weight bearing on a broken fibula with no surgery

Hi, I broke my fibula two months ago by falling hard on my left foot. At first I was just treated with a transact and was sent home with painkillers as they could not see a fracture.

I was only told a month later that I had a broken fibula and was then put in a cast. It's been 6 weeks now and I am still in a cast, did not require surgey and my O/S tells me that I can put FWB on it. I have tried to but it feels as if the bone has moved or something and it hurts alot. I have told him about this but he insists that I am not damaging anything at all.

So do I continue trying to walk on it or must I not. And how much longer do I have to be in this cast?

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weight bearing on a broken fibula with no surgery

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Jan 23, 2012
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Bored stupid NEW
by: Jeanettie

Hi all just to say i fell and broke my fibula bone an the 17th december . Just before xmas what a bummer eh. Got put in a back slap cast until the day after boxing day.I then had surgery and a metal plate and 7 screws put in .I am going stir crazy home here as i am very active and love walking the dog.I go back to hospital in 10 days time and then have it xrayed. I am hoping the cast will be removed then and i have a boot . My poor hands have got callouses all over them now . Oh for the time when i can weight bear again without these crutches . Good luck to all of you out there in the same predicament.

Dec 12, 2011
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my experience NEW
by: Anonymous

T Tamija: Tell the doctor you want a cast. I had insisted that I didn't want a cast when I fractured my rt. fibula and used an air cast (which was good) but It took a lot longer to heal because my ankle was not as stabilized as it would have been in a cast. A walking cast would have helped me heal especially if the bone is displaced. Stay off of it as much as you can, I paid for it by not giving my ankle time to heal.

By the way, I now have a cast on my wrist because I fell - again. So now I know the difference betw. having a cast and not!

Dec 10, 2011
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Displaced Fibula NEW
by: Temija

Okay, I am still lost here. 10/17/11 I took a fall and broke the left fibula with then a displaced fracture of 1mm about 1.5" above the ankle(along with the fact I also broke my right tibia with a hairline fracture in the ankle.) My O/S put boots on both legs. I saw him the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and he told me I could do without the boot on the right leg (the tibia/ankle injury) and put weight on it (prescribed a walker at that point to keep me off the left one and I had been in a wheelchair until then). He re-xrayed the left leg also then and the break had moved from 1mm to 2mm, so instead of healing it had moved further apart. I was told to completely keep any weight off the left leg/fibula so that it wouldn't move further. To wear the boot 24/7. Well, the boot slips down during the time I am trying to sleep so that the leg and foot don't stay properly in place. There is still considerable pain in the left leg and even the right tibia/ankle is very painful (and it swells and discolors.) The left leg fibula is still very bruised now at almost 8 weeks out. The last visit before Thanksgiving, my O/S mentioned when I see him on 12/14 he'll check the displacement and will either opt for a cast or surgery. We are talking this is 8 weeks out now. Anyone have any advice and if surgery, how long was your surgery/hospital stay and recovery time and any bad results? I want to weigh all options as I feel this should have been cast long ago if he didn't want bone displacement further from the initial 1mm. Any thoughts would be helpful as 12/14 is fast approaching, not to mention it's the holiday time and I really don't want this at Christmas. Opinions and experiences appreciated. Thanks ~ Teresa

Nov 17, 2011
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Distal fibula NEW
by: Barbar

I had a non-displaced fracture of my distal fibula on Sept 9, 2011. Rest is what you do until the bone heals. Hope you like reading, movies or for me it it was my x-box and iPad To keep me busy. I did not need surgery and as long as I did not move around much the bone never did move and healed properly. It seems like forever but after once the bone begins to heal you will be ok and in 6-8 weeks you can walk again.

Nov 07, 2011
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Rugby Injury
by: Anonymous

I wonder if people still read this. I broke my fibula playing in a rugby match two days ago. At first I played it off as a hurt ankle. Something I am susceptible to. After day two of not being able to weight bear I figured a doctors visit would be best. Turns out I have a small fracture in the fibula and little/no displacement. I pray, pray, PRAY I won't need surgery. This break is on my right leg which effects so much! I have completely taken advantage of the privilege of having two legs! I can't drive. Doing laundry/gathering laundry is SO hard. Showering is scary and difficult. Making/getting food is a chore. UGH! Thank the Lord for my girlfriend and mother. I'd be so lost without them. Tomorrow I meet the orthopedic doctor to get a idea of what the next few months look like.

Jun 16, 2011
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Easy Does It! - Epilogue
by: CarolynC

Went for an X ray after 6 weeks in the air cast. The OS pronounced me healed and fit to travel. Optional review in 3 months.

After about 4 weeks in the aircast. I got an "evenup" to strap to the shoe on the good leg. This balances the height difference between the shoe and the aircast, taking the strain off your joints. I felt confident to lose the crutches, eventually, and walked freely. I could even mop the floor n stand to cook.

It has been 91 days to healing - without surgery. The OS said that another 3 more months are needed for the bone to gain full strength. I could come in for an optional review then.

Now, to rehab the leg/ankle muscles n ligaments. BTW he didn't assign PT. So, I guess it'll be youtube PT in my case.

I owe my healing to the faithfulness of God, who said He would heal me without surgery - and did. Also, my thanks to all who rallied around with prayer n love. Every prayer is one step nearer to breakthrough. Thanks also to all of the contributors to this page, whose stories encouraged me and also taught me how to sit out the healing time.

3/18/11 Weber A (fibula) fracture, backslab
4/14/11 Short leg cast
5/5/11 Aircast, PWB
6/16/11 Healed! FWB
9/8/11 Optional review

May 09, 2011
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Easy Does It!
by: CarolynC

Broke my fibula (Danis Weber A) at the bottom of the bone on Mar 18 2011. Fall while doing aerobics in the gym. No displacement of bone. No surgery. OS considers it a small fracture.

3 Weeks Backslab/bandage. No union of bones.
4 Weeks leg cast, NWB
6 weeks air cast n crutches, PWB.

Just started my 6 weeks of air cast. OS review in mid-June. Initially a bandage may be put on if there is swelling. When the swelling has subsided, a cast can be made.

I am 52, female and diabetic. Physically fairly fit but overweight. All these are factors that can slow down bone healing. As you can see from my progress, 6 - 8 weeks is normal before a cast can be removed - even for a small fracture. So must be patient.

Then, you can go on to PWB. Bearing weight actually jogs the body into building bone, I actually do not feel pain in the injury area, sometimes have vague aches. No swelling. Although the air cast is heavy, it is very secure.

Relax and realise that you have to put life on a lower gear for now. Keep sugar levels in check. My appetite reduced naturally to accommodate the reduced activity in my life. I have actually lost more weight now than pre-injury.

Vit D and C help in bone healing, besides calcium. Your body makes better quality Vit D from sunlight than supplements - and it's free. Just be in the sun every day for 10 min or more is fine. no need to sunbathe.

Control intake of red meat which can mess calcium absorption. You can get good calcium from other food than milk e.g. leafy green veg.

Take care of your good leg. I wear a knee supporter on it as it has to bear weight. Exercise your upper body: hand weights, seated exercises but do not do anything for the injured leg without clearance from OS/PT. May end up with further injury (groan!) and delayed healing.

The fact that my OS did not even bother to take X-rays after 7 weeks shows that healing may be slow. My next X ray will be afer 13 weeks.

All the best to all of us in the same boat. Thanks for your stories. They encouraged me to share mine. It may be a slow boat but we will get there! Cheers!

