Tracie1204
03-12-2009, 09:43 PM
Hello again to everyone!!!!
Well I had surgery last Friday---I am now back at home with my foot propped up, elevated as much as possible.
I already had my first casting---I was in the surgical splint Friday and Saturday----then Sunday, the doctor had me come to his office to be casted .
Surgery did not go smoothly----Once the doctor got through all the scar tissue from my last surgery, he discovered that not only was my tendon ruptured, it was quite a mess. His description word was "spaghetti".
So what was supposed to be a 3 hour procedue, turned into a 5 1/2 hour procedure. So i ended up being under anesthesia for a long time.
I was very groggy saturday, sunday, and monday. I am still taking my painkillers faithfuly---i keep having these weird spasms in my leg, and those hurt alot.
BUt I have been wiggling my toes and trying to keep the circulation going.
i was numb until today.....now i have most feeling back. The worst part is this pinching/ burning sensation on my outer ankle, and its got to be part of the incision near my ankle bone, hitting against the cast----but it sure does make my toes curl from time to time!
well thats about all I have to say for now---hope everyone else is having a great day:wave:
Well I had surgery last Friday---I am now back at home with my foot propped up, elevated as much as possible.
I already had my first casting---I was in the surgical splint Friday and Saturday----then Sunday, the doctor had me come to his office to be casted .
Surgery did not go smoothly----Once the doctor got through all the scar tissue from my last surgery, he discovered that not only was my tendon ruptured, it was quite a mess. His description word was "spaghetti".
So what was supposed to be a 3 hour procedue, turned into a 5 1/2 hour procedure. So i ended up being under anesthesia for a long time.
I was very groggy saturday, sunday, and monday. I am still taking my painkillers faithfuly---i keep having these weird spasms in my leg, and those hurt alot.
BUt I have been wiggling my toes and trying to keep the circulation going.
i was numb until today.....now i have most feeling back. The worst part is this pinching/ burning sensation on my outer ankle, and its got to be part of the incision near my ankle bone, hitting against the cast----but it sure does make my toes curl from time to time!
well thats about all I have to say for now---hope everyone else is having a great day:wave:
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WorldWalker
03-13-2009, 12:59 AM
Sorry to hear your surgery was described as spaghetti. When I first saw my doctor he told me I had pancake feet cause they were so flat. The twitching should go away soon. It was one of those many worries I didn't call my doctor about. I'm guessing it's from the leg block? I had my surgery 2/16 and I don't really have the pinching feeling but the burning sensation is also on my outer foot area and sometimes my achilles tendon. I'm glad to hear someone else is wiggling their toes. I enjoy it because it reminds me of progress. Have you noticed your big toe doesn't wiggle like the others? Enjoy your time off and by the time we get up and walking spring will be right around the corner!
Tracie1204
03-13-2009, 10:24 AM
Hey Worldwalker----
Yes---i have noticed my big toe does not wiggle like all the rest----thats interesting, isnt it?
I just keep telling myself that all that burning and pinching is the "healing" process! LOL---I dont know if that really is the case, but it sure does make me feel better to think of it that way!
Yes---i have noticed my big toe does not wiggle like all the rest----thats interesting, isnt it?
I just keep telling myself that all that burning and pinching is the "healing" process! LOL---I dont know if that really is the case, but it sure does make me feel better to think of it that way!
WorldWalker
03-14-2009, 03:44 AM
The telling yourself it is healing process is exactly what I told myself. I'm about a month post op and most of the time the pain is not even noticeable. I was feeling ill from side effects from pain killers and I went 13 hours between meds because I forgot! In fact it's been about 5 hours so I'm feeling good about that. Though with school I have more pain/trouble from the hardcore crutching I do facing the elements. I think I'll actually ask my doctor in April about the big toe thing. It's odd, but it doesn't worry me more than intrigue me. I want to dance next year one I'm better 100% and I wonder how this will effect me. Do you have a list of things you'll do that you weren't able to do before surgery?
emmie54
03-14-2009, 01:45 PM
Tracie,
welcome to "the other side"! Glad your surgery went okay even though longer than anticipated. My doc said my tendon was "pure mush". My surgery was 5 hours, too.
Your toes will be weird for a while but when you start PT they do the towel scrunching thing and make you pick up marbles with your toes and that helps tremendously. It was several months before my toes were normal acting. It was probably a year before they bent all the way like the other foot.
