displaced spiral fracture two inches above my ankle on my fibular bone which didnt need surgery.
I have been told i need to be in cast for six weeks.. but what happens after that and does anyone know the expected recovery time from weight baring to walking and driving etc?

Thanks
Mark

Jul 22, 2011
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

The extent of my sports injury was surfing for chicken wings in Reno, a distraction which cause me to trip in a an unpave hole in the street, which pitched my bloated overweight 51 year old carcass onto the pavement. Thinking it was a sprain I walked it off for two days on crutches before getting xrays, only to find I broke my ankle and had to keep my weight off my newly cast ankle until returning home to an orthopedist in my home state. After being fitted for a wonderful WALKING boot (sweet!) I return in a mere five weeks for follow up xrays. Not so bad.

Jun 17, 2011
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Frequent cutter program
by: CORoadie

Understand your frustration. Wished they would have done my knee when they did the ORIF for my leg. Of course now that they messed up the nerve they probably would have had to go back in anyway but still. At least I convinced them for this one to do the knee and the nerve.

Jun 17, 2011
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stinking leg
by: cquien

COroadie, that sucks, He didn't mean that a scoping would fix the broken part, just that if the meniscus was torn they could repair with scoping. He didn't tell me how long it would be if I had to have pins put in. Sorry for the confusion. It sucks because I have to drive for almost 2 hours to Grand Junction to see the Ortho and then you have to wait another 2 weeks for the MRI, which is another 2 hour drive and etc. Just wish they would of fixed it in the 1st place.

Jun 15, 2011
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Update for the Stinking Leg
by: CORoadie

Don't know why he would recommend just going in and it won't be just a scope if they have to pin it. I have about a 5 inch scar running down the outside of my calf, from about 2-3 inches below the knee down. My recovery is going on 6 months as of next week and I have to have another surgery to hopefully repair an entrapped nerve in mid July that is causing weakness on the outside of my leg, no ability to raise my big toe and numbness down the outside of the leg and over the top of the foot as well as all sorts of other fun nerve reactions.

Jun 15, 2011
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Update on stinking leg
by: cquien

Thanks for the info, I did go to the DR. and he has me going back to the ORTHO, thinks I tore the meniscus and they didn't catch it because of swelling, also thinks the bone might not have joined. He said that I should not have another MRI, that the ORTHO should just go in and scope.Said they might have to pin it if it hasn't joined. Anyone familiar with how long healing is after those procedures?

Thanks

Jun 14, 2011
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Spiral Fracture of the Fib
by: Lizard0727

So I broke my fibula recently. I was playing softball when a player slid into my right leg. I heard a pop and immediately knew something was wrong. My mom is a nurse and took me in for x-rays the next day. I met with an orthopedic surgeon who reviewed my x-rays. It's a nondisplaced spiral fracture that doesn't require surgery. All the ligaments are fine as well. The doctor put me in a walking boot and crutches, and told me to stay completely off it for about 5 days and then to start putting weight on it as much as is comfortable. I am in my college marching band and we are in a very large parade in about 4 weeks. I was just wondering, if I stick to what the doctor says down to the letter, if I'll be ok to be in the parade even if I am in the boot still. Would this be rushing it too quickly? The doc said this wasn't a terribly serious fracture so that's why I'm wondering. Thanks!!!

Jun 08, 2011
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Stinkin... get a 2nd opinion
by: CORoadie

Your adventure sounds a lot like mine, although they knew I broke mine right away. Still, not cast, was told it would heal itself. Thing was all it would do would be sort of like a spot weld, and since the break was pretty high up I kept breaking those spot welds (actually heard it snap once, and at the instant it hurt like hell). Get a second opinion and hope you don't have to have an ORIF to fix it.

Jun 08, 2011
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stinking leg
by: quien

Went snowboarding in January and biffed it.Didn't hurt that much at first, then that evening my knee area started to swell and hurt really badly. Went to the Dr. and they said it was just sprained, and I would have to use crutches for a week. 3 weeks later has an MRI and found out I had broke my Fibula with sever bone bruising. They never casted it, and just had a brace on. Seven months later it still hurts like when it happened,and my leg and ankle starts to swell up, especially when I walk for a little while.Now I am trying to figure out if I re-fractured it and what can be done to fix the leg after 7 months. I don't take pain killers so that's not the issue,as I only took Motrin for it when I broke it. I live in Colorado and like to hike and all that and now I can't do any of that stuff without being in tears.I understand I will probably have to go back to the DR's but just wanted to know if anyone else had this issue and what was done.

Thanks

May 08, 2011
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Spiral fracture of fibula
by: Skier

I broke my right fibula while skiing 8 weeks ago. Spiral non displaced fracture which didn't require surgery, but I spent 7.5 weeks with a cast. Doctor told me not to put any weight for the first 5 weeks, and then to progressively add weight while still in the cast to estimulate bonding. Finally, my last x-ray (when they took the cast off) showed cayus formation. Still walking in crouches and have lots of swelling in my foot and ankle, but I feel I am improving every day. Hope to be able to walk without crouches soon.

May 08, 2011
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Dec 20, 2010
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ORIF Surgery for broken Proximal Fib
by: CORoadie

Got hit by a 6/30 and today finally had ORIF surgery to repair a unjoined proximal fibular fracture with a plate and several screws. Surgery took longer than anticipated, probably because of the amount time to debride all the callus that grew on both bone ends (but never joined). Anyway I have been told I am now 8 weeks non-weight bearing and then 8 more weeks in a boot. Anyone else ever go through this surgery and what was your recovery like?Hurts like hell right now, even with meds on board and still waiting for my foot to wake up after several hours from the nerve block. Knee also HURTS LIKE HELL and not sure why. Don't see my doc again until Wed.