May 02, 2011
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fractured fibula with surgery
by: Anonymous

I silpped on black ice and fractured my fibula near the ankle on March 17th.I got surgery exactly one week later and I now have a metal plate and 6 screws in my ankle.I was in a hard cast for 3 weeks post surgery and then got an air cast for another 3 weeks( 1 week left with it) The air cast is amazing compared to the hard cast, you can at least take it off and and wash and ice your ankle. When they took off the hard cast my leg was digusting lol, full of dead skin hairy and really skinny. Its amazing how fast muscle mass is lost. 1 week into the air cast my doc told me i could start partial weight bearing, so i bought an exersice bike and have been doing 15km on it eveyday with no resistance. I;m actually starting to see my muscle slowly come back :) My ankle has been bothering me a little lately so i switched from my stationnary bike to lying on my back and doing the cycling motion, its actually a really good erxsice my legs were quite sore but you really have to exaggerate the cycling motion, you can get a good workout from it. I will be allowed to start full weight bearing on it in 4 days ( 6 weeks post surgery), im exited but i know ot will still be really painfull. I will start physical therapy as soon as I can.PT is key!!! As an avid athlete who has has numeous injuries I know the benefits of it and it will help speed up the healing process.
I wish you all a speedy recovery!! It sucks but you will get through it! It's an experience that makes you appreciate your physical health thats for sure.

female - 24 - athlete

Apr 13, 2011
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week #9 of fractured fibula & no end in sight ??
by: Beth

PJfromChicago & Michelle...when I read your stories I couldnt believe the similarities!! I,too,slipped on the ice back on Feb.5th...& I,too,had limited swelling & no bruising but was unable to bear any weight & was in severe pain. My bf insisted it couldnt be broken due to the lack of bruising & swelling & when I went to the ER the next morning(Super Bowl Sunday)the nurse & the doctor didnt think it was either...but to all their surprise,I had a fracture of the distal fibula...& quite a significant one...split up on an angle!! It was splinted & wrapped in the ER & I was given crutches. I was seen by the Orthopedic Doctor the following Wednesday who simply put it in an air cast, told me to use the crutches & not to bear weight on it, & keep it elevated (& gave me a lot of Lortabs). After a few follow-ups he said to try to start putting some weight on it...which i was able to...& since have been able to do some walking on it per his instructions at subsequent visits...but now facing PT for the muscle atrophy. My concerns lie in the fact that at both my last visit about a week ago & the previous visit 3 weeks before I was told that they are "STARTING to see SOME healing"??? I & many people around me wondered from the start if I should have been casted...& now are questioning that fact even more & also whether or not surgery should have been/should be done as,although the doctor says the bones are aligned,there is a sinificant gap between the two pieces of bone & how long is that going to take to come together on its own!? I have begun to look for someone to give me a second opinion about my treatment but no luck so far?? I jus wanna be back to normal!! My daughter is getting married in July & I would like to be back on my feet,be able to put on a decent pair of shoes, & be able to dance at her wedding!! & I'd also like to get back to work sometime in the near future !!

Apr 09, 2011
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Every case is different
by: RN

It's frightening to read so many posts of people asking if they should have surgery or not based on others experiences with their own broken bones. EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT! A health professional must look at all angles of the break (type of break, location, age of patient, history). Just because someone didn't require surgery for a fibula fx on here and healed fine does NOT mean that you will be fine and should not have surgery if the orthopedist recommends it. There have been many good questions on here, which others in similar situations are great sources for limited information. That being said deciding on a treatment option should be discussed with a health professional rather than someone who has also broken his or her fibula since each break may be drastically different.

Apr 03, 2011
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Broken Fibula Week #7
by: PJfromChicago

This is the follow up report from Feb. 15th, 2011. Diagnosed broken fibula on Feb. 14th, 2011. I saw the Dr. of Orthopaedic Surgery on Feb. 22nd, no X-rays were taken as he said it was a simple fracture. He had me fitted for a walking boot. The walking boot is tricky and you need to still be very careful when going up or down stairs. Day after day the swelling decreased and after about 4 days with the boot I was basically using one crutch. (Two crutches when outside or icey conditions.) On the third week I scheduled an appt. with my massage therapist to get a basic deep tissue massage and have her work my leg that was injured. She did a remarkable job and my movement on the ankle improved dramatically. (Please note you need to be very selective when choosing a therapist and make sure that they have sports related injury experience.)By the fouth week I was w/o crutches and just the boot. I was able to walk better out of the boot than in the boot. I returned to the Dr. on March 22nd for my 5 week exam and he took a set of 3 X-rays. He said there was good bone growth but the leg was not fully fused. (Connected.) At that point he gave me a list of exercises and removed the boot. So, at this point you are back to square #1 because you have to learn to use the muscles all over again and on top of that still have to be very careful. Today is exactly 7 weeks and I am walking with a slight limp but gaining significant movement in the ankle/leg. Basically, at this point the Dr. told me to be more active than inactive. I will not start to work out until after 8 weeks as I need to be ready for the beach volleyball season quickly approaching. I still can not believe I slipped on a patch of ice and did this to my body. But, it will make me stronger in the long run I believer. (Michelle where do you live?)

I also took a supplement called 'Bone Strength' by NOW Vitamins. It has an MCHA compound known to aid bone strength. I have good movement at this point however I still have weakness in the muscles.

Mar 22, 2011
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8 months
by: Francine

It has been a little over 8 months since I fractured my right fibula. I still have a little stiffness and soreness. My doctor told me it can take up to a year to heal. I'm 59 and this was my first break, so I am waiting.
My ankle is still weak and seems as if it would not take much for me to injure it again.

Anybody have any thoughts about this? or can relate?

Mar 22, 2011
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Surprise of the Day for a Dr.
by: Michelle

To Broken Fibula by: PJfromChicago

When i read your story it sounded like you were writing mine!!! The exact same thing happened to me on Friday March 18th. I slipped on some ice and couldnt put any weight on my leg. I hobbled around my house for two days following the rest, ice, compression, elevation therory. Like you I didnt have much swelling and no bruising. My right leg mainly hurt on the outside of it.

I finally broke down and sat in the emerg department yesterday. The Dr. said he didnt think i had broken anything because of the symptons I was displaying....but sent me for Xrays anyway. When I got back to the Dr. after the Xray he said I was his surprise of the day!!! I had fractured my fibula. I am now in a cast for a week then have an appt with the ortho. I hope the cast will come off soon as I am registered in a Weekend To End Womens Cancer on June 4-5th 60km walk......

Let me know what your results were PJfrom Chicago

Feb 15, 2011
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Boken Fibula
by: PJfromChicago

I was walking to get breakfast on 2/13/2011 and went down an incline and my left leg slipped undermeath me on some ice and I heard a 'snap' and then went down hard. I had significant trouble trying to stand back up but was barely able to put any FBW on my left leg. I was able to stumble back to my apartment and then up 3 flights of stairs and then rested the entire day hobbling around my apartment. I thought it may have been a high ankle sprain as back in college I had a 3rd degree sprain on my left ankle sliding hard into 3rd base. The only symptom I had besides a moderately swollen side calf muscle was trying to put any weight on the leg. (When I had injured my ankle it had swelled up and was black and blue.) This fall was different because I only had some moderate swelling so I didn't think at the time anything was broken. My Tibula seemed fine and my muscles were sore on the LEFT side of the leg. Well, after a very restess night of sleeping I went to the ER first thing Monday morning and the doctor immediately ordered X-rays. Diagnosis - Simple Fracture of the Left Fibula. They wrapped the left leg from the middle calf to the toes in a boot splint and I am hobling around on crutches although able to put some moderate body weight on the heel with the crutches in hand as hoping on crutches is a pain. I am now a SWM - 44.
I have an appointment with the O/S next week and will post an update on the progress.

Dec 03, 2010
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Fibula Surgery
by: matthew

I fractured the lower filula on 30 november. Went to accident and emergency department. At first the doctor thought it was a sprain, and did not seem to worried. But, once the xray came in, I was ordered into a wheelchair, not to put any weight on the foot, put into a cast and given crutches.

Was told to come back in 3 weeks, and it was very important to see the bone specialist. Said it would take up to 6 months to fully heal.

Now; if i was a student, 6 months to heal would be fine, and i could get time off school etc.

But, I am self employed, and time is money for me, so after 1 day limping arround the house, and in pain while sleeping, i decided to go see a specialist.

porter at the hospital mentioned, "doctor Kevin Yip" very expensive. Anyways, i disregarded his wise words and went to see the specialist.

THe specialist immediately took again an xray, and mentioned, I had fractured the fibula with a slight misallignment.

