joe41
09-16-2008, 08:50 PM
Time to start a new Thread so am starting it.
Joe41 :jester:
Joe41 :jester:
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The J
09-16-2008, 09:45 PM
Hi Sarah,
Sorry to hear about your upcoming surgery. Like everyone has said, elevation is key, uncomfortable at times but definitely necessary. What worked best for me was lying in the Lazy Boy with two pillows under my foot with my toes pointed towards the sky or with my toes pointing horizontally away from me. When the pain got too much resting the weight on my heel I moved a pillow to my lower calf and used it to keep the weight off the foot.
As a side note, who here had the calcaneus fused to surrounding bones or did your doctors just reassemble without fusing?
Carole, thanks for the tips about the watch out situations. Two of my three hard falls have been on stairs, before having any intoxicating beverages. After them I was just fine:D
Good luck everyone.
Jason
Sorry to hear about your upcoming surgery. Like everyone has said, elevation is key, uncomfortable at times but definitely necessary. What worked best for me was lying in the Lazy Boy with two pillows under my foot with my toes pointed towards the sky or with my toes pointing horizontally away from me. When the pain got too much resting the weight on my heel I moved a pillow to my lower calf and used it to keep the weight off the foot.
As a side note, who here had the calcaneus fused to surrounding bones or did your doctors just reassemble without fusing?
Carole, thanks for the tips about the watch out situations. Two of my three hard falls have been on stairs, before having any intoxicating beverages. After them I was just fine:D
Good luck everyone.
Jason
Hyper86
09-17-2008, 12:48 AM
Hello Jason,
I have been really good about not having any intoxicating substances for the last 3 months.
Except 2 weeks ago I decided to try my friends volcano, well after that I could not get out of the chair for at least an hour :jester:
I'm not gonna do that again HA HA.
Keep up the good healing heelies,
Carole
I have been really good about not having any intoxicating substances for the last 3 months.
Except 2 weeks ago I decided to try my friends volcano, well after that I could not get out of the chair for at least an hour :jester:
I'm not gonna do that again HA HA.
Keep up the good healing heelies,
Carole
joe41
09-17-2008, 11:45 AM
Hey Jason,
I will have to ask the Doc. if using bone past qualifies as fusing. He did tell me he used bone past, I figured it was to help keep all the small bone chips together. I'll check on my next visit.
It's good to hear everyone is making Progress although at different speed it's positive. Remember stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
I will have to ask the Doc. if using bone past qualifies as fusing. He did tell me he used bone past, I figured it was to help keep all the small bone chips together. I'll check on my next visit.
It's good to hear everyone is making Progress although at different speed it's positive. Remember stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
triguy450
09-17-2008, 04:48 PM
Hello heelies,
Yes, watch the steps after having a couple. Knock wood I have been OK with that. I usually have a beer before I head up to bed.
The Doctor blew me away today. The first thing he did after shaking my hand was grab my foot with the right hand and the heel with the left and tried to move the heel around. Before I could react he was done and I felt no pain. He moved my foot around, side to side, up and down and again very little discomfort.
My instructions, besides PT is to be off the crutches within 5-6 days. That means to teach myself to walk with the boot on. Wow....I was expecting weeks for this to happen.
While I am sitting around for an hour or more I am to take the boot off and air it out and move my foot around. There was no mention of keeping the foot elevated.
I start PT next Tuesday unless an opening occurs sooner.
The Doc will see me again in 6 weeks for more Xrays and a follow up.
As my wife says, he's given me carte blanche to do as I can and put as much weight on it as I can as soon as I can. I was not expecting this today.
I will tell you how I make out over the next couple of days. I also plan to start driving with my left foot this weekend too.
I wish everyone could have this great news too.
Keep positive and keep healing heelies,
Ed
Yes, watch the steps after having a couple. Knock wood I have been OK with that. I usually have a beer before I head up to bed.
The Doctor blew me away today. The first thing he did after shaking my hand was grab my foot with the right hand and the heel with the left and tried to move the heel around. Before I could react he was done and I felt no pain. He moved my foot around, side to side, up and down and again very little discomfort.
My instructions, besides PT is to be off the crutches within 5-6 days. That means to teach myself to walk with the boot on. Wow....I was expecting weeks for this to happen.
While I am sitting around for an hour or more I am to take the boot off and air it out and move my foot around. There was no mention of keeping the foot elevated.
I start PT next Tuesday unless an opening occurs sooner.
The Doc will see me again in 6 weeks for more Xrays and a follow up.
As my wife says, he's given me carte blanche to do as I can and put as much weight on it as I can as soon as I can. I was not expecting this today.
I will tell you how I make out over the next couple of days. I also plan to start driving with my left foot this weekend too.
I wish everyone could have this great news too.
Keep positive and keep healing heelies,
Ed
loghome1
09-17-2008, 09:08 PM
Ed,
That is great news! Don't rush it though. I took a few days with the crutches and weight bearing then went to one crutch and then a cane. Probably took about 2 weeks. You will probably get a lot of swelling in the calf(mine actually was bigger than the noninjured side), so you will have to continue to elevate. Good Luck.
take care all,
Stew
That is great news! Don't rush it though. I took a few days with the crutches and weight bearing then went to one crutch and then a cane. Probably took about 2 weeks. You will probably get a lot of swelling in the calf(mine actually was bigger than the noninjured side), so you will have to continue to elevate. Good Luck.
take care all,
Stew
triguy450
09-17-2008, 09:17 PM
Hi Stew,
Thank you for that. After I posted this afternoon I started walking on it as much as possible. I now realize it's going to be slow. My knee hurts, my calf hurts and my thigh hurts from the different new pressures.
I also experimented with what I will need to do mentally and physically to get on one crutch. I know it's a few days away, but visualizing my help me when it comes time to.
I also found it difficult to walk in the boot without strain on the achilles tendon. I know it's tight and needs to be stretched over time...PT exercises.
It still feels like this incision inside is still coming apart at times. I'm hoping it's just the nerves readjusting themselves.
Keep healing heelies.
Ed
Thank you for that. After I posted this afternoon I started walking on it as much as possible. I now realize it's going to be slow. My knee hurts, my calf hurts and my thigh hurts from the different new pressures.
I also experimented with what I will need to do mentally and physically to get on one crutch. I know it's a few days away, but visualizing my help me when it comes time to.
I also found it difficult to walk in the boot without strain on the achilles tendon. I know it's tight and needs to be stretched over time...PT exercises.
It still feels like this incision inside is still coming apart at times. I'm hoping it's just the nerves readjusting themselves.
Keep healing heelies.
Ed
Hyper86
09-17-2008, 10:49 PM
Hello Heelies,
Ed: good going, could you remind me how many weeks ago was your surgery?
I popped in to see my Dr. this morning & asked him to take a quick peek at my foot to see if anymore antibiotic is needed.
He put pressure around the wound & said no more antibiotic is needed but he needs to remove some dead skin & took out a razor knife, I thought uh oh then said will it hurt, he said define hurt, I said me saying ouch, he said probly not, it did not hurt, he then put on some special cream & a bandage.
He said I could pretend to walk, let my leg & foot go through the motions with but not put any weight on it.
He says I'll start walking 10/8 with boot on & start physical therapy oh boy.
By the way he said to continue keeping my foot elevated.
It's been 10 weeks since my surgery, 13 weeks since my injury.
Keep on healing healies!
Carole
Ed: good going, could you remind me how many weeks ago was your surgery?
I popped in to see my Dr. this morning & asked him to take a quick peek at my foot to see if anymore antibiotic is needed.
He put pressure around the wound & said no more antibiotic is needed but he needs to remove some dead skin & took out a razor knife, I thought uh oh then said will it hurt, he said define hurt, I said me saying ouch, he said probly not, it did not hurt, he then put on some special cream & a bandage.
He said I could pretend to walk, let my leg & foot go through the motions with but not put any weight on it.
He says I'll start walking 10/8 with boot on & start physical therapy oh boy.
By the way he said to continue keeping my foot elevated.
It's been 10 weeks since my surgery, 13 weeks since my injury.
Keep on healing healies!
Carole
triguy450
09-17-2008, 11:15 PM
Hi Carole,
Surgery was 7/31 making it 7 weeks tomorrow. Injury was 7/19.
I forgot to mention, he told me to leave the boot off when I go to bed. I'll let you know how that feels tomorrow. LOL
Til tomorrow.
Ed
Surgery was 7/31 making it 7 weeks tomorrow. Injury was 7/19.
I forgot to mention, he told me to leave the boot off when I go to bed. I'll let you know how that feels tomorrow. LOL
Til tomorrow.
Ed
The J
09-18-2008, 12:02 AM
Wow Ed, that's great.
I can't help but say I'm a bit jealous. :) I had surgery on 7/31 also, injured on 7/18.
I don't know about you but I would be a bit concerned not having the boot on while sleeping. I tend to move quite a bit in my sleep and would be worried about re-injuring it. Ed, good luck with walking and definitely keep us informed!
Carole:
I found that exposing the wound to the sun for a little bit every day helped with the healing and soon after the scabs started sloughing off. I am down to two small scabs, one the size of a dime on my heel where the doc put the longest screw and a spot about an inch long on the L shaped incision.
Good luck everyone.
Jason
I can't help but say I'm a bit jealous. :) I had surgery on 7/31 also, injured on 7/18.
I don't know about you but I would be a bit concerned not having the boot on while sleeping. I tend to move quite a bit in my sleep and would be worried about re-injuring it. Ed, good luck with walking and definitely keep us informed!
Carole:
I found that exposing the wound to the sun for a little bit every day helped with the healing and soon after the scabs started sloughing off. I am down to two small scabs, one the size of a dime on my heel where the doc put the longest screw and a spot about an inch long on the L shaped incision.
Good luck everyone.
Jason
Hyper86
09-18-2008, 01:02 AM
Hello Heelies,
Jason:
Wow a picture is worth a 1000 words.
That is a really big screw, I have 6 smaller screws, my foots small size 61/2 shoe.
I will try sunshine on my foot each day from now on, got just 1 place on the incission not healed up it's the size of a pea now.
Ed:
Gosh your walking after only 7 weeks thats really great, be really carefull.
My Dr. is making me wait 13 weeks to walk, maybe because my heel broke into 100's of pieces so many the girls in the Dr.'s office could not count them?
I don't sleep with my boot on, it's just to bulky & hot.
Joe:
Is your Dr. going to remove the dead skin from your foot too.
How is walking feeling got any pain.
Happy Heel Healing!
Carole
Jason:
Wow a picture is worth a 1000 words.
That is a really big screw, I have 6 smaller screws, my foots small size 61/2 shoe.
I will try sunshine on my foot each day from now on, got just 1 place on the incission not healed up it's the size of a pea now.
Ed:
Gosh your walking after only 7 weeks thats really great, be really carefull.
My Dr. is making me wait 13 weeks to walk, maybe because my heel broke into 100's of pieces so many the girls in the Dr.'s office could not count them?
I don't sleep with my boot on, it's just to bulky & hot.
Joe:
Is your Dr. going to remove the dead skin from your foot too.
How is walking feeling got any pain.
Happy Heel Healing!
Carole
triguy450
09-18-2008, 09:42 AM
Hi Jason & Carole,
I knew when I went yesterday he was going to recommend PT. Up until then he mentioned putting 10% of my weight on the foot during PT and getting used to that then building up from there. But he blew me away when he told me to put as much as I could stand (no pun) on it.
During the Xrays, the tech had me stand up and place my bare foot on the Xray film and even she told me (6 1/2 weeks post) put as much weight as I can on it. So I did and was surprised at how much I was able to w/out pain.
I mentioned earlier, the doc came in grabbed my foot, squeezed my heel and the front of my foot and twisted it as tho he was trying to re-break it. My wife said I didn't flinch. There was no pain at all. There was some minor discomfort at the inside of the heel later, but that went away. If you saw what he did with his hand, you'd be a believer too and that it's OK to start walking on it again. Believe me, I was very scheptical.
Jason, I had your thoughts not sleeping with the boot on, but was pleasantly surprised and slept well last night. I move often too, but each time I moved, I was conscious of how to move my foot to get comfortable again.
I was also concerned about my foot relaxing too much to allow the achilles tendon to tighten up. Again, very surprised at how easy it was to put my boot on again this morning.
I am surprised your incision isn't healed yet, but again, mine only closed up 100% last week and the doctor was pleased with it yesterday.
Carole, I have a similar size screw too, it goes from the upper part on the back of the heel, angling down towards the instep. If were to guess it's and inch and a half long but the head isn't real big. I recounted them and found 11 not 8 screws total.
If you have that many pieces broken, I can see why your doctor is so concerned about walking again.
It feels strange to walk. The boot puts pressure on the achilles tendon. That is the major discomfort while walking. I am still using the crutches and not putting a lot of weight on the foot yet.
Make sure you pump the air up as much as you can stand. My foot moves up and down in the boot as I walk and rubs the incision irritating it. I will ask more specific questions when I go to PT and will keep you informed.
Carole & Jason 10/8 will be here faster than you know it and your whole demeanor will change knowing you can put pressure on your foot. My outlook from yesterday morning to today is 180 degrees more positive.
I spoke with a friend yesterday who reminded me he broke his heel 5 years ago. (non-surgical) He said 12-14 months before he felt 100%. He is my age (46, slim, athletic and diabetic) and built like me. We'll all get there.
Keep positive and keep healing heelies.
Ed
I knew when I went yesterday he was going to recommend PT. Up until then he mentioned putting 10% of my weight on the foot during PT and getting used to that then building up from there. But he blew me away when he told me to put as much as I could stand (no pun) on it.
During the Xrays, the tech had me stand up and place my bare foot on the Xray film and even she told me (6 1/2 weeks post) put as much weight as I can on it. So I did and was surprised at how much I was able to w/out pain.
I mentioned earlier, the doc came in grabbed my foot, squeezed my heel and the front of my foot and twisted it as tho he was trying to re-break it. My wife said I didn't flinch. There was no pain at all. There was some minor discomfort at the inside of the heel later, but that went away. If you saw what he did with his hand, you'd be a believer too and that it's OK to start walking on it again. Believe me, I was very scheptical.
