Recovery time (ankle fracture with ORIF)

by Ben H
(Pittsburgh pa)

So i was playing for my high school baseball team and we were tied 0-0. I went to steal second slid wrong and dislocated my ankle and broke my fibula. That was april 21 and i had surgery the next day. I had two screws placed above my ankle, my doctor said the same as terrell owens.

I started therapy two weeks later and worked harder than i have ever in my life. Got almost full range back now and even running and jumping a little. Just found out a screw is broke tho and now second surgery an option.

Doctor said its not a must have but needed a second opinion. I'm still in high school and plan on playing this spring. Should i get the screws out? If not what do you think the chances of making a full recovery by spring is?

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Recovery time (ankle fracture with ORIF)

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Mar 15, 2010
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Status @ 4 weeks
by: Suman

Hi, this is suman again here.
Its been exactly 30 days since my accident and this weekend my cast was removed. The doctor took a look at the latest X ray , pressed the affected ankle a few times. It did not hurt so he said that the bone has healed..so no need for the synthetic cast any more. (yipeee :) :) ).
Advised me to walk with a single cruch now...(told me to use the crutch in left hand as my right ankle was fractured) and start walking slowly...he said I would regain full recovery in hopefully another two weeks.
After removing the cast I immediately tried to take a few steps but it was very painful as all the muscle around the joint was very stiff because of being in the cast for 30 days.

After coming home I put my leg in moderately hot water and that helped the muscles become a bit normal i guess. Anyway I am now writing from my office and I came here confidently today and have been walking on a single crutch.

Tried a few PT exercises but I guess it will take another 10-15 days as said by my Doc to regain pre aciident status.

People just hang in there and dont lose hope...
someone above knows about our problems and is working on healing all of us...
wishing a speedy recovery for all and happy healing,

Suman

Mar 12, 2010
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Hi @Anonymous
by: Anonymous

Hi,
I am male age 29..weight 80Kg's..a bit on the higher side which was the reason why I started to walk 8-9 K a day to get into shape. I broke my fibula in a bike accident on top of a hill (at 1200 metre above sea level). My bike skid on some sand and I went crashing down like they do in a Moto GP crash.. my frnd was with me and he broke his elbow. :(. His cast is cut and he is now on PT.

After the accident also I had some bearable pain in the ankle and thought that I might have sparined it... so drove all the way back to the medical facility which is some 70 miles from the place where the accident happened.

The doc said that I have kind of a hairline fracture and said that I dont need any surgery and that it will heal in 3-4 weeks..and also told that I can start walking on my cast from the 3rd week itself. Now my only concern is that i have been walking slightly in my house only since the 3rd week but everybody here suggests a non weight bearing period of 5-6 weeks, so I fear that i might have done some damage in this recovery period while walking like MalUnion of the bone or something else.
Tomorrow I will be visiting my doc for fresh X-Rays and probably my cast will be cut. Will come to know of the real scenario then like the swelling and other stuff.
Will keep you guys posted on my news. And yes I have been flexing all the muscles in my toes (which i can) and everything seems to be in order till now.
Best of luck to all and happy healing.

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Mar 12, 2010
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Hi, I am male age 29..weight 80Kg's..a bit on the higher side which was the reason why I started to walk 8-9 K a day to get into shape. I broke my fibula in a bike accident on top of a hill (at 1200 metre above sea level). My bike skid on some sand and I went crashing down like they do in a Moto GP crash.. my frnd was with me and he broke his elbow. :(. His cast is cut and he is now on PT. After the accident also I had some bearable pain in the ankle and thought that I might have sparined it... so drove all the way back to the medical facility which is some 70 miles from the place where the accident happened. The doc said that I have kind of a hairline fracture and said that I dont need any surgery and that it will heal in 3-4 weeks..and also told that I can start walking on my cast from the 3rd week itself. Now my only concern is that i have been walking slightly in my house only since the 3rd week but everybody here suggests a non weight bearing period of 5-6 weeks, so I fear that i might have done some damage in this recovery period while walking like MalUnion of the bone or something else. Tomorrow I will be visiting my doc for fresh X-Rays and probably my cast will be cut. Will come to know of the real scenario then like the swelling and other stuff. Will keep you guys posted on my news. And yes I have been flexing all the muscles in my toes (which i can) and everything seems to be in order till now. Best of luck to all and happy healing.

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Mar 11, 2010
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ORIF update
by: Anonymous

Hi... remember me? I fell in Spain in November. Well, I'm finally walking w/ no cane or crutches! Not far or for long periods, but walking. And no high heels! errr! I have been in therapy since before I was allowed to weight bear, and I think that helped a lot. I was doing exercises for the ankle/leg before I was rid of the boot. I still swell A LOT, and I can predict the rain 3 days before it gets here - and it sucks! Talk about ouch! That's the worst for me right now. The pins and plates have turned me into a weather vane. Not so fun. I have two big scars, but I supposed they're my badges of honor for the whole thing. And I may have to have the 2 medial pins out in June. It's a never ending injury. I am just glad to have my mobility back. I keep thinking how much I'd love to go for a run and that promptly sends my physical therapist into fits. Ha. I am swimming which still hurts quite a bit, but I can't sit anymore!!! No flip turns and if I push too hard off a wall w/the bad leg, it screams at me. And it swells everyday and more so if I've really been using it. It has been a long journey to get to here. And I can tell anyone who has just injured themselves... it never feels like you'll get to this point! But you will. And be grateful for walking. I am so glad that we have medicine in the world that can put us back together. I am truly grateful to my MD. And my best piece of advice for anyone newly injured: move your toes, move what you can even if it hurts (obviously only if you can w/ MD permission)... you will find it much easier to do your PT when it comes time if you already have range of motion. Good luck all!

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Mar 11, 2010
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Hi... remember me? I fell in Spain in November. Well, I'm finally walking w/ no cane or crutches! Not far or for long periods, but walking. And no high heels! errr! I have been in therapy since before I was allowed to weight bear, and I think that helped a lot. I was doing exercises for the ankle/leg before I was rid of the boot. I still swell A LOT, and I can predict the rain 3 days before it gets here - and it sucks! Talk about ouch! That's the worst for me right now. The pins and plates have turned me into a weather vane. Not so fun. I have two big scars, but I supposed they're my badges of honor for the whole thing. And I may have to have the 2 medial pins out in June. It's a never ending injury. I am just glad to have my mobility back. I keep thinking how much I'd love to go for a run and that promptly sends my physical therapist into fits. Ha. I am swimming which still hurts quite a bit, but I can't sit anymore!!! No flip turns and if I push too hard off a wall w/the bad leg, it screams at me. And it swells everyday and more so if I've really been using it. It has been a long journey to get to here. And I can tell anyone who has just injured themselves... it never feels like you'll get to this point! But you will. And be grateful for walking. I am so glad that we have medicine in the world that can put us back together. I am truly grateful to my MD. And my best piece of advice for anyone newly injured: move your toes, move what you can even if it hurts (obviously only if you can w/ MD permission)... you will find it much easier to do your PT when it comes time if you already have range of motion. Good luck all!