He then showed me how it could be screwed together, qnd I would be up and walking within 3 days.

The estimated cost 7000 USD plus hospital costs.

Well, 6 months vs 3 days, did not take me long to decide to sign up for it.

No sooner had i signed up for it, i started thinking, it was only a small fracture, i could already bear some weight on the foot with little pain..But, having put down a deposit and agreed to the surgery, it was a bit late to back out.

So, off a few hours later, nurse called and pushed me down to surgery level of the hospital. Beyond the point of no return.

Anyways, the operation I was unconcious and did not feel a thing. It was at 7PM. Woke up next morning with a slight pain in my ankle.

About 12.00 that day, after some calls, doctor eventually paid a short visit, with some xrays also.

The xrays showed a long screw inserted up the fibula bone, connecting the fractured part. That looked so scary. Today, able to walk but only with crutches and special boot (no cast), cant put full weight on the leg.

Total cost of the surgery 11,000 USD. ouch.

Nov 04, 2010
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Fractured Fibula, Lateral Malleolus
by: AMalek

About 10 days, while walks down stairs in my house, I missed the final step rolling my ankle. My foot twisted inwards, hard and fast, causing me to fall to the floor. The intense combination of the pain and fall triggered an "oh shit!" moment in my mind that something went wrong and I was injured.

The next morning I went to the ER to evaluate my ankles conditions and after taking x-rays concluded the fibula fractured. A couple days went by and I saw a sports medicine expert who said the ankle and bones are stable, no surgery will be needed. Given an aircast and crutches I was sent on my way.

Now, I get around without putting any weight on my foot, for the pain would not be tolerable. It's incredibly difficult to find a comfortable position to sleep, by far the worst part about this fracture. I am looking forward to the time where I can actually get by and walk on my foot, even with a limp. I want to be able to walk without pain.

Recovery will take its course here and I must wait it out. The dr. believes it will talk six weeks before I can remove the cast and place weight on my ankle, beginning the physical therapy recovery phase. I pray it'll move by faster. Its almost ski season!!

Nov 04, 2010
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Walking boot and crutches
by: Luke

Hi,thanks for that but because I have lost so much muscle I am still walking with the crutches.it's been 6 days since my cast came off,I have no pain and the ankle is getting it's movement back everyday.I am also full weight bearing in the walking boot with no pain,just some nerves in the sole of my foot hurting abit.
When shall I start to walk properly without the crutches?

Oct 27, 2010
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Give it time
by: Francine

It's been 14 weeks since I fractured my fibula and I still have some stiffness and still limp a little.
Driving shouldn't be a problem. I started driving 6 weeks after because I had to go back to work and it was my right ankle. An slip-on elastic bandage is a good support.

Oct 26, 2010
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Broken left ankle
by: Luke

Hi all,I broke my left ankle(fibula) nearly 6 weeks ago.didn't have any surgery just a cast.I have lost loads of muscle from my leg.I used to play football 4 times a week and broke it by falling over on the pitch.the bones still inline but with a crack through it if that makes sence.
I have been booked off work for two months.I work on the railway so I'm on my feet 24/7.I was just wondering when will I be able to walk properly/get back to work?also to make my situation worse we have a baby on the way and I really need the money.also one last question-when will I be able to drive again?

Luke

Oct 20, 2010
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I want to walk
by: Coach

4 weeks ago I was coaching a high school football game when 2 players collided at the sideline into my left leg breaking my fibula about an inch above the ankle. Went to the ER as it swelled up quickly and I couldn't put any weight on it. They put me in a splint and told me to see the ortho within a few days. When I saw the ortho a week later he told me to keep the splint on for 2 more weeks and come back and see him. 2 weeks later he took me out of the splint and put me in a boot and told me surgery was not needed, but still no walking for 3 more weeks. I have 2 weeks to go until he will let me walk but after reading so many stories on this site I am confused about the variety of methods different Doctors use, especially when it comes to how long you need to wait before you can walk. Does anyone know why there is such a difference? It is killing me not being able to get around, especially as a football coach.

Oct 18, 2010
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Broken Fibula/nerve issues
by: Anonymous

About two weeks ago at work I was slammed into the ground on the side of my ankle breaking my fibia in 2 places just above the ankle. It required 6 screws and a plate and I was placed in a hardened splint for the first 8 days. I've been recently placed in a walking boot but told to stay off it for the next two weeks until the next doc visit and then maybe I can begin to try putting weight on it. I've been taking the boot off for about 15-20 minues a day and doing exercises to keep everything in good working order and to speed up my recovery a little bit. Once I feel any uncomfort I stop and put the boot back on as Doc directed. My only concern is the possibility of nerve damage seeing as doc explained my "nerve kept getting in the way and may be irritated." Anyone else have numbness/tingling on the outside of the foot and around the ankle and if so, how long did it typically take. It's really starting to worry me and doc's "dont worry about it, it will be fine" wasn't very reassuring.

Oct 01, 2010
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Bustef Fibula and tore ligaments in foot
by: Anonymous

I'm 43 but am active like a teenager. I was surfing and went for a standard aerial, landed, and think my foot stuck and I fell forward. I didn't really know what happened but I thought I felt a pop right when I wiped out. As soon as I made it to the surface I put a little pressure and it was excruciating.

I found out that I broke my fibula in 1/2 and in 5 different places and worst of all I twisted my ankle almost 90 degrees to the left (my left foot). Anyhow that was right after a great swell of July 4th weekend. The doctor initially suggested surgery but the cast guy said he might be able to fix the foot w/o surgery. Apparently all my ligaments in my foot tore from the bottom, in back on both sides of the achilles, all around the ankle and so forth. The cast doc twisted my foot up super tight and rotated it inwards. Man that was painful. So what I thought my fibula was the bad thing but it turns out my ankle was a zillion times worse.

I've been out from surfing for almost 3 months and I am hoping to be surfing by December. I've sprained my ankle before but nothing like this. Fortunately I can walk but I can't wear shoes. Surfing is 100% using your ankles so I know it will strenghten but I've got so much darn aprothy that everything is stiff and swollen. It would be nice if I could see my achilles tendon so I know I would be close to surfing but it's not happening as fast as I'd like. I'm just doing a lot of stretching and toe push ups, ABC's with my foot and so forth.

The injury was a good wake up call to let me know I'm getting old and I don't need to try to keep up with the 16 year olds.

Oct 01, 2010
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Sep 24, 2010
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fractured fibula after 11 weeks
by: Francine

Checking back after 11 weeks of my own fracture.

It took seven weeks for the bone to heal. I was told to stay in good supporting sneakers and wear an ankle support. And I was given exercises to do. After 11 weeks I am still limping a little and a little stiff, and I still can't wear certain shoes that I wore before. It is getting better, though, but still hurts some. The dr. said it could take up to six months so I guess you have to be patient.

Sep 24, 2010
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air /gel cast
by: Francine

I got my air / gel cast online for under $40. Just do a search. It was the best thing for supporting my ankle and you can put the inserts in the freezer.

Sep 23, 2010
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left fibula
by: honda 1800

I had a motorcycle accident on April 19 > I broke my left fibula and my left big toe.(traveling 60 and missing a curve I am lucky to be alive)I saw the doctor on the 22nd and he confirmed the injury that the hospital emergency room diagnois. The doctor put me in a temp cast to let the swellling go down. He wants to see me on the 27th to put a fiberglass cast on for 6 to 8 weeks I have read in comments on this web page that several people mention Gel Aircast. Can anyone tell me where i can get more info on this type of support ?

Aug 18, 2010
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Bad Break
by: Anonymous

Hi i fell getting out of the car heard a snap n thought it was the heel on my shoe until i tried to move my leg n the pain i got was unbearable, so instead of going out ta celebrate my birthday it was of to A@E where i thought broken leg plaster it n off hme but no it was a lot worse, i had dislicated my left ankle, fractured my fib twice and my tib was fractured once i was gutted 5 days in hospital 3 waiting for surgery. I now hve a metal plate with pins in it and then a big pin going up my ankle i did this in april 24th 2010 n i am still finding it hard ta walk. I was non weight baring for the first 6 weeks n was in plaster for 10 weeks i recently went away n when i cme back i had n infection in my leg but after several antibiotics it is now getting better. I 2 thought i would never walk again but time is a great healer n i am getting there slowly. I wnt be wearing heels for a very long time.