Hope your recovery goes well.
emmie
welcome to "the other side"! Glad your surgery went okay even though longer than anticipated. My doc said my tendon was "pure mush". My surgery was 5 hours, too.
Your toes will be weird for a while but when you start PT they do the towel scrunching thing and make you pick up marbles with your toes and that helps tremendously. It was several months before my toes were normal acting. It was probably a year before they bent all the way like the other foot.
Hope your recovery goes well.
emmie
HSK
03-14-2009, 03:24 PM
Hi all,
I'm so glad to find this site and read your stories. It gives me hope now that I might be able to figure out my problem.
I'm looking for advice on my aching arch. I've seen 2 pods and 1 ortho.... they all come up with diagnosis of PTTD, but none have been able to help me. My main symptom is arch pain which makes it impossible to wear orthotics. I just spent $500 on new ones and knew within 2 hrs they would make the pain worse. A walking cast/boot also made it worse, not better. Cycling (my passion and main form of exercise) also seems to be a culprit, but the docs all think cycling shouldn't be a problem... in fact one even reccomended it when he mistakenly took me for a runner. My questions for you are:
1) Do my symptoms sound like your PTTD symptoms?
-Did orthotics hurt your arch?
-Did you have arch pain?
2) How do I go about finding a doc who might be expert in treating PTTD?
(I live in the greater NYC/Philly area)
Thanks for giving me hope
I'm so glad to find this site and read your stories. It gives me hope now that I might be able to figure out my problem.
I'm looking for advice on my aching arch. I've seen 2 pods and 1 ortho.... they all come up with diagnosis of PTTD, but none have been able to help me. My main symptom is arch pain which makes it impossible to wear orthotics. I just spent $500 on new ones and knew within 2 hrs they would make the pain worse. A walking cast/boot also made it worse, not better. Cycling (my passion and main form of exercise) also seems to be a culprit, but the docs all think cycling shouldn't be a problem... in fact one even reccomended it when he mistakenly took me for a runner. My questions for you are:
1) Do my symptoms sound like your PTTD symptoms?
-Did orthotics hurt your arch?
-Did you have arch pain?
2) How do I go about finding a doc who might be expert in treating PTTD?
(I live in the greater NYC/Philly area)
Thanks for giving me hope
emmie54
03-14-2009, 04:26 PM
Orthotics, if fitted properly should help with PTTD symptoms. However, PTTD is usually progressive and can't be "cured", only managed, without surgery. I would go to a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon who has had lots of experience with PTTD. Could be that you are early enough that you can be managed conservatively but it sounds like you may have exhausted those options.
I have heard good things about Dr. O'Malley at Hospital for Specialty Services in your area. Welcome to the board!
I have heard good things about Dr. O'Malley at Hospital for Specialty Services in your area. Welcome to the board!
Hollywood48
03-14-2009, 06:28 PM
Tracie-I had that burning, scratching, tingling feeling after my surgery too. It felt just as you described...like the incisions against the cast! It gets better! My toes were just like yours too. It takes a while. Keep trying to move them even though they may be sore!
Tracie1204
03-14-2009, 11:12 PM
:bouncing::bouncing:hollywood--
Thanks for the reply. Always glad to know that I am not alone is this process and that what i am feeling is similiar to what others feel. Today has been a better day as far as that itchy, scratchy, tingling, burning sensation against the cast. but today has been a bad day as far as pain.........and BOREDOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :mad:
I had two different people say they were coming to visit today, and neither one of them called or showed up---and it was pouring rain and cold here all day so that probably didn't help my boredom!!!!
but thats okay---b/c tomorrow, even if i dont get to actually "go" anywhere--i am going to go on a car ride---whoopppeeee!!! :jester: i have not been out of the house in a week---and as someone on the go go go ususally----thats killing me!!!!! next weekend, i hope i am feeling much better, b/c we rented a wheelchair, per doctor's orders, and I am hoping to go for a ride around the mall!! :p
well, hang in there everyone!!!:D
Thanks for the reply. Always glad to know that I am not alone is this process and that what i am feeling is similiar to what others feel. Today has been a better day as far as that itchy, scratchy, tingling, burning sensation against the cast. but today has been a bad day as far as pain.........and BOREDOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :mad:
I had two different people say they were coming to visit today, and neither one of them called or showed up---and it was pouring rain and cold here all day so that probably didn't help my boredom!!!!