Jason, I had your thoughts not sleeping with the boot on, but was pleasantly surprised and slept well last night. I move often too, but each time I moved, I was conscious of how to move my foot to get comfortable again.
I was also concerned about my foot relaxing too much to allow the achilles tendon to tighten up. Again, very surprised at how easy it was to put my boot on again this morning.
I am surprised your incision isn't healed yet, but again, mine only closed up 100% last week and the doctor was pleased with it yesterday.
Carole, I have a similar size screw too, it goes from the upper part on the back of the heel, angling down towards the instep. If were to guess it's and inch and a half long but the head isn't real big. I recounted them and found 11 not 8 screws total.
If you have that many pieces broken, I can see why your doctor is so concerned about walking again.
It feels strange to walk. The boot puts pressure on the achilles tendon. That is the major discomfort while walking. I am still using the crutches and not putting a lot of weight on the foot yet.
Make sure you pump the air up as much as you can stand. My foot moves up and down in the boot as I walk and rubs the incision irritating it. I will ask more specific questions when I go to PT and will keep you informed.
Carole & Jason 10/8 will be here faster than you know it and your whole demeanor will change knowing you can put pressure on your foot. My outlook from yesterday morning to today is 180 degrees more positive.
I spoke with a friend yesterday who reminded me he broke his heel 5 years ago. (non-surgical) He said 12-14 months before he felt 100%. He is my age (46, slim, athletic and diabetic) and built like me. We'll all get there.
Keep positive and keep healing heelies.
Ed
joe41
09-18-2008, 12:39 PM
Hey Carole,
no my doc. said it was a good cover for the wound, go figure. Walking with out the boot is wonderful, scary and their is some discomfort because things have to stretch and I guess muscles have to build up again but I would not say lasting pain.
That being said, I did a stupid thing yesterday. Went shopping, I'ave been on the cane and walking with out since 9/12 so am feeling confident. So I decide to unload a fairly heavy box and put to much weight on the foot even though I had my boot on I felt some pain. My foot is now swollen some what so I'll take it easy for the next few days.
Ed,
that is great news. I agree with Stew about going slow. As you can see from above.
Ed, when I went for my cane training the theropist told me to walk like I would normally and not put my foot out to the side because it would cause knee and hip problems. It takes a bit but when you concentrate you can do it. Especailly when you WB without the boot. It sure is good to hear everyone is making progress, but we must remember to follow the doc's instructions and don't over do which is a lesson I learned yesterday.
Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
no my doc. said it was a good cover for the wound, go figure. Walking with out the boot is wonderful, scary and their is some discomfort because things have to stretch and I guess muscles have to build up again but I would not say lasting pain.
That being said, I did a stupid thing yesterday. Went shopping, I'ave been on the cane and walking with out since 9/12 so am feeling confident. So I decide to unload a fairly heavy box and put to much weight on the foot even though I had my boot on I felt some pain. My foot is now swollen some what so I'll take it easy for the next few days.
Ed,
that is great news. I agree with Stew about going slow. As you can see from above.
Ed, when I went for my cane training the theropist told me to walk like I would normally and not put my foot out to the side because it would cause knee and hip problems. It takes a bit but when you concentrate you can do it. Especailly when you WB without the boot. It sure is good to hear everyone is making progress, but we must remember to follow the doc's instructions and don't over do which is a lesson I learned yesterday.
Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
jmac47
09-19-2008, 12:58 PM
Had my Doctor's appointment yesterday. The great news is that I'm infection free and got my picc line out and am off the IV antibiotics. No more home-bound status for me. Told my wife I got my house arrest ankle braclet off. Got to go to my daughter's high school softball game for the first time this season, and it was great. As for the foot, seems to be doing OK. I'm 7 weeks out from my 2nd surgery today, and 15 weeks from the 1st. He wants me to start working on my gate, but is only letting me put 30 to 40 pounds of pressure on it for another month. Sure was hoping for more, but it's progress, so I'll take it. I go back on 10/16, and hope for more weight bearing then. Sure will be glad to get rid of these walking sticks. Been on them since 18 May now. Hope everyone has a great weekend!
Jim
Jim
triguy450
09-19-2008, 01:29 PM
Hi Jim,
Great news. I am really happy for you...now it's all hard work and progress.
I had a little set back yesterday. I am a little angry with the doc especially after speaking to his nurse today and the information she gave me.
I mentioned the doc told me to put as much weight as I could using the crutches and start walking on the foot. He also told me to be crutch free in 5-6 days. Today I am paying for that.
I had some discomfort after the doc wrenched my heel on Wednesday. I told him about it and he dismissed it as a tendon or ligament issue. The pain is on the inside of the heel right where the fracture is from back to front on the heel bone. According to the Xrays it's also where one of the screws was placed.
I don't think that part of the fratcure has healed enough for any amount of weight yet.
The nurse told me they use 7-8 weeks as an average bto gauge when we start walking again. In the same breath she told me everyone heals differently. Some take less, some take more.
Her advice is, back off from any weight today and try again tomorrow. I think I am just going to wait to see the PT on Tuesday and get their feelings.
It's funny, this is same spot I have had discomfort, since surgery.
Just an FYI, I used a bathroom scale to gauge the weight I was applying. The most I put on my foot was 50 pounds without discomfort. I average about 15 to 25 when I walk with the crutches. So no, I did not put 100% of my body weight on my foot.
Jason and Carole, listen to Stew, no matter what the doc says, listen to your foot and pain level and take it slow and steady.
Great weekend everyone.
Ed
Great news. I am really happy for you...now it's all hard work and progress.
I had a little set back yesterday. I am a little angry with the doc especially after speaking to his nurse today and the information she gave me.
I mentioned the doc told me to put as much weight as I could using the crutches and start walking on the foot. He also told me to be crutch free in 5-6 days. Today I am paying for that.
I had some discomfort after the doc wrenched my heel on Wednesday. I told him about it and he dismissed it as a tendon or ligament issue. The pain is on the inside of the heel right where the fracture is from back to front on the heel bone. According to the Xrays it's also where one of the screws was placed.
I don't think that part of the fratcure has healed enough for any amount of weight yet.
The nurse told me they use 7-8 weeks as an average bto gauge when we start walking again. In the same breath she told me everyone heals differently. Some take less, some take more.
Her advice is, back off from any weight today and try again tomorrow. I think I am just going to wait to see the PT on Tuesday and get their feelings.
It's funny, this is same spot I have had discomfort, since surgery.
Just an FYI, I used a bathroom scale to gauge the weight I was applying. The most I put on my foot was 50 pounds without discomfort. I average about 15 to 25 when I walk with the crutches. So no, I did not put 100% of my body weight on my foot.
Jason and Carole, listen to Stew, no matter what the doc says, listen to your foot and pain level and take it slow and steady.
Great weekend everyone.
Ed
jmac47
09-19-2008, 08:51 PM
I was very surprised to read about you weight bearing this early. From the very beginning, my doctor has told me at LEAST 12 weeks for this injury. I've read everything I could find, and I haven't found anything to contradict that. I've had several x-rays throughout this entire process, and my doctor always shows me every area that he feels hasn't healed sufficiently for weight bearing. After all you go through to get to this point, I sure wouldn't want to rush things and suffer a set-back. If I were you, I'd really listen to that pain. I know with PT and getting back to full use, we're all going to have to experience pain, but pushing too much can have the opposite affect than what you're trying to achieve. I'm sure getting the go ahead to walk was very exciting, but based on my doctor's opinion, everything I've read, and all the accounts of people on this site, you shouldn't be walking yet. I sure hope all goes well with you, and am not trying to be a downer. Just concerned for your well being. Best of luck to all.
Jim
Jim
triguy450
09-19-2008, 09:37 PM
Hi Jim,
Thanks, no worries and not a downer with your opinion. I appreciate your concern and opinion.
Like I said I was blown away when he said go ahead and start putting weight on it, as much as I could bare. I too thought it was early but he told me do as I was told and things would be fine. Wrong.....My wife agrees with the doc wouldn't tell me to put weight on it unless he thought the foot was ready.
I am still going to visit my PT on Tuesday to get his perspective and see what PT entails, but I am off my foot until then. Only after I hear what he has to say will I make a decision.
As today wore on the pain seemed to get worse. I am listening to my foot and my common sense and backing off.
I am remaining positive. Thank you Ed
Thanks, no worries and not a downer with your opinion. I appreciate your concern and opinion.
Like I said I was blown away when he said go ahead and start putting weight on it, as much as I could bare. I too thought it was early but he told me do as I was told and things would be fine. Wrong.....My wife agrees with the doc wouldn't tell me to put weight on it unless he thought the foot was ready.
I am still going to visit my PT on Tuesday to get his perspective and see what PT entails, but I am off my foot until then. Only after I hear what he has to say will I make a decision.
As today wore on the pain seemed to get worse. I am listening to my foot and my common sense and backing off.
I am remaining positive. Thank you Ed
Hyper86
09-20-2008, 01:28 AM
Hello Heelies!
Jim:
Good for you no more pic line, happy you make it through with your foot, I was really worried about you especialy when I first heard the infection news.
Ed:
I was afraid you would over do it, Maybe I should have said more to you than "be really carefull" glad your gonna take it slow & easy from now on, I'm a hugh baby when it comes to pain & a little shy about using my foot so I'll be really carefull on my walk date 10/8.
Joe:
I did the same thing as you yesterday with some heavey boxes except I used one foot, got a bad neck, back & headache last night from lifting, I did not have to do the lifting, I was just being stuborn & wanted if I could do it.
I won't do that again for sure.
Stew:
How is it going with trying to get a good nighs sleep & walking?
Pat:
Glad your doing better, watch that concrete!
Mark:
Hope all is well
TChair:
I'm gonna catch you!
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
Jim:
Good for you no more pic line, happy you make it through with your foot, I was really worried about you especialy when I first heard the infection news.
Ed:
I was afraid you would over do it, Maybe I should have said more to you than "be really carefull" glad your gonna take it slow & easy from now on, I'm a hugh baby when it comes to pain & a little shy about using my foot so I'll be really carefull on my walk date 10/8.
Joe:
I did the same thing as you yesterday with some heavey boxes except I used one foot, got a bad neck, back & headache last night from lifting, I did not have to do the lifting, I was just being stuborn & wanted if I could do it.
I won't do that again for sure.
Stew:
How is it going with trying to get a good nighs sleep & walking?
Pat:
Glad your doing better, watch that concrete!
Mark:
Hope all is well
TChair:
I'm gonna catch you!
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
triguy450
09-20-2008, 10:32 AM
Hey everyone,
Hope you all don't mind me giving progress or daily reports. I don't want to tie up too much space here.
I did over do it and have learned from it. However, I went to bed in some pain last night and woke with none. I have not adjusted the cast this am or touched where I was sore. Bath time I will look again... It's wierd that the pain subsided that much in 8 hours.
I still plan to lay off until PT on Tuesday.
I too am a big baby when it comes to pain, but I am thinking the pain is part of the recovery and we have to learn to deal with it.
We'll all get together when we're healed and have a road race? Any takers?
Good weekend everyone.
Ed
Hope you all don't mind me giving progress or daily reports. I don't want to tie up too much space here.
I did over do it and have learned from it. However, I went to bed in some pain last night and woke with none. I have not adjusted the cast this am or touched where I was sore. Bath time I will look again... It's wierd that the pain subsided that much in 8 hours.
I still plan to lay off until PT on Tuesday.
I too am a big baby when it comes to pain, but I am thinking the pain is part of the recovery and we have to learn to deal with it.
We'll all get together when we're healed and have a road race? Any takers?
Good weekend everyone.
Ed
joe41
09-20-2008, 03:58 PM
Hey Heelies,
Jim,
glad to hear about your iv line. Like I said WB is scary and can be casue for concern. But I Agree with everyone let the pain and discomfort be your guide and make sure you let the doc. know how you feel.
Ed,
I look forward to everyone reporting and if it's daily that's fine because we are making good progress but with that can come some over doing so we all have to be careful, and learn from each other.
Carole,
If you want to catch TChair, remember the story about the tortus and the hair, you know who wins and I want to see us all win. Plus I want to beat that Phils fan when we get together for the road race :D. Okay guys stay strong, positive and
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Jim,
glad to hear about your iv line. Like I said WB is scary and can be casue for concern. But I Agree with everyone let the pain and discomfort be your guide and make sure you let the doc. know how you feel.
Ed,
I look forward to everyone reporting and if it's daily that's fine because we are making good progress but with that can come some over doing so we all have to be careful, and learn from each other.
Carole,
If you want to catch TChair, remember the story about the tortus and the hair, you know who wins and I want to see us all win. Plus I want to beat that Phils fan when we get together for the road race :D. Okay guys stay strong, positive and
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hyper86
09-20-2008, 10:43 PM
Hello Heelies,
Ed:
Don't worry about tying up space here, we want to know how your doing.
It's great your foots feeling so much better!
Joe:
It's funny you mention the Turtle & the Rabbit because I was just joking with my boss & co-workers today about me & a fellow sales rep who is on crutches with a broken foot, he joked about racing with me last week, right away my co-worker told him that his money is on me.
I told told co-workers he sales rep would be left in the dust if we raced & it would be a race between a Turtle & Rabbit.
If I remember right the Turtle only wins because the Rabbit gets distracted right?
Keep Heelings Healies!
Carole
Ed:
Don't worry about tying up space here, we want to know how your doing.
It's great your foots feeling so much better!
Joe:
It's funny you mention the Turtle & the Rabbit because I was just joking with my boss & co-workers today about me & a fellow sales rep who is on crutches with a broken foot, he joked about racing with me last week, right away my co-worker told him that his money is on me.
I told told co-workers he sales rep would be left in the dust if we raced & it would be a race between a Turtle & Rabbit.
If I remember right the Turtle only wins because the Rabbit gets distracted right?
Keep Heelings Healies!
