Hello, I recently (10 days ago) fell 8 feet at work and shattered my right heel (calcanous) into 7 peices and pulverized some parts to bits. I was first seen by a general practitioner who refered me to a podiatrist for treatment. After doing some research I'm begginning to understand the seriousness of this injury. The specialist I'm seeing sees no advantage in having surgery at this point so I'm laying here in pain waiting for the healing process. I'm posting this to try and get some opinions from others who have suffered this injury. My main concern is wether or not I'll be able to return to work. I work as a structural steel Ironworker. You know the guys who build skyscrapers walking on the beams. With that said you can see how important it is for me to have good feet and legs. Aslo what kind of time frame am I looking at for the healing process. 6 months? a yr? more? Will I be able to walk normally again? Luckily I was working on a bridge pier at the time of the accident so I will be covered under the longshoreman/Harbor Workers workmans comp so I don't have to worry much about finances but if the healing takes more then a yr I will lose my medical coverage for my family and that is not a good thing. I'm getting pretty concerned about this injury so any information you can give me is much appreciated.

Thanks

Tis

I have never broken my calcaneus, but after doing way too much research on them from an osteotomy I had they are very complicated fractures. I personally would get a second opinion with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in feet and ankles.. or even another well known podiatrist maybe (I personally have never seen a podiatrist). But with the kind of work you do I would get another opinion. Just my 2 cents obviously. But from what my surgeon has told me there are many complications that are involved in the type of fracture you are describing. The only reason why I read up on calcaneal fractures is because that is what my ortho specializes in and I was finding articles and his qualifications before I continued treatment. Find the best doc you can and go from there.. I don't know what workmans comp covers and all, but good luck. I hope you heal as fast as possible.. good luck.

thanks for the reply. The specialist I'm seeing now is a OS/sports medicine Dr. Also I'm working with my health care provider to get a second opinion. Should be some time this week.
Yesterday (July 4th) was pretty tough. We hold a annual 4th party at my house so I had to make appearances throughout the day to say hi to our guests. I went through a lot of pain doing that but I wanted to get out of bed for a while anyway. After about 30 mins I was back on my back with foot up:D it was a long day to say the least. Anyway I'll keep checking this thread for any other information others may offer here as well as updating my condition

Thanks

Tis

Hi tis,

Eight years ago I spent the 4th getting my heel screwed back together. You'll find some fairly recent posts if you use the search feature on the top of the "foot problems" page and put in: fractured calcaneous. It's not unusual to skip the surgery. I think the two reasons they do go in are when the bones are way out of place and when the arch gets completely flattened and has to be rebuilt. So that puts you in the luckier group. My understanding (and experience) is that the most common long-term problem is with uneven surfaces. So as long as they're putting up those skyscrapers level....
You are going to have to be very patient. When you start walking again it will hurt from the injury and from your down time. Based on my own experience, I always suggest that people get as rigorous an exercise plan as possible from their docs or physical therapist to keep the circulation and muscle tone up. I wish the healing process were even close to a broken leg. But you have to take into account that feet don't get the circulation that you leg does, they have a lot of moving parts and supporting your weight, walking, and balancing put a lot of demand on them. So recovery takes a long time. My guess would be closer to a year, but feel free to prove me wrong!

Tis and all - I am still suffering from a right broken calcaneous on Sep 6, 2003. My doctor (orthopedic surgeon specializing in feet) implanted a plate and 10 screws. I had pain while walking, which increased over time. A month ago Doc removed hardware and said my injury also caused 30% carteledge loss on the subtaler joint. This means continued pain (orthoarthritis?) while walking. Doc ordered me an athletic ankle brace to stabilize the foot while active. It is uncomfortable, but helps a little. Also consider getting high-top lace up boots - that may work better.

Doc recommends a sub taler joint fusion if pain persists for next few months.

At least a year for recovery is a good estimate. You WILL recover - but get another opinion on the surgery!!!


Also - does ANYONE know anything about glucosomine pills for aleiving arthritis pain (subtaler joint)??

Thanks,

Matt

I have subtalar and ankle arthritis from the trauma of having the surgeries and fusion of both has been brought up. I am only 18... almost 19 so am obviously trying to find alternatives. I can't wear the ankle braces cuz of the nerve damage in my foot from my last surgery. I just have the problem that my os is the best in Tampa for the problem I have, I just don't trust him. I am to re-evaluate with my os in 2 months.. mainly to see how much of pain is post-op pain and how much is nerve, tendonitis and/or arthritis related. Oh they joys of this endeavor. Good luck everyone. Subtalar joint is supposed to be one of the most-satisfying fusions though from what my ortho said.. You only lose inversion and eversion, you can still move you foot up and down.. Just something he said.. who knows if its really true, lol.

Hi Tis:

Right away I will say that Tchair has been a big help to me - look at the other posts and you'll hear my story and his input. I will echo the time frames mentioned - my fall was on March 7th - completely no weight for 8 weeks with pins that have been removed. My bone has healed satisfactorily, but my issue is that calcaneus was flattened and when it regrows to heal, tendons that previously passed by on the inside and ouside of the foot are now impinged.(pain) Uneven surfaces will probably be the long term issue - I think in time you will be fine because my experience, like t said, is that steel is awfully level! Kidding aside - get another opinion on surgery, keep your foot up and ICE!

Also - if there will be no surgery, get into physical therapy as soon as practical - I started the day after my pins were removed - even before I could put any weight on the thing. I'm at the 4 month mark - walking with a limp, still using pain med's and therapy 2x a week. But I am making continued progress. I have an 8 year old and a 3 year old so inactivity is NOT and option - I am planning a full recovery - I have been an athelete all my life with many, many injuries and nothing has ever been so slow to recover. Hang in there, you'll do great.

Joe

I broke both of my heels almost a year ago, and while I am walking around some, I wouldn't consider myself "healed" by a long shot. It is a long, long recovery, usually with a lot of difficulties. I'm not sure anyone can predict your outcome so soon after your injury. A lot of it depends on how stubborn you are after the bones heal. Do ALL of the exercises they give you, and do them more often that they tell you, and you have a good chance of being "normal". My experience so far says that my feet probably will never feel like they used to, but I can make do with what I get back. Good luck.

I take MSM with glucosamine Sulphate---at least 2000 units---4000 when I remember to take that much. It works. Use it.

Hi All,
I shattered my left calcaneous (about 12 pieces) on April 1st. Had splint and/or cast for 11 weeks. No surgery. Physical therapy is hard and painful. My heel itself isn't that bad but the ligaments and the sac over my ankle continue to swell and are locked in place. I just started to use a corrective heel insert because my heel/ankle are collapsed to the inside. Must have been the way I fell. I cannot say I am in terrible pain, but every step does hurt. My doctor says 1 yr until I feel normal...but probably never 100%...maybe 90. I have to admit I haven't been that good about doing my pt at home because it sometimes seems to just make it worse. From reading posts here it sounds like I should do them anyway even if it seems to make it worse....it will help in the long run?

At this 4 month point I do feel I have come a long way, and I know I will be better every day. I am keeping very positive. Also I'm usually about 130 lbs and i've gained about 20 lbs from being imobile and eating for comfort. That doesn't help either. But, I am trying to lose it now. I think it will help. Good luck everyone who is going through this as well.

marciek,

I was confused at first because your post was on an old thread. Might be a good idea to make a new one that starts off fresh.
My swelling slowly subsided over months but didn’t seem to reoccur. Others have said it did for them so maybe they can jump in and let you know how it turned out.
As for doing PT, you don't get improvement unless you work for it. We've all found it painful to some degree as we got our feet to perform new functions. We often use the phrase: "Two steps forward, one step back." But only a doc can determine if the "worse" part that you are experiencing individually is normal or causing harm. If you're told that it is just the usual, better to do what you can and take breaks away from it than avoid it all together. Many of us were prescribed pain meds just to get through the process successfully.

Sounds like you're also looking for motivation. Some 'heelies' (as we call ourselves these days) have activities that they love and refuse to give up. Others decided that they are going to do everything they can to get the best outcome. I, and a few others were simply PO'd about the "Never 100%" comment and decided to prove the docs wrong. So you can use hope, make it a challenge, even a bit of anger, whatever you can latch onto to help push yourself. You could cover this with your doc. Going to formal PT would make it structured and scheduled. You could get a friend or family member to be your coach, reminding you and encouraging you. The rule in that situation is you can't turn around and say "Quit bugging me."

Thanks for the reply. I guess I was just wondering how many of you had experienced the same thing. I didn't think my ankle would be the worst of the problem once the cast came off. I see my Dr next week, and I will ask him about the PT causing pain and swelling and at what point does it indicate a possible problem. I began yesterday doing all the exercises I had been given to do, and I start with a new therapist today (my old one is out for surgery). I will try to reacess everything that is going on with her.