Nov 24, 2010
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Still broke
by: CORoadie

Just got back from the ortho and the bone, after 5 months, has a ton of callus built up around it but the two ends still have not joined. Doc is scheduling an Arthrogram to see if there is any bone grown and if not we are talking surgery to affix a plate in all likelihood.

Nov 18, 2010
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fractured fibula head
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula head by tripping over my boot laces in the hallway of my house, I went down with a right wack, and I layed on the floor crying for ten minutes because it hurt sooo much. I was very lucky that the fibula was still attached to the tibia. The doctor was very worried about my knee because it had swelled up, so he sent me for an MRI scan, this showed none of the things he was worried about and only a little amount of tissue damage (again very lucky, no key hole surgery for me), he gave me a leg brace to wear and restricted the knee movment for two weeks so I couldnt bend my knee. then took the restriction off, my knee swelling went down in about two weeks although my ankle remained swollen for four weeks and had also gone black (although there was no pain), I hobbled about on crutches for 3 week then started weight bearing on this leg and used only one crutch, then at 4 and a half weeks just limped around with no crutch and a week later (5 and a half weeks) doc discharged me and gave me some balancing execises to do, he said i could do light weight execises at the gym, but no running or rowing or cycling. so do not worry too much, I read all the horror stories on the internet thinking i was going to be months before I was right but I was fine. Im 43 so not so young, and the leg brace was great, it doesnt restrict your movement as much as a cast so you dont get as much muscle wastage.

Oct 14, 2010
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Finally seeing some progress
by: CORoadie

Injury occurred on June 30 when I got broadsided by a car while riding my bike. Had a displaced fibular fracture that was not casted and I was told only to keep totally no weight bearing for 10 days and since then have been walking on it. Finally last week I had some x-rays that are showing progress. There is a good wad (don't know what else to call the big lump that has formed) of callus around the bone and we are seeing the first shadows of joining. Still riding and am now able to sometimes walk without a limp but still hurts like hell if I try and run or do anything that jars the lower leg.

The knee will undergo a CT Arthrogram (Pacemaker contraindicates a MRI) a week from Monday to see what damage is in there and if necessary will have to have a scope done. Right now doc things I have torn cart but not the meniscus but rather the stuff we have on the head of the femur. He also thinks I have severe inflammation of the infra patellar bursa. He doesn't believe I have torn the MCL which is good but he says the inflammation may be hard to get rid of.

Anyway, that is my latest update. More in about 3 weeks after next round of PT is complete.

Oct 13, 2010
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4 months? i think not
by: Tom Mansfield

i fractured my ankle on august 18th (on the second day of football camp, which was a wednesday), it was slightly displaced, nothing that the doc was worried about so they put me in a boot, non weight bearing for 4 weeks then had me in the same boot weight bearing for an additional week and 5 days. i started practice on that monday (5 weeks and 5 days after the inury) doing light work like my drops for quarterback and all that good stuff, and i did not play that week but i went to the doc on the following monday and he said i was cleared so i went out that monday and started doing the full routine, it hurt a good bit, but nothing anyone with any pain tolerance wouldnt be able to handle, so i played that friday (which was 5 days ago today) and when i was in the game it was mainly pain free(keep in mind i had it taped and braced, and i had some adrenaline pumping) i scored a 65 yard touchdown on the very first ball i ran all year, so all that nonsence about not being able to walk for 4 months because of a distal fibular fracture, i think, is crap, i was back running on it full speed doing cuts and the whole 9 yards after 7 weeks and 2 days. today is october 13th (8 weeks after the injury) and im totally pain free while playing football! feel free to look me up on facebook if u have any questions about a fibular fracture

Thanks
Tom Mansfield

Sep 09, 2010
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Rehab updated
by: CORoadie

Went for a 2nd opinion on my left leg (mainly the fib fracture and the interior knee pain) and the new doc did take some different x-rays but came up with basically the same prognosis on the fib fracture. He did weight bearing x-rays which actually showed that when on my feet the bone ends are pretty much touching. He feels that it is healing, that there is a shadow of callus formation on those x-rays but it could be as long as 6 months and he did say he has even seen fibula fractures that never completely close but the pain does eventually go away (although the bone is much more likely for another break of course).

As for the knee he did recommend a cortisone shot and that while it hurt like hell for a couple of days seems to have done a lot of good. The soreness to the touch is basically gone except for a couple of tender spots and the knee pain has been reduced considerably, enough that it doesn't feel unstable anymore. Still may need surgery there but at least the soreness is starting to abate.

I did get out and did my first real climbing on my bike last weekend. 45 miles from my house, up a little climb called Deer Creek Canyon, and then a nice easy ride for a few miles before the climb back home. Leg hurt like hell on the steep sections of the climb but actually felt pretty good the couple of days after. Of course I had been on my feet almost the whole day before and my leg started that day in pain.

Here is the link to my ride...

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/47921585

Sep 09, 2010
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Mountain Biker No Longer in Depression
by: Anonymous

Hit the biking trails last weekend 3 days in a row -- felt GREAT. Rugged trail riding though rides a little shorter than I did before the break (1 1/2 hours instead of 2). There's a little soreness but that's normal.

Going Broke -- Not sure how the ruptured tendons and surgery impact your healing time, but as for broken bones 13 weeks provides a lot of healing time. You may have some pain; I was told by the PT that pain can continue for up to 6 months -- just work through it.