but thats okay---b/c tomorrow, even if i dont get to actually "go" anywhere--i am going to go on a car ride---whoopppeeee!!! :jester: i have not been out of the house in a week---and as someone on the go go go ususally----thats killing me!!!!! next weekend, i hope i am feeling much better, b/c we rented a wheelchair, per doctor's orders, and I am hoping to go for a ride around the mall!! :p
well, hang in there everyone!!!:D
emmie54
03-14-2009, 11:44 PM
I say the mall cures most things.....:D:D
WorldWalker
03-14-2009, 11:51 PM
I support the mall thing, I just did that this afternoon. It was great. I recommend when you guys get better talking a stroll around the Mall of America in Minnesota, just being around people it felt great. Kinda tricky, but a friend pushed me around even let me pretend like I knew what I was doing with the wheelchair I rented.
Sorry to hear about the visitors being a no show. I've had it happen sometimes. At least the sign of rain is calming, I always find myself wanting a nap and dreaming of the spring.
HSK- as for the orthotics, I adjusted mine twice before I switched to a surgical attitude. It hurt and they said I was adjusting to them, but then it never stopped so they tried again. Until I returned home and mentioned how my heel had begun hurting in a very subtle way.
Sorry to hear about the visitors being a no show. I've had it happen sometimes. At least the sign of rain is calming, I always find myself wanting a nap and dreaming of the spring.
HSK- as for the orthotics, I adjusted mine twice before I switched to a surgical attitude. It hurt and they said I was adjusting to them, but then it never stopped so they tried again. Until I returned home and mentioned how my heel had begun hurting in a very subtle way.
kupianaha26
03-15-2009, 02:36 AM
Hi HSK -
I live in Central, PA - one of the best Dr.'s in the area is Dr. Juliano in Hershey. Not sure how far that will be from you, but hershey is about 2 hours from Philly. I had a fantastic experience with him, and really appreciated that he took a conservative approach with me at first before diving into surgery. Everyone I've talked to said that people come from all over to see him. He doesn't spend the most time with his patients, but he will answer every single question you have thoroughly and happily and explains the situation. I wouldn't even say that he doesn't have good bedside manner - he does- he is just a busy man! My scar looks fantastic - I am just past 5 months post-op and after massaging Vitamin E onto the scar for awhile it is looking great - Dr. J did a super job.
He says after the surgery, you will be 75% improved at 6 months post-op, 95% at a year, with a small room for improvement after. The surgery is hard, I don't think anyone would be able to tell you honestly that it isn't, but after the first few weeks it does start to get easier gradually and I am very hopeful for my future!
I live in Central, PA - one of the best Dr.'s in the area is Dr. Juliano in Hershey. Not sure how far that will be from you, but hershey is about 2 hours from Philly. I had a fantastic experience with him, and really appreciated that he took a conservative approach with me at first before diving into surgery. Everyone I've talked to said that people come from all over to see him. He doesn't spend the most time with his patients, but he will answer every single question you have thoroughly and happily and explains the situation. I wouldn't even say that he doesn't have good bedside manner - he does- he is just a busy man! My scar looks fantastic - I am just past 5 months post-op and after massaging Vitamin E onto the scar for awhile it is looking great - Dr. J did a super job.
He says after the surgery, you will be 75% improved at 6 months post-op, 95% at a year, with a small room for improvement after. The surgery is hard, I don't think anyone would be able to tell you honestly that it isn't, but after the first few weeks it does start to get easier gradually and I am very hopeful for my future!
walleye77
03-15-2009, 03:18 PM
Tracie, I hear where you are coming from. I just had a Left heel osteotomy on March 9th. Then to emergency room march 10th , surgery doctor did't send appropriate pain meds home. He didn't listen when I told him I have been on oxycontin 10mg for 4 months. He sent me home with 5 mg oxycodone 1 or 2 every 3 to 4 hrs. Well when the block wore off at 1:00am on tues morning the pain was so bad I spent the next 6 hours sobbing until my daughter couldn't take it anymore and took me to the ER. The ER doc was stunned at the drugs I was sent home with. I had 5 or 6 injections of dilaudine to get the pain under control over a 3 hr span and then given a prescription for 30 mg of oxy 2 time a day and wean down in 5 days. My god what a difference. So now you are right the boredom sets in. At least you are getting out. My husband doesn't think its a good idea. Hell I had to fight him to open up the house for fresh air. He's alittle protective. I haven't eaten a meal out of this bed yet. Kinda waiting for the pain to to be so intense when I put the foot down. I will be total non weight bearing for 6 to 8 weeks. This to me doesn't even sound fun, but will make the best as it will be better than the pain before the surgery.