One question....who has had the problem of the heel and ankle collapsing to one side or the other? Have the inserts helped? Thanks again. Marcie

Marcie,

I crushed both heels the left ankle was collapsed to the outside but was repaired during surgery. Can't help with anything about inserts........Sorry
Douglas

Marcie,
On the subject of a collapsing heel, it seems I've been the only one out of the dozens that have come here. The others have experienced weakness, instability and pain in the ankle during recovery, but so far no others have specifically used the word collapse. When I initially told my surgeon he dismissed it. Then I spent a lot of time observing what happened when I put my weight down, comparing it to my 'good' foot, watching it in a mirror and finally took some pictures from behind (self timer). On my next appointment I was prepared to demonstrate what was happening. My doc said: "Fine, go here." and gave me an address. It turned out to be an Orthotics & Prosthetics clinic and they knew just what I needed. The technician had me stand and then positioned my leg so that it was in a straight line. That entailed pushing my ankle outward and resulted in the inside of my heel lifting slightly off of the floor. Next he heated some orthodic foam and had me stand on it with my leg straight as the foam cooled. Then when I put my weight on it my leg stayed straight. Finally he traced the original sole liner from my shoe and cut the foam to match. With the foam thicker under the inside edge of my heel it no longer dropped down and allowed my ankle to keel over. I wasn't sure that it was making a difference in the first few minutes of trying it, but by the time I got back to my car I realized that walking had gotten a whole lot easier.

When I read your post I took off my shoes to see what I could observe. The best I can say along with you can feel it 'cave in' is that on my good foot I cannot see the side of it below the ankle bone while on the one that collapses I can clearly see the surface as it is way out here and facing a lot more upward. What I have is called a soft orthodic. I was told that if my foot was more 'off' it would have required making a mold and sending it out for a hard plastic one. Mine cost $100. My insurance paid and it has lasted for years. There are a lot of 'corrective inserts' out there, but I think something specifically tailored for your foot would be the most promising. By the way, after standing barefoot yesterday (sans orthodic) when I read your post my ankle was sore for the rest of the day.

Hi,
I'm recovering from rt. heel cal fracture and ankle. I flew down a flight of stairs (without wings) on 2/6/05. Ortho Surgeon said I did not need surgery. Felt insecure & went to NYC specialist and said I was borderline surgery, however too late since it was 3 weeks later and starting to heal. I had a cam walker for 3 months, then crutches and cane and now I am walking with pain every step I take. I was in so much pain I decided to go to a Dr. in Florida (our 2nd home). He referred me to a heel specialist and all the Dr. did was look at the exrays and without a doubt said I needed surgery because the heel was gone and I was bone on bone to the ankle causing damage to the ankle. I would be starting all over again as if I just had the accident. He would put 2 screws and a plate and build up the heel. He also said if I don't do it I would get worse instead of better. Boy, I am so scared. I don't know which way to turn. Has anyone gone through this situation? I would apprediate any info.

marcie,
My calcaneous fracture was only about a month ago and did not have surgery. Cast came off after 3 weeks and then I started PT. So far just doing stretching exercises on the heel/foot and some others to keep up the strength in the knee and hip. The doctor said he'll take some xrays in a few weeks to see how the healing is progressing and if everything is good, will start doing some weight bearing things. I've been fortunate I haven't had much pain up to this point but expect once I try to put weight on it, that will change.
-will

I'm going to have to work on a name for mine. Since I broke both sides, I'm torn between thinking up one name or two.

I have called them both various names during my recovery, however none of them are printable in this forum.

I have discovered one interesting fact though---

Every time I take a bad step and tweak either ankle wrong, I instantaneously learn a new foreign language, and words shoot forth that are undecipherable even to me. I wonder if the local University would be interested in this new learning technique?

Iknow what you mean about the unprintable names I also busted both of my heels. Finally after 5 months I got my feet in a pair of tennis shoes. Before I fell I wore 10's now it takes 12's because of the swelling in my feet. Was up on them about 30 minutes yesterday and had some choice words for myself as I was waddling back across the yard. I guess I should try a 1/2 step instead of a whole step. LOL

Iknow what you mean about the unprintable names I also busted both of my heels. Finally after 5 months I got my feet in a pair of tennis shoes. Before I fell I wore 10's now it takes 12's because of the swelling in my feet. Was up on them about 30 minutes yesterday and had some choice words for myself as I was waddling back across the yard. I guess I should try a 1/2 step instead of a whole step. LOL


I used to be a 9-1/2 regular ---now I'm an 11-1/2 wide without swelling. Even the 11-1/2's get tight if I walk alot. I broke 13 bones total, plus both heels, and I think all the new bone growth caused the size change.

Boots seem to be the best thing for me. I swell up a lot with tennis shoes or loafers. Boots seem to control that a lot better, and I bought a pair that was too big 'cause I can put on two pairs of socks and get a lot more cushion. This seems to work better for me than insoles. The extra support boots provides also reduces the number of foreign words I invent.

Thanks, I will try the 2 pair of socks...The workers comp. insurance is going to scream when I drop the bomb on them about replacing all of my boots. :rolleyes: Have 2 pair of Browning's only worn twice to break them in plus 3 other I wore most of the time.

"IF" You can get on any of your old boots, that's been the best for me. I had a pair that was all stretched out that I use all the time now. I got a new pair, but I like the old icky ones best because they bend easy. I don't have to break them in. I have one pair of air soled sneakers that work pretty good just around the house, but I can't work in them very long.

NOTHING works very long if I have to be on cement or asphalt. Seems like I can walk around in the yard or out in the woods all day, but about an hour on a really hard surface and I'm done for the day.

No such luck just tried to put on the one they cut off me. Could not even get them on with the tongue cut all the way down the side. No need to try the others not a chance they will fit. :(

Dugs ----

I only ended up with one pair that I could get on. All my others will get passed on to someone I guess. I had some really great slip-on boots, but there's no way my feet will bend enough to ever get them on again. I think it's lace-ups for me from now on.

Went to the zoo yesterday for our company picnic. I was up quite a bit walking from place to place, and I am really paying for it today. All of the paths were cement, and even with all the padding I could get in the boots, I swelled up something crazy. Seems sort of odd that one year ago I could skip along all those paths with narry a problem. Now---it's just plodding along followed by two days of pain. I'm hopeful things will continue to improve.

Hello all. I am new here. I shattered my right heel on June 26, 2005. I am about 8 weeks into recovery at this point with my next orthopedic surgeon appt on September 1st. I shattered the heel because I was out in stocking feet with my 1 year old Lab pup (horse really) on a retractable leash. I'm terrified of bees and there were bees in the grass so I was standing up on our 7 ft landing by the porch. He got stuck on some cement pieces and weeds in the yard under the landing so I was flipping the leash up and down to get him loose so as not to get stung by standing in the grass. <sigh> If I had only known!

Anyhow, he took off lightening quick after something he saw, probably a bird, and off the landing I went into our asphalt driveway with the majority of the fall being on the right foot. Initially I thought both heels were broke but the left was only bruised. It hurt for weeks but now it's fine.

The emergency room put my foot in a splint and sent me home, telling me to make my appointment with the surgeon after a few days to allow some of the swelling to go down so I went home and did the ice thing and the elevation thing. 4 days later I saw the surgeon who immediately talked me out of surgery because I smoke, telling me that the chance of infection is greater and he put me in a cast. At about 6 weeks he re-xrayed then put me in what looks like a splint type ski boot, which is much more comfortable by a long shot.

I have 2 weeks to go for the next appt and am hoping the next x-rays will show the heel is healed then I can begin applying weight like he said. I have real concerns with it, I'm basically scared. I see myself coming further each day and feeling better each day but that will change when I put weight on it, I know. Last night I took my first tub bath and was scared to death but it was fine. I had been washing daily at the sink but he told me 2 weeks ago that I could bathe and swim if I want but not to put any weight on it yet.

At this point my heel isn't really hurting, although I still feel a shot of pain now and then but nothing I can't handle. What I hate and have a hard time with is the constant pressure when I'm propping it. No matter how I lay, there's pressure. That bothers me to the point where I can't sleep so I'm still taking pain pills to help with that. He was reluctant to give me a new prescription but he did. I hope he doesn't think over the counter meds are going to help me when I'm putting pressure on this thing! They haven't helped me so far when I tried to ween myself off the prescriptions. I've gone down to taking just 2-3 in a 24-hour period, which is good so I'm trying hard not to take them unless I really need to and then only 1 and not the recommended 2 so I think I'm doing good in that regard.

I've been doing more and more for myself, relying on others less as I try to recover and gain some of my independence back, which has been very hard for me. I've always been independent and then boom! All of a sudden I'm relying on other people to do basically everything for me as I recover. I dropped 15 pounds initially due to the pain meds making me so sick that everything I ate just came back up for weeks. I think I've probably gained half of it back but I'm still a few pounds overweight anyhow so I'll work on that. I try to watch what I eat and when I eat.

I also had (and still kind of struggle with) my days and nights getting mixed up. I never realized that TV stinks that late at night! I tried sitting outside and sitting up more and more these last few weeks to help incorporate me back into my job in a few weeks but my foot starts to hurt, feels like it's swelling and burns like blood is rushing to it (probably is) so I can't tolerate not having it up for more than a half hour or so at a time. That sucks.