Your workouts may have acutally helped your healing; I was also told by the PA that putting some stress on the leg/foot (to the point of experiencing moderate soreness) helps the healing process. Posts by astro seem to demonstrate that activity promotes healing .

Good luck, all!

Aug 25, 2010
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Update from the doc
by: CORoadie

8 weeks to the day post hit by car accident and just got an inside look at my left calf this morning the the bone still has not joined. There is a light shadow on the lower end of the fracture (they are displaced a fair amount when looking straight on but line up perfectly when we take a view from the side) where it looks like there is some bone growth but I honestly had hoped to see better progress with the break. Also when the doc tried to torque my left knee (MCL was severely sprained but appears pretty much intact although there is a 'band' of tissue right at the joint that could be scar tissue or could be part of my MCL, doc isn't sure yet) the pain in my fib was so bad I had to have him stop(knee hurt like hell also).

Anyway, he said it could be another 6 weeks or more (that would put us at 14 weeks). Has anyone else ever run into this long a healing time after a broken fib. I understand I had a lot of other trauma going on between the knee, muscle damage up and down my left leg, an ankle that was out of sorts never mind some other body parts but this just seems like an awful long time to let an uncasted bone to heal. Would love the bone to mend so I can start working on getting the knee back to normal (hopefully w/o surgery but if necessary with).

Aug 24, 2010
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Roadie, you're lucky!
by: astro

Hey Roadie, that sounds like one heck of an ordeal. I am super happy to hear you're not turned off of cycling though.

I am about 11 weeks post injury now. I can ride my bike for 75-100km with no trouble, or pain from my ankle. But I can't do much walking, or standing without a lot of swelling, and eventual pain.

I had to go to a wedding this weekend, and by the end of the night, my foot was swollen up to post surgery sizes.

I'm not sure what this means, I see my Dr again in 3 weeks, and hope it will continue to improve.

Aug 23, 2010
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Hit by car recovery
by: CORoadie

First of all let me say I am lucky to be writing this. 8 weeks ago I got broadsided by a car while riding home from work and 'virtually' walked away from the accident (I was backboarded to the hospital via ambulance, but mainly as a precaution since I landed on my head after a short, unscheduled flight). Injuries include a broken left fib, messed up left knee (not sure how bad yet), left IT band issues, huge hematomas both thighs (tore the seat off my bike with my right thigh), broken ribs rt side and two shoulders with rotator cuff issues.

Now my question is... How long for all the others of you who had a fib fracture was it until you were pain free. I am okay spinning on a bike (my bike is still in the shop but I have been given the okay to ride outside) but any other activity with my left leg is still pretty painful after 8 weeks. Have a follow up with my ortho Wednesday of this week (I was not casted and was PWB for 4 weeks and full WB since). 4 week x-ray showed bone had not yet joined but doc felt confident it would.

Any info from been there, done thats would be greatly appreciated.

Aug 10, 2010
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avid cyclist here, checking back.
by: astro

Well, I've pushed myself since the outset. Even went for a 10km ride 2weeks post surgery. I have 7 screws and a plate as well.

I was told to give it 6 weeks of no weight after surgery, I think I made it 2. I did spent the next 4 weeks taking it relatively easy. I did ride my bike a few times for about 1.5hours each time.

I ended up with an infection in the ankle that required anti-biotics. Not sure the cause, but it's cleared up now.

Had my 6week check up with the Surgeon this week. All is looking great, it the perfect place. There is still a visible break, but nothing to worry about. He gave me clearance to ride my bike finally too.

I don't feel that my activity has set my healing process back at all. other than perhaps lengthening it a bit. However, because I have full mobility with no pain, it certainly doesn't feel like it's not healed yet.

A positive attitude and a healthy diet can work wonders for a healthy adult who's healing.

cheers,
robb

Aug 10, 2010
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Any thoughts or advice for me?
by: Going Broke!

I had surgery on May 28 2010 for my non-displaced fractured fibula. It's very low on my right leg, commonly called a "broken ankle." I also ruptured the ligaments on the inside of my ankle. The surgery required a plate and seven screws. I was in a non-weight-bearing cast for only four weeks, then put into a boot for two weeks with no crutches.. After that I was walking in shoes, six weeks after the surgery. I've been in physical therapy twice a week since I was in the boot, so the progress has been good as far as I know. I am pushing myself very hard, stretching hard, working on the leg press at the gym, etc.

I still have swelling and aching, but lack of range and mobility is the biggest problem. I take ibuprofen but no painkillers anymore. I work in a construction-type industry that requires me to go up and down ladders and work on my feet with heavy loads.

It looks like I will be medically cleared to full work duty at the end of this month, which puts me back to work in 13 weeks after surgery. This is something I desperately want as I'm going broke.

Has anybody had a similar experience? Does this sound too fast? Or perhaps that I'm pushing too hard or getting back to work too soon? Or is this common?

Any advice is appreciated!

Jul 26, 2010
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Spiral Fracture of the Fibula
by: Dan

I broke my lower right Fibula (spiral fracture, non-displaced) playing softball on May 2, 2010. I thankfully did not require surgery and was casted for 7.5 weeks, non-weight bearing so I got around with crutches. Then I wore a walking inflatable air cast for 4 weeks with 3 of those 4 weeks without crutches. For just under the last week, I no longer require the air cast and am now sporting an ankle brace that I am expected to wear for the next 3 weeks. I have very little pain and take small doses of Motrin or Ibuprofen to assist with the stiffness of using muscles I have not used for quite some time. I had never suffered a serious break in my 40 years and did EXACTLY what my doctor told me thoughout this entire process. I also took extra vitamin K, D, Magnesium, zinc and, of course, calcium. Spiral fractures, even those like mine that do not require surgery, can take more time to heal than other breaks and I accepted this fact early on so that I wold not talk myself into any false expectations. Although now it's been 12 weeks and I am walking again, I still have a little ways to go before I can run and jump but I have no doubt that I am recovering nicely, again, because I did exactly what my doctor said.