Jul 31, 2010
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air /gel cast works great
by: Francine

I fractured my fibula three weeks ago stepping off a curb. The doctor put me into a big boot which did nothing to stabilize my ankle at all. Someone told me about a gel / air cast, which I got on-line for $40. It feels great and gives my ankle all the support it needs.
Wish I would have known to just do this instead of spending lots of money at the doctors. Maybe this will help someone else.

Jul 06, 2010
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TIBIA, FIBULA AND ANKLE FRACTURE
by: JESSICA

HI, I HAD A DEADLY CAR CRASH 2 YEARS AGO AND HAD SEVERAL FRACTURES IN MY RIGHT LEG; TIBIA,FIBULA AND ANKLE. I DID 3 SURGERIES SO FAR AND IT IS AFTER THE THIRD SURGERY THAT I FINALLY FOUND A RESULT WITH THE BONES CALCIFICATION! THE ANKLE NOW IS SUFFERING FROM PSEUDOARTHROSIS. IN 2 YEARS I GAINED 25 KILOS AND IT BOTHERS ME A LOT SINCE I USED TO DO LOTS OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES AND I SUDDENLY FOUND MYSELF UNABLE TO DO ANY OF THEM. AM ON DIET NOW, BUT NOT FINDING ANY RESULT!! WHAT TO DO??? I ALSO HAVE ANOTHER SURGERY NEXT OCTOBER. CAN YOU GUYS HELP ME?

Jun 25, 2010
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Broke Fibula.
by: Will

I recently Broke ( fractured ) my right Fibula, it was from wearing worn out boots with no tread on wet grass while carrying a ladder, i rolled my right ankle OUTWARDS and a very loud POP insued after, thus i fell to the ground like a tree, cussing and cursing the whole time from the pain,
after a hospital visit, i was lucky to find that they decided i needed no surgery, it was a spiral fracture, and was 2 MM out of alignment, when i fell i did not get up or try and walk, lucky for me someone was near by and helped me.
Pain killers and a hard cast later, i am Captain Crutch, hobbling around, accidently kicking things over, including the cat, worst part of this whole thing is the Wait, swelling is terrible, for me the first 2 1/2 weeks was the worst, afterwards, it started getting managable, being able to stand somewhat on it but most the weight on the non broken leg. cast starting to get a lil loose, and feeling better, I been taking Calcium pills to help the process,along with a good diet, i was told processed sugars like in candy hinder the calcium somewhat in the bone repairing process, something to do with screwing up minerals and so on.
Best always to Keep legs propped up, take advil or motrin for swelling, try and NOT get hot, while having the cast on, your leg will swell, and get tight, uncomfortable, dont get up if you dont have to, drink milk!~ or something rich in calcium, if your taking pain meds be aware you will or might need a laxitiv or stool softner, or just eat lots of fiber, try and be patient, and try and keep your mind off it if the cast bothers you a lot, You will also has muscle spasms at times, right around the time you fall asleep, your foot might jump and cause you to jump out of a dead sleep with enough pain, this is my frist break of a bone, it sucks and i will baby it for a long time, i have another 3 1/2 weeks of a cast, after that it comes off and dont know what else, dont know if this insight helps in anyway, but give a person what they could possobly look forward to, OHif you have to scratch, get someone to get you a yard stick and round the tip off a bit smooth so it doesnt catch your sock inside the cast, the metal from a hanger can possibly irrtate the skin, if you rub your hand on a hanger a few times it stinks like steel or some chemical, that will be on your leg in the cast and might cause a itch at times if your sensitive.
Hope this might help.

Jun 18, 2010
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Re: Raphael
by: Anonymous

hey i actually had the same injury basically back in late november. the doctor said i could choose either option. I chose the cast with no surgery. Mine was so bad i was unable to walk about 7 hours after the injury. so the doctor put a small cast on my foot/ankle until i went to my orthopedic doctor to have them put on the hard cast. i needed to use crutches for 6 weeks with absolutely no pressure on my foot. it was rough. but it healed up. after the 6 weeks, and after my forearms were basically bleeding, they took the cast off. they gave me a brace then in order to get used to walking again. the bone was not completely healed but it was good enough to walk on. i was unable to walk normally for about 3-4 days after it and finally got to jogging a good 3 weeks after. i have to say, my ankle was not good to play a full contact sport until about april. the doctor then told me surgery may have been fully healed by late march or so. not much of a difference, just different physical therapy. i didn't feel like having a scar and now my leg is stronger than ever.
hope this helps!

Jun 18, 2010
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Spiral fibular fracture
by: Rapha

Hi,

Four days ago I fell while playing basketball and experienced some major pain. I thought it was only a sprain, but since I couldn't notice any improvement after three days, I decided to visit a doctor.

It turns out that I have a spiral fibular fracture. It looks pretty serious. It's located about an inch above the ankle, and I can see a ~4mm displacement in the X-ray. It really looks as if the bone was snapped in two.

The doctor very strongly recommends surgery, but I could also get a cast instead. She says that recovery would probably be much slower and possibly incomplete with the cast. I've never had surgery so I'd rather avoid it, but I won't hesitate if it's clearly the best option.

I've read this thread and it looks like there's an even split between surgery and no surgery. I don't know how serious other people's fractures were though. Has anyone gotten a clear fracture with 4mm displacement? What was your experience and healing process?

Thanks,

Raphael

Jun 08, 2010
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my pain
by: jayne

dismounted my horse and came down on right leg wrong, told it was a pulled muscle. its been 2 weeks and know better. it hurts if walking up a hill and some time if i put weight on it to hard it goes out from under me it hurts so bad.it only hurts in one spot about 4 fingers down from side of knee. if i flex my foot up it hurts. does any one have these problems , should i go back to doctor??????

Jun 07, 2010
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Debby
by: Shopgirl

Debby,
Sorry to hear about your accident it's really hard to adjust to having a broken bone. If you read below you can see where I wrote my findings on how to survive day to day life with a cast. I spent a lot of time rolling around in my house on my office chair. But the good news is you will get better. Best of luck to you.

Jun 06, 2010
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Joining the club
by: debby

Never thought I'd be surfing the net for broken leg sites, but here I am. I was walking on uneven pavement, rolled the right ankle and tried to catch my balance on the left....the left fibula snapped at the ankle and I fell on my butt. 3 days later, I had orif and 2 days after that, came home. It's now 7 days since the injury and may I just say...OUCH. I'm currently on NWB and wheelchair and walker bound. My doctor was pretty elusive....I only saw him for the initial diagnosis and for a few minutes prior to surgery, so I know very little of what to expect and my followup appointment is not for 7 to 10 days. How long would you think until I'm able to return to my office (desk) job? Right now, my main problem is the pain makes it difficult to get around, and I'm worried about hobbling from the parking lot to my office. This is my first broken bone, so I don't know what to expect as far as pain duration and all that. Any advice is appreciated!