As of the date of my injury I've been on short term disability, which has helped to have an income at all and my workplace has subsudized that with vacation/sick/personal days I had accrued to make up for what they don't pay me so that's helped me financially so I don't have to worry about that. I am hoping to go back to work very soon after my next appt knowing full well I may need a week or so to gain some strenght and learn to walk. Primarily I can sit all day or most of it so that will help at work. They are also getting me a foot stool to use and going out of their way to ease me back in and keep me comfortable so that's helpful.

Sorry for the long post. I think this isn't just a physical rehab but a mental one as well. It sure has taught me and my family a few things! To the best of my knowledge, no other bones were broken and my ankles seem fine but I noticed that this foot is so red compared to the other althought I guess that's normal. It looks a little different, like it's still swollen too. The surgeon did tell me I would notice probably a shape difference once it's been healed.

At this point, I'm terrified of trying to THINK of walking on this thing. I'm scared to death to be truthful and would appreciate any advice. I'm still on crutches until my appt. Then we'll see. Thanks for listening and being here!

Welcome DEEDS. Sounds like you're in the right place. Please feel free to read the many posts in here, but I'm pretty sure the answers are the same for all of us here.
1. Be patient. There is no standard for this injury.
2. Be patient. Even the Doctors don't always know the right answers.
3. Be patient. Getting better from this is a process--not an event.
4. Be patient. It will probably take longer than you want to get better.
5. Be patient. It will probably not take as long as other might tell you.
6. Be patient. Do what you can, and don't worry about the rest.
7. Be patient. Don't be afraid of using your pain meds. Until you are up and about again, and maybe for awhile afterwards, they are your friend, and will keep things bearable until you are going again.
8. Be patient. There is definitely a mental part to this recovery. It takes time to get over the fear of pain.

You've probably noticed a common thread running through all of my comments. Don't be fearful though. All of us here came in broken, and are in various states of recovery.

Just a personal discovery here --- I couldn't STAND having anything on my feet for a long time--including ice, therefore I had a lot of swelling. I finally figured out that ice packs behind the knees (on top of a pillow) worked really good, and didn't hurt. You might give that a try.

I'm over 1 year post op, and my feet are just now beginning to look normal.

Patience-----it will get better. Welcome to our little group.

I loved your post and appreciate it very much so thank you! Patience has never been a virtue of mine but with this injury, I have learned!! I know we are all different with our injuries, healing process and even the care we receive but your overall advice was sound and what I needed to hear. I also feel that the pain meds are my friend at this point, although it's a friend I try to keep at bay until I absolutely need the visit you know? I don't want to become dependent.

Right now I'm on Vicadin 500 mg, taking 1 tablet usually twice a day, sometimes 3 times if I need it so that's not too bad. Once I start putting pressure ont he heel in a couple of weeks (I hope), I just hope that the doctor also sees that as a needed part of my full recovery. I don't think I'll be able to handle more pain at this point. This has been the most painful thing I've ever dealt with and I've bore children naturally, including twins so that says a lot!! Hahahaha

Thanks again for the warm welcome. I look forward to reading and posting.

DEEDS--Glad you're here. I wouldn't worry too much about getting dependent on your meds. My experience so far is that they keep the pain manageable so we can get up quicker so we can get away from the meds sooner. Overall--it's a good thing. I'll agree with you on one thing--- I've never had anything hurt so bad so long. I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy.

You can be sure there will be pain when you first start standing, but my experience is that once I was up and got through the initial few days of owies, things started to improve pretty rapidly. I don't routinely take any pain meds now, although there are some days where I have no option if I want some sleep that night.

I did mention in an earlier post that one upside to this is that if I tweak either of my feet wrong --- I can instantaneously learn a new foreign language (laughing). I have said words I didn't even know existed, and I'm quite certain I could not spell.

Have a good day.

So, in other words you're telling me that soon English will be my "second" language?? Hahahahaha I always wanted to learn a foriegn language, just not like this. <sigh>

I second the patience and be thankful if you do not end up having to have surgery. coming up on 6 mo. post-op have been on crutches just 3 wks now, still taking pain in the morning to get the feet functioning and in the evening to make it thru the night. both heels were shattered .

I never got to use crutches since both feeties were messed up. I went straight into a walker, and I really learned to hate that thing. My feet were aleady killing me ---then my arms started hurting almost as bad once I used that walker. I pulled a muscle in my bicep about day three in the walker, and I think I took more drugs for that than I did for the feet. (laughing). I don't like to take pain meds either, but on ocassion --they keep life bearable. Just one little pill seems to make me stupid for 2-3 days---especially if I haven't taken them for awhile, so I avoid them unless I'm really hurting.

DEEDS--- Indeed learning a new language can be challenging. I stepped on my Grandsons hotwheels last week on a hardwood floor, and believe me ---I learned a new language quickly. (and loudly). I only had socks on, and landed right on my worst heel. Even my poor dogs went hiding for awhile, and didn't come out until I was sitting in my chair for awhile. (And had quit sweating).

Yikes on the hotwheels story!! I have come to appreciate those things that I did in the past (or always thought of doing anyhow) that I will probably never do again. Like jogging (never did but wanted to take up this summer b4 this happened), running, walking long distances and something as simple as jumping up and down cheering for a good team! I can live without those things though.

I do have a deep appreciate now for my bone health. I realize how fragile we really can be as we get older, not just by what happened to me and how fast it happened, but in reading other peoples stories on how this happened to them. I'm more aware now of taking care of myself. That's a good thing.

I'm just looking forward to driving again and wonder how long it took those of you from the day the doc said the bones were healed, to when you got to drive again. I look forward to just getting out of the house, even if just for a drive by myself. :eek:

I started driving when I could stand to push the brake pedal and the emergency brake pedal without squeeling like a little girl (laughing). I broke my feet in June--I drove for the first time in December, and it was one of the most liberating feelings imaginable. Even better was when I got back on my motorcycle for the first time last month. WOW!!! Progress.

Betcha you will re-learn to do more things than you think right now. My Dr. said I would NEVER be able to hike around in the woods again. I did a three mile hike two weekends ago, and didn't use any drugs afterwards. My opinion is that the body adjusts to the needs. If you push hard in your recovery--I bet you can get back almost everything you could do before. I'm still pretty slow, and my step is about 1/2 of what it used to be, but----I'm walking, and it's still improving. My bowling score actually improved 20 pins because I'm forced to slow down and think it through. I'll never be a pro bowler---but then----I never wanted to be one anyway. I never wanted to be a prima ballerina, and that's good 'cause I won't make that either.

It's not all bad.

I started driving last week which was 7 weeks after my break and did not have surgery. Driving for the most part has been no problem but my foot will ache some if I've been driving for a while. I can stand on two feet now but if I try and walk without crutches I have a fair amount of pain. But even so, I try and do a little walking each day. Oh and another good thing; now that I can stand I can negotiate stairs in the upright position (just like a big boy as my kids like to say).

-will

Thank you for the feedback. 7 weeks after breaking your foot and you're driving gives me a lot of hope! Today was 9 weeks ago that this happened to me so by Thursday when I see the doctor again it will be 9.5 weeks and I hope to get some good news, like it's healed! You'll survive! You can drive! You can walk and go back to work! Hahahaha :bouncing:

walking on crutches with 2 bad feet took some getting use to left crutch forward right foot forward , right crutch forward left foot forward. Takes some getting use to at first but now it's pretty easy now tried the walker thing it really sucked.

Dugs---I don't think I could deal with walking on crutches like that. I already feel pretty much like a weeble, and I don't think I'm co-ordinated enough to use crutches (laughing). I do ok on level ground, but when I get on uneven ground it's pretty funny even to me. Walking on sand is pretty much impossible ---but fun to watch.

Delta, useing the crutches is just like swinging your arms after you get use to it, you want even think about. Uneven ground is still tricky but went to the beach and had no problems with the sand just a little slow.

I've been using my crutches since my injury happened, 9 weeks now. I hate them. Although I agree that it does get easier with time, I have painful areas under my arm pits and have tripped once. It's hard when I first get up from sleeping. I have to sit on the edge of the couch or bed and make sure I'm awake before going to get up or I could fall. It's also a trip to make sure I don't fall over sleeping dogs (have 2) or that nobody left anything laying around in my path for the crutch to snag and make me fall. It's a constant worry.

I did learn to balance plates and coffee cups while I walked though. That was interesting. If nobody is home and I want to eat or drink something, gotta learn! Still, I wouldn't have been able to get around without them but I can't wait to get my bootie off on Thursday (hopefully) and start walking on my foot!

If you have sore places under your armpits lower your crutches. You should have the wait on your hands not under your arms; may have to raise the hand pieces though.

I don't know about sore armpits, however I know about sore butts after being in a wheelchair for almost 9 months. I have come to a whole new appreciation for people who are stuck in one permanently.

To be honest ----this whole experience has altered many of my attitudes about many things.

I had my dr appt today with the surgeon. He looked at my new x-rays and said he's very pleased with how everything is healing, now to start putting weight on it. He told me to continue using my crutches for a little while and the boot but to start putting pressure and stepping with that bad foot now until I can do it without the crutches. He also told me that I could put a sneaker on if I'm so inclined. I tried it, it hurts. The heel is very tender as you can imagine.