Jul 25, 2010
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my ankle(fibula) on 05/21/10,walking with a lot of swelling still at 7 weeks w/o crutches,still do not have good color in foot at the end of day,go back to work week after next,hope every thing will be fine with foot.

Jul 22, 2010
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Mountain Biker in Depression
by: Anonymous

Avid Cycler @ July 13: I hear ya, dying to get back on the bike same as you. Before the break, 3 times a week in the woods plus HIIT sprints once a week on the road -- was riding like a madman, dusting guys 15 years younger than me.

That said, I would advise you NOT to go around trying to walk/bike with a displaced fracture post-surgery UNTIL YOUR PHYSICIAN APPROVES. The issue as I understand it is not just the broken bone itself which might be mostly healed by about week 10, but your entire ankle joint which may get re-damaged or heal F'd up. You don't want to have another surgery bec. you screwed up the joint w/ too much activity, then another 10-12-14 weeks off the bike plus time already lost. Be patient, aim for some hard biking around late September when the weather is nice and cool. Heal up, bro!

Jul 22, 2010
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Jul 13, 2010
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Avid cyclist with no patience
by: Astro

I broke my fibula, spiral, slightly displaced on June 10. Had surgery on the 17th to I stall a plate and some pins. I began trying to walk on it out of my air cast on July 4. I saw the Dr on July 6 and he said 4 more weeks of no weight.

I can walk with no cast and no pain, the desire to hop on my indoor bike trainer is overwhelming. I still have some swelling, but no real pain for quite sometime, despite not exactly obeying the Drs orders all the time.

Am I risking further damage without something undue like a fall happening? Can I get on my bike trainer?

This is not my first injury, but it is the first time I have had a removable cast.

Thanks!

Jul 08, 2010
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Mountain Biker in Depression
by: Anonymous

I'm 47, mountain biker, average weight. Broke left lower fib Memorial Day weekend, non-displaced "spriral" fracture (was not on trail at the time). Now 5 1/2 weeks out and walking in a boot w/ little or no help from crutches, very little real pain at this point, just aches. Doc says try walking w/ just bare feet next week. DYING TO GET THE F#$% OUT OF THIS THING AND BACK ON TRAIL.

Active healthy mom @ July 1: I'm going to be in Rocky Mtn. Park too 3rd week of August!! I should be in hiking form by then (about 12 weeks post break). For you, don't see how you could hike 5 weeks out, but maybe some easy walking in a boot at slow pace.

airborne soldier: hope you had a parachute!!! seriously, get well soon. don't think it will be 6 months before you can run again, but maybe before you can jump.

All: good balanced diet it important, plenty of calcium (my doc gave me a specific type of calcium supplement), adequate protien, don't go on a diet -- body needs food and minerals to heal. I take a daily multi vitamin and am healing up pretty good.

Jul 01, 2010
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Active healthy mom
by: Anonymous

Broken fibula june 25,2010. One week into healing. Keeping off the foot completely. Using an ace wrap and splint. The boot is too heavy and cumbersome and a cast is hot and smelly for the remaining summer heat. I am still swollen and black and blue; I keep it elevated two to four hours a day. I am on crutches...back, hip and scapula actually are more achy than the ankle; as long as I do not touch the maleolus...I am almost pain free....that is of course as long as I do not touch the floor with the foot. So the dilema is.....will I be able to climb the Rockies in 4 weeks or will they even let me ride a stable horse in Glacier National Park???

Jul 01, 2010
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non-displace break-fibula
by: Anonymous

I started running again after 15-years of basically nothing but cycling and walking. I cycled an average of 50-60 miles per week but it wasn't helping keep my weight down. I began running slowly and worked my way up to 3-miles after 4-months of running and walking. I decided to buy some good running shoes and went to a specialty running store. The guys tells me I have high arches but pronate...he recommends stability shoes, expensive stability shoes. I ran in the shoes a few times and then did a nice slow 5k charity run (35 minutes). I started having pain in my left ankle a day later and it got worse...borke my fibula. Doc says it was probably the shoes..I don't know...anyway...I am out of the bott but my ankle still hurts after 6-weeks. Doc says it can take up to 6-months for the pain to stop...anyone have a similar issue?

Jun 22, 2010
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broken fibula
by: wakeboarder-at-heart

i am now healing at week 5.5 with a broken non-displaced distal fibula fracture. X-ray showed callus forming at end of week four. i have tossed the boot and short of some minor swelling at the fracure site it looks pretty good. i have been getting out on the water again and taking it easy. i still am wincing a bit when i jump and land but, it's getting easier day by day. i would estimate that i am riding about 80% with minor discomfort. i took another x-ray today and it doesn't seem that i have damaged my callus at all. doctor said i am good to ride carefully and he doesn't need to see me again. i still walk with a slight limp but, i'm hoping that will improve shortly. i wish you all well and a speedy recovery!

Jun 21, 2010
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

Riding a Rip stick front wheel stopped back wheel didn't after 3 weeks i still have swelling and tenderness in my foot (bone feels fine, no tenderness there) still can't seem to get the hang of walking with the boot.... think i should just toss it and streach out a bit....