Please keep posting. I look forward to checking these boards every day.
Please keep posting. I look forward to checking these boards every day.
Tracie1204
03-15-2009, 05:33 PM
Hey there Walleye!!!!
I myself will be non weightbearing for 6-8 weeks too. And you are right---it is not sounding like much fun!!! And let me tell you the truth, my B/F, which we have been together 8 years now, he is going to the races at Bristol, and my Mom is staying with me. She is the one that is going to take me to the mall---i tried to convince B/F that i could go just for a car ride today, but its still pouring rain here, and since i am technically not supposed to be using my crutches much outside, per doctor's orders, he didnt think i should try it. so i stayed home---but my friend that was supposed to come yesterday, actually came today! so that was fun, she stayed for almost 2.5 hours--so that was a good visit!
UGH!! am SOO sorry about those pain meds. I do not tolerate pain meds very well, but the ones that I amtaking put me straight into LA LA land. I have been taking them faithfully though, b/c pain wise, i need them!
I have been lucky as far as my doctor goes---he is so great and really listens to what i have to say. I am so sorry you had to suffer through that!
This next week I will be home alone each day, as B/F heads back to work----but i have a good setup---and nope, i havent eaten any meal outside of this bed since before surgery! I can get to the table in the wheel chair---our house is a Cape Cod, but the master suite is downstairs with the kitchen, but my foot just throbs, so i stay back here, and eat. I have a fridge beside the bed, and all my books and my laptop.
Don't worry---i will keep posting. Hope you are having a good day!!!!!
talk to you later :wave:
I myself will be non weightbearing for 6-8 weeks too. And you are right---it is not sounding like much fun!!! And let me tell you the truth, my B/F, which we have been together 8 years now, he is going to the races at Bristol, and my Mom is staying with me. She is the one that is going to take me to the mall---i tried to convince B/F that i could go just for a car ride today, but its still pouring rain here, and since i am technically not supposed to be using my crutches much outside, per doctor's orders, he didnt think i should try it. so i stayed home---but my friend that was supposed to come yesterday, actually came today! so that was fun, she stayed for almost 2.5 hours--so that was a good visit!
UGH!! am SOO sorry about those pain meds. I do not tolerate pain meds very well, but the ones that I amtaking put me straight into LA LA land. I have been taking them faithfully though, b/c pain wise, i need them!
I have been lucky as far as my doctor goes---he is so great and really listens to what i have to say. I am so sorry you had to suffer through that!
This next week I will be home alone each day, as B/F heads back to work----but i have a good setup---and nope, i havent eaten any meal outside of this bed since before surgery! I can get to the table in the wheel chair---our house is a Cape Cod, but the master suite is downstairs with the kitchen, but my foot just throbs, so i stay back here, and eat. I have a fridge beside the bed, and all my books and my laptop.
Don't worry---i will keep posting. Hope you are having a good day!!!!!
talk to you later :wave:
walleye77
03-15-2009, 09:16 PM
Tracie that sounds great. Some one who know's the pain. I have a knee walker and it is by far the neatest invention. I don't use my crutches except to stand up tall and stretch. Man if you could get yourself one of these knee walkers you can really move around. You are kneeling on your knee. Look them up on the internet. I am renting this one from Liberty Oxygen here in Minnesota. Your foot will still throb but its far better then crutches. Have;nt brought in the wheel chair yet. That's for when I go back to work. Many weeks from now.
I don't have a fridge by my bed, but my daughter is here during the days on Tue and Thur to get me lunch and anything else I may need. Human contact. Hubby puts dinner together. Thanks for asking my day hasn't been too bad!!!!:p. Take care and keep that foot up.
I don't have a fridge by my bed, but my daughter is here during the days on Tue and Thur to get me lunch and anything else I may need. Human contact. Hubby puts dinner together. Thanks for asking my day hasn't been too bad!!!!:p. Take care and keep that foot up.
Tracie1204
03-16-2009, 12:32 PM
AHHH---yes, the knee walker!! I will be getting one of those---I have already been in touch with the DME supplier. But my doctor wanted me to use the wheelchair for the first 4-6 weeks before i got the knee walker due to the extensive work he ended up doing during the surgery. The plan was originally to get the knee walker right after surgery0---but then he got in there during surgery and realized what a mess there was, and when he discharged me, he advised that he wanted to change it to the wheelchair first, then knee walker.