So he wants to see me in 4 weeks and gave me a bunch of ankle and foot excerises to do at home in the meantime. I have hardly any muscle mass in my bad foot's calf but he said the excersizes will help to strengthen that. He told me I can drive whenever I feel comfortable too. He also gave me a prescription for more Vicadan should I need it, with one refill. He told me to try not to take them unless I have to. He wants me to try over the counter meds when I can. Easy for him to say. :rolleyes:

I'm sorry but I forgot to even pose my question earlier. When those of you who healed and began walking again, were you as scared as I am? I'm terrified that I'll re-break this thing.

How did you start out? Did you use crutches and gradually put pressure on your foot or what?

I usually wear size 7 regular sneakers. I bought 7.5 wides. The bad foots shoe is slightly loose but no big deal. I just put the other sneaker on my bad foot and it's pretty darn tight. Also, my ankles hurt although the sneakers aren't touching them. I think they're stiff.

I feel like my heel has a bunch of little needles sticking in it when I put the pressure on it. I get a stinging feeling.

DEEDS--I was absolutely terrified when I started walking. I had no muscle mass--no balance--- and it hurt like crazy the first few times. I went from a 9 and 1/2 normal to a 11 and 1/2 wide shoe, so even my feet didn't feel like they belonged to me. You just have to trust that it will get better---it will. The bones heal real quickly, and I'm lead to believe that the chances of breaking them again is really remote, but the tendons and ligaments are anotehr story entirely. They take FOREVER to heal (at least it seems that way). I'm 14 months post op now, and my feet are finally starting to feel like they are mine again.

My experience ---get into boots that have good soles. They feel decent on the heels, and give some extra support for the ankles. I have had no luck at all with shoes. I always get lots of swelling with shoes, and they just aren't comfortable at all. Maybe others have had different experiences--but that's how it is for me.

What worked for me standing was to get ahold of my bed headboard or some other real stable piece of furniture, and just stand up for several days ---not try walking ---just standing. Maybe get a little strength / balance before stepping out.

Good luck.

I also fell 8 feet recently and fractured my calcaneous (heel) bone. I had surgery at Harborview Foot and Ankle Institute in Seattle. I would highly recommend the place. My mother had similar injuries last year, had surgery there, and is now walking well. I've been told it's the best in the world for foot and ankle issues. Perhaps you could get your records and write them a letter to get their opinion?

How long were you told it would take to heal (no pun intended)? I am expecting 12 weeks with no weight bearing but I am already getting stir crazy and it's only been three weeks.

Best to you for a speedy recovery.

Crashsite.

Deeds - Like deltadad, I just started by just standing with crutches and shifting a little weight on to the bad foot. My first steps were in the kitchen where I could use the counters, chairs, etc and I took very small steps and only a few at a time. I've been walking for about 2 weeks now and still use my crutches about 75% of the time. And walking barefoot is much more painful than with shoes. So, take it slow, rest frequently, and use ice. It will get better (or so I tell myself everyday).
-will

One thing I have figured out is that I have to have shoes (preferably boots) that have a specific hardness in the soles. Ones that are too soft or too hard both really hurt me. I finally found a pair of boots that work pretty good, and I can now be up on my feeties for several hours a day without whining too loud at night.

I also found out when I was first standing up that standing on a mat like they sell for in front of your sink really helped a lot. They are just the right hardness.

Hey Slide!!! What's with the Newbie stuff? I am returning to post after a long absence, and see you are still here, but a Newbie again.... Well I thought I would put in my two cents worth after nine months
of living with bilateral calcaneal fractures. To update new friends, I fractured both calcaneous in a fall from a ladder on December 8th. Surgery on December 21. Open reduction with internal fixation , two plates, 10 screws on the right one. No surgery on the left one.

Today my situation stands as this: walking but having trouble with uneven surfaces or climbing over rocks or anything else. Can't do any sort of twist with either foot without resulting pain for a few days. I am still paranoid of ladders, but try, very carefully, to use them. Petrified of repeating accident. Saw my doc last week and am going to schedule removal of hardware in November. Would do it sooner, but I am having bilateral carpal tunnel surgery in Ocober.

Advice for what it is worth. Plan on recovery taking a lot longer than you ever thought possible. Notice slow, but steady progress, more on a month to month than a day to day schedule. Keeping a journal is a good thing to do just as a reminder of where you have been and progress you have made, even if you don't remember making any!!!

Try exercising your gratitude muscles. I did not hurt my back, hit my head, or die. I am walking, so what's to whine about? Some days I whine......

Hang in there all you heelies!!! Good luck with your recovery.

How long were you told it would take to heal (no pun intended)? I am expecting 12 weeks with no weight bearing but I am already getting stir crazy and it's only been three weeks.
Crashsite.

My doc said approx 12 weeks also but at week 9.5 he took me out of the boot and told me to start applying weight and trying to walk. I think that's good news. :-) I'm still going stir crazy although I do many different things now and have for the last month. I sit outside on a nice day to read or watch the traffic. Something different. I've gone out a few times with my mom for lunch, to the farmers market for fresh fruit, to the store. Just to get out of the house and go. I sit in one room to watch TV, another to be on my computer (but I have a TV in here too so I cheat) and now and then I sleep in my bedroom although the couch has been 'bed' for the most part for me. Anything to do for a change of pace.

I've read books, wrote letters (even wrote a 78 page story on all my childhood memories using a laptop so I wouldn't be bored), worked on my cross stitch projects, sat outside, had visitors, went for car rides - do what you can to change your routine instead of just laying and being depressed or stir crazy. That was the kicker for me. My first month that's all I did. Little good 13 HBO's does me when they show all the same programming on each channel. Hahahaha Also, if I see one more commercial on Viagra I'll just scream.

Having this problem gives you plenty of time to really study what's on TV.

I watched so many day time shows that I hate men too (Laughing).
All kiding aside---daytime TV is pretty useless.

Having this problem gives you plenty of time to really study what's on TV. I watched so many day time shows that I hate men too (Laughing). All kiding aside---daytime TV is pretty useless.

This struck me as so incredibly funny that I almost wet myself laughing!!! THANK YOU!!!! I really needed this good laugh today, I really did and your post was just the ticket.

I ventured out today in my car to run to the bank. My disability check came in and bills need paid and I needed to pick up my prescription so out I went. Hubby is working until tomorrow night so I couldn't / didn't want to wait. My house is set up that if I go out my front door (which is my only option right now due to my injury) I have to go down 3 rather large cement front porch steps (makes it easy to maneuver with the size of the steps really). Then I have to walk down the street 1/4 block, turn the corner and into my driveway to get to the car.

If I go out my kitchen door, I'm standing on my deck which has 4 small wooden steps then a little landing then 6 cement steps which lead to my driveway. Much shorter distance but there's no way I can do that on crutches. My yard is a small hill then it goes flat toward the bottom so when I go out the front door to get out, I have no choice at this time but to walk the length of my street to the driveway. By the time I got to my car, I was exhausted.

Coming back up into the house was easier. I have more balance coming up the hill then down on my street but when I got in the house, I couldn't find my prescription (that in my haste to get to the bank I forgot and figured that's a trip to take tomorrow), my old dog couldn't wait to go outside and pee'd all over my bedroom carpet (had to get on my knees to clean it up and that was a trip) and my lab pup who's 1 yr old decided he had to go outside right away and he's the one I was letting out when I had this injury so I'm terrified to hold his leash now because he's so strong and down I'll go again.

I put him on his retractable leash and when he went out to the porch I closed the door on the leash. It allowed him to go the full length to do his business and the kitchen door kept the handle of the leash inside so if he pulled, he wasn't pulling me. He came in when he realized he wasn't going any further then so that worked.

After all this, I sat in my computer room and started searching for my prescription, which fell under the chair and then I sat her and just burst into tears. Even though I have come so far, I don't feel I'm getting anywhere. I never would have thought just a few short weeks ago that I would be driving my car or applying weight to this foot but I am. I feel great about that but at the time when I'm trying to put the weight on my foot and it's hurting, I'm depressed because it just doesn't feel like I'm making any progress at all.

At this point, 5 days after my appointment now when I was told to go ahead and start weightbaring, I'm only able to put about 25% of my body weight on that foot. Forget even trying to take a step yet. I have a cane but can't use it. I can't put enough weight on that foot yet to be able to pick up the other foot to even walk. I'm using my crutches, which I hate. I've held on to the back of my furniture with my sneakers on and stood with my feet together and that's ok. I can do that. Taking steps though, forget it.

Am I making any progress or am I trying to push it too hard at 5 days out of the boot? Any thoughts (and sorry for the rant).

Deeds--I'm still awful still in the joints and I've been out of boots for over 8 months. I think it's just one of those things that is individual. It's really ---really hard to have patience after being cooped up for a long time, but that's the only solution I believe. I don't see any progress in myself real-time. I have to look back over a month or so to see the changes that have occured. I got some good advice when I signed on to this message board-----.

Do what you can--ignore the rest. Be grateful for the progress, and don't worry about what you can't do yet.