Jun 16, 2010
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Down in the Ladies Restroom at Church
by: Anonymous

I only wanted to tinkle, but when my left high heel hit the wet ceremic tile, BOOM!

Since I had a take home final to complete, I insisted on going home, pain, swelling, and all. Next day it felt better, so I kept it elevated, took pain medicine, and stayed home from work for a week.

When I went back to work, the swelling and pain returned - making me go to the ER. You guessed it...fractured fibula, sprained ankle.
I got a boot and crutches, which I've been on for 5 weeks.

I feel okay - with my 56 year old self!

Jun 11, 2010
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airborne jump
by: airborne soldier

jumped out of a c130 airplane at 1250 ft.
landed hard broke my fibula. had surgery few days later 6 screws and in a cast. they say it will be about 8 weeks to walk. 6 months to run and jumpp again. fml

May 31, 2010
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Fibia
by: Nate

My Fibia is also cracked, but my doctor decided not to put me in a cast, he gave me that air cast, but i haven't been wearing it recently, im not sure if it matters now, but its been over 2 weeks, no pain what so ever, and im walking around fine, parents are giving me hell, but seeing how its like, 80 outside on average im saying wearing this is unbearable, is permanent ankle damage probable with this minor of an injury if its just a small, almost benin injury?

May 31, 2010
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broken distal fibula
by: wakeboarder-at-heart

i was out wakeboarding march 14 and had a non-displaced d-fib fracture. massive immediate swelling and i fainted (with my daughter in the boat) which freaked her out. DR said boot, no cast if i wanted. i stayed on crutches and boot for two weeks. starting the third week, i have tossed the crutches, wear the boot for a few hours a day and walk around the house for a couple of hours. i have no pain when i bear weight and can get on the elliptical with no pain. ligaments are tight though. taking a multi-vitamin and fish oil. x-ray at end of week four. BTW, i am 46. wish you all a speedy recovery!

May 31, 2010
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May 25, 2010
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Broken Fibula
by: Mike

Cracked my fibula by the ankle playing football. Wore a cast for six weeks to reset my ankle. Then a boot for 2 weeks (didnt actually wear the boot.). I was walking after six weeks and running after 7. Lots of tightness at the ankle, but pretty sure it was due to the cast. Need to start full running in 2 weeks but there is still pain. Doctor says to be careful, so apparently there is still somewhat of a risk to over-doing it. Pain is usually your bodys way of saying stop.

May 23, 2010
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still healing
by: Nate

I was at a track meet and i cracked my fibia in three spots going up at a 45 degree angle from the outside, it hurt a lot when it happened but i could still walk on it, i didn't even know it was broken, got home and it was swelling up like crazy, went to the ER to get this news, its been a little over a week, and i was told to wear my air cast 23/7 with an hour to take it off and air out, but when i walk on it without it feels fine, a little pain when moving it around and swelling is going down, i was wondering what i can do to help it heal faster, maybe what to eat / drink, or to ice it daily, and what else i can do to trigger faster healing, anyone that knows what i can do, i'de be very happy to hear from you.

May 18, 2010
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ouch
by: Anonymous

Broke Fibula.... lots of pain...ouch it starting again

May 18, 2010
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ouch
by: Anonymous

Broke Fibula.... lots of pain...ouch it starting again

May 11, 2010
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Right Lower Fibula
by: Anonymous

Broke my Fibula about 3 weeks ago and Did not notice it. I was walking with average pain ( 6 or 7 on a 10 point scale ) Thought it was just a ankle sprain. Im a Colligate athlete, playing Varsity Volleyball and JV basketball. I been walking on it ever since the break, I got x rayed two days ago it was a complete break with no displacement. I walk about 3 miles daily, with minor discomfort. Personally i have a high pain tolerance and fast recovery time. Hopefully by next im up to 80% to continue playing sports. Warning, Volleyball shoes are meant for volleyball not basketball*

May 07, 2010
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Back to running
by: Ice Queen

I fractured my fibula running on the ice and had surgery in early December. Back to running (easy jogging) eight weeks after and now running 45 miles a week. Expedited schedule but all is great now. Wonderful ROM, very little swelling, and feeling great! Doing track workouts and such finally with a little stiffness. Good luck!

Apr 27, 2010
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Broken Rt. Fibula
by: Kristy

I broke my Rt. Fibula near the ankle on April 16th. Had surgery on the 21st. They put in a plate and two screws, luckily my ligaments were just stretched so no damage there. I go back to the doctor in two days where hopefully I will get this huge splint off and the sutures removed and then It looks like I will be put in a cast for about 6 weeks or so. Very difficult to move around, so I am hoping to get one of those scooters that you kneel on with your bad leg. I am already tired of the crutches!

Apr 19, 2010
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Broken left fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my left fibula about four weeks ago playing rugby. I got a cast and crutches but have been walking on it with/without cruthes since i broke it.

Apr 19, 2010
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Broken Left Fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my left fibula in December 2009 playing rugby for my local team. I was in a cast and on crutches for 10 weeks and had an operation at about 2 weeks in due to bone displacement. I was then put in a support cast and shoe, whilst still on crutches, for a further 3 weeks and then was finally freed around mid-March. It is now mid-April and after some physio and muscle loosening exercises I am walking perfectly fine again and just starting some slight running. It was a horrible experience being on the crutches but feels great to be back.