Carole
triguy450
09-21-2008, 11:00 AM
Thanks Carole, Joe and Jim,
Yesterday I put no weight on my foot. It felt great with no pain all day. I accomplished quite a bit in the garage and my foot didn't complain once. My knee and hip did last night because I was standing a lot and held my foot off the ground all day.
I took my bath mid day and I didn't see any significant or abnormal swelling. My foot felt like it did Wednesday before I saw the doc.
Today the 3 spots that were sore Friday night are bugging me again. I plan to apply some pressure and walk on it today, as directed by my surgeon's nurse and see how it feels. I WILL be careful....Promise.
Yes, Carole, I think the rabbit stopped for a nap.
Tonight it's the last game ever in Yankees' Stadium. More history being made.
Jim, Now that the IV is gone when do you start walking?
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
Yesterday I put no weight on my foot. It felt great with no pain all day. I accomplished quite a bit in the garage and my foot didn't complain once. My knee and hip did last night because I was standing a lot and held my foot off the ground all day.
I took my bath mid day and I didn't see any significant or abnormal swelling. My foot felt like it did Wednesday before I saw the doc.
Today the 3 spots that were sore Friday night are bugging me again. I plan to apply some pressure and walk on it today, as directed by my surgeon's nurse and see how it feels. I WILL be careful....Promise.
Yes, Carole, I think the rabbit stopped for a nap.
Tonight it's the last game ever in Yankees' Stadium. More history being made.
Jim, Now that the IV is gone when do you start walking?
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
jmac47
09-21-2008, 01:17 PM
Ed,
For the next 4 weeks, the doc is only letting put 30 to 40 pounds of pressure on the foot. Just wants me to work on getting my normal gate back. That's doing OK, but sure are a lot of little aches and pains in there. By the end of the day, I've got quite a bit of swelling. Said it'll probably be in November before he'll let me try full weight bearing. After 18 weeks, I sure don't want another set-back, so I guess I'll try to stay patient.
Jim
For the next 4 weeks, the doc is only letting put 30 to 40 pounds of pressure on the foot. Just wants me to work on getting my normal gate back. That's doing OK, but sure are a lot of little aches and pains in there. By the end of the day, I've got quite a bit of swelling. Said it'll probably be in November before he'll let me try full weight bearing. After 18 weeks, I sure don't want another set-back, so I guess I'll try to stay patient.
Jim
loghome1
09-21-2008, 05:07 PM
Jim,
Glad to here your to the next step. Been thinking about you.
Carol,
Yes, still have trouble sleeping. The pain is like a dull ache, doesn't bother me much during the day but still is able to wake me up. Starting to think waking up is a habit from those first couple of weeks.
Everyone,
Even now, 4 weeks into weight bearing(i was allowed at the beginning of the 8th week) i still get pain and swelling. I start out the day without a limp but by the end, i am limping. At the beginning i thought i was setting myself back, but just like Ed, the next morning it would feel better then the previous morning. I can even pull on my pants without sitting down! Good stuff. Going to pt and doing exercises on one foot. Just started calf raises. Also, said before that i took 2 weeks to get off the crutches...it was actually 3. I started back to school on the 3rd week(elem. phys. ed teacher) and just to let the kids know to be careful around my foot, i used one crutch. In hindsight, that probably helped. Every day, i sit less and less. Like i see over and over in this post...be patient!
take care,
Stew
Glad to here your to the next step. Been thinking about you.
Carol,
Yes, still have trouble sleeping. The pain is like a dull ache, doesn't bother me much during the day but still is able to wake me up. Starting to think waking up is a habit from those first couple of weeks.
Everyone,
Even now, 4 weeks into weight bearing(i was allowed at the beginning of the 8th week) i still get pain and swelling. I start out the day without a limp but by the end, i am limping. At the beginning i thought i was setting myself back, but just like Ed, the next morning it would feel better then the previous morning. I can even pull on my pants without sitting down! Good stuff. Going to pt and doing exercises on one foot. Just started calf raises. Also, said before that i took 2 weeks to get off the crutches...it was actually 3. I started back to school on the 3rd week(elem. phys. ed teacher) and just to let the kids know to be careful around my foot, i used one crutch. In hindsight, that probably helped. Every day, i sit less and less. Like i see over and over in this post...be patient!
take care,
Stew
patw27
09-21-2008, 05:53 PM
Hi Carole,
Not too bad a week this week, but I went shopping today for shoes, couldn't find any ---what's new??, fed up of trainers , a lady was outside the shop and said"Is that as painful as it looks?", I thought to myself, good thing she didn't see me 2 weeks ago!!.
Things are improving but very slowly but as heelies say, "1 step forward 2 steps back"
keep healing heelies, we will all get there
Pat:)
Not too bad a week this week, but I went shopping today for shoes, couldn't find any ---what's new??, fed up of trainers , a lady was outside the shop and said"Is that as painful as it looks?", I thought to myself, good thing she didn't see me 2 weeks ago!!.
Things are improving but very slowly but as heelies say, "1 step forward 2 steps back"
keep healing heelies, we will all get there
Pat:)
Hyper86
09-22-2008, 12:28 AM
Hello Heelies,
It's great we'er all making progress!!!
Pat:
I had a hard time finding shoes before my injury, last weekend I found a pair of adidas that are really comfortable, I always buy white & blue shoes.
The bottom of my crutch slipped on a fabric softener sheet today & sent me falling straight down, am glad I did not hurt my bad foot.
My foots not been hurting much at all, I know that will change when it's time to start using it again 10/8.
Stew:
Dull ache does not sound to bad think I could stand that.
It's great you teach elem. kids, bet it's a lot of fun, you get to play while working.
Ed:
Funny the Rabbit took a nap, I do that a lot.
I have always been most like the Rabbit, but my recovery speed from this injury is more like the Turtle.
Best Regards,
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
It's great we'er all making progress!!!
Pat:
I had a hard time finding shoes before my injury, last weekend I found a pair of adidas that are really comfortable, I always buy white & blue shoes.
The bottom of my crutch slipped on a fabric softener sheet today & sent me falling straight down, am glad I did not hurt my bad foot.
My foots not been hurting much at all, I know that will change when it's time to start using it again 10/8.
Stew:
Dull ache does not sound to bad think I could stand that.
It's great you teach elem. kids, bet it's a lot of fun, you get to play while working.
Ed:
Funny the Rabbit took a nap, I do that a lot.
I have always been most like the Rabbit, but my recovery speed from this injury is more like the Turtle.
Best Regards,
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
joe41
09-22-2008, 12:41 PM
Hey Stew,
are you still using the boot or are you wering a sneaker or shoe? With any luck I will be back to work on Thursday, I see the doc. Wednesday for okay. Little by little, it's a bit scary I don't want to go backwards.
Carole,
Be careful don't take anything for granted. My wife keeps telling me to watch where am going and to look down. I think the rabbit lost focus and therefore lost the race.
Well everybody stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
are you still using the boot or are you wering a sneaker or shoe? With any luck I will be back to work on Thursday, I see the doc. Wednesday for okay. Little by little, it's a bit scary I don't want to go backwards.
Carole,
Be careful don't take anything for granted. My wife keeps telling me to watch where am going and to look down. I think the rabbit lost focus and therefore lost the race.
Well everybody stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
patw27
09-22-2008, 06:27 PM
Hey Stew,
are you still using the boot or are you wering a sneaker or shoe? With any luck I will be back to work on Thursday, I see the doc. Wednesday for okay. Little by little, it's a bit scary I don't want to go backwards.
Carole,
Be careful don't take anything for granted. My wife keeps telling me to watch where am going and to look down. I think the rabbit lost focus and therefore lost the race.
Well everybody stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hi Joe,
Funny thing is that the PT keeps telling me to look up not at floor but it is difficult not to be worried about what you may fall on.
Carole,
Sorry to hear about your fall, take care. I bought 3 pairs of trainers today, hopefully I won't have to return any to the shop, but fingers still crossed, not a bad day again today
Keep healing Heelies
Pat:)
are you still using the boot or are you wering a sneaker or shoe? With any luck I will be back to work on Thursday, I see the doc. Wednesday for okay. Little by little, it's a bit scary I don't want to go backwards.
Carole,
Be careful don't take anything for granted. My wife keeps telling me to watch where am going and to look down. I think the rabbit lost focus and therefore lost the race.
Well everybody stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hi Joe,
Funny thing is that the PT keeps telling me to look up not at floor but it is difficult not to be worried about what you may fall on.
Carole,
Sorry to hear about your fall, take care. I bought 3 pairs of trainers today, hopefully I won't have to return any to the shop, but fingers still crossed, not a bad day again today
Keep healing Heelies
Pat:)
joe41
09-22-2008, 07:51 PM
Hey Pat,
What exactly is the PT you are getting? My doc. isn't big on it. Tell me about these trainers you are talking about. Are they like sneakers? Are you in shoes or are you using a boot? Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
What exactly is the PT you are getting? My doc. isn't big on it. Tell me about these trainers you are talking about. Are they like sneakers? Are you in shoes or are you using a boot? Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
loghome1
09-22-2008, 08:00 PM
Joe,
I have been wearing sneakers for 2 weeks now. I bought a size bigger. I think it will be awhile until i am in my old size.
Everyone,
Saw something interesting on the local medical news this morning. They did a piece on a guy who fell and crushed his heel 6 years ago. He was in constant pain. Finally went to a neurologist and she implanted an electrical device in his hip to block the pain signals. He said he can finally get back to a normal life. Hopefully, no one needs that but the info can't hurt.
Carol,
As my son once said, "Dad, you don't have a real job, you get to boss kids around and play any games you want all day!"
take care
Stew
I have been wearing sneakers for 2 weeks now. I bought a size bigger. I think it will be awhile until i am in my old size.
Everyone,
Saw something interesting on the local medical news this morning. They did a piece on a guy who fell and crushed his heel 6 years ago. He was in constant pain. Finally went to a neurologist and she implanted an electrical device in his hip to block the pain signals. He said he can finally get back to a normal life. Hopefully, no one needs that but the info can't hurt.
Carol,
As my son once said, "Dad, you don't have a real job, you get to boss kids around and play any games you want all day!"
take care
Stew
Hyper86
09-22-2008, 10:48 PM
Hello Heelies,
Joe:
It must be exciting to be meeting your back to work goal.
I was looking down but the white fabric softener sheet blended in with the white floor.
I do need to stay focused & not get distracted like the Rabbit.
Pat:
Great news, good shoes & a good day!
Stew:
So it's true you do have a fun job.
Ed:
Hope today was even better than yesterday.
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
Joe:
It must be exciting to be meeting your back to work goal.
I was looking down but the white fabric softener sheet blended in with the white floor.
I do need to stay focused & not get distracted like the Rabbit.
Pat:
Great news, good shoes & a good day!
Stew:
So it's true you do have a fun job.
Ed:
Hope today was even better than yesterday.
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
patw27
09-23-2008, 05:27 AM
Hey Pat,
What exactly is the PT you are getting? My doc. isn't big on it. Tell me about these trainers you are talking about. Are they like sneakers? Are you in shoes or are you using a boot? Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hi Joe,
Yes my trainers are like sneakers ( different names in UK) but they have padding at heel so are very cushioned they are Reeboks and the most comfortable I have tried.
No I have never had a boot just a hard cast for 3 months so quite difficult to FWB once cast was off.
I think everyone needs PT as it does work. They started me off with a Theraband ( rubber band made out of balloon like material), this was for ROM and I had to hold it in around my foot and pull my foot back as far as possible, then forward as far as possible and then pull foot fo right side then left side. The Pt was amazed when I went back a week later that my foot bones had really got themselves together so well, my ROM is very good and I still use theraband to keep it that way.
My biggest problem now is the main tendon running on outside of foot ( remember too that I refused surgery so am probably taking longer than many).
I now have mainly stretching exercises and they are helping but the best thing I had was hydrotherapy as it gets you walking again without WB. The problem here in UK is that we only get 1 session a week ,if that ,but I am at the point now where I can do the exercises myself at home and just go to PT for them to check that I am improving.
Things are improving thanks to everyone who helps including these boards
Keep healing:)
What exactly is the PT you are getting? My doc. isn't big on it. Tell me about these trainers you are talking about. Are they like sneakers? Are you in shoes or are you using a boot? Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hi Joe,
Yes my trainers are like sneakers ( different names in UK) but they have padding at heel so are very cushioned they are Reeboks and the most comfortable I have tried.
No I have never had a boot just a hard cast for 3 months so quite difficult to FWB once cast was off.
I think everyone needs PT as it does work. They started me off with a Theraband ( rubber band made out of balloon like material), this was for ROM and I had to hold it in around my foot and pull my foot back as far as possible, then forward as far as possible and then pull foot fo right side then left side. The Pt was amazed when I went back a week later that my foot bones had really got themselves together so well, my ROM is very good and I still use theraband to keep it that way.
My biggest problem now is the main tendon running on outside of foot ( remember too that I refused surgery so am probably taking longer than many).
I now have mainly stretching exercises and they are helping but the best thing I had was hydrotherapy as it gets you walking again without WB. The problem here in UK is that we only get 1 session a week ,if that ,but I am at the point now where I can do the exercises myself at home and just go to PT for them to check that I am improving.
Things are improving thanks to everyone who helps including these boards
Keep healing:)
joe41
09-23-2008, 12:38 PM
Hey Healies,
Thanks for the response to my questions.
Stew,
I think that's wonderful that you are in sneakers. How is it to walk, can you take a normal step or do you have to favor that foot. Are you wrapping your foot? I'll look at snaekers today. Am thinking maybe high tops for more support, will see. I have to try to give up the boot because it won't let me take a normal step and I think it will wear me out after 8 hours at work.
Pat,
I am glad to hear your improving. I will ask my doc. again about theropy. I have a theraband and will try what you said.
Carole,
Yeah, am excited and also anxious because my job depends on it.
Hey Everybody, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Thanks for the response to my questions.