Jun 05, 2010
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hard time after break
by: bob

i broke me fibula falling down me stairs, ha ha i dont what a twit,i was walking on it a week the thought there must be somthink wrong,i was plasterd for 6 weeks what a nightmare,it was torture,couldnt get about, plasters off now,but lots of swelling in me foot,is that normal, love to all bob

May 28, 2010
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GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT
by: Gillybean

I broke my fibula in May 2009, had internal fixation (metal plate and 7 screws), 5 days in hospital (3 of those waiting for the operation, 2 recovering!), 6 weeks in pot then 4 weeks in special blue velcro moon boot thing which meant at least I could have a proper shower/bath. At the time I was in hospital I really felt I would never ever walk again, I was so upset to be out of action and the thought of being in pot for 6 weeks filled me with dread. I had to have lots of time off work as I could not physically get there and lost hundreds of pounds. My recovery went well, I did as I was told by the Doc. The swelling seemed to take ages to go down and was pretty painful for a while but, bit by bit, the swelling went and now, a year later I have barely a scar and feel my operated ankle is actually stronger than the other one now!!! I didn't have any physiotherapy, simply walking and gentle stretching seemed to do it for me. It took time though.... The thought of wearing heels or even putting weight on just the ball of my foot at one time made me wince but I am now back in my 3" wedges and feeling comfortable and confident in them! So, if you are feeling like I did, as if there was no light at the end of the tunnel, stick with it, the daytime telly is hell I know but you really will be back to how you were or, even better! Email me for any words of support or with any questions. Love, Gill. GCurran@gsbsolicitors.com

May 20, 2010
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exercises for a fractured leg
by: runner

hi guys,

i fractured my fibula a week ago and i'm having trouble looking up exercises to do- besides abs and upper body. i hate not moving around but at the same time i dnt want to aggravate the healing process b/c i want to be back and running asap. any suggestions on leg exercises to do?

thanks!

May 19, 2010
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Surgery for broken fbula
by: Cari

I broke my fibula in a biking mishap. I fell and even though my biking shoe came out of the clipless binding - I must have fell on it "wrong." Anyway the doctor I went to did surgery a week later once the selling came down. I have a plate and seven pins. The break was diagonal and I guess spiral.

I've been in a splint for nine days now -- icing it with some crazy biochill tube that goes from a cooler intothe splint. It's a neat contraption. I'm also using this roll about device that I put my knee on and I don't use the crutches except for rare occasions. I'm doing some upper body and abs - but generally keeping the leg elevated and icing. I expect to get the splint off on Friday (11 days after surgery - 19 days after the injury). I expect I'll start PT and have a boot... any suggestions or things I should know or expect?

Apr 28, 2010
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

Hi all, I fractured my fibula on my left leg on the 3rd of april 2010. The was fracture was not displaced and did not require surgery. The fracture was around 3/4 the way up my leg, I was placed in a cast on the 7th of april and expect to get it off on the 10th of may. I have completely no pain in my leg since about a week after the accident happened. The cast I was placed in goes all the way from my toes to my hip and getting around is extremely hard due to the weight of the cast. I am just wondering if anybody else had to get a cast so big as i have not heard of this from any other patient? It seems completely unnecessary and physios have told me that i should be putting weight on my leg by now and can not understand the doctors reasoning for this. It is very frustrating as my leg is gradually losing muscle, any feedback will be greatly appreciated.

Apr 08, 2010
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

Hi! I just want to ask some questions regarding my broken fibula. the accident happened last first week of feb 2010 during our basketball game. My friends told me that its just a normal sprain or something so im not worried at all since the pain started to subside. after two months, the pain stared again so I decided to go to hospital for a check up. Unfortunately, we found out that I had a two points fractured fibula on lower part near my ankle. My doctor gave me a medicine and told me that casting is not necessary since the bones are currently healing by it self. I just want to ask if its possible to heal it alone without any operations or casting? here is the link for the XRAY i had. If any one can help me regarding this matter, it will be very much appreciated. blade052003@yahoo.com http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s59/blade052003/legs.jpg

Mar 09, 2010
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For everyone again
by: Dreamlord

HI it's still me Dreamlord. my fibula break will turn 1 year soon. And as far as progress is concerned well guys, i played basketball again and both my legs are in good shape now. I've been running and jumping alot. Hang in there fellas.

Feb 22, 2010
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15 year old with Fibula break
by: Anonymous

My son broke his fibula playing basketball on Tuesday, February 16th. He was put in a splint in emergency room. Next day went to Ortho. They did not cast it. Said he would be walking on it in about a week. He is walking but leg is a bit stiff -- no pain. Has a support sock. I am concerned he is doing things too fast. Doctor says he can start hitting and throwing a baseball 3 weeks from injury.

Feb 02, 2010
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mid-shin fibula break - no brace
by: KR

I broke the fibula midway high on the shin from someone colliding with me. Limped in for Xrays a 2 days later and showed a non-displaced break halfway between ankle and knee. No ankle stability issues, no noticable swelling. My general doc talked with the radiologist and they concluded I didn't need a cast or brace. Treatment was to "not do things that make it hurt". As long as there is no pain, it's healing. When I asked how long to heal he said "a couple weeks". I think most of the pain was from soft tissue trauma and that is going away fast. As of day 4, I could walk without pain as long as I didn't extend and raise up on the calf muscle. Now at 12 days I can extend the calf and jump at 25% effort without pain. As soon as the pain is gone, I'll be playing basketball which feels like another week. Not alot of posts on web from folks with minor fib breaks. I think the ortho docs would probably put me in a brace for 6 weeks as they have liability issues and its no skin off their back if I'm unnecessarily inconvenienced. Anyone have a similiar experience?

Feb 02, 2010
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Broken Fib Dec 10th 2009
by: Rolo

I also got my Fibula broken from a Soccer kick Dec. 10th 2009. I didnt know it was broken until 3 days later. I bought an Aircast because i didnt want to wear a boot and be able to wear my normal shoes and also drive. Its been almost 8 weeks since i found out it was broken. I can walk almost normal and I can jog a bit. I do Jiu Jitsu and i went back to that after 6 weeks. I keep it braced and wrapped during any grappling. The main thing i feel is the muscle atrophy and soreness. I am hopeing by the middle of March I can return to the soccer field.

Jan 30, 2010
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to everyone
by: Dreamlord

hello everyone! I'm dreamlord. it's been quite awhile since i last posted a comment here. as you all know if you check the history of my posts, i broke my fibula. it was a complete fracture. displaced actually even if it fully healed already.
i broke mine last may 18, 2009. it was the lowest point of my life. i was in a cast for 6 weeks. my leg lost a lot of muscle. and i lost my 6 pack abs because i was always advised by the ortho to stay in one chair and use crutches. then after that i did a lot of home exercises by myself. i didn't go to the PT. i only followed youtube's plyometrics exercises. now my leg may not be as strong as before the break but it's catching up on my good leg-- the left one. i'm proud to say i already played basketball last month before christmas with my officemates.
hang in there and as soon as the doctor tells you to walk on it then do a lot of walking. i bought a bicycle too by the way instead of going to the PT it really helps.
good luck guys.
mine doesn't swell anymore. i don't take painkillers i just take vitamins a b c d and e
i don't take the one capsule that has a to z because it could be Bull S**t you know. try the ones in individual capsules. b complex and d are really good. i also recommend CALVIT and other calcium supplements. hey i'm not advertising or anything

Jan 29, 2010
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In the same boat
by: drewbydoo

I just broke my left fibula on the 1st of 2010 (happy new years) and then got a blood clot in my leg aka a DVT about 4 days later as a result of "no activity after trauma" (despite the fact that the doctors TOLD me to sit around and do nothing but ice and elevate). Only after the blood clot happened did I hear from an orthopedic doctor that I should have been moving around and doing little exercises...a little frustrating. My fibula broke clean much closer up towards my knee, it seems most people with broken fibulas have them around the ankle, dont know if this is a good thing that its higher or not. It's been about a month, and I am so sick of crutches its so annoying, especially on the snow and ice where I live. I just want to walk and ditch the crutches but my muscles are very sore from the clot and just getting stiff. I have been told in PT that I should be trying to start walking with crutches so I can move down to one crutch and eventually none, but right now trying it with just one crutch hurts my muscles, joints and feels like it hurts where I broke my fibula...I'm wondering if anyone knows if this has healed enough to walk on yet, although I've been told that I can start attempting to walk...

