Broken Talus

by C.King
(Pensacola Florida)

My husband was pressure washing our house. I was on a ladder, waist high at the roof line. I had just handed him some pressure-washing solution when he began to slide off the roof towards me. To say the least, I grabbed him to stop his fall. The ladder came out from under me. The next thing I remember is being on the concrete facing the opposite direction.

I dislocated and severely broke my right ankle. X-rays and scans indicated I broke my talus bone. Due to the force of my fall (usually associated with auto accidents), the talus had cracked through and broken chips were shown around the bottom portion of my heel (my heel was not broken - only the chips of bone appeared around the heel area).

I had a wonderful doctor on-call from Tampa who repaired my ankle injury with surgey (scope only) and placed 1 pin and 3 screws. It was a very serious injury. I could not place any weight on my ankle for 3 months. Then, slowly apply increments of weight over the next several months. I began with a 90 degree boot and walker. 12 days after my surgery...the pressure to place my ankle in a 90 degree boot was aweful! Thank goodness for pain meds. Then, I slowly advanced to using 2 crutches. (Using the walker first allowed time to build-up my arm strength for the crutches.) Over three more months of PT I advanced to using 1 crutch and a new airboot. PT was work. I experienced good and bad days. I also had monthly doctor appts and xrays. I walked with a limp for many months, but I could walk. I had pain (although not as bad as I had expected) and swelling. Through PT I was able to achieve higher expectations and range of motion than my doctor expected. One year later I realized the seriousness of my injury when I overheard my doctor explain to the assitant there was an 80% chance the blood supply would not be returned to the talus bone - Those are great odds to beat! Not to mention only ONE surgery...

I cannot stress how very important it is not to rush the healing process of your body and to follow the doctors orders. It has now been 2 years and I am now able to walk with an almost unrecognizeable skip / limp. I still have days of inflamation - I take meds for the inflamation. I still at times need to elevate my ankle on those over-active days. I am excited about my progress, although it has been 2 years now.

All-in-all it is good! Only a broken ankle from a fall off the roof is remarkable. It could have been so much worse. My husband only had a bruised rotator and took tylenol. Stay positive and know that your body will heal. A good attitude is a must. Trust me on that one! It will not always be easy, but good care for yourself is worth the time and patience.

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Broken Talus

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Feb 08, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		fantastic advice
by: Bart - SII

Thanks so much for sharing!

Bart
Mar 08, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Talus Update
by: C.King

Just had a 2 year appointment...Being refered to Andrews Institute for another opinion regarding broken talus/healing/treatment. I thought I was doing well. I feel I have come far in my healing process. Trying to stay positive. Still experiencing inflamation and pain. At times I can over do it and I end up limping around. The pain feels as if I have stepped on a stone and bruised my heal really bad.(For some, that may sound minimal. However, I do look to my future and would love to ward off other complications. I still favor my left leg. Causing my knee and lower back to ache too.)

The x-rays indicate arthritis already - Located just under the talus bone. I was hoping this would not appear so soon after my injury. My first doctor thinks possibly another scope to clean it up more, or an injection...I am hoping simple exercises will do the trick to making my ankle stronger and to help alleviate more of the pain. Some days are really good, just a slight limp. I guess I need to recognize my limits, but I'm not ready to accept them just yet.

After reading other stories in comparison, I am unsure how well I am doing. Some readers mentioned having their ankle fused due to arthritis pain. Is that common?

Maybe a reader can give me some advise on the questions I should be asking the second doctor at Andrews. Thanks a lot.
Apr 15, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Results
by: C.King

Dr. Nilssen at the Andrews Institute reviewed my case. He said I have healed extremely well. He places me in the top .05% compared to others with similar injuries. (Those are great odds to beat!)Said if I had to break my ankle the talus was not the bone you wanted to break due to other complications which can occur.

As far as the pain, he recommended 2 Aleve before a work out/activity and 2 Aleve after. (Seems to be working so far.) Did not recommend a scope or additional surgery at this time. (The advantages of additional surgery would only be minimal compared to the surgery itself. He could not restore the rotation of may ankle - only a fraction more of the up and down motion, used mostly when walking.) Recommended continued movement, no running, swimming (no high impact activities) to keep the joint as flexible as possible. So, I guess that's a wrap!

I have shared my personal experience with you in order to learn more about my own injury and perhaps to encourage others too. This site is a good sounding board.

Everyone is different and each injury is different. The whole healing process can be different for each person too. My advice is to listen to your doctor(s), remain positive, keeping striving to improve, keep moving...because you will heal. Your days will get better (different maybe...but you can be better tomorrow). Don't forget to count your blessings.

Best of luck to all of you!
Jan 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		painful
by: Sgt.Gonzalez, nypd

I had a on duty injury/fracture of my talus, while attepting to subdue an emotionally disturbed prisoner. This has to be the worst incident I have had to go through in my life. I have always been a very active person, this has stopped me from leading my active life, and the love of being a police officer. I had the O.A.T.S surgery from an outstanding doctor at HSS NYC. He did forewarn me that this injury and surgery are complicated. My leg feels the same as before the surgery. I elevate my leg all the time because the blood seems to rush towards the it swells the ankle causing lots of pain. I dont have full range of motion of my ankle nor can I walk yet which becomes depressing. Good luck and god bless, and these talus fractures do take time to heal.
Jan 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sgt.Gonzalez, nypd
by: C.King

A broken talus bone is painful in many ways, physically and emotionally. I am now in my 4th year of healing. Although, I had healed completely I do experience stiffness in the joint, especially in the cold. A heating pad can help the area, plus thicker/warmer socks, and pain ointment. I understand what you are going through and wish you the best. Do not over due your activity until your ankle says you can. It can be a slow process. My ankle still tells me when enough is enough. I can relate to your employment position, as my husband was also in law enforcement. You are active in many ways on the job. Continue to stay as active as possible. Over the years I have noticed continued changes and what I consider to be improvements. I still do not have full range of motion & never will. You will find a way to compensate. The most difficult test for me was to adjust to the personal acceptance of my new limitations. Urgg! I do not like having limitations. It will be okay and one day you will arrive at the point of not thinking about your ankle as you do in the first parts of healing. I am walking better than ever and wearing wedge-heels. To me, that is a sign of my ankle & muscles getting stronger. Would enjoy hearing from you again regarding your progress. I wish you well. Thank you for the job you have chosen in law enforcement. Your services are appreciated.
Feb 02, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Question for C king
by: Amanda

Hi, I was reading and saw that it has been 4 years since your injury. I gotta commend you on being so positive its not an easy thing to do having such a dramatic life changing injury. My fiance is 23 and got into a motorcycle accident 6 months ago, he had a compound fracture of his talus and (completely ripped his foot off and twisted it up behind his leg) it was hanging on by a thread. Its been a long recovery but he is now able to bear weight. The problem though, he has severe arthritis in the joint, all cartilage is completely depleted. He wakes up every morning in a lot of pain, and has pretty severe swelling throughout the day followed by more pain by the time his workday is through. His foot is also curling inward and the doctor is pushing him towards ankle fusion. I'm nervous about it because he is so young I was wondering if anyone has done physical therapy or has any tricks they tried that has been a success. I know its only been 6 months but the doctor is predicting if he doesn't correct the curling of the foot it will worsen and reduce the chances of ever walking somewhat normally and reduce the chances of a successful fusion. Again he is only 23 extremely active in his work and home life, he has a successful yet very physical career which requires lots of walking, lifting etc. Were trying to stay hopeful that excersizing will work....any advice how to strengthen the joint reduce swelling and pain etc. He has to take pain medication daily now and is building a tolerance. so soon will need to up the dosage for the pain. Or if anyone knows of anyone young with a successful fusion surgery, has the pain and swelling reduced significantly. Id hate for him to go through the surgery and recovery all over again for it to be a failure and equally as painful and swollen. Also how soon did you see a reduction in swelling from your injury? He does have arthritis but its only been 6 months and it was a very severe injury.
Feb 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Amanda
by: C.King

Thanks...you are correct: It is not easy to remain positive and it is a life changing injury. I am sorry to hear about your fiancée. As my ankle injury was severe, his sounds to have been even more extreme. I do wish you both the best in the years to come.
What can I offer you at this point? First, I am not a doctor so I cannot give you any medical advice. Please listen to your doctors and their suggestions. I would certainly begin my own education and research on the subject of ankle fusion or perhaps even ankle replacement. The more you know and the more you understand about the available options, risks, and results…the easier it will be to make the best decision regarding his ankle, which can affect his future.
I must give him credit for being able to bear weight after 6 months. That is a good sign. However, I imagine since the cartilage is completely depleted and he already has severe arthritis forming – there is where his source of pain stems from (bone rubbing on bone hurts). The swelling would be normal because of the trauma and the ankle is still in its healing stages. My ankle was swollen well into the 2nd year and at times, even now if I overdo it. My ankle also seems to be the most sensitive in the morning, until I start moving around (and in cold or rainy weather). My ankle specialist said if I keep moving it that will help tremendously. The other thing my doctor looked for was the overall health of the bone itself. When it is not being used it can lose strength…these results do appear on the x-ray. She also was watchful of the blood supply being restored within the first 6 months.
So often each step of healing is a wait and see…then, move to the next step / level. It can be a slow process. Patience can be a virtue. Don’t give up on yourself. You deserve better than that.
Each ankle injury is different and we all heal differently, at different rates of speed. When I was in PT I felt it was helping. I also noticed a turning-in of my foot. My doctor told me it was due to the muscles not being used for so long. She also explained to me that the muscles along the outside of your foot are some of the smallest and the hardest to strengthen. (It does take time. Look how long he has been walking on his feet – 23 yrs. It all worked together. Suddenly the activity stopped, trauma occurred, and healing has begun. It takes time…don’t be discouraged.) I use to enjoy trying to stretch my ankle and foot. Rolling it over a frozen bottle of water helped to stretch it, plus it was a very cool feeling. Using my stretch-band helped too. It does take time…Now, I am walking in a much more natural way. Uneven ground has been gradual, but good now. I feel balanced again.
Feb 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Amanda part 2
by: C.King

cont.

I read about a person who had severe arthritis. She eventually had both ankles fused after 29 years of pain. Perhaps some of her information will help you get through this:
1. Surgery is regarded as a "last resort treatment option" for joints severely damaged by arthritis. Over the past 25 years, joint replacement surgery has become an increasingly common procedure. However, not all affected joints are candidates for replacement.
2. Reasons for considering a joint fusion include: affected joint has become unstable, joint damage has occurred from injury or disease, or joint pain occurs when moved. The goal is pain relief and regained stability and strength. The bones are aligned in the most functional position, but lose their natural motion.
3. In theory, ankle replacement should be preferable over ankle fusion since motion would be preserved. Relief from pain and regained stability are attainable results from fusion. In 1997, doctors in Pittsburgh announced a new total ankle replacement system. Since then, ankle replacement systems have improved, but there still is concern over long-term failure rates.
4. Yes, (her personal experience) ankle fusion does alleviate all the pain. The best result is derived from surgery without any complications and from expert technique by the surgical team. Failure to place the ankle in the "optimal position" can lead to a poor clinical result.
5. Essentially all motion is sacrificed for pain relief after a fusion. The joint is placed in a fixed position. If the ankle is fused in the optimal position, some compensatory increase in motion can be expected at the midtarsal joints.
6. Complications of the joint fusion: As with any surgery, infection is a possible complication as well as wound dehiscence (re-opening). A failed fusion is also a possibility whereby the bone ends do not completely fuse despite fixation. Although ankles are one of the most common joints where fusion works.
7. For patients with a well-aligned ankle fusion, the walking gait in an appropriate shoe is nearly normal. Running gait or walking on uneven ground is made more difficult.
Feb 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Amanda part 3
by: C.King

cont.

My personal advice is to have patience. Believe that it can get better…WILL it to get better! He is fortunate it was not worse, because it sounds as if it could have been so much worse. I am sure the doctors are doing everything they can for his benefit. Pain is not fun. Learn about and consider all your options. Because he is young…he will bounce back and heal. I am sure he will overcome this. Life as he has known it has changed considerably due to this injury, but that doesn’t mean his future has to be any less bright or beautiful! It may lead him in a different direction. He can compensate for the physical. Don’t think about the limitations at this stage of the game…If they tell him bad news – then, I say prove them wrong or at least try! Maintain the course and stay strong. If he does it will lead him (you) to a better place down the road - A place better than where he would be if he just gave up now. Best wishes.
Mar 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Talus pain
by: Stephen

Hi all
I am a long term offender of this injury! Mid 80's I feel 2 stories and broke both heels and a dislocated compound fracture of my left talus and ankle! At the time I was in California now in ireland. I was told I would be lucky to walk again, and I have been told of fusion and replacment. Which I have avoided so far, 25 yrs later I still get a lot of pain and swelling but I persist with it and try not to take any meds unless very bad, and then it maybe a anti-inflam or mild pain killer, I understand the pain very well and one of the worst mishaps that occurs quite regular is while walking I catch my shoe (toe end) on a crack or upturned piece of pavement, the pain even today will make me feel close to fainting!
I am a big man 6"4' and 252 lbs but I am not considered very overweight, you may laugh now!! I am in training now and looseing lbs fast hope to get to 224 in next few months as I am planing to climb kilimanjaro the highest mountain in Africa for charity,I must tell you all that it's critical to keep the weight down! Avoid walking on bad ground eg soft sand, or boggy ground! Also carry light loads short distance nothing heavy,if I carry 30-50 killos for any distance that evening I will be in pain, avoid climbing ladders! These are the most common
activities that cause major discomfort that last a few days!
So please do stay positive I know it can be very painfull, but if I can climb kilimanjaro it will be major goal achieved for me! They way I look at it now, this is the big man above telling me to slow down and smell the roses
Mar 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		"Big Man Smelling the Roses"
by: Cathy

Your testimony is amazing! Good advice to those with this type of injury: Stay Positive and understand there will be pain, even after the bones heal. Continue to move forward.

You sound a lot like me as far as striving to achieve more. My doctors say I should not RUN unless my life depends on it. That is a disappointment for me on a personal level. Although, I am blessed to be walking today. I am looking for alternative pain-free methods of exercise. Your story is amazing. I understand the desire to push forward and the rude understanding of the ankle saying, "no more".

Today, I am interested in your training cycles. It seems I can attempt to walk further, climb up and down our stairs, or go for longer periods of time. However, there comes that dreaded point when my ankle tells me no more. I end up getting off the ankle, resting and taking pain meds to help relieve the swelling. You on the other hand are building your tolerance to climb a huge mountain! You are my inspiration. I wish I could do even more. How long has it taken you to build up to this point or do you still experience periods of training with longer periods of recouperation.