Stew,
I think that's wonderful that you are in sneakers. How is it to walk, can you take a normal step or do you have to favor that foot. Are you wrapping your foot? I'll look at snaekers today. Am thinking maybe high tops for more support, will see. I have to try to give up the boot because it won't let me take a normal step and I think it will wear me out after 8 hours at work.
Pat,
I am glad to hear your improving. I will ask my doc. again about theropy. I have a theraband and will try what you said.
Carole,
Yeah, am excited and also anxious because my job depends on it.
Hey Everybody, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
triguy450
09-23-2008, 07:57 PM
Hi all,
Somehow my email didn't inform me of the last two pages of posts. I just caught up.
Stew - sneakers already? That's great news even if they are a size bigger. You are making great progress and I am jealous.
Carole....Ouch...I'm sorry about the fall. I hope you are OK. Keep your eye on the turtle, not the rabbit. LOL Good news, 15 days until Oct 8. Yeah!!
Joe, push for PT. read on and confront the doc. Please....
I started walking on my foot again Sunday and Monday. I didn't put but 15-25 lbs of pressure on it. (bathroom scale) End of each day, my achilles was tight and sore. I could feel the blood pool in my foot but not a lot of swelling.
My 1st PT appt was today. More to measure my ROM before I start 100% on a program and to educate for what is to come. 1st and foremost I need to loosen the achilles with a towel stretch. He said he didn't like rubber bands because of too much flex. I will be using a towel so I can hold the stretch then relax it and repeat 15 times.
He gave me exercises with my toes to gain ROM. Writing the Alphabet with my toes not moving my knee, just my ankle. Up and down movements and side to side w/out using my leg.
Lying down on my back, raising my leg straight up, using my foot only pull my toes towards my face, then extend my toes and lower my leg back again. Doing this also stretches the hamstring and the calf.
Grabbing a towel with my toes trying to squeeze it. Not ready for a tennis ball. reason? ..there a 4 layers of muscles between your heel and toes. In a cast for 8 weeks weakens them and it takes time to strengthen them again for walking and climbing.
Normal leg extensions and leg lifts to build the thigh and hip flexors.
MY PT has attended seminars with my surgeon. He told me he can always be more aggressive with his patients because of how thorough my surgeon is. In his opinion, he is the one of the best in the Northeast. I am one of the few patients he's seen who is allowed to do PT and WB w/out the boot.
His credentials? Working with many of my surgeon's patients during the past 9 years.
He agrees with the doc and wants me off the crutches ASAP, but he also instructed me how to do so properly and deliberately and when I feel I am ready.
Am I scared? Hell yes.....but I left with a much better confidence and am ready to forge ahead. He told me to listen to my pain and my body. If it's too much, back off, just like the nurse told me last Friday.
There will be an adjustment period for things to adjust to WB. It is going to hurt but it's a good hurt.
I walked away with one big concern. He told me I won't be able to climb stairs w/out the boot for another 2-3 months. I have to climb stairs for work, so this gives me incentive to get back to work sooner. Not to worry tho....I will lnch forward and re-evaluate and try not to ahve set backs.
I go back on Friday for my 1st full PT session. I know it will hurt, but it's necessary.
I will let everyone know how I do. If you have any questions....I will answer any and all. If my answers can help you too? Then ask away.
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
Somehow my email didn't inform me of the last two pages of posts. I just caught up.
Stew - sneakers already? That's great news even if they are a size bigger. You are making great progress and I am jealous.
Carole....Ouch...I'm sorry about the fall. I hope you are OK. Keep your eye on the turtle, not the rabbit. LOL Good news, 15 days until Oct 8. Yeah!!
Joe, push for PT. read on and confront the doc. Please....
I started walking on my foot again Sunday and Monday. I didn't put but 15-25 lbs of pressure on it. (bathroom scale) End of each day, my achilles was tight and sore. I could feel the blood pool in my foot but not a lot of swelling.
My 1st PT appt was today. More to measure my ROM before I start 100% on a program and to educate for what is to come. 1st and foremost I need to loosen the achilles with a towel stretch. He said he didn't like rubber bands because of too much flex. I will be using a towel so I can hold the stretch then relax it and repeat 15 times.
He gave me exercises with my toes to gain ROM. Writing the Alphabet with my toes not moving my knee, just my ankle. Up and down movements and side to side w/out using my leg.
Lying down on my back, raising my leg straight up, using my foot only pull my toes towards my face, then extend my toes and lower my leg back again. Doing this also stretches the hamstring and the calf.
Grabbing a towel with my toes trying to squeeze it. Not ready for a tennis ball. reason? ..there a 4 layers of muscles between your heel and toes. In a cast for 8 weeks weakens them and it takes time to strengthen them again for walking and climbing.
Normal leg extensions and leg lifts to build the thigh and hip flexors.
MY PT has attended seminars with my surgeon. He told me he can always be more aggressive with his patients because of how thorough my surgeon is. In his opinion, he is the one of the best in the Northeast. I am one of the few patients he's seen who is allowed to do PT and WB w/out the boot.
His credentials? Working with many of my surgeon's patients during the past 9 years.
He agrees with the doc and wants me off the crutches ASAP, but he also instructed me how to do so properly and deliberately and when I feel I am ready.
Am I scared? Hell yes.....but I left with a much better confidence and am ready to forge ahead. He told me to listen to my pain and my body. If it's too much, back off, just like the nurse told me last Friday.
There will be an adjustment period for things to adjust to WB. It is going to hurt but it's a good hurt.
I walked away with one big concern. He told me I won't be able to climb stairs w/out the boot for another 2-3 months. I have to climb stairs for work, so this gives me incentive to get back to work sooner. Not to worry tho....I will lnch forward and re-evaluate and try not to ahve set backs.
I go back on Friday for my 1st full PT session. I know it will hurt, but it's necessary.
I will let everyone know how I do. If you have any questions....I will answer any and all. If my answers can help you too? Then ask away.
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
Hyper86
09-23-2008, 09:54 PM
Hello Heelies,
Ed,
Thanks for the details on physical therapy, now it won't be a complete mystery when I start it soon after 10/8.
Since my Dr. lets me wiggle my toes I think it's okay for me to do the grabbing towel with toes exercise, but tell me do you grab towel between big toe & other toes or grab it between toes & ball of foot?
Heelies,
I found out heelies are what the kids call those shoes with retractable wheels, just looking at those shoes gives me the heebee geebees.
Keep on Healing Heelies,
Carole
Ed,
Thanks for the details on physical therapy, now it won't be a complete mystery when I start it soon after 10/8.
Since my Dr. lets me wiggle my toes I think it's okay for me to do the grabbing towel with toes exercise, but tell me do you grab towel between big toe & other toes or grab it between toes & ball of foot?
Heelies,
I found out heelies are what the kids call those shoes with retractable wheels, just looking at those shoes gives me the heebee geebees.
Keep on Healing Heelies,
Carole
joe41
09-23-2008, 09:59 PM
Hey Ed,
thanks for the update. I tried sneakers today. I bought a pair of Rebok basket ball. they are the closes thing to high tops I could find. They also have a velcro strap for closuer at the top, gives me more ankel support. Had some swelling but not as much as I expected.
I go to the doc. tomorrow and will press for PT. I'll let you know how it goes. Till then stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
thanks for the update. I tried sneakers today. I bought a pair of Rebok basket ball. they are the closes thing to high tops I could find. They also have a velcro strap for closuer at the top, gives me more ankel support. Had some swelling but not as much as I expected.
I go to the doc. tomorrow and will press for PT. I'll let you know how it goes. Till then stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
triguy450
09-23-2008, 10:12 PM
Hi Joe and Carole,
Having Nephews and kids, they went thru the heelies phase you are referring to, however, those days are gone and the only heelies I know are you and I.
Joe, A lot of the exercises help range of motion but also helps build the muscles back up. I'd be happy to fax or send you copies of them if your doc gives you a hard time and you can attempt them on your own and of course I am here to help you do them properly as well as tell you what to expect.
Carole, the picture I have shows grabbing the towel or end of a small pillow between the toes and balls of your feet not just the big toe.
I am still a ways away from sneakers, but I'll keep those Reeboks in mind. Another guy I know had a stress fracture in his heal, he can only wear work boots now for support when he is on his feet all day..he says sneakers really hurt.
Stay positive and ask away as needed.
Ed
Having Nephews and kids, they went thru the heelies phase you are referring to, however, those days are gone and the only heelies I know are you and I.
Joe, A lot of the exercises help range of motion but also helps build the muscles back up. I'd be happy to fax or send you copies of them if your doc gives you a hard time and you can attempt them on your own and of course I am here to help you do them properly as well as tell you what to expect.
Carole, the picture I have shows grabbing the towel or end of a small pillow between the toes and balls of your feet not just the big toe.
I am still a ways away from sneakers, but I'll keep those Reeboks in mind. Another guy I know had a stress fracture in his heal, he can only wear work boots now for support when he is on his feet all day..he says sneakers really hurt.
Stay positive and ask away as needed.
Ed
Hyper86
09-23-2008, 10:51 PM
Hello Ed,
I tried to grab a sock & could not do it, so I have something to work on.
First I thought this is impossible but noticed my good foot can do it.
Thank you,
Keep on Healing Heelies!
Carole
I tried to grab a sock & could not do it, so I have something to work on.
First I thought this is impossible but noticed my good foot can do it.
Thank you,
Keep on Healing Heelies!
Carole
changed name
09-24-2008, 12:53 AM
Well it seems I have fallen into your group here. I couldn't resist the bad pun.
A little background about my journey here, fell off ladder dropping approx. 4-5 feet on to concrete driveway in house shoes on 9/4, splinted in ER and sent home to see doc the following monday. When they took splint off i got my first view of a fracture blister about 4 inches x 2 inches on the outside of my foot. X-rays and CT showed 3 pieces so resplint and see you in a week. 9/15 blister still there, was drained this time, and should have surgery today. Since I'm writing this now you might correctly guess that didn't happen. They got me knocked out with the drugs into the operating room and peeled the layer off the blister only to find out it wasn't healing as much as hoped and doc didn't want to risk infection. Sent me home with Silvadene cream to put on the blister area and see how it looks thursday. He said and I've read the surgery window is only 3 weeks or so, which means i'm looking for some encouraging new from folks that might have gone this far from injury to surgery.
Thanks for listening to my rambling
Billy
A little background about my journey here, fell off ladder dropping approx. 4-5 feet on to concrete driveway in house shoes on 9/4, splinted in ER and sent home to see doc the following monday. When they took splint off i got my first view of a fracture blister about 4 inches x 2 inches on the outside of my foot. X-rays and CT showed 3 pieces so resplint and see you in a week. 9/15 blister still there, was drained this time, and should have surgery today. Since I'm writing this now you might correctly guess that didn't happen. They got me knocked out with the drugs into the operating room and peeled the layer off the blister only to find out it wasn't healing as much as hoped and doc didn't want to risk infection. Sent me home with Silvadene cream to put on the blister area and see how it looks thursday. He said and I've read the surgery window is only 3 weeks or so, which means i'm looking for some encouraging new from folks that might have gone this far from injury to surgery.
Thanks for listening to my rambling
Billy
Hyper86
09-24-2008, 02:53 AM
Hello Billy,
You may need to wait a little longer for surgery but the good news is you only have 3 breaks in your heel.
Use the time to prepare for surgery, research, eat healthy, stop smoking ect.
What do they have in mind surgery wise, I had a bonegraft, plate & 6 screws.
I fell backwards off a fence from 5 feet onto cement 6/11, my heel shattered into 100's of pieces.
Had to wait 3 weeks for surgery on 7/3, swelling had to go down.
My Dr. put that cream on my foot after removeing dead skin last week it worked really well, Dr. said it was like magic.
I fell down a lot in the 3 weeks while waiting for surgery so be carefull.
Hope that blister heals up quick heelie so they can fix you up.
Take Care!
Carole
You may need to wait a little longer for surgery but the good news is you only have 3 breaks in your heel.
Use the time to prepare for surgery, research, eat healthy, stop smoking ect.
What do they have in mind surgery wise, I had a bonegraft, plate & 6 screws.
I fell backwards off a fence from 5 feet onto cement 6/11, my heel shattered into 100's of pieces.
Had to wait 3 weeks for surgery on 7/3, swelling had to go down.
My Dr. put that cream on my foot after removeing dead skin last week it worked really well, Dr. said it was like magic.
I fell down a lot in the 3 weeks while waiting for surgery so be carefull.
Hope that blister heals up quick heelie so they can fix you up.
Take Care!
Carole
triguy450
09-24-2008, 09:01 AM
Hi Billy,
I'm sorry you fell into out little group but you couldn't pick a better support and information group. We all at various stages of our recovery and we will all be happy to share our experiences, good and bad.
I trust you have gone thru the many threads on this sight reading the stories, treatments, etc....if not that would be my suggestion while waiting for surgery so you know the possibilities for success.
As good as good news gets, 3 pieces is the way to go. Less bone to regrow. I have 6-7 pieces and like Carole mentioned, a lot more than that.
I did not have a blister, but I know Carole did, she stated the Silvadene cream helped her a lot.
I had a very good surgeon. He told me it didn't matter to him when he did the surgery, 2 weeks or 4 after the injury, the important thing was the swelling. He was very specific about that, so the window your doc is talking about isn't as crtical as one might think. They can rebreak it then put your heel back together during surgery.
If it's available, ask for a leg block before surgery. It minimizes pain and the amount of general anesthsia needed during surgery.
My onlt other suggestion is, listen the doc and follow his instructions. You will recover faster that way with few set backs.
Carole, good to try picking up a sock, try something with a little more substance, like a towel. It's easier to wrap yout toes around a towel than a sock. Start big and work down.
Keep on healing heelies and Billy, ask away, we're here to help you get thru this difficult time.
Ed
I'm sorry you fell into out little group but you couldn't pick a better support and information group. We all at various stages of our recovery and we will all be happy to share our experiences, good and bad.
I trust you have gone thru the many threads on this sight reading the stories, treatments, etc....if not that would be my suggestion while waiting for surgery so you know the possibilities for success.