I LOVED that knee walker last time....except the one I had last time did not have the wheels that would turn easily--do you know what i mean?? when i would have to change direction with the last one, i would literally have to pick up the front end and scoot around to change directions---kind of hard to describe, but this time I am getting the one that will actually let me steer it and change directions without having to pick it up off the floor!
i think the worst part for me, is i have 2 dogs, both are Boxers, and they LOVE having me home of course, but having to let them out is a challenge. Normally they stay in their kennels until B/F gets home----but today is his long day at work, so we decided to try something new, and let them stay out with me----they have been really good all morning, but i havent had to let them out yet----so we will see how THAT goes!!!!! hopefully they wont get tangled in my crutches----i cant use the wheelchair b/c they are terrified of it, and so i can't let them out while i am sitting in it, b/c they wouldnt come back in! LOL :jester:
well, its Monday! off to another week of toes above our noses!!! :wave:
I LOVED that knee walker last time....except the one I had last time did not have the wheels that would turn easily--do you know what i mean?? when i would have to change direction with the last one, i would literally have to pick up the front end and scoot around to change directions---kind of hard to describe, but this time I am getting the one that will actually let me steer it and change directions without having to pick it up off the floor!
i think the worst part for me, is i have 2 dogs, both are Boxers, and they LOVE having me home of course, but having to let them out is a challenge. Normally they stay in their kennels until B/F gets home----but today is his long day at work, so we decided to try something new, and let them stay out with me----they have been really good all morning, but i havent had to let them out yet----so we will see how THAT goes!!!!! hopefully they wont get tangled in my crutches----i cant use the wheelchair b/c they are terrified of it, and so i can't let them out while i am sitting in it, b/c they wouldnt come back in! LOL :jester:
well, its Monday! off to another week of toes above our noses!!! :wave:
walleye77
03-16-2009, 04:17 PM
Good monday to you and those lovely dog's. My knee walker is the kind that you can do a 360 on. I LOVE it, you do have to be careful not to go to fast or you can end up on your face. I came close last week, newbie on it. Learned that lesson fast. Slow down. My daugher saw it and almost had a heart failure. It was kinda of funny afterwards. Took the knee walker out on the deck this afternoon, the temp is up to 63 here in Minnesota now I have spring fever. Yeppie. and can't do a thing but suck in the fresh air>>>> that works.
Exactly what kind of surgery did you have? Sounds like it was really indepth. Hope the dog's behave when you let them out, be careful. Later.
Exactly what kind of surgery did you have? Sounds like it was really indepth. Hope the dog's behave when you let them out, be careful. Later.
Tracie1204
03-17-2009, 10:26 AM
hey Walleye!!!
Yes----the knee walker I am getting this time will do the 360!! that is what i was trying to say!!! LOLOLOL---I dont always convey my thoughts about mechanical things very clearly!!
Well, I had a tendon repair, tendon transfer, Kidner procedure, & Dwyer Osteotomy. I dont necessarily think I had anything more major than anyone else, its just that when he got in there, he was not anticipating a major rupture. From the MRI, it did not appear so bad. However, apparently, once he got in there, he realized it was a disaster area, and he had to do so much cutting and suturing of the different tendons, that he said he had done major major work. His words to me on the day after surgery, and his reasoning for seeing me on that Sunday to cast me, was he said "i have done so much work in there and should you make one false slip of the foot and it accidentally hit the ground, you will be straight back into surgery"-------
thus his reasoning for the wheelchair and reasoning that i not use my crutches, or use them as little as possible---
he is a very cautious doctor-----he has me on shots everyday, for blood clot prevention-----he had me take 4 rounds of iv antibiotics in the hospital, and today i am finishing up my last day of a 10 day round of oral antibiotics----
the last time i had surgery, I ended up with multiple infections in my incision---we still dont know why, b/c i kept it covered and clean and always treated it with such care-----but that was a different surgeon------and i think THAT is the difference---------
anyhoo------hope you are having a good day! I had a lot of pain last nite and was very uncomfortable for awhile---so i am hoping to have a pain free---or as pain free---as possible day!!!
:)
Yes----the knee walker I am getting this time will do the 360!! that is what i was trying to say!!! LOLOLOL---I dont always convey my thoughts about mechanical things very clearly!!
