Sharon - 33 Female, Skiing accident

by Sharon
(Australia)

I was skiing Snow Summit in California, Big Bear Lake. We had been skiing all morning and I was looking forward to 4 days on the slopes. Just after a morning lesson I decided to try out my new skills on a black run. (I am not a great skier but this wasn't my first time either). So about 100 meters down the mountain I turned quicker then I was comfortable with to miss a snowboarder and I fell. My ski bindings didn't come undone and I was lying straight down the mountain with both legs stuck behind me. Funny to look at - but embarassing too.
I heard a crack in my left leg and I cried out for help. I got taken down the the first aid room and spent a good hour with Ice on my knee. I felt much better so my husband and I went back to the hotel. I spent the rest of the day in front of the TV with my leg up.
The next morning it was sore but nothing too bad so we went back to the slopes for the rest of our holiday. In hindsight I probably shouldn't have but I didn't want to ruin our time. I skiied with pain killers and it wasn't too bad. It hurt a bit but mostly at the end of the days. It wasn't until a week later when we were flying back to Australia when I thought something was really up. It was a 15 hour flight and each time I got up to go to the restroom or just for a walk I felt like an 80 year old. The pain was terrible.

I decided after being home for a couple of days that I needed help. I went to see the Physio and he examined by leg. He went and got the other physio to have a look and they both looked like their cats had died when they told me that they beleived I had done my ACL. An MRI confirmed it. Now i am waiting for surgery. Two weeks today.

My leg aches but it's mainly at the end of the day. I am scared to run, ride or swim as my leg feels like it's going to give out at any minute.
What did everyone here do on their wait for surgery. I am edgy, scared and frustrated.
I will keep you all updated on my rehab, but I am scared of some of the posts that say it hurts like hell. Can anyone give me an example of the pain. Is it really that bad?

Thanks