As good as good news gets, 3 pieces is the way to go. Less bone to regrow. I have 6-7 pieces and like Carole mentioned, a lot more than that.
I did not have a blister, but I know Carole did, she stated the Silvadene cream helped her a lot.
I had a very good surgeon. He told me it didn't matter to him when he did the surgery, 2 weeks or 4 after the injury, the important thing was the swelling. He was very specific about that, so the window your doc is talking about isn't as crtical as one might think. They can rebreak it then put your heel back together during surgery.
If it's available, ask for a leg block before surgery. It minimizes pain and the amount of general anesthsia needed during surgery.
My onlt other suggestion is, listen the doc and follow his instructions. You will recover faster that way with few set backs.
Carole, good to try picking up a sock, try something with a little more substance, like a towel. It's easier to wrap yout toes around a towel than a sock. Start big and work down.
Keep on healing heelies and Billy, ask away, we're here to help you get thru this difficult time.
Ed
loghome1
09-24-2008, 10:09 AM
Hello all,
Joe,
About those shoes. I choose low top sneakers to wear because i had so much swelling and with them, it had a place to go. Do you have to stand at work?
Ed,
I can go up stairs without any problem. Going up, i look normal, coming down, I have to go sideways or one step at a time.
All,
I also am a firm believer in pt. Another good exercise for nwb is the rocker board. Just take a book or board and place it on something(i used a small 1b dumbell) and rock your foot front to back. Then fold a towell and put under the book and rock side to side. For wb, calf stretches seem to loosen the foot up. 10 times for 10 sec with both heels on the ground. Then do them with your knee bent. Even though i am at the point of standing on just my injured foot and exercising i still use a thearaband. Just seems to loosen every thing up.
take care,
Stew
Joe,
About those shoes. I choose low top sneakers to wear because i had so much swelling and with them, it had a place to go. Do you have to stand at work?
Ed,
I can go up stairs without any problem. Going up, i look normal, coming down, I have to go sideways or one step at a time.
All,
I also am a firm believer in pt. Another good exercise for nwb is the rocker board. Just take a book or board and place it on something(i used a small 1b dumbell) and rock your foot front to back. Then fold a towell and put under the book and rock side to side. For wb, calf stretches seem to loosen the foot up. 10 times for 10 sec with both heels on the ground. Then do them with your knee bent. Even though i am at the point of standing on just my injured foot and exercising i still use a thearaband. Just seems to loosen every thing up.
take care,
Stew
loghome1
09-24-2008, 10:12 AM
ps
Don't get frustrated if you can not scrunch a towell with your toes. I can do just about everthing(except run and hop) but I still can not scrunch my toes!
Stew
Don't get frustrated if you can not scrunch a towell with your toes. I can do just about everthing(except run and hop) but I still can not scrunch my toes!
Stew
joe41
09-24-2008, 05:52 PM
Hey Billy,
hang in there, I had to wait a week before surgery due to swelling. I was told to elevate and ice down to reduce the swelling, which helped a lot. Wish you the best.
Stew,
yes I have to walk a lot at work, but I can sit and chat with the guests. I went to the doc. today. He is happy with my progress and has me going to therapy monday. He says to keep on with the sneakers as I can bear it. I go back in 4 weeks for a check up. He gave me a prescription for Celabrix to reduce the swelling which he says will happen due to returning to work. I expect it. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
hang in there, I had to wait a week before surgery due to swelling. I was told to elevate and ice down to reduce the swelling, which helped a lot. Wish you the best.
Stew,
yes I have to walk a lot at work, but I can sit and chat with the guests. I went to the doc. today. He is happy with my progress and has me going to therapy monday. He says to keep on with the sneakers as I can bear it. I go back in 4 weeks for a check up. He gave me a prescription for Celabrix to reduce the swelling which he says will happen due to returning to work. I expect it. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hyper86
09-24-2008, 07:50 PM
Hello Heelies,
My toes are short so it's extra hard to grab anything with them, that's why I'm using a sock.
I can scrunch them but not like with my good foot.
So will work on that in my spare time, got a lot of that nowadays.
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
My toes are short so it's extra hard to grab anything with them, that's why I'm using a sock.
I can scrunch them but not like with my good foot.
So will work on that in my spare time, got a lot of that nowadays.
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
joe41
09-26-2008, 12:14 PM
Hey Heelies,
day two of on the job. I am using the boot and it's working out pretty good so far. A little disconfort and some swelling but no pain to speak of. As soon as I get home I ice down and eleavate and everything gets back to normal in a couple of hours.
I am looking forward to monday and PT. Every day a little more progress, I am very pleased with the progress so for. Well, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies. :jester:
Joe
day two of on the job. I am using the boot and it's working out pretty good so far. A little disconfort and some swelling but no pain to speak of. As soon as I get home I ice down and eleavate and everything gets back to normal in a couple of hours.
I am looking forward to monday and PT. Every day a little more progress, I am very pleased with the progress so for. Well, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies. :jester:
Joe
triguy450
09-26-2008, 04:53 PM
Hello heelies,
My 1st real PT session was today. No sweat. We reviewed the exercises he assigned me last Tuesday and did them all too, then he assigned new ones.
He pulled my foot to loosen the joints, then stretched side to side, then up and down.
On my back on a table with both feet flat, knees raised. I raised my butt off the table 2 inches putting weight on both feet, holding it for 5 seconds then lowering again for 10 reps.
I sat on one of those large rubber floor balls and picked my left foot up putting all my wt on my right foot. This is for balance.
He had me do leg extensions with 5 lbs of weight around my ankle.
I felt very little little discomfort or pain the entire time. After all he was done, he iced me for 10 minutes.
When I go on Monday he wants me to bring a comfortable shoe and I will start on a stationary bike. Yeah!!!! until I can get back on the real thing.
Joe, that's great news, day 2 of work wasn't that difficult. Keep doing what you are doing and stay positive. I see progress everyday and so does my PT.
Carole, I'm sorry about having short toes....don't give, keep working them. They will come around. I am still having a hard time bending mine 45 degrees.
Billy, this is a tough time to sit there and think about the next step and you can't do anything but keep it elevated and iced. Stay focused and positive, you'll get thru this. Keep us posted how you are doing.
Have a great weekend everyone...and keep healing,
Ed
My 1st real PT session was today. No sweat. We reviewed the exercises he assigned me last Tuesday and did them all too, then he assigned new ones.
He pulled my foot to loosen the joints, then stretched side to side, then up and down.
On my back on a table with both feet flat, knees raised. I raised my butt off the table 2 inches putting weight on both feet, holding it for 5 seconds then lowering again for 10 reps.
I sat on one of those large rubber floor balls and picked my left foot up putting all my wt on my right foot. This is for balance.
He had me do leg extensions with 5 lbs of weight around my ankle.
I felt very little little discomfort or pain the entire time. After all he was done, he iced me for 10 minutes.
When I go on Monday he wants me to bring a comfortable shoe and I will start on a stationary bike. Yeah!!!! until I can get back on the real thing.
Joe, that's great news, day 2 of work wasn't that difficult. Keep doing what you are doing and stay positive. I see progress everyday and so does my PT.
Carole, I'm sorry about having short toes....don't give, keep working them. They will come around. I am still having a hard time bending mine 45 degrees.
Billy, this is a tough time to sit there and think about the next step and you can't do anything but keep it elevated and iced. Stay focused and positive, you'll get thru this. Keep us posted how you are doing.
Have a great weekend everyone...and keep healing,
Ed
Hyper86
09-27-2008, 01:15 AM
Hello Heelies,
Joe:
Congradulations on two days back on the job without much discomfort & all the progress you have made!
I really love my job & working, bet it feels great to be back on the job.
Ed:
Congradulations on your 1st physical therapy session & all the progress you have made.
I can't wait to start PT myself, it's only 12 days till walking date 10/8 oh boy.
Thanks for the short toes sympathy, I'm only 4 foot 11 so at least they match the rest of me.
I'm the smallest heelie HA HA, not sure I could beat any of you big guys in a race, so I just hope to catch up!
Kindest Regards,
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
Joe:
Congradulations on two days back on the job without much discomfort & all the progress you have made!
I really love my job & working, bet it feels great to be back on the job.
Ed:
Congradulations on your 1st physical therapy session & all the progress you have made.
I can't wait to start PT myself, it's only 12 days till walking date 10/8 oh boy.
Thanks for the short toes sympathy, I'm only 4 foot 11 so at least they match the rest of me.
I'm the smallest heelie HA HA, not sure I could beat any of you big guys in a race, so I just hope to catch up!
Kindest Regards,
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
triguy450
09-29-2008, 04:28 PM
Hello Heelies,
Just an update on my 2nd full day of PT. Excellent session.
I rode a stationary bicycle for 7 minutes today at a fairly good pace. I felt some very small twinges of pain a few times in my ankle joint, not in the heel. I wore my son's size 11.5 sneaker. I normally wear an 8.5 - 9.
In the sneaker she had me walk without the boot for 50-60 feet using both canes. I was able to put a lot of pressure on my foot without any pain. It wasn't full WB but it was a lot moe than I could with the boot.
I did some more strength exercises for my calf and thighs. They added a few too. I balanced myself on the large rubber ball again. Very easy this time and no pain.
The PT did quite a bit of stretching and moving of my foot. They also gave me a number of stretching items to do while I was there. They asked me to push myself and I met their challenge.
My ankle is sore and slightly swollen. I was able to put more weight on my foot, wearing the boot and added more as the day went on. I plan to be using only one crutch by the end of this week and maybe crutch free the following week.
That's it from my end today. I wanted to fill you in on what might be ahead of you whe you start PT.
Only 10 more days Carole.
Stay positive everyone and keep healing,
Ed
Just an update on my 2nd full day of PT. Excellent session.
I rode a stationary bicycle for 7 minutes today at a fairly good pace. I felt some very small twinges of pain a few times in my ankle joint, not in the heel. I wore my son's size 11.5 sneaker. I normally wear an 8.5 - 9.
In the sneaker she had me walk without the boot for 50-60 feet using both canes. I was able to put a lot of pressure on my foot without any pain. It wasn't full WB but it was a lot moe than I could with the boot.
I did some more strength exercises for my calf and thighs. They added a few too. I balanced myself on the large rubber ball again. Very easy this time and no pain.
The PT did quite a bit of stretching and moving of my foot. They also gave me a number of stretching items to do while I was there. They asked me to push myself and I met their challenge.
My ankle is sore and slightly swollen. I was able to put more weight on my foot, wearing the boot and added more as the day went on. I plan to be using only one crutch by the end of this week and maybe crutch free the following week.
That's it from my end today. I wanted to fill you in on what might be ahead of you whe you start PT.
Only 10 more days Carole.
Stay positive everyone and keep healing,
Ed
Hyper86
09-29-2008, 10:46 PM
Hello Heelies,
Ed:
Thank you for the detailed description of 2nd physical therapy session, glad it's going well.
I can hardly wait to start physical therapy.
I tried another exercise that you described & I can do it without any pain at all, the one laying down, putting both feet flat on bed with knees bent & lifting body up a few inches.
It's cute that you are wearing your sons shoes size 11 1/2 I wonder if his feet are still growing.
Keep up the good Healing Heelies!
Carole
Ed:
Thank you for the detailed description of 2nd physical therapy session, glad it's going well.
I can hardly wait to start physical therapy.
I tried another exercise that you described & I can do it without any pain at all, the one laying down, putting both feet flat on bed with knees bent & lifting body up a few inches.
It's cute that you are wearing your sons shoes size 11 1/2 I wonder if his feet are still growing.
Keep up the good Healing Heelies!
Carole
joe41
09-29-2008, 11:51 PM
Hey Heelies,
Had my first PT session today.
Ed, she did everything you could do to my foot and no pain. The excersies are the same as your's. I go back thursday and am supposed to do the bike thing also. I asked about calf raises and she said not yet she wants to get full range of motion first. We are getting there.
Carole, yes it's good to be back to work. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Had my first PT session today.
Ed, she did everything you could do to my foot and no pain. The excersies are the same as your's. I go back thursday and am supposed to do the bike thing also. I asked about calf raises and she said not yet she wants to get full range of motion first. We are getting there.
Carole, yes it's good to be back to work. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
patw27
09-30-2008, 04:17 PM
Hi Carole,
I beat you on height by half an inch, at 4ft. 111/2 ins.
Yeaaaaaaaaa I managed to get to local swimming pool today, on my own,( husband away for a few days) exercised and swam slowly. Hardest part was getting out of pool that has steep metal steps but I am hoping to go again tomorrow.
Keep healing heelies
Pat:)
I beat you on height by half an inch, at 4ft. 111/2 ins.
Yeaaaaaaaaa I managed to get to local swimming pool today, on my own,( husband away for a few days) exercised and swam slowly. Hardest part was getting out of pool that has steep metal steps but I am hoping to go again tomorrow.
Keep healing heelies
Pat:)
Hyper86
09-30-2008, 08:42 PM
Hello Heelies,
Pat:
Actualy I saw a new Chiropractor yestday, he said I was 4 foot 10 inches.
I lost an inch & a half somehow but he thinks he can help me regain it, how funny.
I can't wait to go swimming when Dr. gives me the okay.
I have only eight more days before getting to walk & start physical therapy.
Glad your getting better, I just knew you would.
Ed:
Glad it went well, seems like you past the physical therapy hurt test!
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
Pat:
Actualy I saw a new Chiropractor yestday, he said I was 4 foot 10 inches.
I lost an inch & a half somehow but he thinks he can help me regain it, how funny.
I can't wait to go swimming when Dr. gives me the okay.
I have only eight more days before getting to walk & start physical therapy.
Glad your getting better, I just knew you would.
Ed:
Glad it went well, seems like you past the physical therapy hurt test!
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
patw27
10-01-2008, 01:36 PM
Hi Carole,
I feel quite tall, mind you I haven't measured since this accident but my clothes are hanging off me.