For me personally I can work/exercise until I can no longer walk. Rest over night. Have some stiffness and soreness the next morning. Take anti-inflams, continue walking to keep it loose. By the end of the day it feels pretty normal again. Are you limited to your rotation and flexibilty? How do you adjust or overcome to that?

I wish you the best with your journey. Please keep me posted. You are an inspiration to a lot of people! Thank you for sharing your story.
Mar 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		time to smell the roses
by: Anonymous

Hi Cathy
As for running its very hard to run at any speed without causing pain, Having said that I have jogged a bit for only short distances, about 50-70 mts per go, I have coached rugby and had to referee an odd game, and referees have to be able to keep up, which I cant realy, but I would be strategic in my position during a game to save as much running as possible, and as these games were kids they did not use the full Pitch, thank god!!
My movement is 5% only up and down, none to sides!
I have special insoles for my shoes, I have remove what ever soles are in the shoes and place these in the shoes, As my arches need support,One insole is slightly higher than the other to encourage/help that movement needed to roll the bad ankle forward, haveing said that, there are some shoes I do not have to this with, good comfortable shoes are critical, this is important,I tend to find a shoe and stick with it if possible, maybe buy 2 pairs, as changing to completly different types of shoes daily will cause pain!! eg dress shoes in am and boots pm, try to keep footware similar in shape comfort and design. try it you will see what I mean! but first find which shoe works best for you. I dont know if you have Echo shoes,I found these very good,they are light and come in ankle boots for walking and casual shoe, the hardest is dress shoes, I have never found a pair that are dressy enough for the comfort needed, but I usualy only have to wear them for 4-5 hrs, but I get out of them asap.
My Training, walking/climbing with poles, the poles take a huge amount of pressure of the ankle, and build up the arms and upper body, rowing machines are also great. I can see the differance in my legs always, my left is always the weaker and you can see it, its always been like that since the accident.
Cheers
stephen


Mar 08, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		TIME TO SMELL THE ROSES
by: Anonymous

Hi again
One more point, I always felt the need to walk as straight as possible, not to limp, I would force myself to stand straight up, my reason for this, if you start to limp all the time it will only cause other problems, like hip problems or back problems.So when you can, be aware of how you are walking, and straighten up.
Stephen
Mar 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hope for recovery
by: Noel

I fractured my talus rock climbing in early January. I had surgery to repair the fracture but the bone is healing slowly. My doctor isn't worried about this in particular but he's worried about the lack of mobility. I can't move my foot up or down almost at all. Did any of you have this problem? I was hoping to go to nursing school in the fall but the doctor thinks I might not be able to have a job where I'm on my feet all day, anybody have any amazing recovery stories!? I'd love to hear them!
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel
by: Anonymous

I fractured and displaced my talus in Sept 2010. I was in the hospital for 5 nights and had surgery to remove bone fragments and to repair the fracture The surgery was called open reduction and internal fixation. 6 pins were used. I was in a hard cast for almost 3 months with no weight bearing and in a walking boot for additional 2 months. I started therapy as soon as I transitioned to the walking boot. Physical therapy has greatly improved my up and down movement but I don't have much side to side motion at all. I still have swelling all of the time. I had a second surgery (out patient) to remove my pins a month ago. It has now been 6 1/2 months since my injury and I can walk a very short distance without crutches but I have been having more pain since I had the pins removed so I am still using my crutches most of the time. I have also developed plantar fasciitis which is very painful. I have had a cortisone shot for it and my physical therapist suggested sleeping in the boot which seems to be helping a little. I think I am going to try night splints which should be more comfortable than the boot. I am going to continue physical therapy for another 3 months or until I am satisfied with my range of motion and the pain subsides more. My surgeon will continue to monitor the bone until at least Sept. of this year to make sure the bone doesn't die and collapse.
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Questions for C King
by: Anonymous

I was wondering if you had open reduction and internal fixation surgery to repair your talus fracture and if so did you have the hard removed in a second surgery? I am asking because I was wondering if it is normal to have more pain a month after the hardware removal than before?

Also, what did your doctor do to make sure that the bone didn't die and collapse?
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Movement and pain
by: Anonymous

Hi
Stephen here, I dont think it's normal to have more pain after removel of hardware! But I remember been over sensitive after any work done to the area! But I did not feel more pain!!
As for movement of the joint to( Noel?) I feel you need more physio! But you said it happened in January it's very early to expect results of movement! If the break was not to bad physio should help! But I have only 5% movement 20yrs later! But I can walk!
I have been training a lot as of late, and just this week I damaged the knee of my Good leg :) so I have to lay off training a few weeks! But in the past 2-3 weeks I have climbed a number of mountains with a total of 10,000 mtrs approx!! It was getting easier for me as my weight had droped and I had less swelling in the joint, the walking poles realy helped also! I talked with a expert on walking poles and he said that a over a 6 hour hike the poles will take the equivalent of 15 tons of the knees!!! On a average person??
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Stephen & Noel
by: Anonymous

My original comments were titled "to Noel" and to "C. King".

Stephen...Thanks for your comments. If the pain doesn't subside in the next couple of weeks, I will go back to the doctor for another xray. I was feeling great 2 weeks ago and I think I over did it. Too much walking (without crutches) too soon and I have been paying for it ever since. Also, last week my physical therapist stretched my upward motion more than she normally does which seemed to add a new pain. Since then, I have continued walking but I have been using crutches most of the time. I also think that the removal of the hardware has allowed my ankle and foot to move more and in ways that they haven't moved in 6 1/2 months so maybe that is causing me some pain that I didn't have before.

Can anyone comment on their pain at this stage?

For Noel...Here are my range of motion values from my last physical therapy evaluation:

dorsiflex 4 degrees
plantar flex 43 degrees
inversion 3 degrees
eversion 10 degrees

This evaluation was done on 2/16/11 and I know my range of motion has improved even more since I got my pins out on 3/2/11. I feel that doing exactly what doctor says and physical therapy are extremely important. I wasn't allowed to do anything for the first 3 months which was why he put me in the hard casts. Once I transitioned to the boot, I was only allowed to take it off for bathing and physical therapy for two months.
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Anonymous:
by: C.King

I am sorry you have had such a traumatic injury to your ankle. It is just that: TRAUMATIC. When I injured my ankle I was told my surgery was required ASAP to prevent further damage and to prevent any further lack of oxygen to my dislocated ankle (talus bone). Of course, I believe my surgeon was not aware of the complete extent of damage until he was undergoing my surgical procedure. In my case, he managed to relocate my ankle (restoring the blood flow to my talus) and placed one pin (which broke off in the talus bone during surgery) and 3 screws to stabilize my ankle. My doctor was not worried about the pin breaking off inside the bone because he said I would always have it. He recommended that it never be removed. (I still have all my hardware.)

I reviewed your particular procedure a discovered that an ORIF is usually done when the fracture is large, and when nerves and blood vessels are also damaged. It may also be done when fractured bones are not in their normal positions or are broken into several pieces. Not to under-mind my own ankle injury, but it sounds as if your talus was fractured in more pieces than mine. The fragments in my ankle were removed if possible, but I think some remained – focusing on the larger break of my talus.

Also, this article stated that in ORIF of a talar fracture, your caregiver may use wires, screws, plates, and pins to align the broken bones. These special tools are used to hold the pieces of bones together while they heal. Your caregiver may also place new bone into spaces between or around the fracture. After surgery, you will need to have a cast or splint that covers your lower leg, ankle, and foot. Physical activities will need to be avoided for some time until your bone heals completely. It may take months to get full function and motion of your leg, ankle, and foot after this surgery.

To some degree, it does sound promising! However, I personally want to remind you of the TRAUMA again. Your body needs time to heal. There was major damage done to your ankle. You are only about 7-8 months out. I had pain and swelling on a daily basis for 2-3 years after my injury. I still have limitations to my activity to this day. But, it’s getting better - I do see progress. Every part inside your ankle and leg must heal and become strong again.




Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Anonymous (2):
by: C.King

cont.

I imagine if your screws and pins have been removed it forces your own bone to support your body. I would think that could cause some pain to an area that is weaker and more sensitive. My doctor was concerned in the beginning regarding my talus bone being healthy. If the blood supply had not been restored, the bone would have died and crumbled. I was instructed to increase my calcium intake to help my body repair and strengthen itself. Also, I understood that the bone becomes weak because I had not been able to place any weight on it. Gradually, the weight bearing was increased. X-rays confirmed the bone was healing and becoming stronger. PT helps to strengthen your bones and muscles.
Some people suffer a terrible injury and they are not able to heal right…the damage is not reversible. Additional surgeries may be required. I did not have an ORIF or a second surgery. Thank God. I truly believe that as patients, we should learn as much as we can about our specific injury, ask questions, learn as much as possible, and discover what CAN be done in order to get the best possible outcome.
We also need to be a best friend to ourselves! Don’t be so hard on ourselves…give ourselves the time needed to heal properly. Stay focused on the healing process. I wanted to heal faster too. I wanted to get back to my ‘normal’ life. I wanted a quick fix. Unfortunately, this type of injury does not heal that quickly. It will force you to become more patient and teach you to appreciate t-i-m-e. I tried to remind myself that time is not a bad thing. I was thankful that our lives were spared after the fall from the roof and that the damage was not more severe.
I do wish you the best! Focus on becoming healthy again (Eat right. Exercise right. Medicate right.) Be good to yourself. Listen to your doctors. Ask questions. Please keep me posted on your progress. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Finding support through others is another step of the healing process.
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks guys!
by: Noel

I too had ORIF, but a month after the injury because I was misdiagnosed with a sprain. I haven't even started therapy yet because the bone hasn't healed, my doctor put me in a hard cast for a month and a half and now I'm in a walking boot but cannot walk on it (I'm on crutches). He wants me to take my foot out and move the joint as much as possible to get more blood flow to prevent AVN. I'm unsure why my doctor voiced such concern for the lack of movement before I have even started therapy, I guess that's what led to me be so scared! Thanks for all the comments and encouragement, it's true I need to be thankful for what I've got and not worry about the time it takes.

I don't know much about hardware, I have a bioabsorbable pin which will eventually be replaced by bone (hopefully!). I have some sharp pain but only after I move the joint for a bit.

Stephen- So good to hear you're hiking and getting out there, I have hopes to do all my outdoors stuff again!
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Slow down
by: Anonymous

Noel
I am 20 + yrs into this and it has not always been this good!! But I had to come to terms with a slowing down of everything, and some things I just can't do, like run down a beach with my kids, I don't know how bad yours is, our anyone else but each person will have to learn what they can and can't do! My reason for posting is to let you guys know it does get better, but it takes a long time, so find new a interest, that you can do with ease, it's 7;30 pm here now and I have been working since 8;30 am standing 90% of the time! And I will have a more than normal swollen ankle to night.
I do think diet and some form of exercise are very important! Which I did not always put effort into, but now I do see the benifit of it!
Cheers
Stephen
Mar 30, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks everyone!
by: Steph

Thanks to C. King, Stephen and Noel for all of your comments.

To C. King...Do you know how your doctor determined that there was a problem with the blood supply to your talus and how they restored it? My surgeon has taken xrays every four to six weeks since my accident and I have also had a CT scan. He is going to continue to monitor the bone for any changes until Sept of this year.

To Noel...Each talus fracture is different. What part of your talus did your break? I broke the neck in half. Was yours displaced? Mine was. What type of doctor did you see? I saw an orthopeadic trauma surgeon at a major Pittsburgh hospital.



Mar 31, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph
by: Noel

Yes, mine was dispaced, the entire articular tibial surface broke off and flipped 180 degrees upside down. They said it was pretty crazy and have no idea how it flipped. I was referred to an orthopedic surgeon as soon as they realized it had been misdiagnosed.

I have Kaiser insurance but many people have told me to get second opinions, I'm not really sure if that's necessary and if so, how to go about that. My surgeon thinks I should start bearing weight on it in four weeks. The first sign of healing was Friday, two months after the surgery. What do you guys think, any of you have second opinions?
Mar 31, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph -
by: C.King

Regarding the verification of a healthy bone:
My doctor took x-rays about every 3-4 weeks. She was looking for the bone to show her the blood supply was returning.

The indication of that was seen on the x-rays and appeared in the bone as a more white-ish area. I could not put any weight on it as it was healing. Once she determined the blood supply was returned she allowed me to begin placing weight on my leg and ankle. Later x-rays also determined that my leg had a common occurance called muscle atrophy -The bone in my leg also showed less strength. (All common due to this type of injury) The more I used it and stregthened it (PT and home exercises) the better the bone looked - the whiter it appeared in x-rays. I was also taking additional calcium and vitiman D to help my body absorb the calcium better.

Hope this helps you. I hope your body heals well.
Mar 31, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To C King and Noel
by: Steph

C King...Thanks for responding. Our treatment plans sounds very similiar. I will keep you posted on my progress.

To Noel...Thanks for responding. So was your fracture in the tibia vs the talus? I have not went for a second opinion but if you have any concerns, you might want to get one just to put your mind at ease. If you decide that you want to get a second opinion, I would start by calling your insurance company to make sure it will be covered. Maybe they can also recommend another physician.
Apr 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pain???
by: Noel

As of Tuesday my talus has shown huge amounts of healing and my doctor told me to start walking. I am using a walking boot and can take very short strides. I have pain in my foot when putting weight on it, is this normal? I'm assuming so but I'm freaking out because I was misdiagnosed with a sprain for month prior to them seeing the fracture and they had recommended me to walk on it then, it sort of feels like that now but there is minimal swelling compared to before.

Did you guys have lots of pain when walking at first?
Apr 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel:
by: C.King

My pain levels were different than I expected as compared to others. Some people told me that I would really feel the pain when I took my first steps. I do recall the rush-of-blood pain when I stood up for the first couple of times. I had to stand still and take a deep breath. At the time, I was not allowed to put any weight on my ankle.

Then, there was the finally-I-can-put-weight-on-my-ankle pain. It was different for me. I half expected a sharp shooting pain, but that did not occur. Thank goodness! I was also taking Percocet for the pain. I was also in the middle of PT. I would need the use of ice packs for the swelling and have to put my ankle up a lot!

I would limp, even in a walker boot. I suppose it was the fact I still had atrophy in my leg muscle and it takes another while to build your strength back up. At the time, I felt as if I may always have a limp (better than the alternative from a fall off the roof).

I did progress from not weight, using a walker with a 90 degree boot to a pair of crutches, to using one crutch (that is fun and weird at the same time) with an air-boot, to a cane and air-boot, to a good pair of real shoes with excellent ankle support (still limping), to a good pair of arch support flat shoes/sandals, to working myself back to a real, everyday pair of tennis shoes/flats/wedges. It has been a gradual improvement based on my own self-confidence and ankle strength. Believe it or not, my most comfortable shoes for the longest time were Crocks. The cushion and ankle strap were really good. Plus, if I ever needed to wrap a swollen ankle I could still wear the crocks!