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Mar 11, 2010
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Hi Suman...
by: Anonymous

Hi... sounds like you're healing. Here's the thing about breaks: a lot depends on the type of fracture (spiral v. oblique etc) and how old you are, and where you broke it. Yes, your lateral malleolus is your fibula: its that bony outcropping at the outside of your ankle. You're extremely lucky you didn't need surgery. Most folks do. That says you may have a clean break, or perhaps even non-displaced. Which is perhaps why you didn't need surgery and are OK in a cast. I'm surprised the MD didn't cast in synthetic from the start? It would have been much simpler and you could have showered so easily - they can get wet. As for weight bearing: you probably shouldn't be weight bearing until the 6 week mark. Just to be sure. I can't see your films so I don't know what the break looks like - that said, I would imagine you're at least an adult of the 30something age - and 6 weeks - to even 8 weeks, is normal for non-weight bearing. Children heal very quickly when they break a bone, we as adults? Not so fast. So, take it easy and don't go walking 8k to work - take the bus or a cab, be good to your ankle, rest, and above all: don't take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. They inhibit bone regrowth. Paracetamol only. Next time you see your MD, ask if your bone has callused. IF there is a hazy formation around the break - your bone is healing well and you should be ok in no time! Do your physical therapy.. and as soon as you get the cast off... wiggle wiggle wiggle those toes and try to rotate and flex - dorsiflexion like you're flexing your foot towards your knee and plantarflex like you're pushing a gas pedal - as much as you can do, it will help you get well faster. And by all means use ice! It helps w/ swelling and you'll feel better. Good luck, and be patient! This will take time.

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Mar 11, 2010
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Hi... sounds like you're healing. Here's the thing about breaks: a lot depends on the type of fracture (spiral v. oblique etc) and how old you are, and where you broke it. Yes, your lateral malleolus is your fibula: its that bony outcropping at the outside of your ankle. You're extremely lucky you didn't need surgery. Most folks do. That says you may have a clean break, or perhaps even non-displaced. Which is perhaps why you didn't need surgery and are OK in a cast. I'm surprised the MD didn't cast in synthetic from the start? It would have been much simpler and you could have showered so easily - they can get wet. As for weight bearing: you probably shouldn't be weight bearing until the 6 week mark. Just to be sure. I can't see your films so I don't know what the break looks like - that said, I would imagine you're at least an adult of the 30something age - and 6 weeks - to even 8 weeks, is normal for non-weight bearing. Children heal very quickly when they break a bone, we as adults? Not so fast. So, take it easy and don't go walking 8k to work - take the bus or a cab, be good to your ankle, rest, and above all: don't take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. They inhibit bone regrowth. Paracetamol only. Next time you see your MD, ask if your bone has callused. IF there is a hazy formation around the break - your bone is healing well and you should be ok in no time! Do your physical therapy.. and as soon as you get the cast off... wiggle wiggle wiggle those toes and try to rotate and flex - dorsiflexion like you're flexing your foot towards your knee and plantarflex like you're pushing a gas pedal - as much as you can do, it will help you get well faster. And by all means use ice! It helps w/ swelling and you'll feel better. Good luck, and be patient! This will take time.

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Mar 10, 2010
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Ankle Fracture
by: Suman

Hi, this is suman. I had a bike accident on 13th Feb (one day before valentines day..all my dreams came crashing down). Doctors told I had a fracture in my Lateral mallelous (I guess at the end of the fibula). They suggested it would heal without having to do surgery ...the fracture was like 2-3mm so they initially put a Plaster of Paris Cast (White coloured) which was on for 5 days and after that a synthetic cast which is supposed to be there for 4 weeks. This weekend the 4 week period is getting over and I dont really know what to expect. They told I can start bearing some weight on the synthetic cast after after 2 weeks which i did...but after some research in internet I came to know that ideally you should not put any weight for 4-5 weeks. This is pretty scary for me now.
Just hope I will be able to walk normally after few days of PT sessions as I used to walk a lot (6-7Km daily as exercise).

Anybody has any similar experiences..please share..
Happy healing time for everyone. :)

Mar 09, 2010
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Getting there
by: Kaye

There are a lot of very brave and determined people here. I hope I'm being half as good.

I was in a car crash and had two fractures in my ankle and my leg broke near the ankle with a bone coming through the skin.

That was in September 09 and the surgeons did a brilliant job of putting me back together. Two screws in my ankle and a plate and 8 screws in my leg.

I was non-load-bearing for 10 weeks. I thought it was excessive but after the two times my crutches slipped and I felt the pain of a small load going through it, I had to concede.

The swelling was really high and I couldn't physically put a shoe on my foot until Christmas.

I now have a normal walk, when I have time to concentrate on it. Sloped and uneven surfaces (especially downhill) still get the better of me, but, as others on here seem to have experienced, I think thats more to do with balance than anything else now.

The only thing regarding motion in my ankle thats still worrying me is the feeling of a blockage in the centre at the front. It makes walking down stept awkward, as I have to put my good leg down first.

I have been discharged by physiotherapy...he said he thinks that last bit at the front it 'mechanical' which gives me the opinion that it won't get any better.

Can I just ask...has anyone on here come across synicism about the length of time your full recovery is taking? I think its just because a broken bone heals in 6 weeks. Thats what everyone seems to think.

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Mar 09, 2010
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Submitted by: Kaye

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There are a lot of very brave and determined people here. I hope I'm being half as good. I was in a car crash and had two fractures in my ankle and my leg broke near the ankle with a bone coming through the skin. That was in September 09 and the surgeons did a brilliant job of putting me back together. Two screws in my ankle and a plate and 8 screws in my leg. I was non-load-bearing for 10 weeks. I thought it was excessive but after the two times my crutches slipped and I felt the pain of a small load going through it, I had to concede. The swelling was really high and I couldn't physically put a shoe on my foot until Christmas. I now have a normal walk, when I have time to concentrate on it. Sloped and uneven surfaces (especially downhill) still get the better of me, but, as others on here seem to have experienced, I think thats more to do with balance than anything else now. The only thing regarding motion in my ankle thats still worrying me is the feeling of a blockage in the centre at the front. It makes walking down stept awkward, as I have to put my good leg down first. I have been discharged by physiotherapy...he said he thinks that last bit at the front it 'mechanical' which gives me the opinion that it won't get any better. Can I just ask...has anyone on here come across synicism about the length of time your full recovery is taking? I think its just because a broken bone heals in 6 weeks. Thats what everyone seems to think.