I'm almost 15 months post-op now, and the other night I got down on the floor for the first time since my accident. I did it because my two little beagles have always liked to play tug with me down there, and I'm sure they have missed the fun too.
Anyway---after play time I couldn't get up. I tried for 20 minutes, and I just couldn't do it. Having two beagles jumping around all over me like crazy maniacs didn't help either. After awhile, the situation was so ridiculous, my wife just sat down on the floor with me, and we giggled like idiots together. Obviously I eventually got up --(by climbing a door with my hands), but the experience was good. I haven't laughed like that in a long time.

Deeds--I'm still awful still in the joints and I've been out of boots for over 8 months. I think it's just one of those things that is individual. It's really ---really hard to have patience after being cooped up for a long time, but that's the only solution I believe. I don't see any progress in myself real-time. I have to look back over a month or so to see the changes that have occured. I got some good advice when I signed on to this message board-----.

Do what you can--ignore the rest. Be grateful for the progress, and don't worry about what you can't do yet.

I'm almost 15 months post-op now, and the other night I got down on the floor for the first time since my accident. I did it because my two little beagles have always liked to play tug with me down there, and I'm sure they have missed the fun too.
Anyway---after play time I couldn't get up. I tried for 20 minutes, and I just couldn't do it. Having two beagles jumping around all over me like crazy maniacs didn't help either. After awhile, the situation was so ridiculous, my wife just sat down on the floor with me, and we giggled like idiots together. Obviously I eventually got up --(by climbing a door with my hands), but the experience was good. I haven't laughed like that in a long time.

Well folks--it's Friday finally and I'm celebrating. This is the first week in over a year where I had pretty good feet days ALL WEEK!!! It's a milestone as I usually get 1 or 2 good days a week, and the rest are really painful. My Grandson says I look like I'm walking on barbwire. It's a pretty good analogy for how it feels most of the time.

Everybody have a good weekend, and do what you can. I'll send healing thoughts.

Happy Friday to you too!!! Usually I get email when someone responds but I didn't get one this time. Hmmmm. Anyhow.... I decided to go for physical therapy. Since I'm on a couple boards and an email list, I'll just copy and paste my post here. That way I don't have to type the same thing again. <sigh>

I was lucky enough to get a physical therapy appointment already this
morning. I just got home.
All I can say is............. OUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!

PT was a little bit painful today, primarily because my ankle is 'locked'
kind of sort of. It doesn't want to move too well but he moved it!!!!!! Yes
indeed, he moved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can we say OUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He gave me a slew of different exercises to do at home in between
appointments. Because our co-pay is $40.00 a pop, he will only see me twice
per week. He already told me that he will work me those two days too so I
need to be ready for it. I made my appointments for next week already for
the morning, get it over with!

We worked on my putting weight on my foot a little bit today but he's more
concerned with getting the range of motion back in my ankle first. That has
to come first since it holds me up. DUH Hahahaha So I was doing it all
wrong. No wonder I've been frustrated! He also agreed that until I can walk
without crutches, I shouldn't go back to work. Hopefully that won't take
long. I asked him if he's like a chiropractor. Will he crack me and I'll
hate him for hours but feel better later? He told me that no, he's a
physical therapist. He will crack me and I'll hate him for weeks!! Hahahaha

My foot is aching. I took a pain pill. I'm taking a nap. Hahahhahaha

Hi,
I fell last monday and broke my left heel, I don't know if I will require surgery or not, had my CT yesterday and OS appointment on Tuesday, I live in the DC Baltimore area and was wondering if anyone had been to Johns Hopkins for surgery (my OS dosen't do heel surgery). I have found a lot of information
about this injury on this site and now realize the recovery time is extensive and painful. Any information/advice you can offer would be great.
thanks

Very sorry to hear about your heel. It sucks to put it mildly for sure. So you will find out on Tuesday if you are having surgery for it? I have found with my own research that surgeons and the way they care for this type of thing vary as much as the injury itself. This seems to be one of those injuries that don't fit into a mold of what 'usually' is done to fix it.

I didn't have surgery myself. The main reason was because I am a smoker. My heel was shattered by a 7ft fall onto my driveway in socks. Had I had shoes on that day, I doubt that this would have happened. Anyhow, I spent the first 4 days in a boot splint from the emergency room. Once I saw the surgeon he put me in a cast for 6 weeks and then what looked like a ski boot for 4 more weeks. I've been out of the boot and have been told to weighbare now since 9/1. It's very difficult.

I don't know anything about Johns Hopkins but I'm sure there may be someone here who can give an opinion. I was seen by the Orothopedic Institute of PA. I live in the Harrisburg area. My injury was pretty bad but it healed nicely according to my surgeon. He was a little impressed on the amount of time it took, which was less than expected so that was a plus.

At this point I had asked my surgeon to send me to physical therapy. I just didn't feel as thought I were making any progress in my home exercises. I had my first appointment on Friday and it went well, although a little painful. It will get better though. The funny thing is, it's not my heel so much that hurts at this point. It's my ankle and the top of my foot mostly because I still have some swelling.

Anyhow, many folks have mentioned getting second, even third opinions if you aren't comfortable with the advice you're given by your doctor. I was totally confident in my doctor so I was lucky. This is a life altering injury though. Not only the time to heel but the time to get back on your feet normally. The recovery time is long but from what I'm reading here and elsewhere, it CAN be done. We CAN get back to normal.

A big problem I had throughout all of this was depression. That isn't often discussed but it hit me really hard after the first few weeks. I realized what my family (who had to do just everything for me and the household) could and could not handle. My job was divided into so many parts and given to many staff to do plus they hired a temp until I could get back so I had that to worry about. The temp actually took over my job completely and now my boss wants to 'create a position' for her. Go figure. That's another story though. LOL

Anyhow, welcome to the board. I hope you find your answers here and just know that you are not alone in your healing.

Hello,
I am currently recovering from a shattered calcaneus fracture. I ve shattered both of my feet from a fall with an open fracture on my left foot. I ve had a surgery that lasted 7 hours and ended up with plates and screws 7/9. I ve been weight bearing a month and a half. First three weeks i could stand on my feet no more than half an hour a day now things seem better, but walking seems easier than standing still. My problem is that the bottoms of my heel bones are uneven...like on my right i have a bone that sticking out and making my foot shifting outside , my left does not have enough bone on the inside making my foot stand flat. I cant walk bear feet at all.I have a question if anyone had similar problem and had some kind of reconstruction surgery? Like removing an excess of the bone or adding some? I do use the pads but the pain is still there.
Thank you for your attention and i would appreciate your help.

Happy Monday to all the Heelies in here. Glad to see new folks with problems in here, but sorry you got the problems. I'm over a year post-op, and it seems so far that this is a very individual problem. Some people heal up and pop up and start walking with minor difficulties--some never get up at all. Thankfully they are in the minority. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle.

My feeties are pretty irregular now too. I can do pretty well with certain types of shoes, however boots are generally better. I'm about to find out about orthotic inserts to try and correct for my wierd foot irregularities. From my standpoint--the jury is still out on if they help or not. I've tried several over-the-counter insoles with no sucess at all.

For the new people---hang in there. It gets better. I believe you just have to keep trying things until you find the right one for you.

Hello everyboby. I'm a newbie, well sort of. I've been reading the board since June but haven't been able to post until now. I was reading the "old thread" which apparently there was a problem with, but finally found this one a couple of weeks ago. I don't see some of the "heelies" I used to, which is to bad. They had some good advice, info, and stories.

Anyway, I'll give you my history. Please bare with me, this will be a bit lenghty.

Day my life changed - April 23, 2005
I broke my right heel into 5 large pieces and pulverized quite a bit of the softer inside bone. I was hiking and jumped down about 8 feet onto a boulder. I knew right away I had caused some big damage. I've had lots of fractures and other surgery and this was much worse than anything I had ever experienced before. I had to hop about 1.5 miles out of a canyon until we were able to get to flat enough ground that the rangers could carry me out. I have an 11 year old son that was with me. He was and is extraordinary. He stayed calm and went for help. I never would have gotten out of there on my own. The nearest hospital was three hours away and I didn't want them to call an ambulance. Sure, it hurts a lot but it can't be that bad, right? Live and learn. I had to drive (with my left foot) to the nearest town to get cell phone reception. I called a friend from home and had her and her friend come pick us up so that someone could drive my truck home. By the time we got to the emergency room it had been 13 hours. Talk about pain. I was going through ibuprofen like they were M&Ms. ER doc had X-rays done and said that I would definitely require surgery. He gave me some crutches, a shot of Demarol, and a scrip for Oxycontin. The Demarol was nice, but the Oxycontin didn't do all that great. I finally saw my OS five days later. Then we had to wait for the swelling to go down before surgery.