Each level of healing will amaze you. I remembered thinking what I wanted to do today was eventually seen within 2-weeks or month down the road. I kept looking back at my progress to remind myself how far I was really moving forward. That was a good feeling. “Better today than yesterday, but not as great as tomorrow!”

Even as recent as last year I could only walk around (outside, up and down stairs, distances) just so far at a time. Even though I personally wanted to accomplish more, my ankle said “no more” and I would have to stop, rest, and put my ankle up. There were days to even step down on my ankle was so painful (after over-doing my activity and in the mornings) that it would momentarily take my breath away. I would limp and take baby-steps. But today, I can do more, go further, and last longer without so much pain. It still gets stiff from time-to-time until I loosen up the area. I exercise and stretch and I keep moving forward.


Apr 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel:
by: C.King

continued:

More recently I have had some crazy cramps in my legs when I try to stretch my leg and ankle. It can wake me up at night too. Whew!! Charlie-horse pain. (Pickle juice will help the cramping of muscles. Drink it because it does work.) I suppose that could be considered a good sign, because I am using those muscles that I haven’t been able to use before. Progress is what I call it. I expect to continue my own personal improvement each day. Some days I don’t even think about it. That is the place you need to think about. The place and time you are at your most healed. You will reach that place. Keep moving forward and give yourself the time your body needs. There may be pain along the way, but it is part of the healing.
Apr 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you C. King!
by: Noel

You are such an encouragement! My pain is tolerable and I don't have to take any meds (so far), I'm trying to push through it, I just want to make sure I'm not over doing it :) Good to know the pain is normal and I should keep going!
Apr 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Noel
by: C.King

If you ever doubt or become more concerned about the pain you are experiencing, please speak with your doctors. They can verify what pain is normal based on your stage of healing.

It sounds as if you are doing just fine! That is great news! Personally, I am not one to take medication if I don't really need it. However, if you DO need to take medication don't think of as a set-back. Your body can sometimes heal better if the pain subsides.

Best wishes!
May 02, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pain
by: Steph

It has been approx. 7 1/2 months since my injury and I am wearing my tennis shoes and walking without crutches the majority of the time. I do have swelling and some pain daily. My entire upper foot and ankle swells but the worst of the swelling is just above my tennis shoe. As far as pain goes, I try to listen to my ankle and when it tells me "that's enough", I ice the area where it hurts, elevate it and occasionally take ibuprofen. These things along with a good nights sleep really seem to help. I have learned to try not to over do it.

Unfortunatelly, I haven't been to therapy for over a month because I went back to work and it was just too much for me to work all day and then go straight to therapy but I'm planning on going back to therapy this week. Walking has improved my range of motion some but I am hoping that more therapy will make it even better. My therapist is also great at making sure I am walking properly and not compensating for my injury in some way.

I previously mentioned that I was having a lot of pain in my plantar fascia. It still bothers me a little bit but it has improved a lot. I got two cortisone shots and sleep in a night splint. I'm sure the shots helped but I really think the night splint is what did the trick. My foot doctor is also considering making me new inserts for my shoes because if I don't get the proper support, my foot could start to turn in. My old inserts for my plantar fascia were never comfortable but now they are unbearable since my injury.

Finally, I am having some pain on the outside of my foot which is new. Does anyone have any idea what it might be from? I know that pain from the injury is to be expected but I really think a lot of the pains in my foot are from not moving it for months.

Thanks to everyone for their posts. Please keep posting updates.





May 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph -
by: C.King

Curious…did you get the cortisone shots because of the plantar fascia or because of the pain in your ankle? Also, I personally experienced pain in different areas of my ankle and foot depending on the level of healing I was experiencing at the time. Your swelling issues sound very similar to my own at the same stage. Sometimes the pain was felt in the heel, sometimes on the top of my foot, sometimes to the side…

I think investing in a good pair of shoes with the proper support is a must, especially while you are still healing. Before the accident, my normal walk pattern indicated that I would walk a bit on the outside of my feet (shown in the wear of my shoes). This and the fact that the muscle along the outside of your foot is one of the smallest to strengthen - I noticed at first that my foot would turn in. Have faith that with constant awareness to correct this and walking each day will eventually help that turning in. I still have a bit of that today. But then again my normal walk is on the outside of my feet. :o) Check the wear of your shoes to determine your own personal/normal walk pattern.

As far as swelling goes I still to this day remember when I could actually see my ankle bone appear. I thought I would never see it again due to the puffiness and swelling. Then, the swelling goes away and surprise a rather normal looking ankle bone appears once again. It is not perfect, nor does it match the left ankle - but it is there. I recognized those small achievements as proof that I was healing and I moved forward!

I still have days when I need to stop and rest. But, as time goes on I find that I am able to achieve more and more of my normal activities. And…sometimes I even think I might like to run again. (My doctors tell me no running. So I listen to them.) My point is that I know I have come a long way in healing and you can too! It takes time and patience and a desire to get healthy again. Your entire body goes through changes because of this injury. I lost @20 lbs., gained it back, and now have @20 lbs. more than my regular weight - All that in four years of less activity and ability to move. My right hip is sore and at times my back aches. But, I focus on my “get-to-place”. Where I want to get to in one month, six months, the end of the year…I keep pushing on. So far it seems to have worked for me! I wish you all the best.
May 03, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Steph

The cortisone shots were for my plantar fascia pain which at times has been worse than my ankle pain. Since I have started walking again, most of my pain was in the plantar fascia, the outside of my foot and around the ankle. I have found that if I walk slow and take small strides, I have less pain. I also try to focus on walking properly and my posture.

Can you recommend any good shoes? So far I have been wearing Asics running shoes most of the time. Occasionally, I will wear Nike slides around the house. I also tried to wear Clarks Clogs with no heel but that was a big mistake. My foot and ankle swelled up really big above the top of the shoe. I have never noticed a wear pattern on my shoes but I will look at them more closely.

I am just starting to see my ankle bones again. For the longest time, I wondered if they were still there in their prior form. I thought maybe the injury and surgery had drastically changed their appearance.

I also lost a good bit of weight after my accident but I have gained most of it back over the last 7 1/2 months and now I weigh just a little less than before the accident. I am going to talk to my physical therapist about an exercise plan and I would like to change my diet at some point. I also have pain in my lower back.

This injury has taught me some much needed patience. I don't sweat the small stuff as much as I used to. I really appreciate your posts. It really helps to hear from someone who has been through this injury.




May 04, 2011
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by: C.King

Sounds as if we're healing and aching about the same through the course of our injury :o) That is a good sign.

As far as recommending good shoes, everyone’s feet are different. But for me I personally like Rika tennis shoes, Merrell, Bear Traps, and Crocks & Clarks. Now remember I had to adjust to these shoes as my healing increased and some days I could wear one pair but not the other.

My very first pair of normal shoes was a pair of great ankle/hiking boots. I had to remove the insert from the right shoe to adjust for the swelling (I wore thicker socks instead). I also made sure I could open the boot all the way to be able to place my foot into the boot, not shove or push my foot into it. The boots felt strange at first, but eventually they were the only pair of shoes I could wear while trying to strengthen my ankle. They did not lace up. They had straps instead. During the day if they became tight, I simply unstrapped a strap or two.

I wore the tennis shoes later because of the swelling and trying to “push” my foot into the shoe was very uncomfortable. In the beginning I stayed with flat, open toe sandal types of shoes. A strap around my ankle provided me with the feeling of support I needed compared to having no strap or support around my ankle. Plus, it built my self-confidence up too. Nothing too high at first because my ankle did not feel strong enough to handle the wiggle you can get while wearing a heel. Still I do not wear a heel, but rather a wedge to give full under-foot support. I’ve managed to work up to @ a 2” wedge Bear Trap(without ankle straps) - which is remarkable because my doctor did not think I would be able to any type of heel again. It’s a matter of PT and re-training your foot/ankle. Slow training and patience is the key.

I bought a pair of Merrell flat, open toed sandals. Although they had good arch support and they felt comfortable I had to buy a ½ size bigger (from a 7.5 – 8.0). I also got straps to be able to adjust as throughout the day as my ankle/foot would swell. Eventually, I did not need to adjust the straps.

My biggest concern as I began to walk more was finding even ground. Walking on rocks (even small rocks at first) was scary because my ankle could move better up and down, not side to side (I lost much of the side-to-side motion). If I caught the side of a rock or hole or dip in the ground, it threw me off a lot. The last thing I wanted to do was twist my healing ankle. Now, I can walk pretty darn good on uneven ground!

I am wearing my Clarks now. But earlier I don't think they would have been comfortable (probably because I walked on the outside of my foot more and my foot tend to turn in slightly). So, don't get rid of your Clarks just yet. Hold onto them as a symbol of encouragment. :o)
May 04, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Heels :)
by: Noel

C. King- I love that you are able to wear wedges, I love heels and hope one day to at least be able to wear wedges too!

Do you guys know if trying to massage out scarred tissue around the ankle will help? I just started walking, more like hobbling, but I want to regain as much range of motion as possible.

Also, I am now in a lot more pain, even when trying to sleep, I don't usually take any medicine but I'm probably going to start taking advil, anything else that would help? Hot water maybe? I haven't seen my PT yet, I go in one week so I'm sure they'll give me more info but until then I'm hurting bad but trying to push through!

Thank you for these posts, they are very encouraging!
May 06, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel
by: Steph

I had some scar tissue on the top of my foot where two of my pins were and my physical therapist told me to put some lotion on it and gently rub back and forth to break up the scar tissue.

I know you are in a boot but are you using crutches? I was in a hard cast for almost 3 months before I transitioned to a boot. My doctor would not let me try to walk in the boot until I went to my first physical therapy appointment. At therapy, they applied moist heat to loosen up my ankle and foot. Then they had me do various stretches and exercises. At the end of my appointment, they iced it to take down the swelling. As far as walking, my therapist started me walking on crutches, then one crutch, then a cane, then unassisted (all in the boot). It took about 3 more months. Since the boot was so much higher than my shoe, it helped me to put an insert in my shoe.

I had some pain when I started walking but it would subside when I elevated it. If you are hurting badly all the time, you could always give your doctor a call and see what he or she says.

I apply heat to loosen up my ankle and foot. I elevate it and apply ice to relieve pain and swelling. Also, I occasionally take ibuprofen as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.

May 07, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Steph

I agree...our healing and aches and pains do sound very similar.

Thanks for the shoe info.

I know what you mean about uneven ground. I have a gravel driveway and it was scary and sometimes painful to walk on it earlier on but it is getting a little easier now. I also have much better up and down motion than side to side. We have been working on that in physical therapy. They have me hold my leg and move my foot in circles both ways and we are doing strenthening exercises with a Theraband.

How long did it take for your limp to go away? Also, How are you with steps? I can go up them normally but I have to go down them one at a time leading with my bad foot.

Thanks for your encouragement.
May 13, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph -
by: C.King

I still can have a slight limp and tend to walk a bit crooked on my right ankle. I limp more when my ankle is sore and some days I do not limp at all. Stiffness and cold weather will affect your ankle. I would say this has improved within the last year (3rd year). Beleive me, I thought I would never walk correctly again...but your condition changes and you do improve & get better!

As far as steps go...that took quite a while to master (to appear normal). I too could walk up easier than down the steps. This is due to the lack of range of motion and being able to support my weight with the weak / broken ankle. However, I learned to trick my foot for the lack of motion in the beginning by placing my foot 1/2 way off the step (using the heel of my foot mostly for support). I held onto the rail and walls a lot! I found I could bend my knee further at the angle I required than the angle of my ankle. Eventually, the range of motion and angle in my ankle improved. :o)

I was careful and gradually brought the part of my foot hanging over the step closer in to the whole step...Eventually, I was able to place my entire foot on the step (still walked down clumb-like), but I used most of the bending through my knee. It takes time and more strength in your ankle to walk more normal.

Keep working at it. You'll get there. Start with 1/2 the step and work back to the full step. I called it cheating...But, I recall being so excited to "look" as if I could walk down the stairs without a limp or strange hip movement - more "normal".

It's the little improvements that you learn to overcome that will bring the most excitement and the desire to keep going!

Time and patience!!! Good luck...
May 14, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Steph

Good morning and thanks again for all of the information and encouragement. I am so glad to find someone whose experiences are so similar to mine and who has such a great attitude.

When I go down steps, I start down with my bad foot (the foot of my injured ankle). Once it is on the next step down, I bring my other foot down to the same step...one step at a time. When you talk about starting with your foot partially off the step, is that your bad foot or your other one? Once that foot is on the next step, did you bring your other foot down to meet it or go to the next step.

My last appointment with my surgeon was in March and my next one is in June. Up until March I was going every 4-6 weeks so three months feels like forever. I am anxious to see what he thinks of my progress and hoping and praying that the bone still looks healthy on the xrays. I will post an update comment after my appointment
May 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To: Steph
by: C.King

Walking down stairs: At first, I would step down with my injured ankle and "baby-step" with my good foot on the same step. (ONE STEP at a time.) Gradually, I would use my injured ankle with 1/2 my foot off the step. I recall leading with my injured ankle first and holding the rails and the walls. Especially, when I took my first steps to the next down-step with my good foot. (EACH STEP walking down.)

You basically need to be aware of how you walk. Go slowly. Eventually you build your confidence and your strength in your injured ankle. Bend at the knee more until you gain more movement in your injured ankle area. As you increase movement, you can place more and more of your foot on the entire step. I started off with 1/2 my foot hanging over the edge of the step /using my knee to compensate how I could not move (bend) my ankle. Gradually, I moved my foot back on the step. You'll feel the difference as you increase the amount of foot surface that touches and supports you on the each step. You'll notice the ability for range of motion increase slowly too.

The good news is over time you will see improvement! :o) It was always easier to support yourself UP the stairs than DOWN the stairs. Keep stretching and PT. It helps. :o) It takes TIME...Before you know it you'll be able to master those darn stairs. It's good to practice.
Jun 18, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Update
by: Steph

Hello all! I just had my 9 month appointment and the xrays looked good but my surgeon sent me for an MRI yesterday just to be safe and make sure there is no evidence of AVN/bone collapse. He says the MRI will show AVN/bone collapse at its earliest stage vs. an xray that that looks fine until the bone actually collapses. Who knew an MRI would take so long and be so uncomfortable! Have any of you had an MRI of your talus? If so, how long after your injury did you get it and what did it show? Also, what have you been told about your long term prognosis...will the ankle joint last for your lifetime? Thanks in advance for your feedback. I will post my MRI results soon.
Jun 19, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pain
by: Anonymous

Well I had the O.A.T.S procedure done in Oct 2010 for the talus frcture.I'm still in a lot of pain. I hobble because of the pain. At times I try my hardest to walk or stand w/out the boot. I pay for it at night when I sleep, or the next day in my attempt to walk. My ankle is swollen all the time some night after a long day and PT. It looks like a watermelon. I'm not recovering well hope some of you are......... My doctor is saying FUSION............
Jun 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To: Anonymous Re: Pain
by: Steph

Hi! I was just reading your post. Can you explain the OATS procedure and why you had to have it done? Did your injury occur in Oct. 2010 and was OATS your first procedure? Will you go for a second opinion before you get the fusion?