Jan 23, 2010
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You Will Be Fine
by: Shopgirl1357

I broke my ankle on July 29th it still swells and it still hurts at times. I have come to the conclusion that I will just have to live with it. I didn't have surgery and I didn't go to PT. Sami you will be fine and it will heal. I got my cast off in September and went to Vegas 2-days later with a boot. I had to wear the boot for a few weeks and after that came off I went to NYC in October and walked for miles. Nobody can say for certain how long it takes to heal because we are all different, but you are most likely young and strong which gives you an advantage. Your physician will tell you when you are healed enough to resume normal activities my guess is that you will get a boot for a few weeks, afterwards you can slowly start to do things, but for now you can still work your upper body which should help you mentally. I actually lost weight and toned up my abs and biceps (I know who cares lol). You have to look at this for what it is "temporary" I know it sucks, but you will alright it just takes time. If you are not healing I would find another orthopedic surgeon and get a second opinion.

Jan 22, 2010
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Hairline Fracture (Fibula)
by: Sami

Hello all,

On December 20, I fracture my left fibula as a result of a (freaking) kick to my leg in a soccer game. I had a "boot" for a week, then went to the fracture specialist for a check-up and found out that there's some ligament damage in my ankle. Went to the hospital the next day, where they put me to sleep and did a stress x-ray. Not enough damage to warrant screws/bolts/plates. They gave me a cast for what they said would be "at least four weeks." I'm going Monday to get it check out (it'll have been just one day shy of four weeks). I'm wondering if anyone has a clue how long it takes for a hairline fracture/ligament damage to heal after the cast is removed... My worst fear is that they'll just put the cast back on and tell me to crutch around for another few weeks. Don't know if I can mentally, emotionally or physically handle that! So frustrating for an athlete to literally not even be able to walk!!

Dec 28, 2009
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broken fibula right above the ankle healing time
by: Anonymous

Hey all, i broke my ankle over thanksgiving playing a little annual pick up football game. I did not need surgery and the break happened to my fibula right above the ankle of my right foot. it is a clean break but is aligning correctly. I went for my third dose of x-rays about a week ago and there was still no "white puffy" bone on the x-ray showing any new bone being created to heal it. My o/s still insists two more weeks in a full cast with crutches and then i will come in for another x-ray january 12th with the cast off. I play rugby for my school and i was wondering how long the process will be until i can even run let alone come back and play.
Thanks!

Oct 26, 2009
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Shopgirl
by: Anonymous

I am on week 3 without my boot my ankle is still swollen and it hurts. I am very limited to what types of shoes I can walk in. I found that even my flats that were always very comfortable are not anymore. My doctor said I may need to wear the boot if I am going to walk for long distances. It kind of depressing that it's three months since this fall and I am still dealing with this.

Sep 30, 2009
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to shopgirl
by: Dreamlord

you're welcome on the PT tip. i know how it looks like when someone is walking with heels on one foot and a walking boot on the other. i saw patients like them from the hospital i go to. i had to waste my time and money on one PT session so i don't want others to do the same ---but at least it made me find out that what i have been doing is correct.
my break was spiral complete fibula fracture. but no bone fragments. the fibula just split into two. far from the ankles and far from my knees. it was a midshaft break. that's why i'm worried the most and i'm just giving myself confidence because i don't want my loved ones to feel burdened by why i chose conservative treatment rather than surgery.

regarding brian sorry man, i don't want to give any wrong advice but my wife said you can't put FWB on it in 4 - 6 weeks.

Sep 29, 2009
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Broken Fibula Update - Dreamlord
by: Shopgirl

I'm glad to see you are getting around well, and thank you for the PT tip. I did not have a spiral fracture mine was a clean break on one side and a sprain on the other. When I viewed the x-ray on 16th the break is still there (I think that is why I am so freaked out). My doctor said if we waited for it to fully close it would take months, he said it is healing and not to go by the x-ray. I forget the term he used condensing or something. He did not attempt to manually correct it. The boot is a walking boot and it's really heavy. I wear a heel on the other foot to balance out my height or I else I limp. It's a pain, but at least I can take it off when I'm resting. I don't use the crutches or a cane.

As for Brian I think he needs to check with his doctor as to if he should put weight on his foot. Especially, since we all have different plans of treatment you don't want to give someone the wrong advice.

Sep 29, 2009
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to shopgirl from dreamlord
by: dreamlord1023

glad to know your trip was fine. i'm doing ok so far so good. I'm now walking with a tip cane. that is what the PT advised me to do. When i went there for the first time i asked what they will make me do and then i just did everything here at home. your friend was right that it was a waste of time. don't bother wasting your money on it. no offense to PT graduates though. is yours a walking boot? i think it's pretty heavy.
i think by this time your bones connected already. when you had a fracture, did the doctor manually fix you without surgery? some doctors try that.
is your fracture spiral?

as for brian, don't put weight on it.

Sep 28, 2009
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can i walk on it
by: Brian

Hi everyone - I fractured my fibula 7 days ago. It was a few inches above my ankle. It is not a clean break, there is just a tiny little line in my x-rays. I am in a walking boot with crutches. I am starting to put weight on it now after 7 days. Is this ok to do, put weight on it now?

Sep 28, 2009
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Broken Fibula Update
by: Shopgirl1357

Hi Dreamlord, My trip to Vegas was very nice we did a lot walking so it was exhausting. There were a lot of escalators which I have found I can manage to go up, but not down. I spent a lot of time searching for elevators. I was also detained at the airport because I was wearing a boot it took a little longer than usual. Other than that I managed. I have been attempting to walk without the boot in my house. When I first stepped down it felt really weird my whole left side felt weak. I just wanted to see if I could do it without pain. It didn't hurt, but I kept thinking it's going to break again. I also tried to drive my 5-speed car however it was much too cumbersome wearing the boot I was afraid it would get stuck. I ended up taking off the boot and driving with my sock on. As far as PT I am going to see how I feel once I am cleared to remove the boot. If I am still this fearful I may go for a few sessions. I really don't want to go, but if I have to I will. One of my co-workers also broke her ankle she did opt for PT, but found it was a waste of time. She said they put a towel on the floor and told her to swish it back and forth with her foot she said she could do that at home herself. So how are you doing?

Sep 28, 2009
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to shopgirl
by: Dreamlord

wow i'm glad to hear your cast was removed already. how was vegas?
anyway on to the topic, your swollen ankle is normal. i too have been thinking about the broken bone i saw on my 2d x ray when i had my fracture but the thing is there is no way it can change anymore even if the doctor said it is healed already.
my x ray last time showed my bones connected already in one small portion. but as you know we both opted for non surgery so this might take longer. i wanna ask you something as one fellow fibula fracture patient to another, are you going for physical therapy?

Sep 26, 2009
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Broken Fibula Update
by: Shopgirl

Last Wednesday my cast was removed and I was given a walking boot. On Friday I got on a plane and flew to Las Vegas for the weekend. I was able to walk without crutches and keep up pretty well considering I hadn't walked on my foot for 8-weeks. My ankle is still somewhat swollen, however the bruise is gone. Surprisingly I didn't gain any weight, but my calf muscles are weak and need strengthening. My next appointment is on the 20th. I was told that is the final phase and I should be able to wear my shoes again. Now it's more mental than physical, in my mind I keep seeing that broken bone in the x-ray. I used to run miles everyday now I am terrified of another break. I may need a few sessions of physical therapy to get myself confident enough to feel safe again, or I can just wear the big boot for the rest of my life.

Sep 07, 2009
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to football player who had surgery in brazil
by: Dreamlord

i would love to ask a few questions as i'm sure others here would love to do the same but as you can see we all opted not to have surgery so it is a different case

Sep 06, 2009
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Broken Fibula and torn "something" ligament
by: chris

Hey guys, I've been constantly searching the internet as I'm sure all of you have been doing. I broke my fibula pretty clean through. I was playing american football in...believe it or not...Brazil. Anyway, I actually got a bit lucky and had the best doctor in Curitiba and one of the best in Brazil to operate on my leg. Anyway, I broke it Aug. 22, had surgery Aug. 24. The doctor gave me a boot and crutches. For 3 weeks I need both, then the next 3 weeks I only need the boot, then I should be walking. I can already stand equally on both feet, which is especially helpful in the shower...you guys know what I mean. I've been taking care of my leg, it sucks, but I am resting almost the whole day except when I have to take a bus 45 min. to class.