May 5, 2005 Surgery 1 - ORIF of right heel, plate and 10 screws, L incision on outside of foot. They did a spinal block for the surgery, which I ended up regreting in a big way. I had to end up getting a cathater(?) and had what they call spinal headaches for 10 days. The headaches were worse than my foot pain. I couldn't get out of bed. Sound, light, movement was excruciating. But, it got better and I was finally able to go from the bed to the couch. Victory 1 I was out of work until the first week of June. Of course there were multiple dr visits in that time. Luckily, I was able to drive with the boot on my right foot to accelerate and I used my left to break, still do actually. Doc was pretty satisfied with how everything looked (angles, width, etc.) but a small part of my incision wasn't healing well. The days drag on, the weeks, go by, and still it wasn't healing. Instead of being scabbed over it was wet and we started getting concerned. I was 7 weeks post-op and had developed an infection (which they were unable to identify) so he put me on oral antibiotics for 2 weeks. Everything seemed to be clearing up and the wound finally scabbed. A week later I was begining to have a lot of pain and redness that wasn't there before. I did some research and decided I had a bone infection. Went to the doc and the next day.....

July 19, 2005 Surgery 2 They removed all of the hardware, cut out the infection, and put me on IV antibiotics. I was in the hospital again for a couple more days and then sent home with a pic-line (for the antibiotics) and a wound vac. They still were unable to identify the "bug" so they had to put me on Vancomycin for 5 weeks. So along with the crutches, I had 2 tubes with attachments. But, once again, everything got better. The last week of August I was able to start putting weight on it, and it wasn't long before I was down to one crutch, around the house anyway. I'm still using 2 when out and about. I'm back to work again. Luckily, I have a desk job. I've worked only 6 weeks in the last 5 months.

September 13, 2005 First unassisted steps. I made it from the dining table to the couch and back. YEAH! It was very scary to set the crutches aside and take those first steps. I told my son, I think the crutch is as much for my head as my foot. But I'm not going to overdo it. I have a doc appt tomorrow. He should be pretty happy.

Yes, this is a life changing injury that I never would have believed would be this bad. After all, it's just a broken bone, right? I have struggled with this a lot and my future is still up in the air. I'll just have to wait and see how PT goes, which I will hopefully begin soon.

My son is AMAZING and without him I don't know what I would have done. He is 11 and has had to take on all the cooking and cleaning. We have our arguments (it's hard not to when you're cooped up with someone for so long) but he is everything to me. I'm now able to help out some which is good. The frustration from not being able to do the things you used to is awful. I am definitely getting better though and it is only a matter of time. I hope to return to the canyon on my "anniversary". I promise I'll keep my future post shorter. Thank you all for listening. It is really good to have others who know what you are going through. I wanted to leave you with a short story about my son.

The evening before Father's Day:
Me - Are you going to make me breakfast in bed tomorrow?
Son- Huh, what do you want? Me - I was thinking pancakes and bacon! Son - I, guess.
Me- Come on, it's Father's Day!
Son - Dad, everyday since you got hurt has been Father's Day!

He is so right, I owe him big time for all that he has done for me. Christmas should be a doozy.

Your story is remarkable and the parts about your son are touching. Aren't kids wonderful? I loved the Father's Day part. How cool. I don't know what I would have done without my boys during this recovery time for me. Your story is something else. I can't imagine going through all that, especially when it first happened and getting help, etc.!!!

I didn't get surgery although my heel was shattered in many pieces. My injury ocurred on 6/26. On the 30th I saw my OS and he put me in a cast for 6 weeks. The hospital emergency room had put me in a soft boot splint type thing initially. After the cast came off on, he put me in a walking boot type thing that pumped air. It was much more comfortable but I wasn't allowed to weightbare until it came off on 9/1.

I spent the first week of this month trying to do the at home exercises and putting some weight on my foot just standing behind my couch or something. I really felt the need to have physical therapy though. I wasn't sure I was doing this correctly and would either re-injure myself or not get well fast enough. I just want to get up and go! It's not happening. I still have swelling around my ankle and the top of my foot and my ankle just doesn't have the range of motion that it should. My PT is helping with that. I've taken 2 sessions so far with the third being tomorrow.

I've been off work since my injury. I too have an office job but am not comfortable going back until I'm off the crutches, or at least using a cane or something. I go back to see my doctor on the 29th for a checkup. I'm hoping I'll be able to take some steps by that time. This is certainly frustrating to me. I'm able to put more weight on my foot now then the beginning of the month and I'm using sneakers with Dr. Scholl insoles for comfort. I'm finding it's not the heel that hurts at this point, just the ankle area. I can't bend my foot in a normal walking pattern either, which doesn't help.

Like I said, this is very frustrating. I lost 2 inches of muscle mass in my calf and another inch in my thigh. I asked the PT if he could make me lose some in my butt and gut but he didn't find that too amusing. LOL

Your story is certainly an inspiration to me and I'm so glad you posted the whole thing. If you've been through all that and went back to work and are now weightbaring and taking steps, I feel like such a whiner!!! This injury has been a real eye opener for me on many levels, both at home and at work. My children (twin boys age 16) have been for a few years now doing chores, their own laundry, small cooking, etc. but now they do just about everything. This has been good for them (and their future wives LOL).

Hubby does ok but works so much that he's hardly here and when he is, he tries to do as much as he can while catching up on rest. He's a truck driver so I've been both mom and dad for quite some time in the respect that he's seldom home. That's why it's been depressing for me to go from a very confident and independent person to someone laid up relying on others for the smallest thing. At work, it took 5 staff to divy up my job just to get it done plus they hired a temp! That told my boss I was a little bit overworked I think so that was a good thing, although the temp totally revamped my job while I've been away, changing things and recreating things. Very depressing, frustrating and I'm angry about the lack of supervision or care.

With taking PT now, the therapist doesn't think it should take me too long to get more ROM in my foot to be able to get off these crutches. Until then, I'm home. I'm not comfortable going back in there with those things. I'm accident prone and can just see myself falling. I'm anxious though to get back to something of a normal life on a normal schedule. I'm having trouble sleeping and have my days and nights mixed up now. LOL I'm only taking one pain pill per day now, usually at night when it seems to hurt more than any other time of the day or right after PT on the days I go. I also do a number of exercises at home to help in the process.

I bought a compression stocking to help with this swelling and use ice frequently. I hope this helps and that I can walk soon without the crutches. I try to take a step and I just CLUNK. My foot won't bend right and the ankle hurts so bad, almost like a sprain feeling where you can't stand weight at all on it.

Welcome MANY. Like so many of us in here, you have learned to lean on those around you. My wife amazed me during my recovery. She learned to do almost everything I normally do, and managed an apartment building we own too. I've tried to take back the responsibility of as many things as I can to try and free her up some, and it extremely frustrating sometimes 'cause as much as I want to do some things---I just can't get it done yet.

My mobility has improved in leaps and bounds in the last couple of months--so it's encouraging. Some things remain extreme challenges. I do pretty good going up stairs, but going down stairs is extremely daunting. My feet simply won't take the shock of jolting down stairs, so I have to kind of turn sideways and "sneak" down them one at a time. I went to the zoo a couple of weeks ago as a first real walking outing, and while it was fun and I had a good time, I was very nearly crippled for the following two-three days. I learned the lesson of MODERATION from this experience, and have done much better since. I can finally walk around the block now unassisted, and that is an extremely liberating feeling. Next month, I'm going to try walking around two blocks. I always take my two little beagles with me, and for those of you who don't know about beagles---you don't really take them for a walk----you take them for a drag. They have to stop and sniff everything, so a walk around the block takes considerable time.

Hang in there folks. It does get better.

I think it seems scary when you can't tell your rate of progress, but amazingly, you gradually improve without being really aware of it. It just happens so slowly you can't necessarily see it. I'm about 9 months post-op and while I do feel the occasional twinge and I'm certainly not at 100% ROM, I get around fine. I walk about 2 miles a day in the course of my work and commute, without any ill effects other than a little fatigue. A few weeks ago I moved myself to a new apartment, with surprisingly little help from a couple of movers. I DID feel that one the next day, but I was very happy that I could pass a big physical test like that. This winter I'm planning on driving about 3000 miles round-trip, with my bad foot working the gas pedal. (Well, maybe I'll use the cruise control...)

I don't know for sure that it helps everyone, but I take fish oil twice a day and my foot seems to like it.

Hello All,
I had posted earlier about my heel, I went to my local OS and he advised that it was too close for him to decide to cast or send me for surgery. I had already made arrangements to go to Johns Hopkins for a second opinion so he referred me to them. If you have never been to Johns Hopkins I'll tell you it is a fantastic facility. I saw the OS and he said it was borderline also but the head of the Baltimore Shock Trauma Orthopedic was to be in at 2pm and I could see him, I did and he said I needed surgery but the bones were in fairly large pieces and he was very optimistic about my surgery. I feel very confident in his ability and think this must be the best route for me. The surgery is scheduled for Sep. 23rd. He told me I couldn't weight bear for three months after the surgery so I guess I’ll be laid up for a while.

I do have some numbness in my small toe and the outside/underside of my foot--anyone else have this?

My surgeon advised me I could return to work 10 days to 2 weeks after surgery if I wanted--For the rest of you surgery people were you still in much pain during this time as I can't work on pain medications.

I know this will be a big change in my lifestyle but I pray I will be able to resume most of my activities in time. It's nice to have this forum to get information and support from
Thanks to all

quote:
I do have some numbness in my small toe and the outside/underside of my foot--anyone else have this?

My surgeon advised me I could return to work 10 days to 2 weeks after surgery if I wanted--For the rest of you surgery people were you still in much pain during this time as I can't work on pain medications.