On Sept.11, 2010. I broke my talar neck in half and chipped the edges of my talus. I had ORIF surgery and 6 pins were inserted. I had a second surgery on March 2, 2011 to have the pins removed. It has been 9 months since my injury and I walk with a slight limp. I can walk moderate distances and go up steps almst normally but I still have to go down steps one at a time. Most of my pain occurs when I am walking and is on the outside of my foot between my ankle and the arch. I have minor swelling all the time but I can wear a tennis shoe comfortably. I also have stiffness in the mornings and after I have been inactive for any length of time.

Good luck and I hope you feel better soon!

Jun 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Anonymous
by: Noel

That's awful! Is the bone healing at all? Are you still in the boot? I've heard of people recovering after a couple of years so don't lose hope! It was a miracle that I was healed, literally a miracle! They told me I wouldn't walk without the use of a can, that I would have severe arthritis, and that I wouldn't be able to do nursing as a career because of my diability. They were SO wrong, it's been a little over 5 months since my ORIF surgery and I am walking without a cane and almost no limp. The pain is very minimal and I'm going to nursing school in August. Don't lose hope, miracles do happen!
Jun 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Noel
by: Steph

Hi Noel...Way to go! It sounds like you have made an amazing recovery! What have you done to make such progress since your last post? Do you still have to go back to the doctor for check ups or to therapy?
Jun 21, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph
by: Noel

Honestly, I haven't done anything spectacular. My friends have prayed over me, and I've just been taking it day by day. I walk a lot and do physical therapy at home. My talus has pretty much healed completely (MIRACLE) so now I'm working on getting the joint to move. I do calf stretches (doesn't really stretch my calf because the joint doesn't move far enough yet) and I do bent knee calf stretches, and I do a lot of circular rotations and ABC's with my ankle. I also started going down stairs like C.King suggested. This streches my foot in ways that really help BUT I am very careful and always make sure I'm holding on to the railing. Have you gotten your MRI results? What was your prognosis on recovery? Don't worry if it's not good, they told me I'd have to use a cane my whole life and they were wrong!
Jun 22, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		From: Steph
by: To: Noel

My surgeon said my 9 month xray looked good/completely healed but there was a little athritis in one spot. The MRI was just to make sure there was no sign of AVN. The good news is that there is currently no evidence of AVN. He said AVN usually presents within the 1st year after the injury. Therefore, you are less likey to get it as time goes by. Unfortunately, the MRI did show a lot of previous injury...areas of incomplete healing, cracks and cysts...which is normal with the severity of my injury. That means my ankle joint will probably not last my lifetime...maybe another 10-20 years...but I will deal with that if and when the time comes.

I have had a couple of really good days yesterday and today with minimal pain. My husband even commented on how good I was walking...no limp. I even walked around Sam's Club and Home Depot. I hope it continues :)





Jun 24, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Newbie
by: Gary

Hi,My name is Gary Rodgers 45yrs from Northern Ireland, i,ve just found thi forum and found all the comments really helpful, I broke both ankles 4 weeks ago after a fall from a ladder, my left ankle seems ok and has a couple of screws in it and a cast which will be removed in three weeks, the talus is ok on my left, the talus was broken badly on my right, don,t know how many pieces ( i didn,t ask the consultant enough questions but will ask many when i return ) there are 4 screws in my right ankle, i,ve an external fixator on my right with six external pins. I have to keep the ex fixator for three months to see how the talus heals and how or if the blood supply returns, the consultant keeps preparing me for the possible need of further operations or fusion. I was a keen golfer before the accident has anyone any ideas what the future might hold for golf , i don,t mind if i play bad golf as long as i can play. My wife tells me i should,nt research my injury on the internet in case it upsets me but i think knowledge is power.
Jun 24, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hello Newbie, Gary
by: C.King

Gary, so sorry to hear about your fall and to hear you broke BOTH YOUR ANKLES. We have similar causes for our injuries and we are close in age too. So, if activity levels and age have anything to do with healing...you aren't doing so bad by comparisons. :o)

You are correct that Knowledge is Power! When I first posted my story I never dreamed so many people would be following it and making posts so often. I am thrilled that this particular post has been so helpful to so many, from so many places in the USA and now Northern Ireland. Welcome to the group!

My first words of advice is to remain positive and take your personal healing process one-step (no pun intended)at a time. We would all agree that we each heal differently and at different rates of speed. It has been over 3 years now and I am able to walk almost completely normal. Although, I still have days that I over-do it and I feel it afterwards.(Congrats to Steph for her efforts and continued PT, and movement. You are doing wonderfully! Keep up the great work!) I will tell you that my doctor said I could not run due to my injury, unless it was life or death. (I assume she was concerned about a re-injury.) It does take a very long time to heal from this type of injury. I would believe that if your healing process is good, and you do not have additional surgeries (causing more scar tissue) you should be able to return to some form of golfing. But remember, I said a long time to heal. I would not expect good "walking form" in the first year. Not to say you cannot walk...it's just very guarded. Also, I would not recommend walking the entire course on your 1st effort. The cart will be your best friend for many rounds. In addition, as my husband is also a golfer, do not allow your golf buddies to give you a difficult time about endurance. ha,ha! Look what you have already been through.

Please, please do what your doctors tell you especially in the first 3-6 months of healing. Your body is doing double time: recouping from the injury itself and recovering from the shock of the injury. Everything is trying to reconnect again. Eat a good diet and get plenty of good sleep - if that is possible at first. I remember sleeping in my air-boot and keeping my ankle elevated, while trying to sleep. Not easy. (Plus, my room was upstairs...that is another story.)

In the beginning TLC is the main key. Ice helps too. My doctor also recommended a supplement to help my bone heal. Patience is also a huge component to the emotional side of healing.

Jun 24, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hello Newbie, Gary
by: C.King

cont.

Check into the others comments and check to receive email notices for updates/notes. We have all experienced the same pain and can share our advice and compare healing times. It happens in sections and on levels for each of us. It helps to know that you are not alone. The body is amazing and it does heal.

Your life has been changed from this point forward. However, your life and activities can still be bright. Keep a good attitude and keep absorbing knowledge! You will move forward and end up better off. Best wishes for a heathy and speedy recovery. Cathy
Jun 25, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Gary

Thanks for your helpful and supportive comments. I think i,ve been a little bit in denial since my accident, the doctors told me that it would be a long recovery process with possible further operations and that a complete recovery wouldn,t happen but i chose to believe that he was preparing for a senario that probably wouldn,t happen and have been telling friends and family that i,d be up and about in no time, after reading comments on here and other forums i now have a more realistic outlook. I,m a naturally positive person and although i now realise the gravity af my injury i also take encouragement from how others have dealt with and are recovering from their injuries. I was self employed before and will most likely now have to find a new career (45 is a little too young to retire doh!!) but i have plenty of time on my hands to come up with a new business. From reading your (C. King) story i can,t help but notice the humour and the irony in the fact that it was your husband who initiated the fall and yet he escaped virtually scott free, i am sure that now you are well on your way to recovery this has been brought to his attenion many times especially when among friends . I will keep in touch with this forum and will post more comments as i progress while watching how others are coping.
Jun 27, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Gary
by: C.King

You do sound positive! While I was on crutches, I recall people asking me to tell them how I broke my ankle. It's not too often you see a 40-something year old woman on a walker or crutches. As I would have loved to have made up some crazy, adventerous story like sky diving, moutain climbing, or something like that...I figured the real story was just as crazy! Go figure, I saved my husband's life and he took a few tylenol for his pain! (He also took a lot of ribbing from his buddies about breaking his wife's ankle. Boy, did he feel bad about it.) A lot of people also said "WHAT!" and what happened to him? Boy, if that is not love...throwing yourself into the path of a falling man from the roof. He should be waiting on you hand and "foot"...And, the funny stories still continue today. Thank goodness I can laugh about it now. However, in the beginning I was not laughing so much or so loud. :o)

While telling people my story I did run into some men who broke BOTH their ankles too. I could not imagine the pain or the not being able to walk or support yourself with at least one good leg/ankle. The good news is that they were walking again (still have pain on rainy days, even after years after the recovery.) I told them that "they" were my inspiration...as much as they couldn't believe how I broke my ankle.

Gary, you will get through this. :o) I would like to hear more from other people in the group too. St. Gonzalez where are you and how are you healing these days? Also, have not heard anymore from Amanda regarding her fiance. I pray you all are healing and if you have had to have more surgeries - I hope it is for the best.

Do not allow this type of injury to control you, your life, or your activities. Do not allow this injury to cause depression. Stay positive! You all will heal. Look to the future and to a better place that lies ahead. You will reach that place. You will!

Best wishes!
Jun 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Recovery going south
by: Sgt.Gonzalez

Hey, Hi thank you for asking how am I doing. Well my recovery has been one of disapointment and sadness. I have always been super active aroound my home ect.. I have tremendous pain on the ankle area and can no longer do the painting, cutting grass ect.. I really do not walk to far w/o my cane, because of the pain. The doctor thinks an ankle fusion would alevaiate the pain. I wish I had better news but it what it is and I pray to god that I can can get some comfort what ever it may be.... God bless and hope a good recovery to you.
Jun 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Sgt. Gonzalez
by: C.King

So sorry to hear of how much pain you are in. I noticed your first comment was dated Jan 2011. Have you asked your doctor if the pain can subside over time? My first year was very painful. I went from walker - 2 crutches - 1 crutch - cain - good supportive shoes... I remember catching myself on furniture and hobbling around because of the pain was so bad. I wondered if I would always be in pain and limp.

Don't fool yourself. An injury of this severity DOES take considerable time to heal. A year and longer. I'm not sure how your initial surgery went or how you have healed or the strength of your ankle bone...I pray that you will continue to see those small improvements.

I can still step wrong now and be in pain, plus my foot feels cold a lot of the time. Although, I do have more good days than not. My doctor said a 2nd surgery could be necessary...fusion also happens in these types of injuries. I researched a fusion proceedure and mentioned it in a previous message. The woman seems to be doing better as far as the PAIN itself. However, she lost her range of motion. So what do you do? You weigh the options, learn about fusions and the success rates and the reality of future activities. Then, you take it from there.

You seem to be a strong person to me. As you said, "It is what it is." Tough words. I wish your healing experience was better. I wonder how long my talus will last over these next years of activity too. Will I be facing a fusion down the road? Does a repaired, pinned, and screwed ankle bone last into my senior years?

Please keep us updated on your progress. I wish you the best. Cathy
Jul 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talar fracture
by: Dave

Hi all

I found this forum this morning and it's already been beneficial!

My name is Dave, I'm a rock climber and I had (I think) a type 1 fracture occur to my talus, along with dislocation, when I was climbing alone. I subsequently crawled/walked down to my car and drove myself to hospital.

I say 'I think' because I only got my diagnosis 12 weeks after the injury, which was about a week and a half ago. Prior to that, I had been rehabbing my injury aggressively - walking on a moon boot at around 3 1/2 weeks, driving at 5 weeks, climbing at 8 weeks (on a rope, without fear of striking my ankle on the ground). I've had my ankle moving as quickly as possible, and this seems to have returned positive results; it was only when we noticed that my plantarflexion and lateral flexion were not improving, despite two weeks spent trying to tear through 'scar tissue', that the decision was made to get an MRI.

In the last week and a half I've noticed some differences in the way the ankle feels, and I've realised on reading your stories just how much difference the diagnosis has made. Yes, it's given me some surety, but I almost immediately started walking more carefully, and this has translated very quickly into sore hips and knees. Avascular necrosis is a big, scary term and I started thinking 'what if I do some more damage - what if my ankle collapses?!'

I can't really compare my injury to many of yours - each of you have suffered some very significant damage. And your breaks have been all the way through, and often multiple - and it's critical to bone that it's touching in order to merge.

I do wonder - is all the immobilisation really a good thing? The best advice I've read here is to stand straight and walk normally. Even just putting that (back) in operation this morning, I feel more normal. It hurts, yes, but that didn't bother me before I knew it was broken, and my ankle hasn't collapsed so far. Yet for the last week and a half, I've been walking around like I'm on eggshells.

Has anyone done any research into outcomes based on various treatment methods for this injury? There seems to be a standard treatment method - immobilisation for a certain period, careful increases in loading etc - but what are the outcomes for more aggressive treatment?

Has anyone been taking condroitin or glucosamine for their cartilage damage, and has this been positive? Are there any randomised controlled trials on this - surely there must be? I want to be analytical about this injury, and pay attention to what matters, not get scared off by a bit of pain.

Jul 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		13 years of pain
by: Bill W

13 Years ago I went to inspect a home I was building. While walking down a 2x10 board leaving the home the board broke and that day changed my life forever.I fractured my talus bone and was laid up for quite some time. About 10 months after the accident my surgeon removed a piece of the talus bone that broke off because of the extreme pain that I was in.The piece of bone was the size of the top of my thumb about 3/4". I am 6'4" 250 Pounds, I try to stay active but after a 2 or 3 mile walk I am limping and in pain the next day. This enables me from getting on a steady exercise program. I also cannot stand in one place for a long period of time. At 57 years old I wonder if there is anything that could be done so I can exercise without pain.
Jul 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Dave
by: Noel

Wow, I fractured my talus climbing too, total bummer! My injury was misdiagnosed for a month as a sprain, once the fracture was noticed I was sent immediately into surgery. About 3 weeks after surgery my cast came off even though the bone was not even close to healed, I was then put into a walking boot. I wasn't allowed to walk on it but was instructed to take the boot off and move my ankle around as much as possible. At first there was no movement no circles and no plantar or dorsiflexion- I mean none! This was because for over 7 weeks (the 4 I was misdiagnosed and the 3 I was in a cast) my foot had not moved at all. Slowly I was able to do more and more, my surgen wanted me to continue this to get blood flowing to prevent as much AVN as possible. He did inform me that this was something "experimental" because the bone had not actually healed. My recovery has been quicker than expected (actually, I was expected not to recover fully) and things as getting better each day. Movement can definitely help heal in some cases. BUT heed the advice of your doctors, when they tell you to take it slow or restrict you, they know what they're doing, don't try to make this healing happen faster than it can. Good luck!

Jul 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Healing
by: Dave

Definitely will be taking it easier than I would otherwise. I respect the power of the talus fracture given everything I've read about it. But I'm still going to keep walking straight, even if that hurts a bit.