Well, I had a tendon repair, tendon transfer, Kidner procedure, & Dwyer Osteotomy. I dont necessarily think I had anything more major than anyone else, its just that when he got in there, he was not anticipating a major rupture. From the MRI, it did not appear so bad. However, apparently, once he got in there, he realized it was a disaster area, and he had to do so much cutting and suturing of the different tendons, that he said he had done major major work. His words to me on the day after surgery, and his reasoning for seeing me on that Sunday to cast me, was he said "i have done so much work in there and should you make one false slip of the foot and it accidentally hit the ground, you will be straight back into surgery"-------
thus his reasoning for the wheelchair and reasoning that i not use my crutches, or use them as little as possible---
he is a very cautious doctor-----he has me on shots everyday, for blood clot prevention-----he had me take 4 rounds of iv antibiotics in the hospital, and today i am finishing up my last day of a 10 day round of oral antibiotics----
the last time i had surgery, I ended up with multiple infections in my incision---we still dont know why, b/c i kept it covered and clean and always treated it with such care-----but that was a different surgeon------and i think THAT is the difference---------
anyhoo------hope you are having a good day! I had a lot of pain last nite and was very uncomfortable for awhile---so i am hoping to have a pain free---or as pain free---as possible day!!!
:)
walleye77
03-17-2009, 11:16 AM
Good morning and happy St Patty's day, not like we will be celebrating. Hey maybe an extra pain pill? Man you had alot repaired. No wonder the extra precautions. I had a Left heel osteotomy which is he cut my heel bone in half and moved it then put 2 crews in to hold it in place. It will fuse in time that is why no weight bearing. The reason for having it done is the way I was walking was putting to much weight on the cuboid and had created a stress fracture that in a years time wouldn't heal. Staying off it, casting it, treating it kindly and it still wouldn't heal. I didn't want to live in a wheel chair or on crutches so the surgery. Nay the biggest reason was the pain. I have a kidney disease that the meds are making worse and need to get off them. Life sure can throw us some very interesting curves. I have had 4 surgery's in 3 yrs. 2 shoulder and 1 bone chip removed from this same foot which I believe caused the condition to show up.
It just amazes me on how these doctors can fix us. Technology is great! Well
you have a good day, hopefully pain free or relatively pain free. :wave::wave:
It just amazes me on how these doctors can fix us. Technology is great! Well
you have a good day, hopefully pain free or relatively pain free. :wave::wave:
Tracie1204
03-18-2009, 01:59 PM
So today I learned a lesson-----I cannot do some things on my own------
B/F had to go to work early again---so i decided I would sleep in a little---i mean really, why get up at 6am when you DO NOT HAVE TO?!?! HEHEH
So I slept in, and then got up, and crutched into the bathroom to brush and curl hair, brush teeth, changed clothes, and wash face----i DO know i cannot shower without help b/c of the way our bathroom is set up.
BUt anyway----I thought i was going to die by the time i had done all of that!
Between the foot hanging while i was crutching----and just the time standing alone on my good foot-----i was almost sick to my stomach by the time that was done!! So---won't make that mistake again!
But one of my best friends brought me lunch today---so that was nice.
Got a question-----Does your (or anyone's) pains get worse at night? it seems like night time is always bad---and i am normally okay during the day.
Hope everyone else is having a good day!!! :wave:
B/F had to go to work early again---so i decided I would sleep in a little---i mean really, why get up at 6am when you DO NOT HAVE TO?!?! HEHEH
So I slept in, and then got up, and crutched into the bathroom to brush and curl hair, brush teeth, changed clothes, and wash face----i DO know i cannot shower without help b/c of the way our bathroom is set up.
BUt anyway----I thought i was going to die by the time i had done all of that!
Between the foot hanging while i was crutching----and just the time standing alone on my good foot-----i was almost sick to my stomach by the time that was done!! So---won't make that mistake again!
But one of my best friends brought me lunch today---so that was nice.
Got a question-----Does your (or anyone's) pains get worse at night? it seems like night time is always bad---and i am normally okay during the day.
Hope everyone else is having a good day!!! :wave:
walleye77
03-18-2009, 02:45 PM
Kind of amazing how the littles things can cause soooooooooooooo much pain!
Just having your foot hanging down causes the blood to rush there hench the lovely pain. It takes a long time, so my hubby keeps telling me before we can do those things without pain. He had ankle fusion 2 yrs ago so knows the pain well. He keeps telling me give it time, work at it slowly, hah, I want to to these things now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yep he is right...... work at it, don't do it all at once. Ok sometimes men get it right.