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Jan 29, 2010
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Hang In There!
by: Anonymous

I found this site and felt compelled to add my two cents. Had wrist ORIF surgery in mid-November '09, resulting in a plate and 10 screws. Not fun. Lots of tears. Painful and slow recovery. Started PT 3 weeks post-surgery. I'm not in my teens, so recovery is slower. I'm now in my 7th week of PT, and I'm about 60% there. Still working to regain the rest of my range of motion. Still feel pain and working through it, seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Just wanted to say, recovery is hard, but keep going to PT, exercising and stay positive. You'll have good days and bad days, but just remember your main goal of getting better! Best of luck to you all.

Jan 14, 2010
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Hockey Mishap continued
by: Kam Dhillon

So Finally the cast came off today after 4 weeks, and 5 weeks since the injury on December 9 and ORIF surgery. Had no idea what to expect. My foot looks and feels mangled. But its not bad. Doc said it healed perfect. Since this morning to the mid afternoon im bearing weight but I cant walk without some help. It seems like I just forgot how to walk! The foot just does not flex up towards me. I am walking with a cane kinda slow,heal, toe, heal, toe. Im just happy to be out of the cast, and off the crutchs(at least one of them), and putting on two shoes. I think I will walk the dog for the first time in a while. The more I walk the better it feels. Don't wanna over do it but it seems to get better with me just trying and pushing a bit. Have Physio tomorow and got 7 free sessions lined up starting next week which was nice. The foot is pretty swollen looking which has me worried. I will see what the Physio people think tomorrow. Im looking forward to hitting the swimming pool at my gym in the morning. I will be checking back with the doctor in 6 weeks. When asked if I will be playing hockey soon she said "you should be your old self by 6 weeks, see you then". Hope she is right. I will be working super hard to make it happen. Now is it LMNOP QRS? Wish you all the best with your injury! Will Post some positive news when it happens. Cheers.

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Jan 14, 2010
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Submitted by: Kam Dhillon

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So Finally the cast came off today after 4 weeks, and 5 weeks since the injury on December 9 and ORIF surgery. Had no idea what to expect. My foot looks and feels mangled. But its not bad. Doc said it healed perfect. Since this morning to the mid afternoon im bearing weight but I cant walk without some help. It seems like I just forgot how to walk! The foot just does not flex up towards me. I am walking with a cane kinda slow,heal, toe, heal, toe. Im just happy to be out of the cast, and off the crutchs(at least one of them), and putting on two shoes. I think I will walk the dog for the first time in a while. The more I walk the better it feels. Don't wanna over do it but it seems to get better with me just trying and pushing a bit. Have Physio tomorow and got 7 free sessions lined up starting next week which was nice. The foot is pretty swollen looking which has me worried. I will see what the Physio people think tomorrow. Im looking forward to hitting the swimming pool at my gym in the morning. I will be checking back with the doctor in 6 weeks. When asked if I will be playing hockey soon she said "you should be your old self by 6 weeks, see you then". Hope she is right. I will be working super hard to make it happen. Now is it LMNOP QRS? Wish you all the best with your injury! Will Post some positive news when it happens. Cheers.

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Jan 14, 2010
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ORIF people..
by: Anonymous

Hi.. .me the one who fell... I'm now at almost 7wx post op... I am in PT 3x a week but still no WB. NONE. PT stinks b/c they break up scar tissue in my leg when I go and it's super painful!!... and I am doing more and more movement. I have "great range of motion" according to the PTherapist. I'm even riding the stationary bike for 30 minutes at a time.. it's awesome!But still.. no weigh bearing! So.. I'm coming along. I can't imagine what it will be like to start bearing weight... I see the MD next week and hopefully I'll be allowed. I stood up by accident the other day, not thinking and put weight on it.. and it wasn't too bad! Tho I've been told it feels 'stumpy' to start walking again. We'll see...

For the person who just posted about being on 2 types of antibiotics... don't understand what they're worried about and why you're on 2... wouldn't a 2grams/day of something broad spectrum do the trick? You should ask your MD. Either way, you're GI tract is going to suffer. Eat a lot of yogurt! I got a small suture site infection - dissolving stitches don't agree with me - and I had to take some antibiotics for a few days and it cleared it right up. Also.. if you're in the airboot cast... you know those black squares of foam that come inside when you get it??? I was in a lot of pain and just padded the inside of the cast with those foam pieces right where it hurt most. Try that over your screw. And try keeping the paper tape on it.. maybe that will help a bit of the rubbing, as well. Thin blood will contribute to bruising, but should not affect too much else.. wonder why they said that to you? Are you on meds for BP? or blood thinners? that might have something to do with it... so... just eat really healthy - take your vitamin C, eat apples, drink your milk and if you get OJ w/ calcium, make sure it's calcium citrate. That's the more absorbable type of calcium. Better than calcium carbonate. So... before you know it.. you'll be 5--then 8 weeks post op and on your way. Also.. for anyone out there w/ this injury... get moving!!! wiggle your toes - A LOT~!!... try to flex/point your foot as soon as you can... your ankle is probably anchored pretty well if it's been screwed/plated/anchored etc or surgically fixed by an ORIF procedure.. so.. more you move? Less scar tissue and rehab to be 100%. Get moving! Good luck!!