So again on the theme of 'what did you do for your fracture' - it seems that bloodflow is basically *the* cause of the fracture being a bugger to heal. Firstly you can get AVN - ugly - and secondly, it just heals way slower than any other bone. Has anyone tried autologous blood transfer? I.e taking blood from another area in the body and injecting it into the bone? Anecdotally (there is limited research) this seems to work for tendons, which suffer from similarly poor blood flow.

I'd also be curious to know if anyone has ever tried autologous chondrocyte injections. Essentially this is taking some of your cartilage from one area, growing it up in a petrie dish, and implanting it into the area with damaged cartilage. Sorry, I'm a bit of a medical nerd, if not a medico.

I'm a bit skeptical of the awe with which the injury is viewed, I guess. In the last 20 years we've almost universally moved towards getting people up and moving after any type of surgery or injury, because that increases bloodflow, and that's how you heal. I don't have anything to compare with, not having fractured and immobilised another talus, but I feel like getting moving early on has been helpful for me.

To those who are still suffering after some years of the injury: is the bone still compromised at all? Or is the issue the articular cartilage?
Aug 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Healing Very Slowly
by: Lindae2

On Jan. 2, 2011 I fell off a stepladder (I was hanging a heavy picture) and broke my talus, navicular and 4 metatarsal bones. I had to call the paramedics (I live alone) to take me to the ER. I did not have surgery until Jan. 20 as I developed a fracture blister which was huge. I have 2 screws in the talus/navicular area and plates and screws in 3 of the metatarsals. One of the broken toes could not be surgically repaired due to the blister so he let that one heal normally. I had no weight bearing until April and while I've come a long way apparently I still have a long way to go. I'm going into month 8 and felt like I would lose my mind due to inactivity. I am taking stairs and walking farther each week but it still seems like complete recovery is a long way away, if there is complete recovery. My last doctor visit he said sometimes a year after surgery they like to take the pins and screws out. I was shocked to hear that and wonder if anyone out there is pleased with their decision to have that done.

I wish I had found this forum earlier as it helped to read other's recovery stories. I felt all alone with these injuries so it's encouraging to know I'm not the only frustrated person. I love hiking and cannot wait to get back out there so I'll keep pushing forward and hope you all do too.
Aug 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To; Lindae2
by: C.King

Glad you found this site. I have been surprised since writing of my experience from the roof just how many other people have had a similar ankle injury. It seems to help considerably to know you are not alone. Welcome!

First, understand that we all heal differently... it takes time and patience to heal from this type of injury, don't give up, listen to your doctor's advice (they do know more about your injury and have the experience to back up the recomended method of treatment), don't give up hope, don't be too hard on yourself, move forward /exercise as soon as you can...Oh yeah, eat healthy (due to lack of activity) and get plenty of sleep. They say your body needs down time to help heal itself.

Personally, the 1 pin and 3 screws in my talus will remain in place forever. Unless of course they begin to back out or I have another problem down the road. I believe screws "backing out" occurs more often with more activity, but is not a guarantee. My 2nd doctor during my healing process (and it is a long "process")said she could remove the screws if they become a problem. Easy breezy she said, a simple procedure to remove them. I guess I have been fortunate...have not had to remove them. I have had friends with broken bones and screws - their screws were removed and they have since had no problems. I am certain additional x-rays can determine how strong the bone is before removing the screws. Another thought: If they aren't causing a problem or pain for you, then they probably aren't a problem. It's still your choice. :o)

I wish you luck Lindae2. Please continue to share your story of recovery with us. I have a feeling your story will help others too. Take Care.
Aug 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Lindae2
by: Steph

Hi Lindae2. I fell off a ladder and broke the neck of my talus completely in half and chipped the outside of it. My surgeon used 6 pins to repair my talus. I had them in from September 2010 to March 2011. From the beginning, my surgeon planned on removing most of the pins. He was only going to leave in the ones that were deep down in. However, when I was in surgery, he decided to remove all of them. After the surgery, I had moderate pain from the incisions and because he had to dig around to get the pins that were deep down in. It also set my walking back a few weeks. I hope that helps. Best of luck.
Aug 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Steph

To C. King...When I am sitting or laying down, my ankle feels normal but when I walk on it, I still have some pain and stiffness. Don't get me wrong, I am much better/can do a lot more than I could a few months ago but it is still noticably uncomfortable when I walk. I guess I was hoping that I would get to the point where I would be able to forget about my injury from time to time when walking. It has been 11 months since my accident. I know everyone is different but I was wondering if you still have pain and stiffness? If not, when did it subside? Also, are you able to do any type of aerobic exercise?

I know that I addressed this to C. King but if anyone else would like to comment, please feel free. Thanks.

Aug 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph -
by: C.King

Steph,

It has been @ 4 years since my break and dislocation. Yes, I still have pain and stiffness in my ankle. I also have good days...some very good days. As with this weekend, after taking 2 Aleve's and beginning yard work (I love walking more than using the golf cart, etc.). By the evening I was sore. By the next morning I was stiff and sore. However, today I am better with a little tenderness. It seems to work itself out after some rest and easier walking around. I also massage my ankle and stretch my foot. I personally feel that when I over-do it my ankle feels better to add heat. (If it was swollen I would add ice). The warmth is soothing to my ankle.

My doctor specifically told me no running...so I have been trying to figure out what type of exercise I CAN do without the risk of damaging anything in my ankle. So far I have enjoyed my pool (low impact), my treadmill (before the belt broke), and a stationery Schwinn bike. I have always been fairly active. However, since my broken ankle I have put on a few (20) extra pounds I wish to get rid of before it gets too bad. I try to watch my calorie intake and eat more smaller portions and healthy snacks during the day. It helps, but nothing beats the feeling I had before when I could be more active. If you find an aerobic routine that is low impact, I'd love to hear about it. Everything these days seems to be very aggressive and fast and hard. The more extreme the better!??? Stay in touch, keep us posted. Thanks.
Aug 15, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To C. King
by: Steph

To C. King...Hello. I discovered that I am able to use my elliptical machine. I hadn't tried it since my accident because I didn't think I had enough bend/motion in my ankle joint to use it but I do. It actually doesn't require much. Most of the movement is done by the knee. I just tried it for a very short period of time so I don't know how long I will be able to do it or how I will feel the next day but I am going to give it a try. For now, I am only going to use it 5-10 minutes at a time and build up from there.
Aug 16, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Steph -
by: C.King

Elliptical Machine...that is actually a good choice when you think about it (as long as your knees are in good shape). It offers the motion you need without the impact on your ankle joint. So, it's relatively low impact on your ankle joint. :o)

When I began my treadmill I also only used it for @ 10 - 15 minutes, working up to @ 30 minutes. This was all on the easy pace and incline too. Then, the darn belt broke. It really felt good to "workout" a bit. That good feeling has a way of encouraging you to move forward.

This weekend I was working in the yard, walking as much and as far as I could. Taking breaks from the Florida heat more than for the reason of my ankle being sore. I was moving in ways I had not been able to in a long while: bending down, kneeling, squats...It felt great. Until the late evening and next day. I was sore and limping. On a positive note I remember saying to myself this weekend, look at how you are moving around. As if you had not broke your ankle! You have come a long way over the years. I was actually proud of myself! :o)I figure each time I feel good enough to over-do it, leads to the next time going a bit further. Progress!! That is a good thing!

I am considering a gym membership to use weights for my legs & core. We'll see how that goes. It's a personal goal for me. Getting back into shape (since my accident) before 50 years of age. I'll be 49 next year...so that gives me a good solid year to reach my goal! Hey, at least I can now imagine and set that goal with the true belief in myself of reaching it.
Aug 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

Hi, guys i am from India, i fractured my left leg talus bone before 3 and half month due to car accident,i was operated next day, i have 2 screws and 1 pin in my leg. i had ORIF surgery. i was lucky to b operated by a very talented Dr. currently i am on crutches 50lbs weight bearing. and doing PT as well. i have been told that i will be on 100percent weight bearing from next month on crutches. and then after 1 month of it i will start walking normally( i.e- 5 and half month from accident) . but i am very much scared of limping. currently i have no pain at all since my surgery. my x-rays shows good recovery. i wanted to know from u guys how long it usually takes to walk normally without limp. i know healing is different for different ppl. but on an avg how long it takes?? and can i jog/ run again?? please reply
Aug 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Pritesh
by: C.King

Welcome to the group of those who have experienced broken ankles in one form or another.

I can only speak for myself and did not begin writing until @ 2 years into my injury, surgery, and PT. This is what I previusly wrote about walking without a limp:

It has now been 2 years and I am now able to walk with an almost unrecognizeable skip / limp. I still have days of inflamation - I take meds for the inflamation. I still at times need to elevate my ankle on those over-active days.

To this day I can limp if I over-do it, walk too much, step wrong or walk/move for too long a period of time. Overall, days are so much better now! :o)

I believe NOEL also experienced the same procedure you did. Hello, NOEL...maybe you can provide some assistance to Pritesh in India?

I wish you the best Pritesh for a healthy recovery. Keep us informed of your progress.
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update
by: Gary

Hi,
Just thought i would give a brief update of how i am progressing, i had the cast removed from my "good" leg on July 18th and have gradually progressed to full weight bearing , the movement on the ankle is very good and the swelling and pain are minimal. My left ankle was a relatively bad break but no talus damage and the recovery has been good. The external fixator was removed from my right ankle on Monday August 15th and i am extremely pleased about that. I have started PT on it and am weight bearing with a zimmer frame. The swelling and pain are pretty bad at the moment but probably to be expected, movement is still minimal and can only get it to -10deg so far but it,s early days. Its 12 weeks today since my surgery and things seem so much better now, i don,t know how my ankle will progress but i am more hopeful with each progression, still a long way to go but so far so good.I look forward to seeing all the other comments on here, it,s interesting to see how others are dealing with their injuries, thanks for all your comments.
Gary
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update
by: Gary

Hi,
Just thought i would give a brief update of how i am progressing, i had the cast removed from my "good" leg on July 18th and have gradually progressed to full weight bearing , the movement on the ankle is very good and the swelling and pain are minimal. My left ankle was a relatively bad break but no talus damage and the recovery has been good. The external fixator was removed from my right ankle on Monday August 15th and i am extremely pleased about that. I have started PT on it and am weight bearing with a zimmer frame. The swelling and pain are pretty bad at the moment but probably to be expected, movement is still minimal and can only get it to -10deg so far but it,s early days. Its 12 weeks today since my surgery and things seem so much better now, i don,t know how my ankle will progress but i am more hopeful with each progression, still a long way to go but so far so good.I look forward to seeing all the other comments on here, it,s interesting to see how others are dealing with their injuries, thanks for all your comments.
Gary
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Gary
by: C.King

Good to hear from you Gary. 12 weeks since your surgery...Wow!! Believe it or not you have come a long way. I know it's still early, but I was wondering if your doctor was on a schedule for progress regarding the degree angle of your ankle? Your break is different than mine. However, I seem to remember it was just @ 12 days after my surgery and they were getting me in into a 90 degree boot already. The swelling and pain that day was terrible. Thank goodness for pain meds and my husband's easy chair. LOL. I also remember questioning the amount of degree they set the boot. At the time, I thought it was a bit extreme, just 12 days later. They literally removed the stitches, cleaned up my ankle a bit, and had in adjust the angle to 90 degrees. Tightened the velcro on the boot. He told me that it was necessary so I didn't walk on my toes. Perhaps, he was just trying to get me out of the office more quickly. (No, I wasn't happy that day!)

90 degrees and PT is a good amount (if possible) to help you walk later. It's really amazing how your body heals and why certain things are important to do at certain times through the healing process. I can't imagine having both ankles broken at the same time. I wish you all the best. Ice and elevation are your friend now... :o)

Please keep posting and giving us updates on your status. I hope others will continue too. Take Care.

P.S. How is our NYPD Srgt doing? Just checking on you again.
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

Hi C.king
thanks for the reply...and glad to hear that ur ankle is almost normal now..but as i read ur comment it says it took u 2 years to walk without limping....can u please tell me when did u start to put 100percent weight without crutches after ur injury...and one more thing i am 26 years old.
i have heard tht healing is bit quicker at young age. and can u run now?? and do u think it will b possible for me to walk normally after 1 and half month 4m now. as my doctor told me. i am really frustrated of being on crutches. want to live life normally. its 3 and half month now. also my fiancee has dumped me due to this injury...went really sad... PLZ REPLY
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Pritesh
by: C.King

First of all, I am very sorry to hear about your fiancée leaving you "because of this injury". That is just not right, especially if you had planned to be married (in sickness and in health).

I hope you do heal faster than I did. I broke my ankle in 2008, so I was much older than you are now. I have heard younger people heal faster and move around sooner. So, that may give you hope. My surgery may have been different than yours: I dislocated and broke my talus. I needed 1 pin and 3 screws. I never had a 2nd surgery - thank goodness. However, my doctors did tell me that this type of injury was very serious and does take a long time to heal.

Each person heals differently. I cannot tell you how soon you will begin walking with 100% weight and without a limp. Please consult your doctors for their advice.

I can only tell you about my experience. I was instructed NO WEIGHT for the first 3 months. 12 days after my surgery, I was placed into a 90 degree boot and had to use a walker (only because I personally felt more stable on a walker since I could not place any weight on my ankle. I wanted to give my ankle the chance to heal properly. I did not want another surgery. Plus, the doctor wanted to see that the bone itself was healing. Staying off the ankle helped my ankle heal better for the first 3 months).

Three months after my accident (@ March-May) I used crutches and could place some weight on my ankle. Plus, I was in physical therapy for 3 months longer (@ June-August). - My doctor told me in the beginning 6 months, at least to heal. - Through those months I continued to see my doctor each month and had x-rays taken, verifying that the bone began to heal stronger and to see that the hardware stayed in place. I eventually began using a cane while in physical therapy (@ 6 month time period from my accident).

NOTE: I did see a younger girl (@ your age) in PT who broke her ankle in 2 places walking with full weight (in a cast) BEFORE I began walking on full weight.

Honestly, I personally had a slight limp during my 2 year check-up. I have lost most of the rotation abilities in my ankle. Today I can walk without a limp, but I will limp from time-to-time when I over-do the walking, etc.

Remember, everyone heals differently. Please listen to your doctors for your own personal healing outlook/results. You do not want to re-damage your ankle or have a 2nd surgery. This has been a very serious injury.