I have my 1st recheck next Tuesday and am dreading it just because of having to have the foot down for so long. It over an hour drive to get to the doc's office. Yah he's told me how painfull its going to be. At least I get some forwarning of what's coming. I'll pass it along. I took a shower by myself today. knowone home anyway. It went well. Just takes alot longer when you have a huge cast stuffed in a garbage bag and being scarred that you don't want to fall or step on the foot.
Tracie try to find a walker that will fit in the bathroom that you could sit on and put the foot up on the sink or counter while doing your hair. My pain is more during the day. Night time I sleep real good which is kind of scarry. Are you elevating the foot when you are sleeping? I use a body pillow and seems to be enough elevation. Hope you have a good day.
Just having your foot hanging down causes the blood to rush there hench the lovely pain. It takes a long time, so my hubby keeps telling me before we can do those things without pain. He had ankle fusion 2 yrs ago so knows the pain well. He keeps telling me give it time, work at it slowly, hah, I want to to these things now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yep he is right...... work at it, don't do it all at once. Ok sometimes men get it right.
I have my 1st recheck next Tuesday and am dreading it just because of having to have the foot down for so long. It over an hour drive to get to the doc's office. Yah he's told me how painfull its going to be. At least I get some forwarning of what's coming. I'll pass it along. I took a shower by myself today. knowone home anyway. It went well. Just takes alot longer when you have a huge cast stuffed in a garbage bag and being scarred that you don't want to fall or step on the foot.
Tracie try to find a walker that will fit in the bathroom that you could sit on and put the foot up on the sink or counter while doing your hair. My pain is more during the day. Night time I sleep real good which is kind of scarry. Are you elevating the foot when you are sleeping? I use a body pillow and seems to be enough elevation. Hope you have a good day.
WorldWalker
03-18-2009, 04:55 PM
Tracie, you should put a chair in the bathroom if it allows you to, or buy a cheap body length mirror and put everything at a station like a table or couch. I don't have much pain now, nor did I when I was at that point (I think that's a high does of painkillers helping) but really the swelling isn't too painful for me when I crutch, I'm sorry to hear it's so hard. Maybe putting on clothes in the bathroom is more difficult than in the bedroom?
As for the night pain, my doctor said it's going to progress and get worse towards the end of the day. I hope it gets easier.
As for the night pain, my doctor said it's going to progress and get worse towards the end of the day. I hope it gets easier.
Hollywood48
03-18-2009, 05:31 PM
The first post-op visit does hurt pretty badly. If I can offer any advice, it's to take your pain meds before you go so that they will take effect while you are at the docs. Keep your foot elevated on the dash board and recline the seat. If this isn't comfortable, you can try the back seat with pillow, but it's hard to get your heart below your foot. I took a pillow and put it on the dash and rested my cast on it and reclined the seat back. Took Lorcet before I went and it helped a lot. Would've been a breeze if I hadn't had my cast changed and my foot pushed into a 90 degree angle! They gave me another Lorcet there for that pain.
My pain was always worse at night too. I think it's because I got tired of being in the house and so I was out and about on my crutches. I hadn't heard of knee walkers at that point and I hate walkers and wheelchairs b/c I feel helpless (I know, too prideful) so it was crutches for me. I had a purse that went over my shoulder and a travel pillow to rest my cast on when I would prop it up in places. But that did bring significant pain at night and I'd ice, elevate, take meds and go to sleep. I think even if you aren't active during the day, just moving about doing activities of daily living stress your body and your foot.
Good luck with your first visit! Keep that foot up!
My pain was always worse at night too. I think it's because I got tired of being in the house and so I was out and about on my crutches. I hadn't heard of knee walkers at that point and I hate walkers and wheelchairs b/c I feel helpless (I know, too prideful) so it was crutches for me. I had a purse that went over my shoulder and a travel pillow to rest my cast on when I would prop it up in places. But that did bring significant pain at night and I'd ice, elevate, take meds and go to sleep. I think even if you aren't active during the day, just moving about doing activities of daily living stress your body and your foot.
Good luck with your first visit! Keep that foot up!