Apr 19, 2010
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Broken fibula while pregnant
by: Anonymous

I broke my right fibula at the ankle February 19, 2010 due to a fall in the snow at 19 weeks pregnant. Went into an aircast. Very painful for first few weeks, especially at night. Can't take anything when you are pregnant!! Due to the pregnancy and fracture I was at risk of clotting and have been on modified bed rest (not immobile, but lots of rest). At 6 weeks post, there was almost no healing, no union, no callous formation. They said there should have been healing and that the lack thereof was not due to the pregnancy, but no one has yet been able to tell me why? Regardless, GP said to take the cast off and start bearing weight on it - counterintuitive! Especially with the extra weight of pregnancy and changes to balance. Kept the cast on until 7 weeks and have now had the cast off for a week, wearing a brace. First few days without the cast, my ankle was extremely swollen and tender, some improvement since then. Pain not too bad. I see an orthopod this week and am praying for good news!

Apr 17, 2010
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Fibula Fracture
by: Anonymous

Fractured my fibula by the ankle about 4 weeks ago playing rugby. I was put in a walking boot and was on crutches for a week and a half. Now i am walking with the boot with no pain, going to the doctors in a couple of days and im hoping for some good news. I cant wait to finally be healed again.

Apr 14, 2010
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Broke Right Fibula
by: joe

Broke my Fibula on Feb 27, 2010. I slipped on ice in Kansas City. I have been on a Moon Boot since. I did not require surgery. Just 3 days ago, i started walking around the house with no moon boot with very minimal pain, still have a walking limp, but i can move now. I don't have insurance so i cant afford to get x-rays every 2 weeks like the ER ortho required. I just have a little pain pivoting my foot up and down. I'm going this Friday to get some x-rays and see what i can do.

Apr 12, 2010
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Broke fibula in 11-22-2009
by: Anonymous

My right fibula required surgery. I have a plate with five screws now. I was in a splint for ten days and a walking cast for 2 weeks. Once the walking cast was removed, I walked around the house without any device. I didn't have complete ROM but it was more comfortable. When I left the house, I used the splint for support. My PT told me that not having a cast for longer than 2 weeks benefitted my ankle because I was able to move it a little.

I agree with the posting on fish oil. It helped me tremendously with the swelling. I take TUMS with calcium on a regular basis so my fracture was barely visible at the 5 1/2 weeks x-ray. My PT stated there are studies on the benefits of fish oil. My brother, a PT, also agreed.

Apr 12, 2010
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Spiral Fibula and 5th metatarsal both legs
by: Anonymous

Hi,

I broke my fibula(Spiral) in one foot and 5th metatarsal in right foot on Feb 27, 2010. I have been in walking boot, non weight bearing, for 6 wks now. I tried to walk few steps using crutches, but its painful and kind of awkward. I want to know, how much pain is normal after getting healed?? Or there is no pain once the fracture is completely healed. I get swelling after 30 min of not keeping my legs elevated, like sitting on a chair makes my toes and feet swollen. Is that normal.

Apr 11, 2010
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

Today is 11 April 2010, I broke my right fibula on 18 Feb 2010 after falling off a roof. The break was non-displaced. The ortho doc put me in a cast for 2 weeks, non-weight bearing, then had the cast removed and placed in a walking cast for 2 weeks, went back to the doc and then placed into a air splint until the 30th of April (Next Doc appointment) ~ The air splint hasn't provided me as much support I think I needed, so I wrap the ankle/calf with an ace bandage and still use the air splint and that provides me enough support to get around, I still walk with a limp and the pain is still pretty tuff, but it's getting better and better everyday. I think it's going to take at least 6-10 weeks before I can really get around like I use too.

Apr 09, 2010
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Fractured Fibula chipped ankle
by: Anonymous

I fractured my right fibula just above my skate boot playing hockey on Feb 18 2010. The impact also chipped a piece of bone of the inside of my right tibia ankle. The injury required surgery (screw in tibia ankle to reattach chip; plate with 8 pins for fibula). The first few weeks after surgery were intense.

Fortunately, I have a desk job so only missed 5 days of work.

It's been 6 weeks since surgery and I can now walk (slowly) without my air cast, walk awkwardly in my cast, so still use crutches to get somewhere quickly.

My healing has been awesome. I attribute it to: eating fish (canned or fresh) daily, fresh fruit (citrus) every morning, lots of milk, lots of water, very little fatty foods. Also, I do light exercises and stretching daily.

Also, I took a week of vacation and went to Florida on a family trip for 8 days starting March 27. This was planned so I had to go. My doctor cleared me to swim so I was in the pool swimming 1-2 times a day plus hot tubbing occasionally and using the jacuzzi. If you can afford such, or can at least swim, I highly recommned this (on doctor's clearance) as I found it helped my strength incredibly.

I think I'll be 90% by 10-12 weeks and hope to be as active again by the Fall.

Mar 25, 2010
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still healing
by: Anonymous

Feb 16 2010 Broke my fibula just above the ankle at work, slipped off a piece of equipment. Went to Hospital and comfirmed it was broke by xray, any way they put me in a boot and told me it was ok to walk on it.. Ya right.. 3 weeks later I go to an ortho for a second opn. and they told me it was not healing due to the walking around in the boot with no crutches.. so here i am March 25 with crutches for 2 weeks now and have another week to go for a check up.. Fingers crossed its healing now.. Summers coming and the boot is getting a little warm to wear..lol

Mar 18, 2010
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Non displaced fibula fracture
by: Anonymous

Fractured my fibula above the ankle Feb. 15th. couldn't walk on it for two weeks and was in a boot with crutches. by the first week of March I could walk on it again with the boot and I now can walk around the house without the boot or crutches with little to no pain. Doc said it was healing fine but should be 6 weeks total.