I feel you may be in a hurry because of your situation regarding your fiancée. Maybe you feel if you have no limp, things will be different…or back to the way they were before your accident. You are young and you have you whole life ahead of you, filled with many adventures, and people to meet. Believe in yourself!! Take care of yourself now the best that you can. Know that you WILL HEAL and your future days WILL BE BRIGHTER and HAPPY. Best wishes!
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

HI C.King
After reading ur comment it seems that u started putting 100percent weight after six month using cane right??. so u had a limp for 1 and half year. my god thts really long. but after consulting to doctor and physio they told me i will limp for only 15-20 days i.e- may be. i really wish to start walking in 2 months from now. why this fracture is so danger. may b god forgot to give a good blood flow to this bone...........now every day is a challenge for me. i am a very impatient person. and all u need for talus fracture is patience and patience. lets hope for the best.
one more thing my operation was almost same like u i have 2 screws in my talus bone with 1 pin. and even the initial procedure is same. even i dislocated and broke my talus bone. only the thing is my doctor is confident tht i will start walking in one and half month. but after going thro many cases of talus fracture on net i am bit worried. and plz tell me about running/jog also..tc
Aug 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Pritesh
by: C.King

I truly wish you the best. A "healthy" healing should be your goal, especially since you are so young. You have many, many more miles to reach with your ankle.

I cannot say that you will never run again...

My doctor told me NOT to run unless my life depended on it. I think she was exaggerating a bit. I mean, seriously, no running? However, she really did not want me to run on my ankle. That was a year ago when I saw her last. I suppose she recommended that because I have healed so well (top 5%), she would hate to see me mess it up again, especially since I do have the hardware in it. Imagine another break or dislocation in the same ankle! That could become very messy and more difficult to correct or even loss of my foot due to the lack of blood supplied to the area.

I have tried to skip and I tried a little jog for very short distance…just to see how it feels. Yes, I wondered about it. Unfortunately, that action doesn’t feel or work very well for me. So, I guess she was right. I had to try it though after 3 years. At this point, I am happy to be walking better. It’s never going to be the same as before my ankle broke. As we’ve all said in this blog, it’s a very serious injury!

Patience, patience, and more patience... It’s something some people find most difficult to practice. I hope you find encouragement in slowing down a bit. Sometimes life can be better when we slow down a bit. We have time to see the other things we tend to pass or overlook in our hurry.

Hey, give yourself the time your doctor’s say you should be able to walk normally. They may be right for YOU. :o) That would be amazing and great. Think positive now. YOU may be walking without a limp in a few weeks. You won’t know until then. However, if you are not back to normal by then don’t be too hard on yourself. Keep moving forward with your recovery. You will get better than you are now.

There are many stages to healing. There are many treatments available. Doctors try the first steps before moving onto the more serious treatments. Other people have not been as fortunate. They’ve had more surgeries and fusions of their ankle and more pain meds and so on…there is no guarantee. All I can give to you is my story, my support and encouragement, and prayers for healing.
Sep 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus Farcture
by: Anonymous

Hi,
just an update, its almost 5 months now from my date of fracture/ surgery. i am on 100 percent weight bearing on crutches. my doctor has told me to leave crutches on next visit, i.e- 15th oct, and i will be using a stick for 1 month after that. Cant wait till i walk normally. Hi to C King ,how u doing now??
Sep 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To: Anonymous
by: C.King

Hi - Still here and still doing well at this point. Your healing stages sound too familiar. I started using a cane about the same time. I was also working through some PT too. Glad to hear you are coming along rather well and as expected. I often think of Sgt. Gonzalez, NYPD. I hope you have had more better days and perhaps worked through those more difficult times. I would like to hear how you are doing now.

The only negative things I still experience now is occasional stiffness and I may still step wrong and I feel a sort of 'catch' in my ankle/tendon area(?). I am also experiencing a bit of bursitis in my right hip...who knows how that started? I am wondering if it is some how related due to sleeping after all this time using caution to my right ankle and right side. I still cannot run. However, I have tried to walk a bit faster and at times feel some discomfort, although for the most part my ankle feels stronger.

The positive things at this point are (I love this part!!): I am getting around better than ever, I have more endurance, I can walk longer and further than before, I take Aleve each day and that helps (nothing stronger), I continue to stretch and try to rotate my ankle each day, and I am noticing small improvements - even today. :o) Barely notice a limp, if any. :o) To Steph - I am considering a higher real shoe heel for Fall. My husband thinks it's too high. I think I should try. ha,ha!! I am ready for shoes that are not flat. Progress - that is what THAT is!!

I hope the rest of you have good progress reports. Keep us updated because it helps those still healing. Winter will be closing in again soon. Keep your ankles warm and moving. Continue to focus on what you CAN do, not what you can't. It makes a huge difference! Take care all!

Cathy
Sep 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Progress
by: Lindae2

I’m at the 9 month point after left talus, navicular, and 2nd to 5th metatarsal ORIF surgery. My last doctor visit was very encouraging. All my bones seem to be healed so now it’s just a matter of getting movement back. I definitely have more up and down movement than sideways. I just had my 56th birthday and my doctor wants me to have a bone density test as he can see some osteopenia in my xrays. I definitely had to boost my intake of calcium and Vitamin D. Ladies, take your calcium and Vitamin D faithfully. Perhaps that’s why my foot broke so badly when I fell.

I am now allowed to walk/hike up to 3 miles. I’ve also re-started PT at a new facility and have progressed much faster. On my first visit the therapist was quite dismayed at the lack of movement in my toes and foot but the new exercises and starting to walk and hike more has helped a lot. I am using hiking poles when going to the wilderness parks and they help so much coming downhill it’s amazing. Another benefit is that my arms get a good workout and just getting outside in the fresh air really improves the mental part of healing as well. I hiked 3 miles on Sunday and it felt good however later in the day I could barely walk. I need to remember to take Aleve as soon as I finish the hikes as it really helps a lot. The pain was worth it though just to be outdoors doing something. Being housebound sure takes a toll mentally.

I still limp but definitely not like before. My outlook is much brighter than it was a couple months ago and I’m very thankful for that.

Take care everyone,

Linda

Sep 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: chris

just found this site its good to hear from people who have this injury i broke my talus on the 30th of july i had fracture blisters and did not get my op untill 25th of aug had about 4 screws put in after 2 weeks got my stiches out i have a hard cast on for a total of 6 weeks wich i have 2 weeks left to go and then getting a removable boot but my doc said still no weight bearing for a further 6 weeks so looks like a very long recovery just got to take each day as it comes good luck to everyone with this injury
Oct 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Inspiration
by: Sam

I broke my talus neck 5 weeks ago on a trampoline and ended up having 2 screws fixed in to hold the bone together. Just reading through every ones comments has been an inspiration and how after a period of time anything is possible.
Oct 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Sam
by: C.King

Reading that your broke your talus neck while on a trampoline, I am assuming your are young"er" than I was when I broke my talus @ 44 yrs from the roof-line.

Saying that, you will probably heal faster than most. However, being younger you probably want to be active much sooner too. I recommend you listen to your doctor and take the time needed to heal properly.

You will be fine! Glad you found the website. It has helped many others from different places around the world. Keep in touch and share your story of healing.

Cathy
Oct 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

Hi guys i am on 100 percent weight bearing now on crutches, i had surgery of my ankle on 27th april 2 screws in my ankle, its five and half month almost, as per doctor i will start using cane from 16th oct, atleast i will get rid off crutches, cane sounds bit better than crutches…. i m scared of limping….keep updating please, this injury is diffrent and will help new injured to know when will they recover.

Oct 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		No Surgery
by: Ben

Hello,

It has been a breath of fresh air seeing the level of insight towards education, positive thinking and therapy compared to other sites.

I am 30 yrs of age and extremely active. I fractured my talus on 9/3/11 after falling 20' rock climbing. Initially, I was not going to seek medical attention, but reluctantly went to ER. I was about to be discharged w/ a sprained ankle, but radiologist informed ER physician that I had a fractured malleolus. After multiple attempts of weight-bearing w/ and w/out boot as instructed, I saw the orthopedic specialist who ordered more xrays and informed me of my fractured talus 3 wks later. A wk later I had a CT scan that revealed that my talus was fractured vertically at the body and displaced by 3-4mm at the bottom. moreover, there was a bone chip in the displacement. The surgeon after consulting others thought it was best to let it heal on its own due to the invasive risk of breaking/cutting bone to removed chip and use screws to union the fractured talus.

This appeared to be a gamble as the surgeon had not seen a fracture like mine and was more familiar w/ repairing talus' that were shattered and or immediately after the injury, not after a month.

At this point I am in a removable cast (great for showering!) and will non-weight bearing for next three months (similar to post op.). I was told that AVN would not be an issue in my case, but arthritis most likely will be an issue. I can expect it to occur in 1 month or in 25 years. I have been told similar stories as you: I may or may not have a limp, even if I could run, it will exacerbate arthritis,etc.

Right now, I am refraining from coffee as it impedes vascularity as I am told. I am trying to exercise the rest of my body in that it promotes healthy blood flow and healing. Finally, I am trying to stay positive (most difficult). This site has been helpful in that regard!

I would like to hear more follow-up/recovery stories, healing and therapeutic techniques and strategies, and what its like returning to acitivies of daily living....and more!

Oct 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Broken talus neck
by: Sam

Hi Cathy,

I'm 19, so not quite sure why I am still on trampolines, maybe it's a sign haha.

Been in the cast for almost 5 weeks now post surgery and will get it removed in 2 weeks. It just seems to take for ever but hasn't stopped me doing much.

Sam
Oct 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To: Sam
by: C.King

I will be curious to see how you do after the cast comes off! Has your doctor indicated any PT? I am sure it will be an adjustment to walking again.

I remember being in a solid cast after sliding into 3rd base in high school. The base didn't budge! I severely sprain my left ankle at that time and was in a cast for 3 months (right at graduation - wonderful!). They said I should have broke it because it would have healed faster. LOL. Little did we know then that at 44 I would be breaking my right ankle after falling from a ladder (saving my husband's life). Even with a sprained ankle I lost muscle and stength. Not to mention, I was benched for the rest of the season.

It was an adjustment for me then with just a sprain injury and was certainly an adjustment and still concerning to my right ankle since the break of my talus @ 3-4 yrs ago.

Stay in touch. Others will be interested to hear about your recovery story and experience. Thanks!
Oct 07, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Broken talus neck
by: Sam

The doctors said at the time of surgery I will have therapy to build up the muscle and use of my ankle again. Its understandable I guess after the break and having it immobilized for 7 weeks.

How are you with jogging and running now? I want to return to scuba diving once fixed, does anyone have any experiences of this?
Oct 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Sam
by: C.King

I cannot run, unless it's a matter of life or death (my doctor says). However, I have been able to trot a bit. LOL. My ankle feels it later in the evening.

I think scuba diving will be great for you. Plus, you should be able to use your up and down ankle motion. If you heal like me...you may lose your rotation ability to a large degree. My ankle is pretty much @ 90 degrees and pointing (although not as much of a pointing angle as my good ankle). Scuba also is a low impact water sport. Some doctors even recommend aqua therapy.

You may want to work on the stretching of your muscles too. I have found at times I still get leg cramps (pickle juice works wonders for leg cramps!! Learned that in PT from a woman who had them). Scuba & leg cramps don't work too well together. Also, the cold can affect your ankle comfort - depending on how deep you dive. Just some FYI. Good luck and best wishes!
Oct 11, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: chris

well i seen my consultant yesterday and he was pleased with my recovery so far. i had my cast removed and that felt great i was shown some excercises to do at home and i will be starting physio next week i am still non weight bearing for a further 6 weeks and then i was told that i would start putting weight on my foot and after 2 weeks i can return to work realy pleased with this cant wait to return to normal thought i would be a lot
longer recovering than this after such a bad break so my total recovery since my accident has been four and a half months can now see the light at the end of the tunnel
Oct 17, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

Hi guys,good news and just an update from me, i visited doct on 15th. i have started using a cane now finally got rid off crutches after almost 6 months, i walk without limp most of the times. but speed of walking is little slow. in morning when i wake up, i limp for few steps but then its ok, any suggestion on that C king??? as per physio i will start walking normally without cane in 30 days from now. have told me to do lunges, squating, theraband excercise to build up ankle strength. i am happy to get rid off crutches and walking on my own with help of cane though. good luck to u ppl.

Oct 17, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Pritesh
by: Cking

Wow! That is wonderful news...You are making great "strides". As far as the AM limp, that was normal for me too. I just got use to it and after a little stretching I was not limping during the rest of the day (unless I over did it).

If your doctor suggested lunges, squats, and theraband that is good too! I personally could not do lunges because my ankle would not allow the flex-forward enough. I only have 90 degrees and can point almost as far as my good ankle. I think squats will exercise/stretch the calf, which will also help to keep is loose. Remember, if you get cramps after using those muscles again...drink pickle juice it really works. However, don't be surprised if a charlie-horse bites you in the leg at night. I remember waking to a tightened muscle several times.

I still use my theraband to keep my muscles loose & to keep the stretch ability. My doctor reminded me to keep moving it. The ankle bone is connected to the leg bone, the leg bone is connected to the knee bone, the knee bone is connected to the hip bone...Yes, it it all connected and will work much better as each part gets stonger. Keep up the good work!

How is your circulation? Do you feel cold sensations at all? I get concerned when I feel this sensation in my right leg. Thanks, Cathy
Oct 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

SOMETIMES I AM LIMPING SOMETIMES I AM NOT....USING CANE I MEAN, WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THIS??? AND WAT IS THE REASON FOR LIMPINg?? HOW TO OVERCOME THAT????
Oct 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Sam

Just had my cast off after 7 weeks since breaking my ankle and having surgery on the Talus. The doctors were very pleased and said that the Talus was healing well and the blood supply was still present.

I am now in an air cast boot with partial weight bearing on my toes and foot as I walk, still with crutches though and have a check up in 3 weeks to assess and begin Physiotherapy.


Oct 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Healing Time...
by: cking

To Pritesh: I admire your continued expectations and energy. However, it is normal to LIMP after beginning to walk again. It will take more time. Don't be in a hurry. What you are experiencing is "NORMAL". Your ankle is still healing, including the other things in your ankle (muscle, tendons. etc.). I know you want to heal super fast, but it takes time. You may continue to limp until everything completely heals. I still limp if I overdue it.

To Sam: Great news on the your healthy bone and blood supply! That is a huge hurdle to cross. Sometimes the blood supply does not return and the bone dies, causing even more problems! Be so very thankful for small miracles! Best of luck in continued healing...

To Steph: Good news for me! Steph I wanted you to know that I wore a 3" heel (chunky) boot on Friday all day during work. It's taken 3-4 years but I've done it!!! I was ready for flats at the end of the day, but I felt this was a goal met and achieved! Boots were on sale and my ankle actually fit into them. Hard to find a pair of boots that my ankle pointed enough to fit into. Found a pair with a zipper from ankle to calf. Can't say enough for small achievements!