I went to pool again today, only problem I seem to have now is the bottom of the heel under the foot is sore, probably because I am walking around the house more without crutch and am favouring the injured foot too much, my problem is impatience but I am wonderful compared with a month ago
Keep healing heelies
Pat
I feel quite tall, mind you I haven't measured since this accident but my clothes are hanging off me.
I went to pool again today, only problem I seem to have now is the bottom of the heel under the foot is sore, probably because I am walking around the house more without crutch and am favouring the injured foot too much, my problem is impatience but I am wonderful compared with a month ago
Keep healing heelies
Pat
movado
10-01-2008, 02:45 PM
New to the Forum, but Glad i found It.
I fractured both my calcaneus bones at the same time skiing, very similar to what Tanner Hall did the extreme skier, do a google search.
Any how I was just wondering if anyone has done both at the same time here?
I just got back from the Dr. on Monday and he said that if they are still hurting after 8 Months, My accident was 1/27/08 and surgery 2/7/08, that should consider a sub talar fusion.
Should I get a second opinion? My Dr. is well know and respected Dr. in MN, I trust him but man getting my talar bone fused to my heel bone for the rest of my life sounds scary.
The surgery would consist of removing 4 long screws from each Cacalneus bone and adding to new longer screws that go into the talar bone to creat the fusion.
Right now the pain is about a 3/4 when walking short distances but any more than that I have to sit for a couple of minutes. I can stand for about 15 minutes than I need to sit.
My Dr. said that the Arthrites would only get worse in the winter time.
Recovery time would be 2 months of non weight bearing and 2 months on Crutches, and 2 months of PT.
He said I can do one at a time and then it would just take longer to get back to normal, or since I already know what it is like being in a wheelchair for an extened amount of time it may be beneficial to get them both done at the same time.
I am not taking any pain meds right now, and can tolerate the pain but it gets really annoying as many of you know.
I am going to at least wait til I'm 12 months post surgery, but my dr did not sound like it would be any better after 12 months.
Any thoughts or recomendations would be awesome.
Miles
I fractured both my calcaneus bones at the same time skiing, very similar to what Tanner Hall did the extreme skier, do a google search.
Any how I was just wondering if anyone has done both at the same time here?
I just got back from the Dr. on Monday and he said that if they are still hurting after 8 Months, My accident was 1/27/08 and surgery 2/7/08, that should consider a sub talar fusion.
Should I get a second opinion? My Dr. is well know and respected Dr. in MN, I trust him but man getting my talar bone fused to my heel bone for the rest of my life sounds scary.
The surgery would consist of removing 4 long screws from each Cacalneus bone and adding to new longer screws that go into the talar bone to creat the fusion.
Right now the pain is about a 3/4 when walking short distances but any more than that I have to sit for a couple of minutes. I can stand for about 15 minutes than I need to sit.
My Dr. said that the Arthrites would only get worse in the winter time.
Recovery time would be 2 months of non weight bearing and 2 months on Crutches, and 2 months of PT.
He said I can do one at a time and then it would just take longer to get back to normal, or since I already know what it is like being in a wheelchair for an extened amount of time it may be beneficial to get them both done at the same time.
I am not taking any pain meds right now, and can tolerate the pain but it gets really annoying as many of you know.
I am going to at least wait til I'm 12 months post surgery, but my dr did not sound like it would be any better after 12 months.
Any thoughts or recomendations would be awesome.
Miles
joe41
10-01-2008, 08:15 PM
Hey Miles,
sorry to hear about your situation and wish you the best. I would certainly get another opinion from a known expert in the field. This injury can effect your quality of life. Be very prudent and deliberate with your reasoning and choices.
Carole,
you'll be walking before you know it, and it is a great feeling. Looks like you'll have to eat all your veggies to grow up big and tall ;).
Pat,
glad to hear you are making good progress, everyday it does get better.
Remember Heelies, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
sorry to hear about your situation and wish you the best. I would certainly get another opinion from a known expert in the field. This injury can effect your quality of life. Be very prudent and deliberate with your reasoning and choices.
Carole,
you'll be walking before you know it, and it is a great feeling. Looks like you'll have to eat all your veggies to grow up big and tall ;).
Pat,
glad to hear you are making good progress, everyday it does get better.
Remember Heelies, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Hyper86
10-02-2008, 12:05 AM
Hello Heelies,
Pat:
Your a gal 10 feet tall!
I have not lost weight but gained 7 pounds so now I'm a wopping 115 pounds.
Bet your on the sore side because of increased & different activity.
Miles:
Thats quite an accident you had, you could have broken your neck or back, when you think about it you are a very lucky guy.
I could ask my Dr. his opinion about you when I see him 10/8, he's is only 40 but very smart, very specialized.
What other things will having the surgery provide besides less pain, of course with less pain you will be more active & do more things you enjoy, I wonder if range of motion will increase?
Joe:
Your so funny! guess I better eat my vegis, been trying to learn to like them, speaking of them, I learned how to make a good salad dressing, mash fresh garlic with sea salt, add fresh lemon juice with a splash of olive oil, man it's good.
Here's what i like in the salad, romane lettuce hearts, avacado, red/orange/yellow bell peppers, tomatoes & carrots fresh from the farmers market.
Keep on Healing Heelies & of course keep Walking Tall!
Carole
Pat:
Your a gal 10 feet tall!
I have not lost weight but gained 7 pounds so now I'm a wopping 115 pounds.
Bet your on the sore side because of increased & different activity.
Miles:
Thats quite an accident you had, you could have broken your neck or back, when you think about it you are a very lucky guy.
I could ask my Dr. his opinion about you when I see him 10/8, he's is only 40 but very smart, very specialized.
What other things will having the surgery provide besides less pain, of course with less pain you will be more active & do more things you enjoy, I wonder if range of motion will increase?
Joe:
Your so funny! guess I better eat my vegis, been trying to learn to like them, speaking of them, I learned how to make a good salad dressing, mash fresh garlic with sea salt, add fresh lemon juice with a splash of olive oil, man it's good.
Here's what i like in the salad, romane lettuce hearts, avacado, red/orange/yellow bell peppers, tomatoes & carrots fresh from the farmers market.
Keep on Healing Heelies & of course keep Walking Tall!
Carole
Hyper86
10-02-2008, 12:16 AM
Hey Heelies,
Had my first PT session today.
Ed, she did everything you could do to my foot and no pain. The excersies are the same as your's. I go back thursday and am supposed to do the bike thing also. I asked about calf raises and she said not yet she wants to get full range of motion first. We are getting there.
Carole, yes it's good to be back to work. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Joe:
Okay thats sounds a little scary, my physical therapist better not go to crazy on my foot!
I don't want to have to smack him.
Thanks for the update!
Heeldegard
Had my first PT session today.
Ed, she did everything you could do to my foot and no pain. The excersies are the same as your's. I go back thursday and am supposed to do the bike thing also. I asked about calf raises and she said not yet she wants to get full range of motion first. We are getting there.
Carole, yes it's good to be back to work. Stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
Joe:
Okay thats sounds a little scary, my physical therapist better not go to crazy on my foot!
I don't want to have to smack him.
Thanks for the update!
Heeldegard
The J
10-02-2008, 01:29 AM
Hello Miles:
Before I had surgery my doctor gave me the option of a sub-talor fusion or to salvage the cartilage and re-assemble without fusing. He gave me a few examples of people that he put back together, one being a lady who had both ankles broken like you said that you have. My doctor ended up fusing one of them and just re-assembling the other one. He told me that she has no pain in the fused one and arthritis pain in the other one. When I went under the knife I left it to the doctors discretion on how to handle it but leaning towards the fusion. The main reason I was leaning toward having it fused was that the possibility of arthritis is a lot greater than if you didn't have it fused. I ended up having it fused. I have a big long screw going from my heel into and almost entirely through the talus. I'm not weight bearing yet but I have already noticed decreased movement in my foot. For instance, I can't move my foot side to side. Up and down is ok but the doc said side to side will be about 80% less than I had.
I hope this sheds a little light on the topic for you.
Good Luck Everyone.
Jason
Before I had surgery my doctor gave me the option of a sub-talor fusion or to salvage the cartilage and re-assemble without fusing. He gave me a few examples of people that he put back together, one being a lady who had both ankles broken like you said that you have. My doctor ended up fusing one of them and just re-assembling the other one. He told me that she has no pain in the fused one and arthritis pain in the other one. When I went under the knife I left it to the doctors discretion on how to handle it but leaning towards the fusion. The main reason I was leaning toward having it fused was that the possibility of arthritis is a lot greater than if you didn't have it fused. I ended up having it fused. I have a big long screw going from my heel into and almost entirely through the talus. I'm not weight bearing yet but I have already noticed decreased movement in my foot. For instance, I can't move my foot side to side. Up and down is ok but the doc said side to side will be about 80% less than I had.
I hope this sheds a little light on the topic for you.
Good Luck Everyone.
Jason
patw27
10-02-2008, 06:24 AM
Hi Carole,
I too put about 5 lbs. on while NWB, probably through boredom but it soon comes off when you start to WB.
Keep healing all
Pat
I too put about 5 lbs. on while NWB, probably through boredom but it soon comes off when you start to WB.
Keep healing all
Pat
joe41
10-02-2008, 05:39 PM
Hey Heelies,
had my second PT session today. Did the bike, the rocker board, wobble board, ankle pump, alphabet scribe, toe flex, toe crunches, toe rises, heal rises and finally ice and electric stimulus and no pain. We are making progress.
Pat, Carole, don't feel bad about the weight. I put on 12 lbs. I got my work cut out for me but I start back to the gym next week. I will shed the weight.
Carole, (heeldegard) I like the sound of that salad dressing I will give it a try. I make a salad very simliar to that, but I add fetta cheese, kalamata olives and shrimp. The salad dressing I make is the juice of 2 lemons, 2 tbl spoons olive oil and finely chop fresh dill. It is very light and flavorful. Hey, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
had my second PT session today. Did the bike, the rocker board, wobble board, ankle pump, alphabet scribe, toe flex, toe crunches, toe rises, heal rises and finally ice and electric stimulus and no pain. We are making progress.
Pat, Carole, don't feel bad about the weight. I put on 12 lbs. I got my work cut out for me but I start back to the gym next week. I will shed the weight.
Carole, (heeldegard) I like the sound of that salad dressing I will give it a try. I make a salad very simliar to that, but I add fetta cheese, kalamata olives and shrimp. The salad dressing I make is the juice of 2 lemons, 2 tbl spoons olive oil and finely chop fresh dill. It is very light and flavorful. Hey, stay strong, positive and of course
Keep Healing Heelies :jester:
Joe
loghome1
10-02-2008, 06:54 PM
Miles,
Sorry to hear about your accident. My opinion only, if you are getting through the day without pain meds, i would hold off on the fusion. You might want to see a neurologist to see if they can do something about the pain. I have read and heard a couple different solutions to the chronic pain. One was an electrical implant and the other was a seizure drug. Might be worth checking it out.
take care,
Stew
Sorry to hear about your accident. My opinion only, if you are getting through the day without pain meds, i would hold off on the fusion. You might want to see a neurologist to see if they can do something about the pain. I have read and heard a couple different solutions to the chronic pain. One was an electrical implant and the other was a seizure drug. Might be worth checking it out.
take care,
Stew
triguy450
10-03-2008, 12:37 PM
Hi Everyone,
I just found three new pages of postings and again was not notified via email they were here.
Congrats Joe on your PT session. That must have felt so good to progress to the next recovery step and see the light getting a little brighter. Your getting there and I am happy for you.
Pat, you seem to have made some really great progress these past few weeks. I didn't realize you were almost full if not complete weight bearing. Are you still in the boot or are you in shoes?
Carole, as someone else on here mentioned, they won't do anything to cause you pain....on purpose.
Today's update, hopefully will help you understand this is the case.
Wed, Thur I was walking using one crutch but short distances. My ankle is still very week, but I felt very good until days end. Swollen and sore. My PT told me to listen to the pain, it's telling you to stop and try again the next day.
3rd full session of PT this morning. 15 minutes, warm sand hydro-therapy. 7 minutes, bicycle. I walked today wearing a sneaker and used FULL weight. My ankle hurt, my heel did not. I used the crutches for balance.
Balance Ball, calf raises, then foot stretches. Leg lifts, table butt lifts, side leg lifts. PT then pulled and stretched my foot. Carole, (i'm sorry, heeldegard) she watched my face as she pulled and stopped when she saw pain. She iced me for 10 minutes. Not to worry, they are there for you not the other way around. Peace of cake, but slow.....
I may go on the treadmill along with the bike next Tuesday.
Speaking of cake, sorry everyone, I've lost 5 pounds since the injury. It is probably helping with the WB part of it.
Miles, I too am sorry about your pain and limited ROM. My PT and discussed the side to side today. She gave me exercises to work on to help that. Statistically most patients come out
of PT 80% pre injury. It's up to us to work thru the other 20%. She said, most patients choose not to.
My side to side today was very limited. It's going to take work, but I am committed and will work thru it. I agree with Stew, if you can live with the pain a little while longer I'd wait before I fused them. Have you looked at accupuncture?
Keep healing heelies, looks like we're all making good progress.
Ed
I just found three new pages of postings and again was not notified via email they were here.
Congrats Joe on your PT session. That must have felt so good to progress to the next recovery step and see the light getting a little brighter. Your getting there and I am happy for you.
Pat, you seem to have made some really great progress these past few weeks. I didn't realize you were almost full if not complete weight bearing. Are you still in the boot or are you in shoes?
Carole, as someone else on here mentioned, they won't do anything to cause you pain....on purpose.
Today's update, hopefully will help you understand this is the case.
Wed, Thur I was walking using one crutch but short distances. My ankle is still very week, but I felt very good until days end. Swollen and sore. My PT told me to listen to the pain, it's telling you to stop and try again the next day.
3rd full session of PT this morning. 15 minutes, warm sand hydro-therapy. 7 minutes, bicycle. I walked today wearing a sneaker and used FULL weight. My ankle hurt, my heel did not. I used the crutches for balance.