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Jan 14, 2010
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Hi.. .me the one who fell... I'm now at almost 7wx post op... I am in PT 3x a week but still no WB. NONE. PT stinks b/c they break up scar tissue in my leg when I go and it's super painful!!... and I am doing more and more movement. I have "great range of motion" according to the PTherapist. I'm even riding the stationary bike for 30 minutes at a time.. it's awesome!But still.. no weigh bearing! So.. I'm coming along. I can't imagine what it will be like to start bearing weight... I see the MD next week and hopefully I'll be allowed. I stood up by accident the other day, not thinking and put weight on it.. and it wasn't too bad! Tho I've been told it feels 'stumpy' to start walking again. We'll see... For the person who just posted about being on 2 types of antibiotics... don't understand what they're worried about and why you're on 2... wouldn't a 2grams/day of something broad spectrum do the trick? You should ask your MD. Either way, you're GI tract is going to suffer. Eat a lot of yogurt! I got a small suture site infection - dissolving stitches don't agree with me - and I had to take some antibiotics for a few days and it cleared it right up. Also.. if you're in the airboot cast... you know those black squares of foam that come inside when you get it??? I was in a lot of pain and just padded the inside of the cast with those foam pieces right where it hurt most. Try that over your screw. And try keeping the paper tape on it.. maybe that will help a bit of the rubbing, as well. Thin blood will contribute to bruising, but should not affect too much else.. wonder why they said that to you? Are you on meds for BP? or blood thinners? that might have something to do with it... so... just eat really healthy - take your vitamin C, eat apples, drink your milk and if you get OJ w/ calcium, make sure it's calcium citrate. That's the more absorbable type of calcium. Better than calcium carbonate. So... before you know it.. you'll be 5--then 8 weeks post op and on your way. Also.. for anyone out there w/ this injury... get moving!!! wiggle your toes - A LOT~!!... try to flex/point your foot as soon as you can... your ankle is probably anchored pretty well if it's been screwed/plated/anchored etc or surgically fixed by an ORIF procedure.. so.. more you move? Less scar tissue and rehab to be 100%. Get moving! Good luck!!

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Jan 14, 2010
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Post ORIF, screw at skin
by: R

Lots of great info and experiences, thanx all.
I am 4.5 weeks post ORIF surgery, plate and 6 (I think) screws. Some swelling on the ankle and some pain. The doctor decided to put me on the air or boot casts mainly because he wants daily look at the ankle/wound since the screw that is required to come out some time later is almost at the skin and required one extra stitch this week (ie 4 week after surgery) and extra and different kind of antibiotics too, meaning I am on two antibiotics! Having a somewhat thin blood is not helping things.
On top of that there are and were big blisters on my heel and elsewhere that require(d) nurse work to clean.
Just jotting down my experince so far and hoping some of you guys have thoughts on my case.

Dec 26, 2009
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ORIF
by: Anonymous

Hi.. I too have had open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) of my right leg. I fell in Madrid, Spain the day before Thanksgiving. Was sent to a hospital there for a quick reduction w/ NO PAIN MEDS!!! Then open casted to make it home...HORRID! I managed to make it home on an excruciating flight for 10 hours - and then go to the emergency room and be checked in here in the States. I had the surgery on the 28th of November 2009, and am the proud owner of 10 screws a plate and some hooks - OH MY! (lions and tigers and bears anyone?). So, I am now 4 weeks post op exactly and I could scream!!!! I am so tired of sitting still - just like everyone else! And all I can think about is how much work I'm going to have to do to get my legs back in to shape when this is over. I am still experiencing pain - sharp mostly, but also aches in my whole leg - it was quite a fall. I am allowed to take the boot off and do a little "exercise" of learning to tap my foot again. Talk about a hard task after all the surgery - who would have thunk it! I will start acupuncture on Monday and also some light therapy to run thru modalities. I'm looking forward to weight bearing again! And I don't even get to see the MD until January 19th! UUGGHHH!!!! That puts me at about 8 weeks... Jan 28th is 8 weeks from the surgery. How do you all get thru it? If anyone wants to pass along suggestions... I'm all ears! By the way - anyone who has recovered from a trimalleolar: are you limping? How was the recovery? How long did it take to be walking fully without a limp? And how long until you were running/jumping/going up and down stairs without a problem? Also, how hard was the physical therapy after? And what was most beneficial/biggest waste of time? If anyone has been thru this... please!!! .. comment.. I'd love to know! And best of luck to everyone who is still working thru this! It's really hard work!

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Dec 26, 2009
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Hi.. I too have had open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) of my right leg. I fell in Madrid, Spain the day before Thanksgiving. Was sent to a hospital there for a quick reduction w/ NO PAIN MEDS!!! Then open casted to make it home...HORRID! I managed to make it home on an excruciating flight for 10 hours - and then go to the emergency room and be checked in here in the States. I had the surgery on the 28th of November 2009, and am the proud owner of 10 screws a plate and some hooks - OH MY! (lions and tigers and bears anyone?). So, I am now 4 weeks post op exactly and I could scream!!!! I am so tired of sitting still - just like everyone else! And all I can think about is how much work I'm going to have to do to get my legs back in to shape when this is over. I am still experiencing pain - sharp mostly, but also aches in my whole leg - it was quite a fall. I am allowed to take the boot off and do a little "exercise" of learning to tap my foot again. Talk about a hard task after all the surgery - who would have thunk it! I will start acupuncture on Monday and also some light therapy to run thru modalities. I'm looking forward to weight bearing again! And I don't even get to see the MD until January 19th! UUGGHHH!!!! That puts me at about 8 weeks... Jan 28th is 8 weeks from the surgery. How do you all get thru it? If anyone wants to pass along suggestions... I'm all ears! By the way - anyone who has recovered from a trimalleolar: are you limping? How was the recovery? How long did it take to be walking fully without a limp? And how long until you were running/jumping/going up and down stairs without a problem? Also, how hard was the physical therapy after? And what was most beneficial/biggest waste of time? If anyone has been thru this... please!!! .. comment.. I'd love to know! And best of luck to everyone who is still working thru this! It's really hard work!

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Dec 20, 2009
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Recovery time
by: Four Weeks post op and counting

When I originally wrote on this page, my accident happened July 31, 2009. Since then as of December 20, I am back to may walking pace of a 4.5. Ankle is still swollen. The dr. says it will be that way for awhile. I have two plates put in, one on the tibia and fibula bone with plenty of screws on both. First of November, they had me use an EBI Bone stimulator to promote bone growth in the middle of the tibia and fibula area where the bone had splintered. This is working well, from the last xrays. I am hoping to start skiing this winter. So we will see. I expect a full recovery, with a possibility of one of the screws nearest the ankle bone needing to come out in the future. Best thing I can advise to do is keep up with ones physical therapy exercices, and keep stretching your ankle to get the original range of motion back. I am sure there is a rainbow at the end of this tunnel somewhere. I am 45, active, woman, that can't be settled down. So after 8 weeks on crutches, non weight bearing, in a boot cast (not plaster), there is hope. Hang in there.