Best wishes all! Cathy
Oct 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: Anonymous

well had my first appiontment with PT today he gave me a excercise program to do at home untill i start weight bearing hopefully that will be in 3 weeks time after i see my consultant he also said that once i start putting weight on my foot it wont be to long before i will be walking unaided cant wait. feeling a lot more positive now... good luck to everyone
Nov 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus fracture
by: Pritesh

Just an update, i have started walking without a limp using cane. without cane also i am walking normally i mean without limp. but on rough surface, on uneven surface i limp very little. i am happy with my recovery its 6 and hlaf month now. glad that i am walking, the speed of walking is average, cant walk very fast. but its ok, in my next update i will give detail explanation of my recovery for new and mid injured ppl. almost THIER STILL LITTLE TO HEAL THOUGH.......BUT HAPPY
Nov 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cold weather...
by: Noel

Hi!!! It's been so long since I left a comment here. My foot has healed so well, I am able to ride my bike, swim, rock climb, and hike without any pain! I am still not able to run or jog, and in the mornings my foot is super stiff.

I quit my job and moved to start nursing school, where I live now is so cold and I'm not used to it! The weather has definitely been affecting my foot, it aches and is stiff all the time, I'm sure I'm not the only one that experiences this! Since I left my job and moved I had to switch health insurances but I still think I need PT, it's been five months since I started walking and I really want to be able to run, even if I'm not able to do it recreationally, I want to be able to have the motion. How long were all you in PT for?

I'm so blessed to have come this far and I love hearing all of your stories!
C. King- Congrats on your heels!!!
Nov 15, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: chris

was meant to be going to see my consultant tommorow but they have cancelled my appointment what a let down as i have been non weight bearing for 12 weeks now and was told at my last appointment that i would be starting to weight bear after that not getting my next appointment to the 14th dec so i phoned my PT and he is going to ask my consulant if i can start weight bearing on monday hopefully he will say yes dont think i can stand another 4 weeks of being on these crutches
Nov 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: chris

i started weight bearing on monday i am still on crutches and will be for 2 weeks my PT told me. But it feels good now that i have started to put a little weight on my foot it has been three and a half months since my acccident. But i do notice that i am getting a sharp pain up the back of my heel on the right side of my foot i hope this goes away soon but i knew it would not be pain free when you start to put weight on your injured foot Well good luck to everyone
Nov 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Chris
by: Cking

Congrats on your healing time frame. Sounds very similar to my own personal experience. I also noticed then that the bottom of my foot appeared to be a bit rounder (like a baby's foot) from not walking on it for 3+ months. You may continue to feel new sensations in your foot, heel, and ankle as you progress. I found the different stages of healing very interesting. First you notice this and then you notice it becomes stronger...then, you notice something else, something different because your foot/ankle haven't used that part for so long, or the muscle has gotten smaller...then, you get stronger with that area and notice something else more sore because you are now able to move it more or place more weight on it. The process continues as you heal!

Keep getting better and stretch as much as possible. I remember rolling my foot over a water bottle that I kept in the freezer. That felt very good and still does on stiff-ankle days. Keep moving because it helps the overall progress. You were probably measured in PT and have a goal to reach for flex ranges. I also remember being nervous when my PT person would pull and crack my ankle area...but, boy did it feel better and looser than before the snap, crackle, pop. :o)

Best wishes.
Nov 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus
by: chris

Thanks C KING for your reply i know what you mean about the different feeling some good and some not so good!!! I was at PT yesterday and i have now got to practise using one crutch i now have a different pain when doing this its now at the inside of my ankle above my heel but hopefully this will ease up as the week goes on my PT told me to use my excersise bike for 5 mins twice a day building up to 10 mins i have also got to stand on my tip toes holding on to work top in kitchen so i am going to be busy with all this!! But feels good to be able to start getting back to normal after three and a half months sitting about not doing much
kind regards to everyone with this injury hope you all heel fast x
Dec 12, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update NEW
by: Gary, Northern Ireland

Hi everyone,
I haven,t left a comment on here for a while so just an update of my progress. Seven months after my accident my left ankle is completely healed now no pain in it whatsoever though there was no talus damage. I was at the hospital today to get my right ankle assessed, it was good news. It appears that the blood supply is returning and also the movement in the ankle, the consultant says he is less worried about collapse of the ankle now and that considering what we started with (which according to him was just a jumble of bits and pieces of bone) the progress has been excellent. I have been booked in for an MRI scan and surgery to remove two screws which are protruding quite badly and make it impossible to wear shoes, because this is not a priority procedure it will probably be March before it happens. The other screws will remain because it will probably cause too much damage trying to find them. Long term the prognosis is still unclear and fusion is still a possibility but it would be for pain relief rather than AVN which is good because i think i can take quite a lot of pain before i would consider fusion. I think like everyone on here i have gained a new perspective on pain over the past few months and can get quite used to certain levels of pain if i have to. I am back working part time and although i don,t go on roofs at the moment i have been using ladders and going into roof spaces whilst taking extra care and having invested in more safety equipment, i would prefer not to go on ladders at all but in the short term i need an income and this is the only way i can think of to get it. I,ve been walking with a limp and using a stick and sometimes weeks go by with no sign of improvement then suddenly i notice i can do something that i couldn,t do before or i can turn my foot further than i could before. Please everyone keep posting as i love it when i check my emails and see a new comment has been added. Sorry to go on so long.
Wishing everyone the best recovery they can have and a happy christmas.
Gary
Dec 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Merry Christmas to All and to all healthy healing! NEW
by: cking

Good to still hear from companions in pain & healing from broken ankles...

Chris - I'd be interested in hearing about your progress regarding the different feelings you are experiencing in the different areas of your ankle and foot. I think this information would be good for others - to realize this is normal and to remember the healing process is on-going! My son-in-law once said, "But, it's been years. Her ankle has healed by now." To think he is a real PT? LOL. I guess you don't really understand until it happens to you. :o)

Gary x Northern Ireland! Hello...good to hear from you as well! The news of the blood supply being replenished is wonderful. THAT is a huge achievement in your healing process. I am curious as to how much "movement" you are able to achieve? I have lost my circle ability, but have maintained the up and down motion very well. I can stand on my toes too. Testifying to the stength I have built up over the years. Unfortunately, your screws have backed out - bummer. But it's an easy enough fix for a surgeon (I was told). My hardware remains in place. I still limp after all this time only when I over-do it and some days (like this weekend - ha!) I could barely walk up the stairs without pain...making me wonder how this injury will fair over the years. hummmm. I also experienced weeks of what seemed like no improvement, then suddenly being able to do things I could not do before! That is a good sign and builds your confidence up significantly! Keep up the good work! Keep us posted.

Take Care ALL. God Bless your families this holiday season! Be safe...no ladders!
CKing
Dec 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus Fracture NEW
by: Anonymous

Hello All- I'm glad that I found this site to read the stories of others who have also had this rare injury. I broke my talus on August 25th by coming up short on a dirtbike jump. I initially chalked it up to being a sprain and hobbled around until about a week later I went to get xrays, cat scan, and mri and then saw that I had a displaced talus fracture in my right ankle. I had surgery september 8th and had 2 plates put in. I was in a solid cast for a couple weeks then a boot 24/7 for another month or so. I did about ten pt sessions once my doc gave me the ok to only wear the boot if I was up doing stuff. PT gained a good portion of my motion back for me, but I felt that they didn't push me hard enough. Since about october 10th I have done ankle exercises every single day, along with calf strengthening and I can happily say that I have full ROM upward, outward, and almost inward and downward. I had my 3 month checkup Dec. 8th and my doc said that I am way ahead of schedule for my ROM. My 3 month x-rays looked good and he said the bone is healed and I was given the ok to start walking with partial weight on my foot for a week before ditching the crutches. I ended up starting to walk that same day (sorry doc!) because I felt ready. I even took my dog for a walk down a trail a few days after that. I walk in the walking boot until January 8th then I move to a regular shoe. I am a very active 23 year old and I am determined to get back to my lifestyle. Once i get into a shoe I am really just looking forward to being able to take my dog for walks again every day and going on hikes. I am also going to get back on my road bike in January to really start working my ankle. I see my doc again February 6th and I am hoping for some good news by then to get back to motocross. Well now that I have wrote this I forgot that in the same incident that broke my right talus, I messed up my left knee for the 2nd time. Now that my ankle is finally getting better I've decided it's time to figure out my knee so I receive the results of my MRI for that on dec. 27th. I keep forgetting that I have htis other injury and I'm praying that I didn't tear my ACL again. In the past 4 years I've went through a acl reconstruction and meniscus cleanup, collarbone plating and now this talus break. I love motocross with a passion and I don't think that I'll ever quit but these injuries lately have really taken a toll on me physically, and with this talus fracture, very mentally as well. My advice for anyone going through this is to stay positive which can be very hard to do when you're on crutches for so long. I tried to not let them limit me too much. I learned how to do pretty much everything on crutches and would even go down to the river with my dog on them. Also get a list of at home exercises to do and work on your ROM EVERY SINGLE DAY!
Dec 25, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Talus Fracture NEW
by: Pritesh

Hi to all, i am back to my normal life since one month. i had a fracure of talus before seven and half month. i dont limp while walking. i walk normally. on road yes i cant say it doesnt pain, it does but its tolerable pain. happy that i can walk without limp. speed of walking is little slow than normal. i can not run. and i wanted to ask you ppl abt biking. should i drive my bike?? my doctor has said no to me. but i did it twice till now. i likes to post specilly for new injure ppl. coz i know every one wants to know when they eill walk normally. it took me 6 months to start walking without any support. I had hawkins 3 type of fracture. will post again.soon.....bye 4 nw
Jan 10, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus NEW
by: chris

hi everyone-hope everyone had a good christmas i seen my consulant on the 16th of dec had 2 x-rays done and my fracture has healed compleatly so far he told me there was no sign of bone collapse. the day before that i was at PT and was asked if i wanted to try a walking stick which i did and have got on really well i can now go about at home without it but need it for outside but i do have limp my consultant said that he could see me again in March but i have healed well and doesnt want to see me untill July.But my ankle is very stiff so i am doing a lot of stretches at home and at PT had my first long walk on the wednesday before christmas didnt relise how slow i was at walking but over the last 2 weeks i have been getting a bit quicker.Thought i would be getting back to work soon but think it will be another month before i return. Its been 23 weeks since my accident and 19 since my OP .happy healing in 2012 everyone
Jan 16, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Shattered Talus NEW
by: Clark

I googled broken talus success stories hoping to find some uplifting stories of people who beat the odds and recovered completely. I shattered my talus bone on April 09, 2011. I fell at the river down some steps and landed on some rocks. I had surgery the following day for a shattered talus which my doctor said was pushed up into my lower leg. Not to go into great detail but I have had a total of five surgeries related to this accident. I have FINALLY started walking with regular shoes on but still have pain, swelling, and overall stiffness and very limited range of motion. I push myself everyday to try and work on my movement. I have a desk job so luckily I have been able to work but the sitting at the desk seems to make the swelling worse. The hardest part for me has been the complete life change due to this injury. I was so physically active now I seem to struggle just to get through the day without too much pain. I too have developed plantar fascitis which seems to be getting better. The bottom of my foot still doesn't have all of the feeling back. My doctor said I do show that the bone is collapsing that they took out of my leg and put in my foot. She also said I have arthritis. An ankle fusion is my next step if this becomes unbearable. She said last resort would be amputation but that with an excellent prostesis I would be able to have a very active life. This scared me so I got a second opinion at UAB in Birmingham and the top surgeon there said she was right on with her diagnosis. I just wanted to share my story and thanks for all the other post on here. It helps to read other people's experiences with this terrible injury. I wish you all a speedy recovery.
Jan 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Clark NEW
by: cking

Clark - So, Glad you found this sight. Hopefully, you will find some encouragement through the others' told stories. This type of injury happens to more people than I ever realized. YOURS sounds like the worst break so far. I am sorry to hear about your pain and suffering...and the possibility of amputation. That sounds so extreme. Thankful however, that you did not have more serious/other injuries. It sounds as if your fall could have been much worse.

I watched a program a while back regarding a woman who tried an ankle replacement BEFORE amputation. It seemed to work for her and she could walk again. I am not sure of those odds or the tolerance of pain for her. On the other side of that story medicine techniques have come a very long way...artificle limbs can be a blessing too. Many people (including our wounded Military) are now using them and continue to have active lives. Keep looking forward to where you want to be!

I certainly hope you can heal healthy which ever path you find yourself. I wish you had better news about your bone strength. It seems with these types of ankle injuries the bone dying afterwards is all too real. My ankle was dislocated and the blood supply was cut off for hours before surgery. It took months before x-rays showed any change. I am forever thankful the blood supply returned and the bone healed. Going through it was very scary...not knowing was the worst. Waiting came in 2nd.

Please continue to post your experiences here. Many people visit and post. Each story brings insight, hope, and allows you a place to vent. It allows you the sense of not being alone through this healing. Your experience can be an encouragement for others...maybe that alone will help you too.

Take care and thank you for sharing your story.
Jan 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus NEW
by: chris

well its been 5 months since i had surgery and i am now walking with a limp and useing a walking stick for outside. I still dont have much up and down movement and hardley any side to side movement but i am improving slowley.still going to PT and i am hopeing to return to work in 2 weeks time. My walking is still very slow. I still am getting a lot of random pains in my foot sometimes it will be on my heel and then the next on my sole sometimes the pain only lasts for a few minutes other times a few hours. But i guess this is all part of the healing process this is a very long recovery for this injury good luck to everyone
Feb 01, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		doctor visit NEW
by: Clark

I saw my surgeon yesterday for a checkup. She was amazed that I was barely limping due to the severity of my talus fracture. She put me on mobic for inflammation and had me fitted for a custom brace that is supposed to take alot of weight off the ankle when walking. I will pick it up in a few weeks and let everyone know how is works. I feel like I have come a long way since last April when this occured. The doctor referred me to another surgeon who does full ankle replacements. I will see this doctor in May of 2012. She thinks I would be a good candidate for this procedure. She said it would eliminate the severe arthritis I have developed and also give me more mobility. All in all I was happy with the visit. I am glad to read on here that many of you have improvements 2 to 3 years out. If I do decide to do an ankle replacement I want to wait and see how far this healing process goes and if I can live with the arthritis pain. Best wishes to all for continued recovery.
Feb 03, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Clark & C. King NEW
by: Steph

Hi Clark. I also have plantar fascitis. My surgeon gave me a shot similar to cortisone and my podiatrist ordered me Darco Body Armor Night Splints and custom shoe inserts. I also do my p.t. stretches in the morning after my shower. These things have helped me greatly. I rarely have plantar fascitis pain any more and when it does flare up, I just wear the night splints and it goes away again.