Mar 16, 2010
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fibula at ankle
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula breakdancing....guess thats why they call it BREAK dancing...lol. I thought it was just going to be a sprain and now I am in a hard cast and going to be on crutches for 6-8 weeks. Feeling a little bit overwhelmed since I am such an active person. Being hurt really sucks!!!!

Mar 07, 2010
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HEALING
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula twisting and leaning. Fracture above the ankle. Surgery was a god send. No pain. It's been 10 days. I feel like I can walk on it now, but not brave enough to try. Intertestingly enough, I had GH checked months prior to break and have been medically supplementing GH levels. Healing is amazingly fast. If your healing is slow, I'd recommend bloodwork with endochronologist to ensure levels are normal. An out-of-whack serum can affect healing time and effectiveness. Any questions, search web. GH speeds fracture healing time: You have to be low, though.

Mar 03, 2010
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Spiral fracture right fibula
by: Anonymous

January 26, 2010 I slipped on ice and broke my right fibula. First 3 weeks it was in a splint, now in a boot. Dr. said no physical therapy until healed better, seeing him in 2 weeks for xray. The hardest part is not being able to go for walks and being outside more. Mentally, it is hard to realize I can't do everything I used to and am dependant on husband to help me alot. Not having the freedom to just do whatever is difficult. Luckily, no pain any more, can stand a little but am not trying to put weight on it. Yes, I have renewed compassion for handicapped people and realize that being handicapped is not for the faint-hearted - they definitely have to be strong in many, many ways. God bless all who have these challenges and hope it all gets better.

Mar 03, 2010
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula in my right leg 8 years ago. 6 weeks in a hard cast, and when they took it off, I actually wanted it back on again! Felt weird. I didn't physio it properly and am active running and playing soccer, so I developed other minor problems. Make sure you come back slowly with a lot of strength training, and not right back to running. That was my mistake, trying to run too quickly. Yesterday, I fractured the left one slipping on ice. This time, it's a boot which is so much better. You definitely can come back to 100%, but take it slowly and stress strengthening the muscles around the ankle before you even start any running.

Feb 15, 2010
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Wifes broke her leg
by: Anonymous

My wife broke her leg Feb 20th 2009. She broke both Fibula and Tibia by slipping on some ice. The break went down into the ankle. The first surgery required 5 screws and a rod. It was important to get the ankle fixed first. Two screw held the ankle together. Not enough room for two more screws by the ankle to hold the rod in place, so only one screw was placed there and two at the top of the rod by the knee. She had a second surgery 7 months later because the leg shifted and was not healing. The ankle healed. Those screws were remove. The doctor re-broke the Fibula to straighten the leg. They then put a new rod in and were able to put three screws at the lower end of the rod and two new screws up by the knee. She has been going down a long road to recovery. The last doctor visit was two Feb 4th 2010. She healed more in the last 4 months than the previous 7 months. She still has pain off and on and wants to know if it will ever go away.

Feb 02, 2010
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Broken Ankle
by: Teresa

My son broke both the tibia and fibula 13 weeks ago. He got checked in hockey tryouts and heard the bones snapped. We went back to ortho yesterday for a recheck and the bones are still not healed. The doctor has now put him in a velocity brace so he can wear his shoe, but wants to see him again in a month. He has had no surgery up to this point, but is getting frustrated. He is also ADHD and has a very hard time staying still which is probably why the bones haven't healed. The doctor doesn't understand why the bones aren't healing yet. He is taking calcium with vitamin D twice a day and drinking glasses of milk.

Feb 01, 2010
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Fibular Fracture
by: Anonymous

I fractured my fibula on January 10, 2010 and am walking on it now (Feb 1) My first Ortho Dr put me in a boot and said no weight bearing for 6 weeks at least, he also never examined my foot. I went for a second opinion and after two weeks in a boot, with no weight he put me in an air cast and said weight as you can tolerate. I have been walking (slowly) on it since. I was only in a boot and not walking for two weeks and now that I can walk it seems to be doing better. He said the more weight and time moving it the less physical therapy if any!!!

Dec 17, 2009
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Broken fibula - mid shaft
by: Darlene C

Painful slip and fall on icy sidewalk resulted in broken fibula approximated mid-shaft. Very sore and must keep it eveluated. Out of nowhere painful strikes of pain are received. Could this be nerve damage? For the past 4 years I have run three 5k, 2 half marathons and one 10k. Will I ble able to get back into it before the middle of May and be ready for the race?

Darlene
Bridgewater, NS

Dec 04, 2009
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula at the ankle the day before Thanksgiving day 2009. I am in a cast boot and using crutches and a walker. the trouble I am having is that my left ankle is also rolling over, and I have fallen twice already on the crutches. The pain is excruciating and I am so frustrated. I elected not to have surgery because I also heal rather fast. My Doctor gave me pain medication and told me no weight bearing. I am so bored alreadyand I go back to the doctor on December 16 2009 for more xrays to see how the healing process is going. I hope I will be able to put weight on it then.I sympathise for anyone who has broke their fibula. good luck to everyon with their recovery time

Oct 24, 2009
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Broke Fibula
by: kevin FF

Like the rest of you folks Broken Fibula from hockey. Non displaced and appears that i didn't break right through' just broke right above ankle
Appears to be just a small break and only a couple inches in length almost like I cut diagonally with a sawonly taking a piece of the side. Doctor just put on a walking cast and said get and xray in two weeks and if it looks good started putting pressure on it. Then get an xray after a week if still good then start to work it as pain allows.... My question is is this a pipe drean or can this heal that fast
Kevin

Oct 22, 2009
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

i suddenly broke my fibula right below the knee.but i didnt feel the pain i just thought it was a torn muscle so for the next 4 days i was walking on it but it started to swell so i got it checked out and i was told it was fractured. still not feeling pain they gave me a boot and crutches and i got a check up tommorow would i need a surgery?