Dec 20, 2009
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Hockey Mishap
by: Kam Dhillon

So I broke my left fibula on December 9th. Needed a plate and screw(s?) due to the high and angled break. Now all I can think of is when Ill be playing hockey and snowboarding again. Ankles in a cast now until January 14th 2010. I am wiggling toes and excercising them up and down as much as I can. I cant tell you how depressing it is and how I am counting the days to get back to the doctors office. After reading some of the blogs here I have to say I love Canadian Health Care so far. I have been well cared for without thinking of insurance and money. Cant imagine that stress on top of this. Anyways im a active athletic 32 year old guy wondering what to expect. Id be happy to just be able to cycle and run or swim asap while I strenghen up for summer. I have heard so many bad storys of long recovery and pain and some positive ones of quick recovery. Im thinking the people with good recoveries get on being active again and dont look back and write to guys like me that need them while im feeling so sad. Anyways I hope on the 14th of jan I get out of this cast and can at least walk with out the crutches. heres to hoping. I wish you all a speedy recovery. I will bookmark this and not forget to write when I recover. cheers
Any hockey players please write.

Oct 03, 2009
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Shattered Right Ankle
by: Angie

Hi everyone. I shattered my right ankle on July 3rd 2007 and I am still walking in an aircast and have very minimum motion in it. I have had surgery on it were the doctors placed 6 screws in it. A few months back I was told that the bones are now detirrating and 4 of the 6 screws has moved. The doctors are now saying that I have to have another surgery to fuse the bones together and load and behold my insurance is saying that this is an elective surgery. Guys I didn't know wanting to be able to walk regular or semi normal was elective. Out of the 2 1/2 years since the accident there was only 1 month that I didn't feel pain and that was when I was placed in a cast to completely demobilize my ankle so that I will know what it feels like to have it fused. After that I told the doctors okay lets do this cause I feel great. Now the insurance company is whats stopping it. They don't understand what it feels like to be in pain every single day and not be able to walk the way you used to and when you do walk it hurts like crazy and by the end of the day and your ready to go to sleep you have to take pain pills just to not feel the pain and be able to sleep. Does anyone have any thoughts on what I can do to help stop all this pain or to get the ball rolling so that I can have this surgery.

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Oct 03, 2009
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Submitted by: Angie

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Hi everyone. I shattered my right ankle on July 3rd 2007 and I am still walking in an aircast and have very minimum motion in it. I have had surgery on it were the doctors placed 6 screws in it. A few months back I was told that the bones are now detirrating and 4 of the 6 screws has moved. The doctors are now saying that I have to have another surgery to fuse the bones together and load and behold my insurance is saying that this is an elective surgery. Guys I didn't know wanting to be able to walk regular or semi normal was elective. Out of the 2 1/2 years since the accident there was only 1 month that I didn't feel pain and that was when I was placed in a cast to completely demobilize my ankle so that I will know what it feels like to have it fused. After that I told the doctors okay lets do this cause I feel great. Now the insurance company is whats stopping it. They don't understand what it feels like to be in pain every single day and not be able to walk the way you used to and when you do walk it hurts like crazy and by the end of the day and your ready to go to sleep you have to take pain pills just to not feel the pain and be able to sleep. Does anyone have any thoughts on what I can do to help stop all this pain or to get the ball rolling so that I can have this surgery.

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Sep 16, 2009
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Ankle Stiffness Swelling
by: Deirdre

Hi,
On June 18, 2009, I had a terrible accident where both ankles, heels were shattered and 1 bone in right calf was broken. Had surgery on June 24th and was in the hospital for almost a month. On July 7th was released from hospital wearing 2 boots and could not bear weight. Have been going to physical therapy 2x per week and just got up Monday. Doctor told me to use walker until next appointment on Sept. 30. The stiffness and pain are awful. My physical therapist says it is atrophy and from not using the muscles and tendons. I understand this but I can see a screw coming out of my ankle bone where there is alot of pain. Has anyone experienced this pain, stiffness and swelling before? Please advise of any experiences, advice and anything for relief. Advil doesn't help. I had traumatic injuries and was also told that the hardware will remain. Thanks

Sep 07, 2009
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Day 4 post op hardware removal
by: Anonymous

My discharge paperwork said 23:40 hours a day I am to be on my butt w my leg elevated above my heart for 4 days. Today is the 4th day. I am doing pretty well. I live in a 3 story townhouse so I set up an op center on the floor w a kitchen and the bathroom. Last night I deflated the aero bed and went to sleep in my bed after I crawled up stairs. I could be at my Mom's but I prefer to be at my house. I have Puffy Joe cast on and I feel like it is tight so I sit w it elevated. For some reason I don't feel like going to sleep at bedtime so I stay up really late.

I had the hardware removed because of the swelling that I had the screws on the inside of my ankle were coming out. I could see the sillouette (SP?)in my skin!

I feel funny taking pain meds but have been taking them to "stay ahead of the pain." I think I will go on an outing to the mailbox today...whooie! I am going to hire a trainer and get back in shape. I have always been in great shape but since this happened a year ago...just has not been the same. I used to lift, run, do tri's, tons of swimming, cycling etc....I want it back. It is going to take time. I turn 40 in Feb...I just have to remember how lucky I am to be alive after getting hit by the car. I am lucky not to have brain damage etc...This is small stuff.

Sep 07, 2009
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Recovery
by: Four Weeks post op and counting

I went to the dr.for 4 weeks and 3 days post op on the 1st of Sept and said it is slowly recovering. So he wants 3-4 more weeks of non weight bearing. Bummer. So I am still trying to exercise my leg the best I can to minimize muscle loss. With this 3 lb. boot on, it helps with the exercises on the floor. I asked about the hardware removal, and his advise was that it doesn't usually come out unless a year later and if it's actually bothering. So we will see how that goes. I am anxious to start weight bearing on it, since I am so tired of these crutches. My right leg has had several knee surgeries on it, and it gets pretty tired easitly now that it's the main weight bearing leg.
I don't wish anyone to ever go through this, but as life has it, accidents do happen. Hang in there, think of different ways of working around a tri-pod experience and just get out and enjoy life as best as one can. Hey, if flamingos can stand on one leg for a long time, I guess we can build up to that too. Will post after dr. appointment on the 22nd of Sept.

Sep 05, 2009
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Hardware removed
by: Anonymous

I got my 5 screws and a plate removed on the the 3rd. I also got a scope to make sure the cartligde is still in my ankle due to pain where my foot and ankle meet.