Keep your spirits up, it's a huge inconvenience but you should, and most people do recover in 3 months. It is a very common injury in soccer and the stories I've heard is that guys are back on the playing field 3 months after surgery...I'm shooting for 2 haha. Hope this helps and any questions, I'll be checking this forum as frequently as I can remember.

Sep 05, 2009
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Get rid of crutches!
by: cathyp25

Folks - there's a really great thing you can rent that will help you get rid of crutches. its called a knee scooter or turning leg caddy and you can rent one through www.goodbyecrutches.com. I broke my fibula in July and was told to use crutches but I got tired of them so I rented this leg caddy and it was a god-send. Basically, you put your injured leg on a little shelf and the other foot moves the caddy. It also has a basket on it so you can actually carry things. I loved the caddy! And the best part of it is that you don't need to buy one, you can rent one - its only $30 a week or $100 per month. And insurance will probably cover it.
And its very easy to put together. It literally saved me from going crazy. Check it out!

Sep 05, 2009
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broken fibula
by:

hiya i broke my fibula 2 weeks ago and dr thought it would be pinned as it is a bad break but he says xrays look ok at mo. I am due to have my non weight bearing cast off in 4 weeks. I am a foundation stage teacher (3-5 yr olds), any ideas about walking on my leg afterwards?

Aug 31, 2009
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to new broken fibula
by: Dreamlord

don't put it on your underarms. my wife is a doc and she told me that for crutches--- it should be at least 2 to 3 inches away from the underarms.
rest it on your palms. they may have thick callouses at first but you'll get used to it.

Aug 29, 2009
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Broken Fibula
by: Shopgirl

Anonymous,
Sorry to hear about your ankle. I did not have surgery but from what I was told the recovery time is the same regardless. I have been on crutches for exactly one month, and have another 3-weeks to go in a cast ( 6-8 weeks). I learned to use my crutches by watching a video on YouTube. The hospital ER did very little PT with me. You have to really concentrate and not let your underarms rest on the crutch. If using crutches is painful you can get a walker (not my favorite but I have one). If you have a small desk chair with wheels maybe you can use that to get to your students. I have one that I use in my house I wheel myself all around and when I need to stand I just prop my knee on the chair and stand on my good leg.

I wish you a speedy recovery.

Aug 29, 2009
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Broken Fibula
by: Anonymous

Hello, I broke my fibual on July 25, I had surgery on July 30. How long will it be before I can walk without the crutches? Under my arms are brused really bad. I teach technology and I will have to walk throughout the day assisting my students.

Aug 25, 2009
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to shopgirl
by: Dreamlord

well if this week was a little over 3 weeks and then you want to be able to walk properly by september 18 then i suggest you stop weight bearing on it and when your new cast will be removed, apply ice on the area as always and raise your leg high up. then on the day you will celebrate your anniversary i suggest you wear sneakers or flat shoes. you still can't wear heels. and don't forget to buy a cane if you don't wanna walk with crutches.

Aug 25, 2009
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to football player
by: Dreamlord

dude i feel for you and i can see how impatient you are by now. i recently went to the park where my parkour teammates practice free running and stunts and i must say i envied them. i also used to play football since i grew up in Europe. so set aside the fact that i can play basketball because i dribble with my feet when i see a ball anywhere.
but you can't play yet if you ask me. the guy who sounded like he is indian or something the one who said it'll take a year to look like normal again? he was right. me i'll try to go back to my normal activities on my birthday as it will also be my driver's license renewal.

Aug 22, 2009
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Broken Fibula Update
by: Shopgirl

Dreamlord, Yesterday was a little over 3-weeks since my break. I had my second appointment with the orthopedic surgeon. They removed the cast and took another set of x-rays. Unfortunately, because I also have torn ligaments as well as a fractured fibula they needed to recast it again. The x-rays indicated the break is healing and the swelling is subsiding. But I have to keep it in a cast for it to heal properly. Even though the fibula is not a weight bearing bone it could move they are still talking about possible surgery down the road. Walking on it at this point would only cause more damage. I told them I really need to be able to walk without crutches by September 18th (my trip to Vegas), they said most likely I will have a walking boot. I go back on the 16th they will remove the cast and take another set of x-rays. But on the downside (this is just crazy) while I was at my appointment my dog jumped out our second floor window and broke her left ankle. We have no idea what happened or what she saw she just jumped through the screen onto the pavement. She has never done this before. I came home to find her leg mangled. I called my husband and rushed her to the emergency animal hospital. She is now in a splint and will need surgery. I have health insurance my dog Lucy does not we are looking at close to four thousand dollars to repair her leg. What are the odds that both me and my dog have broken left ankles? I don't gamble, but I really need to win in Vegas!!

Aug 21, 2009
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to dreamlord? i think
by: football player

well i dont really care about how it looks or what i just want to play some football. i cant stand it watching another guy in my position.i was just wondering how long do you think i could actually start practicing and playing again. my doc said ill be getting my cast boot off next week on the 28, then after that some therapy. sooo yeahh. how did you fractured yours?

Aug 21, 2009
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to new anonymous guy from dreamlord
by: Anonymous

hello football player, i also broke mine due to a parkour stunt . i had a bad landing. expect yours to be glued by now but don't expect it to look like it was once before. i'm not lying when i say it.

Aug 20, 2009
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recovery for a fratcured fibula
by: Anonymous

hello.

i have recently fractured my left fibula towards the ankle on July 27th. in a couple of days after the fratcure, i was put into a cast boot or aircast. i also just took some x rays last week and the doc said the fracture is starting to glue back together or whatever. he also said i can apply of my weight on it and i have been walking on it for a while. i really want to play football but im not sure how long recovery or whatever is. thanks for your helpp.

Aug 20, 2009
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to shopgirl
by: Dreamlord

Shopgirl,

kudos on your wedding anniversary. you're right. be careful with where you stomp those crutches on because they can even give you another fracture if a worse case scenario happens. i went to my ortho today. i had my x ray too. i discovered one thing. he told me that only they (orthos) can read it and claim whether it is connected or not. he also added that even when they say it is a go for PT, your x ray will still look like you have a fracture.
as for me, today my fibula still looked like it has a fracture because they only used a 2d radio bone scanner. or 2d x ray. don't believe what people say when they say the fracture is no longer visible when 3 or 4 months arrive. unless it was just a small crack then disregard what i said. but if yours was like mine then expect your x ray reading to be like as it was before with slight improvement that only they orthos can read.
as for me, my wife gave a big sigh of relief when we both heard the news from the ortho that i can now go on a rehab for my ankles.
i still have to ask him on september 20 which is better, a conservative treatment or the surgical.
i can't really trust what some people blog about their story of success and how they can't see the break like it never happened. it would be impossible anyway.
good luck and i hope to hear from your progress.
i'll start rehab next week.

Aug 17, 2009
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Fibula
by: Shopgirl

Dreamlord,

Let me know how your x-ray turns out on the 20th. I go on the 21st for mine. It will be 3 weeks since I fell I hope to be in a walking boot very soon. I have to leave for Vegas on September 18th to celebrate my wedding anniversary. I have no idea what I am going to do if I can't walk. The crutches are dangerous, you really have to pay attention to what you are doing. I nearly fell out the door the other day. I can't do stairs with them at all so leaving my home is a challenge. If it's raining I can't go out. You would think with all the medical breakthroughs that they could come up with a better way to heal a broken ankle. They tell you like it's so easy "no walking for 6-8 weeks here are 2 sticks use them to get around". I guess it could be worse I have a friend who fell while jogging he broke his ankle and elbow. Because he was in the military and had no family to take care of him so he had to stay in the hospital to recover. He is actually fine now. We just have to keep good thoughts and do the best we can.

Aug 17, 2009
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to shopgirl
by: dreamlord

hi shopgirl. you're quite lucky you work from home. I teach at a school and i haven't been to work for about 3 months now to this day. i don't have swelling anymore but i'm still on crutches. I also do some exercises like crunches and push ups using only one leg. i also lift some small weights. yes these things can make our spirits high because just like you. i actually miss my previous activities. I broke my fibula on a parkour stunt. I twisted badly when i fell. i'm driving now but i still bring and walk with my crutches. I will have an x ray this week on august 20. i think the one year clear x ray mentioned there on the post is for tibia fibula. because on my ortho books it will only take at least 3 months if you only broke the fibula.