Oct 20, 2009
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Help
by: Nan

I have a spiral break in my fibula above my ankle as a result of an obstacle course race a month ago. I am on crutches and in a boot and am supposed to be non-weight bearing for six weeks (only 2 more to go). I am worried about the time it takes to heal from this. I usualy lead a pretty active life (running, walking, sports), and am getting bored and resentful of the barriers this has put on me. How long is the actualy healing time? Will it ever be 100% again?

Sep 25, 2009
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Hi Everyone
by: Anonymous

Here is my story to help some people on the thread. I am a 23 year old. Climber/skier/runner. I broke my fibula on may 1 2009. It was a bad break spiral fracture with a torn syndidmosis(spelled wrong). Any way. Plate 9 screws and a syndesmotic screw to repair all that junk. Spent six weeks in a boot non weight. Then a couple in an air stirrup gimping. Had the one long syndesmotic screw removed about 13 weeks after original surgery and man did that help with the range of motion. Now its what september 25 and in the past week I got the okey dokey to start getting back to it. I hiked two mountains last week and went for my first run yesterday. Its still stiff and sore and doesnt feel 100 percent. I tend to baby it still and favor my other leg. I will say this to everyone who is half way or just broke their s**t. It sucks... It has been the most depressing 6 months ever. Totally frustrating loosing your independence like that. Its not forever but when its happening the days drag on. Play 80's videogames. get filthy at guitar, learn Czechoslovakian and try to re create the mona lisa. But try not to let the boardom eat you up. I would also recommend working out any way you can as much as possible. pushups pullups etc. It helps circulate the blood and move nutrients to the fracture site, helping you heal faster. Also eat leafy greens which are rich in vitamin D. Calcium cant be absorbed without vitamin D. Get supplements and approve them with your doc. Breaking your leg is much worse than an arm, but it does heal. I still have a Kankle and it swells and aches sometimes but its always getting better. I feel that the more I use it the better it gets. Right when your allowed to weight bear, go for it. This part is crucial to complete the healing. I would always follow the docs orders don't over or under do it. A set back right now is not an option... It would really suck. Good luck to all rock out with your scars out...

Aug 14, 2009
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pain when turning my knee
by: jojo

I had a revision of the left knee on December 8, 2008. I have been having a lot of pain on the fibula head. I went to the doctor and he believes that it is scare tissue. My replacement appears to be fine. The pain is bad if my leg turns a certain way or I step a certain way. I also have trouble turning over in bed without pain. Does this sound familiar to anyone?

Aug 08, 2009
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Do I need support?
by: Justine

I fractured my Fibula pushing a broken down car!never again,unfortunetly the Doctor didn't pick up on this till two days after the accident,as they thought I had ruptured my gastro muscle. They called and said I had a small fracture and that i didn't need a cast (aircast) is that the correct proceedure? I feel that i need some kind of support on it I was just told to rest it,I feel like I've been left in the dark here!! Please advise.

Aug 05, 2009
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Fibula healing process
by: Shaun

I fractured my fibula may 31, 2009 and had my final sugery on june 18, which they inserted a plate & 5 screws. I just went for my routine follow up and the new x-rays revealed that the fibula does not appear to be healing all that noticeably. Is this normal? I have 6 more weeks until I am scheduled to start weight bearing again.

I am so affraid that the fibula is not going to be ready for weight bearing in 6 weeks.

PLEASE ADVISE!!!!! THANK YOU

Jul 17, 2009
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

Tuesday July 14, slipped in a puddle of water and fractured fibula at just below the knee. X-ray revealed non displaced crack/break in fibula. Some swelling of calf no bruising to date. Fitted with knee high boot and crutches. CMA said use crutches for a few days or until pain subsides. P.T. said OK to go to one crutch. Using Motrin for pain. So wondering how long crutches are needed, and when to resume bike riding, jogging and skiing this winter. 65 year old fit female.

Apr 29, 2009
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take your time
by: betb

I broke my fibula right under the knee when an opponent slide tackled me playing soccer. I was given pain killers and crutches with a tensor bandage and sent home. I was in extreme pain for at least a week and then bearable pain for next two weeks. I went back to playing indoor soccer in October as the injury I incurred happened in July. All I have to say is that I went back too fast to doing high intensity workouts. Take it from me, let nature take its course and allow for the healing process. I find myself in pain somedays. I have participated in several 5km races since and feel it right away. I am 39 years old and in shape.

Apr 12, 2009
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula 2 days ago. I had a siezure & fell & broke my feft fibula right under my knee. Dr put me in a imobilizer. How long will it be before I start feeling better. I am 38 years old, and in quit a bit of pain.

Aug 13, 2008
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You should be healed...
by: Bart - SII

Your fracture, almost 9 months ago, should be healed enough to withstand running. Make sure that you are gradually increasing your activities and planning at least 2-3 days of rest per week, preferably not in a row. Rest is extremely important for the body to recover, and especially important for bone health.

I would also recommend checking your shoes to make sure you are getting good arch support and that they fit your foot structure...you could be dealing with a slight overuse type of problem, unrelated to the fracture.

Bart

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