The pain is great. The doc says to keep my foot elevated 23 hours and 40 min per day! OMG that is bathroom breaks only! WOW! I am going to lose my mind I am certain. I insisted on coming to my house rather than moms. I have a blow up bed in my living room which is the same floor as a bathroom and the kitchen. I have a follow up on the 11th the Doc said that he thought I would be weight bearing by then. For now, I am no weight bearing. So can someone tell me what is next?

Aug 30, 2009
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kind of similar
by: Anonymous

Mine is kind of similar to yours because I have pretty movement still. Mine was barely dislocated, like a 1/4". I had a tri-mal but a very good one compared to others I have read about and x-rays I have seen. Also, I did break four metatarsals acrossed the top of my foot but they aren't playing into recovery yet. The timeline for recovery is what drove me crazy, so I wanted to give you mine. You want to know what to expect but this injury can be so different depending on person, injury, health and doctor/physical therapist....age. I'm 49.

I'm also pretty active, not sports related but daily exercise, walking, hiking, gardening. Apparently more active than I thought because its driving me crazy to be inactive.

Injury was June 27th, surgery because of bad diagnosis was July 11th. I got a hard cast ten days after surgery, I think July 21 or 22. When she put it on she had to force my foot out of a more pointed position. I almost threw up it hurt so much. I didn't want to have to do that again. So I had about an inch that I could play with in my cast. I kept moving my foot up and down. I also tried to keep my thigh working. I still lost muscle mass, I was actually surprised how much. I had that cast 3 weeks. My doctor was surprised how much ROM I had so he gave me the walking boot and said keep moving it, I can put 25 lbs of pressure on it, I do gentle circles. I use therapy bands (which are great). With my foot flat on the floor I loop it under it. I gently pull up to force a flexion. When its up I gently push down with my foot to work my calf muscle. It feels great and I can see it flexing a little in there. I also do side leg lifts to work my hip muscles, which are so loose. Again, it shocked me to see my muscles deteriorate like that.

I have hardware too screws, plate. I also have a 3" screw that has to be removed in about four weeks now. I was told I won't get to bear much weight until that is out. Then I have to weight three to four weeks for that hole to heal. Then my understanding is I get to bear weight as tolerated. I feel so lucky to not have had problems.

Anyway, I hope that helps some. As I said recovery timeline was frustrating. Good luck.

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Aug 30, 2009
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Mine is kind of similar to yours because I have pretty movement still. Mine was barely dislocated, like a 1/4". I had a tri-mal but a very good one compared to others I have read about and x-rays I have seen. Also, I did break four metatarsals acrossed the top of my foot but they aren't playing into recovery yet. The timeline for recovery is what drove me crazy, so I wanted to give you mine. You want to know what to expect but this injury can be so different depending on person, injury, health and doctor/physical therapist....age. I'm 49. I'm also pretty active, not sports related but daily exercise, walking, hiking, gardening. Apparently more active than I thought because its driving me crazy to be inactive. Injury was June 27th, surgery because of bad diagnosis was July 11th. I got a hard cast ten days after surgery, I think July 21 or 22. When she put it on she had to force my foot out of a more pointed position. I almost threw up it hurt so much. I didn't want to have to do that again. So I had about an inch that I could play with in my cast. I kept moving my foot up and down. I also tried to keep my thigh working. I still lost muscle mass, I was actually surprised how much. I had that cast 3 weeks. My doctor was surprised how much ROM I had so he gave me the walking boot and said keep moving it, I can put 25 lbs of pressure on it, I do gentle circles. I use therapy bands (which are great). With my foot flat on the floor I loop it under it. I gently pull up to force a flexion. When its up I gently push down with my foot to work my calf muscle. It feels great and I can see it flexing a little in there. I also do side leg lifts to work my hip muscles, which are so loose. Again, it shocked me to see my muscles deteriorate like that. I have hardware too screws, plate. I also have a 3" screw that has to be removed in about four weeks now. I was told I won't get to bear much weight until that is out. Then I have to weight three to four weeks for that hole to heal. Then my understanding is I get to bear weight as tolerated. I feel so lucky to not have had problems. Anyway, I hope that helps some. As I said recovery timeline was frustrating. Good luck.

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Aug 29, 2009
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Four Weeks post op and counting
by: 4 wheeler goof

I had fractured my tibia and fibula bone in the ankle on July 31, 09. It broke just above the ankle joint so I can still move my ankle abit. I had surgery the next day and they put plates and screws on both sides of the ankle. I was put in a boot cast on Aug 11 I have been non weight bearing for the whole four weeks and am hoping for weight bearing after the 6 weeks. What is the time frame for this type of injury? When should I be concerned about getting the hardware out? Any advice? I have been very active all my life, I am 45 yr old female. I have been trying to keep this leg in use by lying on the floor and doing a bicycle motion with it (with boot cast on) to keep my leg from being week. Plus any other non weight bearing exercises that I can think of that won't rightly affect the ankle at this time. Any advice will be appreciated.

Aug 23, 2009
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see another OS
by: Anonymous

Where do I start...for getting scared. Thank you for calling them ups and downs. I call them that too but figured there was a technical term I didn't know. After reading your story, I would urge you to get a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon. All your questions are valid. I've read a lot of these stories on several sites and the balance thing is a new one. if the mobility isn't coming back and you did this in January. I broke mine almost two months ago. I have a trimalleolar and broke four metatarsals in my foot, lots of screws and a plate. I'm very proud of my ups and downs and do gentle circles. I can only bear 25 lbs at this point because some of the screws I have in have to come out in four weeks (yea). My doctor did say when the time comes after a year, he would be happy to take out the hardware if its bothering me or it can stay in if its not. It is definitely not uncommon to take it out, many people have trouble with it. It should have been explained thoroughly to you why you had to have the surgery. I'm 49 and doing okay with all my broken bones and I have a daughter your age. I would absolutely recommend that second opinion to her knowing what I know now. Post it too, I would like to know what they said. Good luck :)

Aug 23, 2009
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Hang in there and insist if you must
by: Kris L

Please get a second opinion if your doctor tells you it's uncommon to get the hardware taken out. I broke my fibula in Dec. 2008 and had my hardware taken out in April because of constant pain and swelling. I can't tell you how different I felt and how much quicker I healed. I'm still working daily at recovery but I can see the end of the tunnel. My surgeon told be going into the 1st surgery that I could have the plate and pins taken out if I wanted. Sometimes it hampers walking is certain types of shoes and it is uncomfortable. Insist if you must, but hardware is taken out.