I know this will be a big change in my lifestyle but I pray I will be able to resume most of my activities in time. It's nice to have this forum to get information and support from
Thanks to all


I didn't have surgery but I did have the same numbness in the last two little toes to my foot and the underside, outside of my foot too. I think that's fairly normal with this type of injury. This Sunday it will be 12 weeks since my injury happened. Time flies! Not!

I am supposed to weighbare yet have so much swelling in the ankle area yet that I can't put much more than 1/2 my body weight on it. I can't walk without the aid of my crutches either, which depresses me terribly. I am using ice, elevation and going to PT. They told me to start wearing a compression stocking all day long, only taking it off at night when I go to bed so I did. It seems to be helping. The top part of my foot has very little swelling now. I can finally close my shoe the whole way. It's under the ankle on the outside of the foot that really bothers me at this point. It's like trying to walk on a sprained ankle.

My doctor also told me I could probably go back to work after I got out of my cast and into the boot. That was 6 weeks post accident. I laughed. No way! I'm terrified that I'm going to injure it further if I fall so I stayed home and he wrote me the appropriate excuse. I am still on pain meds as well, usually taking them before bed when the foot seems to hurt the worse and also right before my PT to help make it more bareable.

I hope this helped. Be prepared for a long recovery period and give yourself plenty to do in the meantime like books, movies, snacks, etc....

Over a year post op here, and I still have numbness several places on both feet. Massage therapy has helped me get quite a bit of feeling back, but I think around the scars and a couple of other places it's pretty much dead for keeps. A few time I have been grateful for the numbness since some of the recovery exercises would probably have hurt much worse.

There are times now that I wish they would numb up a little LOL.

After walking over all the pine cones in my yard would be a really good time. That's still really tough.

Hello all.
I am recovering from my surgery now, I had the surgery on Sept.23-- Surgeon said it all went well, I had pretty bad pain on the day after surgery but it has improved each day I got to take off the fiberglass cast and change the dressing today--just relieving the pressure was a tremendous relief, I am in very little pain now. Did any of you do any exercises during the recovery? I know it's early but i realy don't want to loose any more muscle tone than I have to .
Well I guess I'll keep on the recovery road and see where it takes good luck to all.

Hello all.
I am recovering from my surgery now, I had the surgery on Sept.23-- Surgeon said it all went well, I had pretty bad pain on the day after surgery but it has improved each day I got to take off the fiberglass cast and change the dressing today--just relieving the pressure was a tremendous relief, I am in very little pain now. Did any of you do any exercises during the recovery? I know it's early but I really don't want to loose any more muscle tone than I have to .
Well I guess I'll keep on the recovery road and see where it takes me. good luck to all.

Hi there. Yes, ask your surgeon as soon as possible about calf and thigh excerises. I lost 3 inches total and now will have to work my butt off to get it back. You sound like you're in good shape after the operation so congrats! Be prepared for the recovery process. Every day is a new adventure for sure but it does get better.

Good morning all. I was on my back so long all my leg muscles turned to jello. and it seems to have taken forever to get them working again. I have a new appreciation for the astronauts that spend months on the space station. It's clear to me now why they had to be carried off when they got back.

I agree with all---it does get better, but not without some serious effort.

It's now been 3 months since my injury. I had x-rays the other day and the doctor say the heal has healed but it could take 3-4 months before all the pain is gone. Or, I could continue to have pain and need to consider having the joint fused.

I've been walking for about 6 weeks now, 3 weeks without the crutches. I feel I'm less likely to injure myself now that I've put the crutches in the closet. Had to go to wider shoes with some gel inserts which helped quite a bit. Walking anything more than about 50 yards at a time or standing for a while gives me some pain but it does seem to be less each week. Going downstairs is hard and squatting is just about impossible as my foot just won't bend that way (yet).

I started a new job last week where i can sit most of the time. I just try to not over do it and rest up before the long walk to the parking lot or cafeteria.

I really like reading all the stories of people's progress and I hope everyone's sucess continues.

My visit to the OS was on the 29th. I still have a hairline fracture yet in the heel but it's healing fine and I'm to continue weightbaring, walking, etc. I was taken out of the boot on 9/1 and in those 29 days I came quite a long way. I am now able to walk using no aid in the house only but I still need to hold on to something for the first couple of steps. Mostly, I'm using a cane to get around now inside and out or one crutch when my foot hurts too much. The crutch takes more pressure off the foot.

I was put on prescription strength Advil for swelling issues I have around the ankle area on the outside of my foot. It's so painful and that is what is preventing me at this time for just getting up and going! I'm very frustrated. He mentioned subtular fusion also but said that he doubts I will need it and if I do, that's a year out or more and not to worry about it at this point. I just can't believe how much this hurts and how swollen it is. I'm wearing a compression stocking to help plus elevating and icing it. I also wear the insoles to help with comfort issues on my foot when I walk.

I forgot to mention that he also gave me an aircast to wear and that's been quite helpful. It cut the pain down when I walk and gives my ankle a lot of comfort.

I thought I would update you all on my progress to date. I haven't been here in a little while. :bouncing:

I've been back to work now since 10/17 and so far so good with the foot. It doesn't really hurt, although my heel gets 'tired' at times. I still have the God awful swelling to contend with. The Naproxen started working and did take some of the swelling down but almost gave me an ulcer. That was my fault though. I wasn't taking it with food like the bottle said to do. I'm a 'learn the hard way' type of person.

I stopped using it for about 10 days then started again, this time following all directions and so far no problems. It's been almost 2 weeks back on it now. I haven't really noticed that it's doing much this time around. I have to say without my air cast I would be totally lost. It's so helpful but it does somewhat impede me from bending at the top part of my foot a little bit like in going down the steps. I go up like a pro though! :jester:

I get around pretty good all in all and in re-reading my earlier posts, I'm truly amazed. It's really something to see how far you've actually come. I have a good limp though. I'm hoping that goes away with time as I also hope this daggone swelling does too. It's getting old! :yawn:

Going back to work was really good for me mentally too. Although after the first week (I just completed week 3) I was ready for a vacation! :D

My job has not been sympathetic at all, and that just makes me want to be less of a "wimp" when i should be cautious. I have the best dr (ped surgeon), and even he doesnt know what i can expect from month to month. All I can suggest to people is to have patience, nurture and baby yourself as much as possible, and try not to injure yourself again. I know people (family especially) feel sorry for me, and dont tell me when they are horrified when they see my heel, I just wish they would not expect me to walk 1000 miles when I should be sitting....

I hear ya! I'm fortunate that my job has gone all out for me. They moved things out of the way that I could trip on, they offer support and help if needed but I'm too strong willed to ask. I want to do it all myself! I ask if I really it. They got me a foot stool so when my foot gets achy in the late afternoon, I can prop it up. I'm lucky in that respect. There are issues there though and I'm seeking other employment now. They had a temp come in who totally destroyed what I worked so hard to do in 3 years.

It was absolutely amazing that she was never supervised. From the day I came back, she had animosity toward me. That really made things stressful and tense for me. She sent these horrific emails to me time and again, very demanding and loud. I had enough. So now here I am trying to job hunt and hiding my limp as much as possible so it's not noticeable when I have an interview. I don't want a prosepctive employer questioning my ability or wondering if I would be taking off work due to my injury. I've been doing just fine though so I don't worry about that.

I know what you mean too about people thinking you can just up and do what you used to do without thinking that you may still be in some pain yet. I know my foot gets tired a lot and achy. I do all right most of the time but when I come home, I like to sit and rest it. I need to. It's only been 3 weeks since I've gone back to work and using my foot more than I have since before the injury occurred. People at home need to understand that in order for me TO work, I need to keep my foot comfortable on 'off hours' so I can continue. This isn't just a sprained ankle here and I have to educate people who mention that in the same sentence as my injury. You know the ones..... Oh yes. My husband once broke his ankle OR my neighbor just recovered after a few weeks out with a sprained ankle. LOL LOL Not even close!

Hiya Folks. I was really fortunate too. I was in a wheelchair for the first few months back at work, so they built me ramps and whatever else I needed to get along. The people I work with were very good at helping me too--handing me things and running paperwork for me.

I understand many employers are not so understanding. Some here have never been able to go back to their old jobs. My job is 80% sitting anyway, so I got away with it requiring only temporary assistance.

You are right--most people don't understand how life altering this problem is. I'm 1yr and 5 mos post op now, and I still have some real bad days. I have some real good days too, but if I push a little too hard, my feeties cramp up, and that's it for me for a couple of days. When this happens, I have to go on minimal up-time and let them relax, or resort to pain killers which I avoid if I possibly can. Sometimes if I soak my feet in really hot water, then take a minimal amount of pain killers just before bed, I'm pretty good the next day.

You are correct---It's not the same thing at all as a sprained ankle.