C. King...First, let me say thank you for starting these posts. They have meant so much to me during my healing. Also, I have not tried heels yet but I have tried some flat dress shoes, clogs and boots instead of my tennis shoes and it has went pretty well so maybe I will get brave and try some low chunky heels soon. I will keep you posted. I thought it was interesting that I now have to buy a half size bigger shoe than I used to before my injury.

Injury update...All in all, I would say I am doing pretty well considering the severity of my injury. I have been back to work full time at my desk job since April 2011. I still have stiffness and ache type pain in the mornings (probably due to the athritis I have developed) but once I get my shower, do my stretches, and get moving it usually goes away. I have the same stiffness and ache type pain when I sit too long. I also experience a muscle type pain when I over do it. It has been a year and six months since my injury...can anyone tell me if they continued to improve more than a year and a half after their injury?
Feb 03, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Steph NEW
by: CKing

Hi Steph! Good to hear from you. I am excited that your ankle has become stronger...strong enough to wear new (real) shoes. :o)

As far as SHOES go after an ankle injury: I wore socks and crocks for a long while. I began wearing a very good mountain boot with good ankle support. I had to remove the inner pad because my foot was larger from swelling. I also found a pair of boots with snaps instead of string-ties. This helped me to get into a short ankle boot better. I could actually pull the toungue of the shoe out really far and place my foot into the shoe. At that time, I could not point my foot enough to simply 'slip' into a pair of shoes.

I found crocks to be softer on my heal and more flexible later. I wore open-toed sandles with good arch support for a while too. All the while practicing walking straight and level. My foot still tends to turn in a bit, but much better!

It hasn't been until the last year that I was able (or brave enough) to try wearing a heel. Actually, it was more like a comfortable wedge. Forget the small, cute, or sexy strapped heels...no support for a wobbly ankle. Not to mention how silly I looked trying to walk normal. The heel of the shoe wasn't strong enough to hold me up while walking and I certainly DID NOT want to re-injure my ankle. That would be a nightmare!!

Last year I also found a pair of knee high and fashionable ;O) boots to wear. !!!!! They have a chunky heel, not a small pointed heel. Boots can be tricky to find too. Your foot ends up in a different angle and you want good arch support. I am still wearing a 1/2 size larger too, now in an 8. Oh well, at least I have progressed right. :o)

I know the guys think this is silly. But, shoes are important after an ankle injury and women love their heels. I took the safe road for a long time with flats. It's not so much about whether your ankle has healed enough to wear a higher heel, as much as it also has a lot to do with your confidence.

A break like ours is serious, crazy, painful, takes a long time to heal, and was a place I don't want to be again. The healing time takes a lot and challenges a person in many ways! It's not easy, but it can make you stronger both on the outside and the inside! I still have some pain on days, if I step wrong, or if the weather changes. I was told as long as I can keep moving it will be better in the long run. RUN? Not yet...ha, ha!! Thank you to everyone who continues to keep in touch. It helps us all. Even after the years.

Lately, I have found that if I step I feel a sort of 'catch' in my ankle/foot area. Not sure why. Maybe it's a sign that I am walking differently again. Maybe it is getting stronger still and my body is adjusting again. I don't have to keep my ankle elevated with ice anymore. Although, my friend continues to be ALEVE. All in all, my ankle is better and I am very thankful. As I still remember the day it happened and know my break could have been so much worse! Best wishes...
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Glad to have found this NEW
by: Anonymous

I broke my rt talus at the end of October. Now I have a plate and 5 pins. Just became able to bear weight and it is painful. Walking with a boot and walker at present. I start PT tomorrow and am glad to see there is hope. How long before you were able to drive? As of the "accident" I became unemployed - long story so along with the stress of surgery and recovery, I really need to find a job and not being able to drive is a big problem. The last thing I want to be is a burden on anyone.
On the bright side - I am so glad to hear you can wear real shoes! I can't wait to actually wear them. I miss heels!
Thanks for taking the time to write. There is not a whole lot of information from people who have actually experienced this kind of injury out there. Wishing you all a speedy recovery.
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus NEW
by: chris

i am going to be returning next week to work i have been off for six and a half months. I am still using a walking stick and still have a limp but need to get back to work i am still going to PT. For the last 2 weeks i have had pain on the bottom of my heel my PT gave me some silicon cups to wear in my shoe and they have helped.This injury takes a long time to heal but you have to stay positive.When i look back to 4 weeks ago i have come a long way i go out every day walking do my exercices and i also use my exercise bike but i do notice if i sit for a long time my ankle is very stiff and it takes me a little time to get going again.happy healing to everyone with this injury
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Remembering... NEW
by: cking

After my accident and on the way to the hospital we passed a funeral. I hoped during the x-rays and CT scan it wasn't so bad...my husband felt terrible and was more fearful of telling my mom about falling off the roof. I felt worse for him as he was having to re-live the accident when asked several (1oo) times, "What happened?" "You were doing what?" Then, after the surgery in the privacy of my hospital room the doctor reported just how serious my broken ankle was - saying to my husband, "This will take a long time to heal." He was thinking 3-4 weeks, maybe 5 weeks. I still remember the look on his face when she said, "No, at least 6 months!"

Whew!!! I remember it like yesterday. I can laugh about a few things now. Then, not so funny or fun. I look back and think how much I have healed and how far I have come since that crazy Sunday @ 3pm and I am ever so thankful because it could have been so much worse.

Don't be fooled: This is a l-o-n-g process...not days or weeks, but months and years. You will (or should) learn patience and how to slow down more. Remember that while some doors may close,other new doors will open.

Keep moving forward, keep thinking positive. You will see improvements...no matter how small. Each of us heals differently and at different rates. Each of our injuries are similar, yet different. However, we do share the bond of
a broken ankle, wondering when will I heal, and how long will this take, or asking is this normal. It's important that we continue to encourage and to be encouraged.

It's been years since my broken ankle and I still have a few problems such as stiffness, pain when I step wrong, coldness, limping at times. I know my ankle will never be the same. How could it be after the kind of break I endured? Not to mention: 1 pin and 3 screws.

I too have changed along the way. In a positive way. :o) I hope you all have a journey of strength, confidence, support, and healthy healing. I hope your journey brings you to a place that will be better than where you are now. Remember, pray DOES work. Try it. :o) Take care!
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus NEW
by: chris

Thanks C King for your kind words it really helps us all with this type of injury. Its good when you can talk to someone who has been through this as most people just dont understand how bad a injury this is.I am so glad i found this site.i can only say keep looking forward and pray. Good luck to everyone
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Fractured Talus NEW
by: Sandra

Hello to all,
I send prayers and best wishes to each of you. I am hoping to find some input to some symptoms that I have related to a lateral fracture of the talus with no seperation. The fracture occured 8 weeks ago from missing a step and twisting the ankel. It was misdiagnosed as a sprain for 2 weeks. The last 6 weeks, I have been in a moonboot air cast and no weight bearing. The pain has not been too bad. There is always some swelling regardless of whether it is elevated or not. However, HERE IS THE SYMPTOM THAT PUZZLES AND WORRIES ME: I use a walker. When I get up to use the walker, after I am up for as little as 30 seconds, my foot and the leg all the way up to the knee get very red. The foot feels lots of pressure and gets extremely dark. The leg gets very, very red. As soon as I lie back down, the normal color returns. I am afraid to stay up very long on the walker because of this. At this point, the doctor seem to think it is from trauma to blood vessels and swelling pushing against the vessels. They also say the muscles in my foot do not contract and move much due to the boot and so the muscles are not helping to push the blood back up. I can't find anyone else with an ankel injury who had these symptoms of the leg, so I hope some of you can advise or encourage me.I may get compression stockings soon. Will see the orthopedist for a follow up tomorrow and also follow up with vascular surgeon on Feb. 14. Was checked for blood clots and all was fine. Thanks to all for reading this and for any help you can offer. May God be with all of you and may HIs grace be sufficient for each of us. Praying healing for each of you and hope all will be improved as the season of spring and all its hope approaches. Thanks again. God bless.
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Fractured Talus NEW
by: Sandra

Hello to all,
I send prayers and best wishes to each of you. I am hoping to find some input to some symptoms that I have related to a lateral fracture of the talus with no seperation. The fracture occured 8 weeks ago from missing a step and twisting the ankel. It was misdiagnosed as a sprain for 2 weeks. The last 6 weeks, I have been in a moonboot air cast and no weight bearing. The pain has not been too bad. There is always some swelling regardless of whether it is elevated or not. However, HERE IS THE SYMPTOM THAT PUZZLES AND WORRIES ME: I use a walker. When I get up to use the walker, after I am up for as little as 30 seconds, my foot and the leg all the way up to the knee get very red. The foot feels lots of pressure and gets extremely dark. The leg gets very, very red. As soon as I lie back down, the normal color returns. I am afraid to stay up very long on the walker because of this. At this point, the doctor seem to think it is from trauma to blood vessels and swelling pushing against the vessels. They also say the muscles in my foot do not contract and move much due to the boot and so the muscles are not helping to push the blood back up. I can't find anyone else with an ankel injury who had these symptoms of the leg, so I hope some of you can advise or encourage me.I may get compression stockings soon. Will see the orthopedist for a follow up tomorrow and also follow up with vascular surgeon on Feb. 14. Was checked for blood clots and all was fine. Thanks to all for reading this and for any help you can offer. May God be with all of you and may HIs grace be sufficient for each of us. Praying healing for each of you and hope all will be improved as the season of spring and all its hope approaches. Thanks again. God bless.
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sandra NEW
by: cking

Welcome Sandra!

I hear your story and it's normal. I too was concerned about the coloring in my leg from foot to knee. It almost seemed to turn a purpleish color. I also asked my doctor about this and she assured me it was normal. Weird looking at both feet and legs: One is normal and the other is really red. I would notice it a lot when I stood up in the shower or when I wore open toed sandels. I was concerned about circulation too and my doctor assured me again that it was normal due to the trauma that occurred. Everything is trying to work again, trying to get back in place.

After be checked for possible circulation problems and after moving around more over time the coloring does return to normal. At least it did for me. It's another part of the healing stages. :o) And BELIEVE me...There are plenty of stages to go through.

I do still seem to be concerned about how my right ankle always seems to be so cold. I wear 2 socks at night and have a small floor heater under my desk at work. However, since I know my circulation is good and that I do not have any blood clots I just chalk-it-up to the injury. I know my ankle, leg, and hip won't be the same. I am sure other people with our same ankle injury can tell you about walking and knees and hips too. It's all joined together and can affect your back too. Eventually, it seems to level out...at least as best as it possibly can.

Good news now, my foot and leg match the other one. LOL Oh yeah, I almost forgot. You may also notice that after not being on your foot and due to the swelling...when you DO begin to stand on your healing ankle again, the bottom of your foot may seem to be a bit rounder than usual. That too is normal. Sort of like a new baby's foot. Have you ever noticed that before they begin to walk the bottoms of their feet are round too? Your foot will eventually flatten out again after you start placing weight on it.

Take Care! Keep posting if you want.
Feb 06, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		To: CKing NEW
by: Sandra

To: CKing
From: Sandra
Thank you so much for your prompt reply. I feel so much better!! It is so good to know that this leg coloration is a part of the injury that is to be expected. Thanks also for mentioning the roundness of the bottom of the foot. I have been noticing that about my foot in the past two weeks. I was wondering: as long as the foot and leg get dark when hanging down, -- is it dangerous to go ahead and stay up awhile - will it deprive too much flow and damage tissue? I only stay up a few minutes and then get back down because I fear causing damage. I would like to "hop" around more on my walker if I was not afraid of that.
I went back and read your story. You have come such a long way and with an injury so much worse than mine. You are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with all of us. Do you think that since my talus fracture is not as severe & no separation, that there is a chance for better circulation to it than the chances you overheard your doctor mention? I'll keep reading and will post again later. Thanks again. God bless.
Feb 07, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		broken talus NEW
by: chris

hi Sandra i to had the same as you with my leg turning red and even purple but as C King says it all part of the healing process i am now at five and a half months since my op and i still have a very slight pink tinge when i get up in the morning.you will go through different stages as you heal.I also have that rounded bottom of my foot.last week when i was out walking i noticed that my back started to ache but this week its a lot better i think when you go through the healing process you have all kinds of different pains and feelings.Good luck and god bless you
Feb 07, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Chris NEW
by: Sandra

Hello Chris,
Thank you so much for taking time to write and reassure me about the dark color of my foot and leg to the knee. That has been really scarey to me and my orthopedic doctor had no answers for me although he did send me for an ultrasound to rule out blood clots. It is a relief to know that others have experienced this. When the leg and foot get that dark, do you think it is dangerous to go ahead and stay up? Can letting it stay purple too long before you elevate it cause any damamage? I have gone back and read your story and I admire your strength and how far you have come. My injury did not require surgery; it's been eight weeks and I will start P.T. on Thursday. I am a bit apprehensive but hope I can do well with it and begin to little by little by little make some progress.The orthopedist says my ankle and foot is swollen lots more than he usually sees. That worries me, but perhaps that is just my own unique way of healing. Thanks again for your time and reassurance. I pray the best for you.
God bless, ---- Sandra : )
Feb 07, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Continuing my story NEW
by: Sandra

Hello to all,
I am new to this site and new to this injury so forgive me if I am posting too often and too detailed. Thanks for the responses I have received. As I mentioned, I have a lateral talus fracture from simply missing a step and twisting my ankel on Dec 15. It's been 8 weeks and orthopedist says my foot and ankel are swollen more than he is used to seeing. But, xrays look like all is in place and no seperation and I will start P.T. on Thursday. I haven't moved it any for 8 weeks and just him pushing on it some today in the office worsend the pain this eve so I am apprehensive of PT but also glad I can start it. He said to keep using the boot when I am up, -- or I can wear the little boot that laces up and has velcro and buy hiking boots and put the lace up boot down inside that. I can't quite figure that one out: I think I would need a size 6 boot for my good foot and a huge boot to accomodate my swollen foot plus the velcro boot. Just doesn't make sense to me and I am not sure what I can try other than just the continued use of aircast. I have never owned a pair of hiking boots and not sure what he has in mind. If anyone has advise, I'd love to hear it. Also, did anyone have constant swelling at 8 weeks. It doesn't matter if I elevate it, it is just swollen all the time although gets worse when I'm up. Please excuse my long email. Thanks for reading it and I admire each of you and your courage. I will pray for each of you. Take care and best wishes, Sandra
Feb 07, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Leg Muscle NEW
by: Kimberly

I just got the ok to start PT and my right leg will not straighten out sufficiently. Needless to say it is quite depressing. I broke the talus 13 weeks ago and until last week was non weight bearing on the injured leg. Is this normal? The therapist wasn't too concerned saying it is fixable but right now it feels like the end of the world.Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to make my leg straighten out quickly? Hoping you all are recovering quickly and thanks so much for this site.

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