Aug 15, 2009
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broken fibula
by: Anonymous

hi everybody broken fibula needs 3 months for make usual activities complete healing appears to xrays in a year.if you can avoid surgery is better for you because the pain is less and the are is not hardware in your body.be patient and dont try to avoid walking.hi from greece johny.......

Aug 13, 2009
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Broken Fibula Update
by: Shopgirl

I opted not to go to the Podiatrist and remove the cast. I did however speak to the resident who is treating me. He said the pain I was feeling is normal to keep my leg elevated and ice the back of my knee. Keeping ice in that spot will cool the blood as it moves into the leg therefore reducing the swelling. It's been a week and the swelling seems to be going down. I get around the house using my desk chair, since I don't have much carpeting I am able to move downstairs pretty well. I also found that if use the leg that is injured in a kneeling position on the chair I can stand on my other leg and do things like wash dishes and do laundry. I have a walker that I use when I am upstairs it helps when getting dressed and bathing. I have a claw tub so I am able to take a bath. I also do a workout video for my upper body I use 3 pound weights and I do crunches and leg work on a mat. It helps keep my spirits up since I can't walk or run. Laying on the floor stretching really helps. I also reduced the amount of calories I consume. I eat three small meals during the day and drink low fat chocolate milk at night before bed (as much calcium as I can get). I wear my normal clothing not workout wear all day. I need to know I can still fit into my clothes.

I work from home which is a blessing my company did not make me take a leave. I am allowed to drive although I tried driving a few days ago, but my leg started to swell and ache. I'm also very nervous on crutches outside. I fear falling again that's all I need is to break something else. Some people have told me it is against the law to drive with a cast. I have not been able to find anything on Google about it in the state of PA. I have no restrictions according to my doctor (that's easy for him to say). I go back for my follow up appointment on the 21st. I think they are going to remove this cast, do another x-ray and most likely put another cast on. The next phase should be a walking boot.

Aug 13, 2009
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from dreamlord to everyone
by: Anonymous

how far was the break from the ankle?
if it is near the ankle you will need surgery.
as for the girl who broke her fibula on the beach yeah i was called a cripple while calling a cab.
thanks for the info about the arthritis because now i know what to expect. I'm now on my 3rd month of this injury and i will have an appointment next week august 20. i also opted not to undergo the surgery since it was also an elective on my part. let's keep in touch all of us since we all have similar cases

Aug 05, 2009
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Fractured Fibula Orthopedic Surgeon or Podiatrist?
by: Shopgirl

I fractured my fibula last week when I fell in the ocean on vacation. I went to the ER they took x-rays and put my leg in a splint. I was told to follow up with an orthopedic surgeon. When I came home I made an appointment and was put into a plaster cast. I was told no weight bearing for 6-8 weeks. Surgery was elective I decided not to have it. Prior to the cast I was able to hop around on one leg and use the crutches pain free, now I can't the pain is horrible when I stand as long as I am resting it's fine. I made a call to a friend who is a podiatrist he said he wanted to cut off the cast take new x-rays. He also said the fibula is a non weight bearing bone and a walking cast might be better. I am really nervous to let him cut off this cast because it is already set. I do not want to do anymore damage to my ankle. I am trying to find out if this pain is normal. The ankle is swelled the cast is very heavy so it makes sense that when I stand it would hurt when the blood rushes down. I don't handle pain very well. Before this happened I was walking 5-8 miles a day. This is torture!! Everything that I have read is depressing the pain, the recovery time. My doctor said it will take 8 months before I will fully recover and since I decided not to have surgery I am certain to get arthritis as well. The podiatrist seemed to be able to offer me a more comfortable recovery process, however I am uncertain about switching physicians. Should I just suck it up and stay off of it until the swelling goes down, or should I have it re x-rayed and start over?

If nothing I have a deeper understanding for people who are disabled and have to live like this all the time. Just trying to use a public restroom is a chore. Someone actually called me a "cripple" when I was trying to get into a restaurant. Once I recover I will never take my health for granted again.

Aug 03, 2009
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.
by: Anonymous

Yes it was clean break. The xray says that it hasn't healed properly so still need to use crocthes for the nxt 2 wks and then have to go back for another xray

Aug 03, 2009
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to Anonymous
by: dreamlord

yes use crutches. was it a clean break? was there any surgery?

Jul 21, 2009
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Broken fibulas!!
by: Anonymous

I broke my fibula about 3 wks ago and have since then had 1/2 a cast on which is now a full cast. I am to go back to the hospital in 10 days. This is the 1st web site that has given me info about my broken fibula with any surgery. I am off on hols mid of sept but worried that I may not be walking properly on my ankle. Will I have to use croutches once my cast is off?

Jun 20, 2009
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worried fibula
by: dreamlord

I fractured my fibula last may 18,2009. I've been to many sites but this is the closest thing i can connect to my injury. I was in a half cast for two weeks then i was in a fiber cast for a month. I went to see my O/S and he advised me to give it some FWB and then he advised me to walk. The problem is my ankle can't do some inward motions. Is that normal? It can do some outward stepping but the inward is quite painful. Should i force it?
My next O/S appointment is on July 16.

Jan 11, 2009
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Redo Fibula
by: Casted jen

I broke my fibulia in two places above the ankle right before labor day. After 6 weeks it still hurt. I went in to my ortho complaining and he ordred a Ct. The Ct showed the bones were aligned but not bridged ( they were torqued on themselves). So I ended up having surgery right before Christmas. Bummer. I had to start all over. Why can't docs get it right he first time.
I am so tired and frustrated. I am in a lot of pain but went back to wirk on crutches and no meds. I med when I get home. How much longer?

Nov 06, 2008
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gradual increase
by: Bart - SII

It is going to be somewhat painful, and is likely going to feel very funny for a week or two. Just try to gradually increase the amount of weight you are putting on your ankle. This may mean going with both crutches for a few days, but putting weight on that leg as you walk with them...once that starts to feel better, then transition to more weight, and then just one crutch.

You can do simple exercises like standing on both feet and shifting weight from side to side - you can control how much weight you put on your injured leg and then just slowly increase it.

The aircast should help to give you some support and make things feel more stable and normal - I would imagine he will want you in that for at least a few weeks.

Walking normally within a month may be cutting it close, but if you can progress gradually, 6 weeks should be reachable. Just a guess.

Bart

Nov 06, 2008
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Re: Out Of Cast But Fracture Is not 100% healed
by: Hazel

Hi Bart.

Thank you, thank you for answering my question so quickly. I have been on many sites and nobody has yet gotten back to me about any of my questions, except you. I really appreciate such a quick response.

Well, what has happened is that yesterday, I went to get new x-rays done, and then went to see my 0/S. He said my x/rays looked okay, there is still a fracture line visible but he insists that I should put FWB on it and wishes to see me in 3days time, to find me at least coming down to just one crutch. My goodness, I have tried, but the pain in my foot, especially on the left side and mainly under my heal point, is really painfull. It feels like the somethings piercing at the heal. Is this normal. How long does it takes one to get the handle of balancing on both sides normally again, hehehe because right now, the left side of my body feels really foreign Bart.

He has asked me to now get an aircast which I should be getting tomorrow, how long do I have to wear it?

Do you think I will be walking normally by a months time?

Thanks once again

Regards

Hazel Anand

Nov 03, 2008
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weight bearing
by: Bart - SII

The fibula is not a weight bearing bone, so putting weight on your leg shouldn't overstress the bone. Since the fracture wasn't displaced, surgery wasn't needed.

You will likely have some pain and abnormal feelings early on during your weight bearing as your body adjusts back to this. You should follow your doctors advice.

When you can get out of the case will depend on how your follow up X-rays look and how the bone is healing, and when your doctor feels it is ok for you to remove it.

Bart

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