Tis, I shattered my left heel about 6 months ago, i feel your pain. By that i mean your unbelievable pain. Hang in there, its a looooooooong road to recovery but youll make it. Im a restaraunt manager (on my feet for 13 hours 6 days a week). I am just recently starting to go half a day without limping. Not to take the wind out of your sail, but this is a terrible injury, and i feel for you. Hang in there and the best advice i can give you is get off of the pain meds as quicky as possible (unless your a fan of painful bloody trips to the john), and go to as many PT sessions as possible. good luck! nate

Hi again. This is Deeds and I thought I would check in with you. It?s been what seems like forever since I?ve talked to anyone with my type of injury and so much has happened! As a refresher, I shattered my heel back at the end of June (no surgery) when my dog took me for a fly over on our upper deck. LOL Lucky for me, I?ve healed quite nicely and have been back to work since October 17th, although still in some pain most days and trying to tough it out.



I had my last surgeon?s appointment in early December, when he released me for good. I?m totally healed, including the little fracture that was still left at my previous appointment. I?m thankful to him for all his hard work and explaining to me what I need to do and shouldn?t do, etc. I came a long way.



It seems not too long ago that I was wondering how on God?s green earth I would be able to apply ANY weight on this foot and now here I am, some months later, doing everything I used to do before except running or jumping. I?m scared as heck to try it and I was never a runner anyway so I?m not missing out on much. LOL



I still have pain. I?m lucky to have 2-3 good days per week when it?s very minimal but I can remember NO good days per week too so it?s getting better. I have to give it more time is all. I notice the rain and cold are really bothering me. Yesterday was the absolute pits. It was both cold and raining and I hurt all day and into the night. I didn?t get to sleep until after 3am and back up at 5am to get ready for work. This was the 3rd time since the beginning of the weekend that my foot ached that bad at night.



I called the surgeon back today to see about pain meds. He never returned my call but did tell me that if I needed pain management to call him. When I had my appointment though, I felt fine so I didn?t ask for them. Now I wish I had but he?s always reluctant to give me something that works! He keeps telling me to take over the counter meds and I?m sorry but they just don?t cut it. Not for this. I may end up calling my family doctor if I get nowhere with the surgeon but I don't know. I've tried Tylenol, Advil, all kinds of over the counter pain relievers. Nothing works when it gets this bad. It's like a bad toothache, constant hurting on and off all night. Sigh...



So that?s where I?m at now and wanted to hang out with you and say hello, see how you are all doing too! I should mention that most of my swelling that I complained about some time back is almost all gone now but I lost the entire arch to my foot and that gives me some grief. I'm wearing different types of insoles and it helps. My heel went flat and you can see a difference in the two feet for sure. I also still have some atrophy in my bad foot leg area where I lost all my muscle mass for the 3.5 months I was off and mostly laid up. So much fun this injury has been, let me tell ya!

Hiya DEEDS. Glad to see you're still out there kicking (figuratively speaking of course). Same here. I'm 1 yr and 7 months post op, and still having some problems with pain, stiffness, and range of motion. Like you I have better days and rotten days. I pretty much stay away from the drugs if I can, however I'm not always successful with that. I keep some around just in case. The 'ol timey remedies seem to help the best for me now. A good hot foot soakin epsom salts does wonders at the end of the day. Hang in there. My Surgeon tells me that it sometimes takes up to 5 years to get back to normal, especially if you are older.

I too have avoided running or jumping, though at the one-year mark I seem to be doing everything else pretty well. I think of the fact that my foot is no longer solid bone, and I worry about the screws' ability to transfer high impact forces. Anyone out there running or jumping?

I've tried it (running) for a couple of steps. It was pretty clear right away I wasn't ready for that yet. Haven't tried jumping yet as I still find going down stairs pretty challenging. I'm pretty sure jumping is gonna hurt too much.

Maybe in another couple of months or so.

:rolleyes: Hiya Delta!! :wave:

As far as jumping goes, forget it. There's no way I want to even try that. Not yet. LOL I'm pretty much doing everything I did before, sometimes a little bit slower but it's doable. Also, I have been walking through my yard, which only has a little bit of flat ground. Most of it is uphill or downhill but I'm doing it to get more used to uneven surfaces. I just worry about spraining my ankle now as it's still weak and it tends to turn in or outward.

My doc called in a scrip for Ambien for me to help me sleep at night when I have pain that keeps me awake but not enough for a pain pill. He gave me a refill on hydrocodone too for the pain when it gets real bad. For 3 straight days my foot was hurting so bad that I just wanted to cry. It finally let up this afternoon to be just bareable so I got the prescriptions filled and popped a Tylenol for now. I'll save the 'good stuff' for when I really need it.

Still, it's great to check in and chat with you all. :D I enjoy talking to people who understand what I'm going through. It's also good for newbies to hear that this does eventually get better, even though it takes a long time. In re-reading my diary that I kept, I can really see the progress I made. At first it was quick and I was all excited but then it slowed down. I still make strides though and see myself doing something different and new all the time that I didn't think I would be able to do again so that keeps me upbeat. I'm happy with that.

One thing I haven't been able to do very well is walking down steps. I have to hold on to something. My bad foot seems to want to step hard for some reaon and I'm afraid I'll lose my balance. I can't carry anything down steps either. I can take things up but not down. On laundry days I have to have help getting the clothes down to the basement but I can carry them up like a champ (which, by the way, is the name of my dear doggie who took me for my fly over lol) so I still have work to do. I'm getting there though!

Deeds,
I think I've had a similar recovery to yours. I fractured my right heel on June 29th (amazing how you never forget those dates!) and also did not have surgery. I was casted for 3 weeks and no weight bearing for 2 months. When I started to walk, I could only do a few steps at a time and it was pretty painful. After a couple of weeks, I felt confident enough to drive and started a new job. Initially the progress seemed real good but after a month or two, I didn't feel I was getting much better. I got my insurance co. to give me a month physical therapy which I think has really helped. Now most days, my heel feels pretty good. I walk about a mile a day to exercise it since my job itsn't very physical. I haven't tried anything too streneous like running (don't think I could) but hope to strap on my snowshoes when the weather starts to cooperate. When I do have some pain, it usually only lasts a day or so and its not so bad that I feel I need meds. Going downstairs and walking barefoot are still a little difficult. I ended up replacing all my shoes, sneakers, and boots with wider ones to accomodate my slightly out of shape foot.

So like others have said, it does get better, but it sure isn't fast.
-will

Well, I don't know what just happened. I was typing a response to Will's post and it disappeared so if it appears twice, sorry. Anyhow, my foot is mishaped too. It's flat now and more rounded at the heel but I can still fit into my size 7 regulars. It's just that shoe is slightly tighter. Still, I would like to have all the money back that I've spent on different types of insoles for comfort that I've tried. LOL

I'm really happy with my progress though. What a ride! Yes, those dates do stick in our minds. It's like we knew where we were when Elvis died you know. LOL Where were YOU on June 26th? That was when I shattered my heel!! LOL :yawn:

My foot doesn't want to bend like it normally should at the top of my foot so going down steps is challenging. I still go down sideways most of the time. If it's indoor steps, I can go normally with a handrail and putting most of my foot to the edge of the step. That's the only way I can do it. I guess it's also my achilles area then too. Funny how we used to take stuff like that for granted isn't it? :eek:

Good morning folks. I went from a size 10 regular to a size 11 1/2 wide after my accident. I'm still learning to deal with my wierd feet after a year and a half. They are so much bigger that I feel like a duck sometimes.

Recovering from this has been very odd. I go two or three days where things are working pretty good, then hit a day where one foot or the other really acts up and I have to gimp around for a day or two. Very rarely do both feet act up at the same time. I'm grateful for this, but don't understand it. I have a pair of arch support inserts that I use sometimes. Most days they feel really good, but there are days where they just drive me nuts, so I take them out and have a "flat" day. I have no idea why they should feel good one day and not the next.

Glad to hear of successful recoveries busted both heels feb 11 2005. 4 surgeries later still can't take more than about 15 to 20 steps.

HI BROKE. I understand your problem. I broke both of my heels in June 2004, had several surgeries too. Don't lose hope. You are at about one year, and from my experience that's not very long in the foot recovery business. As you can see from my date of surgery---it takes a LONG time to come back from this problem. I'm just now starting to have some days where I have very little or no pain, and I still can't stand up for more than 4-5 hours without paying dearly for it the next day. Stay with it. It's really slow, but it does improve.

I just joined this site tonight. Very excited I must say.

I shattered my right heel exactly 5 months ago on 9/1/2005; 8 foot fall; 2 weeks later, I have a plate and 6 screws.

I started driving with my left foot a month after surgery; once the boot was off on 12/1/05, it took a week to transition back to the healing right foot as my left foot really loved driving; stupid story but maybe half of you can relate.

Looking forward to reading everyone's posts; Never met a single heel fracture victim so this has been a lonely journey until now. Talk to you soon.

Good Morning JK. Welcome. I was really glad to find this site too as I wasn't getting very good information from any other source. There are still a few of us in here, although the number of people using this site has dwindled. I hope it's because people have healed enough to just move on.

This is a long healing problem. I'm about 18 months into it, and have just gotten to where I can hobble around pretty well. I broke both heels, so I don't know if just one is easier to come back from or not. I hope so for all those out there that are dealing with just one.

Hope to hear from you again.

Edit, I went ahead and started this in a new thread. Thanks