Balance Ball, calf raises, then foot stretches. Leg lifts, table butt lifts, side leg lifts. PT then pulled and stretched my foot. Carole, (i'm sorry, heeldegard) she watched my face as she pulled and stopped when she saw pain. She iced me for 10 minutes. Not to worry, they are there for you not the other way around. Peace of cake, but slow.....
I may go on the treadmill along with the bike next Tuesday.
Speaking of cake, sorry everyone, I've lost 5 pounds since the injury. It is probably helping with the WB part of it.
Miles, I too am sorry about your pain and limited ROM. My PT and discussed the side to side today. She gave me exercises to work on to help that. Statistically most patients come out
of PT 80% pre injury. It's up to us to work thru the other 20%. She said, most patients choose not to.
My side to side today was very limited. It's going to take work, but I am committed and will work thru it. I agree with Stew, if you can live with the pain a little while longer I'd wait before I fused them. Have you looked at accupuncture?
Keep healing heelies, looks like we're all making good progress.
Ed
patw27
10-03-2008, 02:23 PM
Hi Ed,
I never had boot, they don't seem to use them much in UK, I went straight from cast to velcro walking sandals for a few weeks and then sneakers. You are right when you say WB hurts ankle not heel, the heel is normally fine, it is that main tendon behind the ankle that is the problem and stretching exercises are the way to get rid of that pain.
You are also right when you say you walk around on 1 crutch and pains later,I found that I went to 1 crutch without my PT telling me to and I suffered for it.
The way to go is take it slowly and let your foot tell you when to rest. PT also told me to warm foot in bath or bowl of warm water before stretching as it makes tendons more elastic and easier to stretch
Good Luck
Pat
I never had boot, they don't seem to use them much in UK, I went straight from cast to velcro walking sandals for a few weeks and then sneakers. You are right when you say WB hurts ankle not heel, the heel is normally fine, it is that main tendon behind the ankle that is the problem and stretching exercises are the way to get rid of that pain.
You are also right when you say you walk around on 1 crutch and pains later,I found that I went to 1 crutch without my PT telling me to and I suffered for it.
The way to go is take it slowly and let your foot tell you when to rest. PT also told me to warm foot in bath or bowl of warm water before stretching as it makes tendons more elastic and easier to stretch
Good Luck
Pat
movado
10-03-2008, 04:04 PM
Hey thanks for all the replies and advice, I can deal with the pain W/O meds so I decided to wait until at least after 18 months have go by.
The way I look at it is I'm young enough (33) that if I can deal with it then just deal with it.
But I'm growing very impatient with people at work giving my crap for limping and always saying that my feet should be healed up by now, a bunch of know it alls. I try to explain how sevre the injury is, I did both, and everyone has a story about how fast they recovered from a broken leg, or a arm or what ever. It really gets old fast when the same person says the same thing over and over agian, I may end up in jail or with out a job soon!!!
Sometimes I want to take them to the third floor about 35' above ground and say "How do you think you would do."
The best one is "your not drinking enough milk" if I had a dollar for everytime someone said that to me, man.
Sorry venting....
The way I look at it is I'm young enough (33) that if I can deal with it then just deal with it.
But I'm growing very impatient with people at work giving my crap for limping and always saying that my feet should be healed up by now, a bunch of know it alls. I try to explain how sevre the injury is, I did both, and everyone has a story about how fast they recovered from a broken leg, or a arm or what ever. It really gets old fast when the same person says the same thing over and over agian, I may end up in jail or with out a job soon!!!
Sometimes I want to take them to the third floor about 35' above ground and say "How do you think you would do."
The best one is "your not drinking enough milk" if I had a dollar for everytime someone said that to me, man.
Sorry venting....
triguy450
10-03-2008, 04:20 PM
That's what this sight is for, to vent and ask for reassurance. I constantly tell people it's the hardest bone in the body to break and takes the longest to heal....then I explain why it is true.
I'm sorry you have to keep explaining things but some know it alls are so dense they don't want to hear it. My wife for example told me she would have left the crutches at the door of the docs office.
Here it is 2 weeks later and I am just now getting rid of the one.
Other than printing these posts out and letting the nay sayers read it themselves, you will continue to be questioned. I'm sorry.....
You are young enough that you can deal with most of the pain. I hope it does subside for you soon.
Vent anytime you want man....I'll even give you my cell phone number if you need to let it out.
Don't let them get you down...this is your injury and your recovery. Don't give a crap what other's think.
I'm sorry you have to keep explaining things but some know it alls are so dense they don't want to hear it. My wife for example told me she would have left the crutches at the door of the docs office.
Here it is 2 weeks later and I am just now getting rid of the one.
Other than printing these posts out and letting the nay sayers read it themselves, you will continue to be questioned. I'm sorry.....
You are young enough that you can deal with most of the pain. I hope it does subside for you soon.
Vent anytime you want man....I'll even give you my cell phone number if you need to let it out.
Don't let them get you down...this is your injury and your recovery. Don't give a crap what other's think.
Hyper86
10-03-2008, 11:03 PM
Hello Heelies,
People at work don't say a anything because I made them all look at my foot before the stitches got removed, they are afraid I'll make them look again.
I know they would really freakout if they saw my x-rays.
Not my Dr. but another orthopedic surgeon I know said it right (some people need to be told the same thing over & over again)
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
People at work don't say a anything because I made them all look at my foot before the stitches got removed, they are afraid I'll make them look again.
I know they would really freakout if they saw my x-rays.
Not my Dr. but another orthopedic surgeon I know said it right (some people need to be told the same thing over & over again)
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
loghome1
10-04-2008, 11:13 AM
Miles,
I know everyone here has got some of that same feedback. As my wife said, people think you just broke a bone and you'll be fine in 6 - 8 weeks. They have no clue and unless someone close to them has the same injury, they never will.
take care,
Stew
I know everyone here has got some of that same feedback. As my wife said, people think you just broke a bone and you'll be fine in 6 - 8 weeks. They have no clue and unless someone close to them has the same injury, they never will.
take care,
Stew
triguy450
10-05-2008, 06:03 PM
Happy Sunday Heelies,
Eagles lost.... (: sad to say, but (I feel like I am bragging) I dropped both crutches today and have been walking around most of the day without them. Oh my, I can't tell you how good that feels to have my hands free again. If you were to tell me this would have happened this week, I would have laughed at you.
I am aware, not to over do it....I rested for an hour this afternoon. I am resting again now and will do my stretches after dinner.
Like Pat and I shared, going from 2 to one hurts more than from 2 to none. I still have some ankle discomfort, but it's something I can work thru.
I will call my PT tomorrow and ask if he wants me to bring the crutches on Tuesday to PT.
Pat, you are right. Warm baths or soakings really help relax the achilles tendon and the muscles so that stretching is easier. I have also used a heating pad for 15 minutes.
Carole, your turn is coming and it'll be here before you know it. I am counting the days with you.
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
Eagles lost.... (: sad to say, but (I feel like I am bragging) I dropped both crutches today and have been walking around most of the day without them. Oh my, I can't tell you how good that feels to have my hands free again. If you were to tell me this would have happened this week, I would have laughed at you.
I am aware, not to over do it....I rested for an hour this afternoon. I am resting again now and will do my stretches after dinner.
Like Pat and I shared, going from 2 to one hurts more than from 2 to none. I still have some ankle discomfort, but it's something I can work thru.
I will call my PT tomorrow and ask if he wants me to bring the crutches on Tuesday to PT.
Pat, you are right. Warm baths or soakings really help relax the achilles tendon and the muscles so that stretching is easier. I have also used a heating pad for 15 minutes.
Carole, your turn is coming and it'll be here before you know it. I am counting the days with you.
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
Hyper86
10-05-2008, 11:23 PM
Hello Ed,
Your walking on 2 feet now, wow thats great news.
Only 2 more days till I get to walk, my sisters dog Lonesome has been waiting a long time for me walk him.
I'm going to ask my Dr. to write a note to the physical therapist saying "don't hurt Carole shes a really big baby"
Thank you,
Keep up the good healing!
Your walking on 2 feet now, wow thats great news.
Only 2 more days till I get to walk, my sisters dog Lonesome has been waiting a long time for me walk him.
I'm going to ask my Dr. to write a note to the physical therapist saying "don't hurt Carole shes a really big baby"
Thank you,
Keep up the good healing!
triguy450
10-07-2008, 02:49 PM
Hi everyone,
An updated PT report...Carole, please don't over do anything when you start walking tomorrow. I am finding as I'm sure others that this is a day by day process. Sometimes 2 steps forward 1 step back, unfortunately. You will feel really good and then push too much. It's easy to do.
I left my crutches home today for PT. I brought an extra sneaker and walked using a cane. It felt a little unstable but good. I am getting more support in my shoe than this moon boot I am wearing. I also walked on the treadmill for 3 minutes, using full weight. My ankle and heel felt great, my right outstep down by my toes is what hurt while on the treadmill.
I also did ankle boards for side to side and front to back.
I am very pleased with my progress to date, but am still taking it slow. My ankle swelled up a lot today.
A suggestion..take the foam insert out of your sneaker and place it in the bottom of the moon boot. It's giving my heel area more support and better cushioning.
I'll be thinking of you tomorrow Carole. What time is your appt?
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
An updated PT report...Carole, please don't over do anything when you start walking tomorrow. I am finding as I'm sure others that this is a day by day process. Sometimes 2 steps forward 1 step back, unfortunately. You will feel really good and then push too much. It's easy to do.
I left my crutches home today for PT. I brought an extra sneaker and walked using a cane. It felt a little unstable but good. I am getting more support in my shoe than this moon boot I am wearing. I also walked on the treadmill for 3 minutes, using full weight. My ankle and heel felt great, my right outstep down by my toes is what hurt while on the treadmill.
I also did ankle boards for side to side and front to back.
I am very pleased with my progress to date, but am still taking it slow. My ankle swelled up a lot today.
A suggestion..take the foam insert out of your sneaker and place it in the bottom of the moon boot. It's giving my heel area more support and better cushioning.
I'll be thinking of you tomorrow Carole. What time is your appt?
Keep healing heelies,
Ed
sbrew7
10-07-2008, 08:48 PM
I am new to this. I fell down a ladder and shattered my heel on August 31. I had surgery and have this external fixator with 12 external screws and I think there are some internal plates and screws. I have been so upset about the initial prognosis I would not even read other recounts online. I hope to get the external barbaric apparatus off in 2 weeks. I have been in bed for over 4 weeks with my foot propped up. I just want this to be over so I can get back to work. Have you heard of anyone wearing high heels after something like this. If I could just go back to August 28, hurricane or no hurricane I would not go in the attic. Yes, I am having a bad day.
sbrew7
10-07-2008, 08:50 PM
I am new to this. I fell down a ladder and shattered my heel on August 31. I had surgery and have this external fixator with 12 external screws and I think there are some internal plates and screws. I have been so upset about the initial prognosis I would not even read other recounts online. I hope to get the external barbaric apparatus off in 2 weeks. I have been in bed for over 4 weeks with my foot propped up. I just want this to be over so I can get back to work. Have you heard of anyone wearing high heels after something like this. If I could just go back to August 28, hurricane or no hurricane I would not go in the attic. Yes, I am having a bad day.
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movado
10-07-2008, 09:41 PM
Sbrew,
Sorry about your fall. I don't want to give you bad news but I shattered both my heels about 8 months ago and still am in alot of pain eveytime I walk.
I did not have external stuff but four large screws in each heel.
It will get better but you have to give it time, lots of time... read through some of the posts and you will soon understand how sevre you injury is.
It is the hardest bone to break and the longest to heal.
Sorry about your fall. I don't want to give you bad news but I shattered both my heels about 8 months ago and still am in alot of pain eveytime I walk.
I did not have external stuff but four large screws in each heel.
It will get better but you have to give it time, lots of time... read through some of the posts and you will soon understand how sevre you injury is.
It is the hardest bone to break and the longest to heal.
triguy450
10-07-2008, 09:41 PM
Hi Sbrew,
I can see you are having a bad day. I'm sooooo sorry you are in this situation. We all are. Unfortunately at this point there is nothing you can do to change that. I know you don't want to hear that and I won't belabor the point.
To get through this and recover you will need to remain positive and think about what you can do to help yourself heal.
I'm sorry, but this injury takes a long time to recover from. Like it or not....
I broke mine July 19, surgery 7/31. 11 screws and a plate ORIF. Not external.
I just started walking on my foot 2 weeks ago with the aid of a removable aircast/boot. Just this week I am starting to walk on with sneakers on a treadmill. My foot swelled like a balloon today.
Bottom line is, dig in. Be positive and ready for a lng recovery. High heels? You will know in 6 months or longer. Note you can ask away on here and someone will get back to you and try to help. This is a great group of folks ready to help you through this.
Ed
I can see you are having a bad day. I'm sooooo sorry you are in this situation. We all are. Unfortunately at this point there is nothing you can do to change that. I know you don't want to hear that and I won't belabor the point.
To get through this and recover you will need to remain positive and think about what you can do to help yourself heal.
I'm sorry, but this injury takes a long time to recover from. Like it or not....
I broke mine July 19, surgery 7/31. 11 screws and a plate ORIF. Not external.
I just started walking on my foot 2 weeks ago with the aid of a removable aircast/boot. Just this week I am starting to walk on with sneakers on a treadmill. My foot swelled like a balloon today.
Bottom line is, dig in. Be positive and ready for a lng recovery. High heels? You will know in 6 months or longer. Note you can ask away on here and someone will get back to you and try to help. This is a great group of folks ready to help you through this.
Ed
The J
10-08-2008, 12:36 AM
Hello Sbrew:
Sorry to hear about your accident.
Ed hit the nail on the head. I crashed my ATV and everyday I think about how I could have prevented it but that has also morphed into how I'm going to live with it. I had 10 screws and a plate (internal) put in on July 31st, the accident happened on July 18th. Ed and I had surgery on the same day yet I am still non weight bearing. Heal time vary from person to person and break to break. Just try to prove the doctor wrong :)
Carole: Good luck tomorrow!
I find out if I can walk tomorrow also!