Aug 23, 2009
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bimalleolar fracture
by: Anonymous

Hi,
I fractured my left ankle about 8 weeks ago (bimalleolar). Had surgery 1 plate and about eight screws put in. Now using elbow crutches. I am still in a lot of pain and have swelling of the ankle. I am in my mid 50's. This has been a shock to my system. I broke my ankle just getting out of bed.
I used to walk 5 days a week,and I am finding the lack of exercise very hard. I can notice my fitness levels drop day by day. I am not allowed to drive yet and am still very dependent on others. I am doing the exercises my physio suggested and weight bearing as much as I can. Any suggestions as to what else I can do would be very much appreciated.
I don't know whether to get the hardware out or keep it in, my surgeon suggests we look at this in 12 months time.

Aug 23, 2009
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8 months in... getting scared.
by: Anonymous

I flunked skiing back in January ended up breaking the inside of my ankle. the x-ray resembled a wishbone. I had surgery a week later, two screws a plate and some pins. At first I thought things were going well. I live in the mountains and the cold really affected the metal in my leg. It hurts when its cold outside. It hurts when it's raining. After about the six month mark i've started to get more and more concerned. The mobility isn't coming back. I've done the exercises they've told me. the Up and downs, balancing on your bad leg, BTW anybody else have trouble with their balance? I tend to tip to my right side after oh... five seconds. I've gotten in swimming pools done the ankle circle thing.. I still hurt. But I think more disturbing is that even though i'm not that aware of it I limp.. The people that I work with tell me when i'm not walking well. And it's usually after less than four hours into my work day. And after looking at the soles of my shoes the one with the break is a lot more broken down than my good side. My doctor for recovery was different than my surgeon but he told me that it's very uncommon to get hardware removed after surgery and that it usually stays in permenantly. I wasn't given a choice on whether to have the surgery I'm twenty-six a little young to be dealing with these problems if they are going to be permenant. and, dang it all I want to wear a pair of heels again. Any advice, or personal experiences?

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Aug 23, 2009
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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I flunked skiing back in January ended up breaking the inside of my ankle. the x-ray resembled a wishbone. I had surgery a week later, two screws a plate and some pins. At first I thought things were going well. I live in the mountains and the cold really affected the metal in my leg. It hurts when its cold outside. It hurts when it's raining. After about the six month mark i've started to get more and more concerned. The mobility isn't coming back. I've done the exercises they've told me. the Up and downs, balancing on your bad leg, BTW anybody else have trouble with their balance? I tend to tip to my right side after oh... five seconds. I've gotten in swimming pools done the ankle circle thing.. I still hurt. But I think more disturbing is that even though i'm not that aware of it I limp.. The people that I work with tell me when i'm not walking well. And it's usually after less than four hours into my work day. And after looking at the soles of my shoes the one with the break is a lot more broken down than my good side. My doctor for recovery was different than my surgeon but he told me that it's very uncommon to get hardware removed after surgery and that it usually stays in permenantly. I wasn't given a choice on whether to have the surgery I'm twenty-six a little young to be dealing with these problems if they are going to be permenant. and, dang it all I want to wear a pair of heels again. Any advice, or personal experiences?

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Aug 20, 2009
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all of it is out
by: Anonymous

I fell down the stairs and broke my fibula Sept. 08. Tore the ligaments and had ORIF surgery a week later. 1 plate, 8 screws and it took 8 weeks till I could walk. Lots of swelling and stiffness so they took out the 3 long ones that went through tibia. That helped but I've had constant ache and swelling since. I went in last week and had them take the rest of the hardware out and it feels great! I still have stitches in and I can't wait to get back to running and even jumping if I want!! I know it will be 100% soon. They said I could start running in 4 weeks. Hang in there, listen to your body and give these injuries time, they take a lot of it and are different for everyone.

Aug 18, 2009
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You get there eventually :)
by: Anonymous

I can't say how you will recover, but I bet you do great. I was where you are now a month ago and I didn't know what my future was going to be. But you are young and that makes a word of difference. I broke my ankle, a tri-malleolar and four of the metatarsal bones in the top of my foot. I didn't have cleats on but did have flip-flops and was running down a hiking trail in Hawaii. They got stuck on a step and they I did the same thing you did basically and the same surgery with a syndesmosis screw that comes out in six more weeks (can't wait).

Not knowing what to expect was the worst feeling. It did change about a week ago when I had the best doctor appointment. I have managed to maintain my range of motion which is way ahead of what it should be. I wiggled my toes in the hard cast, if they say you can do it. I would move my foot up and down in the cast. I had about 1" of room when it wasn't swollen. Keep it up, keep the swelling down. It is boring but do it as much as you can. After doing that with my hard cast, in four weeks he gave me a walking boot. Now I can put 25 lbs of pressure on it, move it in gentle circles and up and down. I'm trying to get as much range of motion as I can now because that will make PT easier and faster.

Give yourself a few months to heal and adjust. Just know there is an end to it. I'm months from the end too but I know its there after reading some of the good stories. I had some of the downest days, we all do. That gets better too. Good luck, you do fine...its just slow.

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Aug 18, 2009
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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I can't say how you will recover, but I bet you do great. I was where you are now a month ago and I didn't know what my future was going to be. But you are young and that makes a word of difference. I broke my ankle, a tri-malleolar and four of the metatarsal bones in the top of my foot. I didn't have cleats on but did have flip-flops and was running down a hiking trail in Hawaii. They got stuck on a step and they I did the same thing you did basically and the same surgery with a syndesmosis screw that comes out in six more weeks (can't wait). Not knowing what to expect was the worst feeling. It did change about a week ago when I had the best doctor appointment. I have managed to maintain my range of motion which is way ahead of what it should be. I wiggled my toes in the hard cast, if they say you can do it. I would move my foot up and down in the cast. I had about 1" of room when it wasn't swollen. Keep it up, keep the swelling down. It is boring but do it as much as you can. After doing that with my hard cast, in four weeks he gave me a walking boot. Now I can put 25 lbs of pressure on it, move it in gentle circles and up and down. I'm trying to get as much range of motion as I can now because that will make PT easier and faster. Give yourself a few months to heal and adjust. Just know there is an end to it. I'm months from the end too but I know its there after reading some of the good stories. I had some of the downest days, we all do. That gets better too. Good luck, you do fine...its just slow.