Jason
Sorry to hear about your accident.
Ed hit the nail on the head. I crashed my ATV and everyday I think about how I could have prevented it but that has also morphed into how I'm going to live with it. I had 10 screws and a plate (internal) put in on July 31st, the accident happened on July 18th. Ed and I had surgery on the same day yet I am still non weight bearing. Heal time vary from person to person and break to break. Just try to prove the doctor wrong :)
Carole: Good luck tomorrow!
I find out if I can walk tomorrow also!
Jason
Hyper86
10-08-2008, 02:50 AM
Hello Heelies,
Ed:
Hope your ballon has gone down by now, take it easy.
Will see my Dr. at 3:00 tomarrow.
I'm excited about being able to walk, it's been a long 16 weeks.
I'll be sure & not overdo it, will let you know what happens.
Thank you for thinking of me.
Jason:
Best of luck in the walking department tomarrow.
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
Ed:
Hope your ballon has gone down by now, take it easy.
Will see my Dr. at 3:00 tomarrow.
I'm excited about being able to walk, it's been a long 16 weeks.
I'll be sure & not overdo it, will let you know what happens.
Thank you for thinking of me.
Jason:
Best of luck in the walking department tomarrow.
Keep Healing Heelies!
Carole
triguy450
10-08-2008, 08:23 AM
Hi Jason and Carole,
I wanted you to know I am thinking about you two today. Good luck and I hope you see the results you are looking for. Please let me know how it goes. I am sorry Jason, I knew there was one other person besides Carole today, I just didn't remember your name and didn't have time to go back thru the posts yesterday. What time is your appt?
Good luck,
Ed
I wanted you to know I am thinking about you two today. Good luck and I hope you see the results you are looking for. Please let me know how it goes. I am sorry Jason, I knew there was one other person besides Carole today, I just didn't remember your name and didn't have time to go back thru the posts yesterday. What time is your appt?
Good luck,
Ed
The J
10-08-2008, 08:00 PM
Thanks Carole and thanks Ed.
The appointment went really well. The doc said that I have to keep the boot on for the next month but I can put 50% of my weight on my foot for two weeks then after two weeks he said I can ditch the crutches and walk 100% without them.
Now for the interesting part:
I asked about PT and he focused on my foot asking me what my range of motion was. He said by looking at my range of motion he didn't see it necessary to start PT yet. He went on to say that unless I could put 100% of my weight on my bad foot he didn't see a need for PT. He did say to keep up with the leg exercises and to not overdue it.
It's kind of interesting how Dr's opinions can vary so much on PT.
Carole I hope everything went well today!
Jason
The appointment went really well. The doc said that I have to keep the boot on for the next month but I can put 50% of my weight on my foot for two weeks then after two weeks he said I can ditch the crutches and walk 100% without them.
Now for the interesting part:
I asked about PT and he focused on my foot asking me what my range of motion was. He said by looking at my range of motion he didn't see it necessary to start PT yet. He went on to say that unless I could put 100% of my weight on my bad foot he didn't see a need for PT. He did say to keep up with the leg exercises and to not overdue it.
It's kind of interesting how Dr's opinions can vary so much on PT.
Carole I hope everything went well today!
Jason
Hyper86
10-08-2008, 10:12 PM
Hello Heelies,
I'm walking bearing 100% of my weight, small steps, my foot & leg is very stiff.
The boot is awkward, need it for 3 more weeks, after that an ankle brace.
My foots a little sore will put on some Oxi Cell cream made with Arnica a natural pain killer.
Ed:
Please keep letting me know what your physical therapist has you doing, I'm on my own unless I find a PT who will take my limited insurance.
Will write the alpha bit with foot, do up & down + side to side range of motion exercises.
Jason:
Good for you 50% down & 50% to go, glad it went well for you today!
Good luck with range of motion improvement.
TChair:
What do you think?
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
I'm walking bearing 100% of my weight, small steps, my foot & leg is very stiff.
The boot is awkward, need it for 3 more weeks, after that an ankle brace.
My foots a little sore will put on some Oxi Cell cream made with Arnica a natural pain killer.
Ed:
Please keep letting me know what your physical therapist has you doing, I'm on my own unless I find a PT who will take my limited insurance.
Will write the alpha bit with foot, do up & down + side to side range of motion exercises.
Jason:
Good for you 50% down & 50% to go, glad it went well for you today!
Good luck with range of motion improvement.
TChair:
What do you think?
Keep on healing heelies!
Carole
triguy450
10-08-2008, 10:32 PM
Congratulations Jason and Carole,
Wow, what an achievement for both of you. You can't imagine how happy I am to hear the news.
Jason, it is interesting how different docs tell us different information. I agree that PT is more for ROM than it is about building strength in the muscles that are weak. I think they go hand in hand.
I can see his side why he wants full WB before PT. My doc wants both together so they adapt together.
Carole, I will continue to share my PT with you. I wish you had full benefit of PT. It's done wonders for my ROM. I would also be happy to speak on the phone with either one of you if you would like.
I want you to have the same progress that I have had.
Again Congrats to both. There is still a ways to go, don't push it and if you do don't be afraid to back off and rest a little as I did today.
Stay positive and keep healing heelies,
Ed
Wow, what an achievement for both of you. You can't imagine how happy I am to hear the news.
Jason, it is interesting how different docs tell us different information. I agree that PT is more for ROM than it is about building strength in the muscles that are weak. I think they go hand in hand.
I can see his side why he wants full WB before PT. My doc wants both together so they adapt together.
Carole, I will continue to share my PT with you. I wish you had full benefit of PT. It's done wonders for my ROM. I would also be happy to speak on the phone with either one of you if you would like.
I want you to have the same progress that I have had.
Again Congrats to both. There is still a ways to go, don't push it and if you do don't be afraid to back off and rest a little as I did today.
Stay positive and keep healing heelies,
Ed
Hyper86
10-08-2008, 10:52 PM
Hello Ed,
Thank you for your kind words & very detailed physical Therapy descriptions.
When the Dr. moved my foot around it did not hurt at all (boy was I glad)
X-rays looked fine, funny thought I had 6 screws all this time but it's 9.
I'm going to review your PT descriptions & get a daily routine started.
Bet I remind you of the little kids you teach & coach.
Your welcome to call me on my cell phone 650-759-2581.
Keep Healing Heelie!
Thank you,
Carole
Thank you for your kind words & very detailed physical Therapy descriptions.
When the Dr. moved my foot around it did not hurt at all (boy was I glad)
X-rays looked fine, funny thought I had 6 screws all this time but it's 9.
I'm going to review your PT descriptions & get a daily routine started.
Bet I remind you of the little kids you teach & coach.
Your welcome to call me on my cell phone 650-759-2581.
Keep Healing Heelie!
Thank you,
Carole
triguy450
10-08-2008, 11:03 PM
Hi Carole,
Little kid? Nah..... just someone who needs a little help is all. I'm glad to do it.
I'll call you tomorrow in the afternoon. I will also gather my notes and save them to review with you.
I'm glad it didn't hurt when he moved your foot. Funny thing, I thought I had 8 screws, I have 11.....
Jason, the same offer extends to you if you want to talk, I'd be happy to. I wish I was working, as my company has 2 trips to Napa at the end of the month. We could meet face to face if I could work.
Ed
Little kid? Nah..... just someone who needs a little help is all. I'm glad to do it.
I'll call you tomorrow in the afternoon. I will also gather my notes and save them to review with you.
I'm glad it didn't hurt when he moved your foot. Funny thing, I thought I had 8 screws, I have 11.....
Jason, the same offer extends to you if you want to talk, I'd be happy to. I wish I was working, as my company has 2 trips to Napa at the end of the month. We could meet face to face if I could work.
Ed
The J
10-08-2008, 11:24 PM
That's great Carole! Congratulations!
Thanks for the offer Ed, when I get closer to the 100% weight bearing I'll look you up. At this point I'm just trying to be gentle with it ant try to get some of my two legged balance back. :)
I thought I had 9 screws, turns out I had 10.
Ed when you do start working and you make it out to Napa, look me up maybe we can have a race. :D
Jason
Thanks for the offer Ed, when I get closer to the 100% weight bearing I'll look you up. At this point I'm just trying to be gentle with it ant try to get some of my two legged balance back. :)
I thought I had 9 screws, turns out I had 10.
Ed when you do start working and you make it out to Napa, look me up maybe we can have a race. :D
Jason
Hyper86
10-08-2008, 11:27 PM
Hello Ed & Jason,
Napa's only about 30 miles away from me, it would be nice meeting you both.
We have 3 good feet between us HA HA.
Okay look forward to hearing from you!
Carole
Napa's only about 30 miles away from me, it would be nice meeting you both.
We have 3 good feet between us HA HA.
Okay look forward to hearing from you!
Carole
Tripod123
10-09-2008, 12:22 AM
Hello Friends. I found your posts a month ago. Reading and re-reading posts has become a part of my nighttime routine as sleep is often difficult. Everyone's sharing of info has been a great source of comfort to me.
I am a month or more behind most of you. I am 6'2'' 195 lbs 51 years old. Fell off roof on 8/23/08 and fractured left calcaneous into numerous pieces. In the emergency room the doc said I broke my "calcaneous." I said "That's a relief, I thought you were gonna tell me I broke my ankle!" Anyway . . .
Surgery on 9/8. Plate with 4 or 5 screws. Doc has done many of these and says he was able to get a proper alignment. One blessing is that he was able to get away with a smaller incision than his usual "L" filet. Instead, I have only a 2-3 inch incision under the outside of the ankle. Jumbo plaster cast removed on 9/23, and replaced with a black boot with velcro straps, similar to what others have described. Next appointment is 11/4, at which time I supposedly am to be cleared to start weight bearing.
I am following doc's instructions to take the boot off every two hours or so and do ROM like you have described -- up and down, circles with toes, and alphabet. I am finding that the side to side is getting a little better, though very stiff most of the time.
I have some questions. I hate "sleeping" in this boot, but nurse said I need to keep it on except for ROM exercises and showers. She said something about healing in the neutral position. I would think that the bones are probable set after 4 weeks (I realize not enough for WB) but who knows. Does anyone know how long they make you sleep in the boot?
I also continue to have pain which varies a lot in intensity and location. Perhaps ironically, my heel is about the only spot that NEVER hurts. Instead, I often have pain on the fleshy pad where my toes connect to my foot. The swelling seems to concentrate there too. Do others have this?
The pain is a constant, though not as intense as it was, and mostly is a function of foot positioning. When you start WB, does that help with the pressure, or do you have to start all over again?
I really look forward to not having the pain. I am managing it during the day with Motrin, but still take two Vicodin tablets at bedtime, though the Vicodin certainly doesn't carry the punch it did in the beginning. I probably will eliminate that soon. Is it normal to be taking Vicodin at 4 weeks post-op?
I am very encouraged by and excited for those who recently started WB. Is there a consensus on how long it takes to go from beginning WB to walking without crutches and then without any aids?
My toes are not too swollen anymore, and I can see veins on the top of my foot again, but the ankle remains swollen, as is the area around the achilles tendon. Does this go down any time soon?
A final question for now. Is it normal for the skin all over my foot to be sooo sensitive to touch? When does that go away?
As an aside, I am really glad the dead skin finally is gone.
I want to thank all of you who have taken the time to write and share your experiences and kind words of encouragement. As you know, and even with a supportive spouse/family, this is a very lonely and trying process. Your efforts have made a huge difference for me, and I suspect, quite a few others.
Phil
I am a month or more behind most of you. I am 6'2'' 195 lbs 51 years old. Fell off roof on 8/23/08 and fractured left calcaneous into numerous pieces. In the emergency room the doc said I broke my "calcaneous." I said "That's a relief, I thought you were gonna tell me I broke my ankle!" Anyway . . .
Surgery on 9/8. Plate with 4 or 5 screws. Doc has done many of these and says he was able to get a proper alignment. One blessing is that he was able to get away with a smaller incision than his usual "L" filet. Instead, I have only a 2-3 inch incision under the outside of the ankle. Jumbo plaster cast removed on 9/23, and replaced with a black boot with velcro straps, similar to what others have described. Next appointment is 11/4, at which time I supposedly am to be cleared to start weight bearing.
I am following doc's instructions to take the boot off every two hours or so and do ROM like you have described -- up and down, circles with toes, and alphabet. I am finding that the side to side is getting a little better, though very stiff most of the time.
I have some questions. I hate "sleeping" in this boot, but nurse said I need to keep it on except for ROM exercises and showers. She said something about healing in the neutral position. I would think that the bones are probable set after 4 weeks (I realize not enough for WB) but who knows. Does anyone know how long they make you sleep in the boot?
I also continue to have pain which varies a lot in intensity and location. Perhaps ironically, my heel is about the only spot that NEVER hurts. Instead, I often have pain on the fleshy pad where my toes connect to my foot. The swelling seems to concentrate there too. Do others have this?
The pain is a constant, though not as intense as it was, and mostly is a function of foot positioning. When you start WB, does that help with the pressure, or do you have to start all over again?
I really look forward to not having the pain. I am managing it during the day with Motrin, but still take two Vicodin tablets at bedtime, though the Vicodin certainly doesn't carry the punch it did in the beginning. I probably will eliminate that soon. Is it normal to be taking Vicodin at 4 weeks post-op?
I am very encouraged by and excited for those who recently started WB. Is there a consensus on how long it takes to go from beginning WB to walking without crutches and then without any aids?
My toes are not too swollen anymore, and I can see veins on the top of my foot again, but the ankle remains swollen, as is the area around the achilles tendon. Does this go down any time soon?
A final question for now. Is it normal for the skin all over my foot to be sooo sensitive to touch? When does that go away?
As an aside, I am really glad the dead skin finally is gone.
I want to thank all of you who have taken the time to write and share your experiences and kind words of encouragement. As you know, and even with a supportive spouse/family, this is a very lonely and trying process. Your efforts have made a huge difference for me, and I suspect, quite a few others.
Phil
moderator2
10-09-2008, 12:27 AM
Please feel free to start your own new thread.s