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Aug 17, 2009
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i dislocated my ankle
by: elviss

I'm 18 years old, and dislocated my ankle while playing soccer. I slid and my soccer cleats studs got caught to the grass and I went the other way. This happen july 27, I had an ORIF surgery the following day july28, 2009. The doctors said I dislocated my ankle and completley destoyed all my ligaments. I had 10 screws and a metal plate put in, is there a possiblity that I will be able to play again? Any guesses on how long i'll be on crutches? I had my hard cast on put on Aug5.

Aug 09, 2009
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Still recovering
by: Kris L

I've really found this sight to be helpful, as I blogged here, back on April 8, 2009. Just an up-date on my recovery. I've finally gotten a lot of my movement back in the left ankle after breaking my fibula. I had the hardware (plate and screws) taken out on April 7th because I had infection, pain, and a loose screw. It is now August 9th and I STILL experience swelling and pain if I'm on the ankle to long. I can however, walk further and faster than in the past and I can stand longer without shooting pains. I truly beleive it will be a year long recovery, which I was told from the beginning. My original break was December 29th of 2008.

Aug 09, 2009
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Getting it removed
by: Hit by car on while on bike

I was hit by a car Aug 23 08. I have been running with pain, swimming w pain living my life w pain and swelling at the end of every day. I had a bilateral L ankle break, a R ankle break, traumatic brain injury, and a lot of road rash.
I went to the doctor and they gave me motrin....OMG! I went back to my PT and he shot some more xrays and yes the screws are coming out! I am so glad that there is a reason for the continued pain! I am sched for pre op on the 18th and hardware removal on the 3rd of Sept. I am thinking that the bone is healed right so they just go back in the same incisions and yank the hardware out, right? Easy Day. I really am interested in how long I will be laid up. Right now I am not deployable and am very much looking forward to deploying again. I am right at the year mark of my accident and I am very lucky to be alive but I want to get on with it!

If you can, please give me a snapshot of what removal and recovery will be? I am at the wrong age to be laying around...know what I mean! I gotta be active!

Aug 02, 2009
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umm
by: Anonymous

Well It was just horriable for me, I started walking about Feb-Its my left ankle so I did get to drive.It has changed my life-I wish you luck..I did wish that I took advanatge of the time off and relaxed more I was on a ladder painting with my boot on.

Aug 02, 2009
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Recovery
by: Jeannie Vawter

I'm sorry to hear you are now without insurance. Unfortunately I am the same. Luckily we have funds to pay the bills as they come in. I don't know if I will though when it comes time to remove the hardware.

I was interested in your timeline of recovery. I'm only four weeks or so out from surgery. I did find out I have 11 screws a plate, there is the bolt too. They said the bolt will come out in 10 to 12 weeks and I can't weight bear for four weeks after that. Then it's light weight only at home in the house. How long was it before you were in physical therapy? This is my right ankle and I can't even drive myself.

I was also interested in your pain now. I'm fairly active and am concerned with being able to have consistent mobility for a day. I guess I have trouble just not knowing what to expect.
And, I am soooo sick if these crutches.

Jeannie

Aug 01, 2009
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i need advice
by: brooke

I had surgey in late oct 08 Its going into Aug and I have swelling and very stiff at least %50 off my day Iam pretty active,but its pretty painful still oh and it clicks and pops..I have no more insurnce..this whole thing is depressing
9 screws and 1 plate..any advice

Jul 12, 2009
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trimalleolar fracture and ORIF
by: Jeannie V

I have a trimalleolar fracture of my ankle. I didn't have surgery until 11 days past the hiking accident. I was on Hawaii. They didn't diagnose all the broken bones. Besides the three in my ankle I broke the ones across the top of my foot. My doctor here at home is great. He doesn't mince words though. He said the ankle will not be what gives me problems in the long run. It will be the fractures across the top of my foot. I had surgery just three days ago. I do have a bolt (to be removed in a few weeks) through all bones to hold it tight for now, a plate and screws (not sure how many). I've been concerned about recovery time. It looks like six months to a year and is really individual. I was thinking the best move would be to remove all hardware when its safe and after reading these I think that is the right course. Nice to read peoples experiences. Just remember its quite different per person, age, health, activity level.

Jun 09, 2009
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Fracture
by: Abram

Ima 16 years young football playing weight lifter. one day i was on my way back home and got in a car accident. fractured the inside part of my ankle. I had surgery a week later. I know everything will be fine the doc gave me a boot for 10 days and a cast for 4 weeks. he said i will be the same. And i have faith in God. I know i will be the same on the field and in the weightroom. What do you guys think?

Apr 08, 2009
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Hoping for a fast recover
by: Kris L.

I fell down steps and broke my fibula which required a plate and six screws. Broke the bone on Dec 29, 08, had surgery Jan 2. Had nothing but problems with my incision closing. My ankle was constantly swelled and I had a constant tugging on the ankle. After many visits to the doctor we decided to take out the plate and screws in case there was a bateria infection. Just has surgery yesterday April 6th and found out that I had a loose screw that was probably causing most of the problems. I would advise anyone with plate and screws to have them removes as soon as possible. I've heard to many storys about the screws coming loose and or coming out. Might as well get is all taken care of once you're somewhat use to the crutches. It's a pain and has been a long haul (4 months) and will probably be 6 months by the time I'm completely healed and walking well again. I wouldn't wish this type of break on my worst enemy!

Feb 24, 2009
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recovery
by: Anonymous

I wasn't allowed any recovery period after I had 10 screws & a plate removed from my ankle. My husband demanded I cook his dinner and perform all my usual household tasks. He thinks since it was day surgery it is painless.

Oct 29, 2008
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THANKS
by: Anonymous

thanks everyone, this news is all great. It was a long summer but i'm glad to hear its probly gonna be a fun spring, thanks for all the comments and info.

Oct 29, 2008
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Ankle surgery hardware removal recovery
by: Anonymous

HI,
My daughter (17) just got her plate and 6 screws removed today actually...it is a good move. The surgery was much easier than the first after the break. She is also on her school basketball team and was able to play from Sept. until now with the hardware in. She broke it and had surgery back in May 08. The screws and plate were causing a lot of irration and swelling and they decided to deal with it now rather than the orginally planned spring 2009. We were told 6 weeks and physio and it is back to sports with a ankle brace support.
She actually was thrilled on how little pain there was this time compared to last time coming out of the O.R into recovery. She can begin to put a bit of weight on it starting tomorrow.
Good Luck!

Oct 29, 2008
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screw removal
by: Bart - SII

Removing hardware after an ORIF surgery is usually a straight forward procedure that doesn't have a long recovery time. I would guess 2-3 weeks max.

You should be good to go for the spring season.

Bart