Tracie1204
03-18-2009, 06:30 PM
you know-----i never thought to sit my shower stool down in front of the sink, and brush my teeth and do my hair from there! That would be a great solution!!! Thanks for that! See, we have a stand up shower and a garden tub in our master bath----so when i take my shower, i sit on my shower stool, and my foot stays outside of the shower propped up on the laundry hamper---so that its not hanging. I have a cast cover that works GREAT--so keeping it outside of the shower has nothing to do with getting it wet---has everything to do with keeping it elevated!:)
Oh yes---i stay elevated---we actually have a huge pillow that is like a ramp, and then we have another "wedge" type pillow that we put under the lower end of the ramp pillow, and my foot stays above my heart all day---so i have very minimal swelling, due to that-----This pillow that we have has been a lifesaver----and yes----i sleep with it propped up also-----thank goodness we have a king size bed, b/c this pillow is about 3 foot long and 2 foot wide-----but it is SOOO perfect for this situation!!! I know it sounds silly to describe---I wish I could show you a picture b/c its the best thing!:jester:
I am already planning to be sure to take pain killers before my next cast change---its on Monday the 23rd. Will have xrays to see if the Osteotomy is refusing and doing what its supposed to do. I have a royal blue cast right now---and I am hoping to get a purple one next! yipppeee!!!
well I have had a pretty happy day-----thanks for all the replies!!!! :wave:
Look forward to hearing from all of you again!!
Oh yes---i stay elevated---we actually have a huge pillow that is like a ramp, and then we have another "wedge" type pillow that we put under the lower end of the ramp pillow, and my foot stays above my heart all day---so i have very minimal swelling, due to that-----This pillow that we have has been a lifesaver----and yes----i sleep with it propped up also-----thank goodness we have a king size bed, b/c this pillow is about 3 foot long and 2 foot wide-----but it is SOOO perfect for this situation!!! I know it sounds silly to describe---I wish I could show you a picture b/c its the best thing!:jester:
I am already planning to be sure to take pain killers before my next cast change---its on Monday the 23rd. Will have xrays to see if the Osteotomy is refusing and doing what its supposed to do. I have a royal blue cast right now---and I am hoping to get a purple one next! yipppeee!!!
well I have had a pretty happy day-----thanks for all the replies!!!! :wave:
Look forward to hearing from all of you again!!
walleye77
03-18-2009, 08:06 PM
My cast is light blue with purple stripping. Very creative people at the surgery center. I'm hoping for an aircast, but not holding my breathe because of the Osteotomy healing and the doc's fear of me messing it up by putting weight on it. I don't ice. Just elevate, so far so good. I want this to heal right and won't do anything to mess it up. Hope you have a pain free night.
WorldWalker
03-19-2009, 02:12 AM
I got sky blue and I've got a pink flower on it. Also started my signature collection. :cool:
I looked online for the wedge and passed on it, but sounds like I'm missing a good thing. I think I'd describe it as the missing piece. If you guys know that book.
I took my medication before my cast change and it didn't help me out (nerves I guess). I actually took pictures to encourage and distract myself. I only winced at one or two staples. My next cast change to boot most likely is April 1st so we'll see how I go with that one. I remember feeling the cast change as very warm and I didn't want that to go away. Also the little strips they put over the many cuts really gave me a sigh of relief. I am however very glad I took pictures and only wish I had taken more.
I looked online for the wedge and passed on it, but sounds like I'm missing a good thing. I think I'd describe it as the missing piece. If you guys know that book.
I took my medication before my cast change and it didn't help me out (nerves I guess). I actually took pictures to encourage and distract myself. I only winced at one or two staples. My next cast change to boot most likely is April 1st so we'll see how I go with that one. I remember feeling the cast change as very warm and I didn't want that to go away. Also the little strips they put over the many cuts really gave me a sigh of relief. I am however very glad I took pictures and only wish I had taken more.
Tracie1204
03-19-2009, 03:06 PM
AWWW---a pink flower!!!! I love that!!!!
Yes---the wedge pillow is really great---i mean---its big and cumbersome---but its really worth it.
Well, nothing new here to report. So, Worldwalker--you took alot of pictures at your cast change? I have heard of people doing that---and since i passed out at my last one (EEK)---I am wondering if I should ask B/F to take pictures on Monday? I dont know that I will pass out this time around---I think last time it was the fact that it was hot in the office and he was pulling out the drainage tube----and that was all she wrote! Down I went!! Of course i was on a table and so i just slumped over and the doctor and B/F and my mom all laid me back quickly and put a cool cloth on my head---so no danger of me injuring myself otherwise. But still---unpleasant!
I will contemplate the camera idea----I really want to see my incisions. And its hard to see lying flat on my back, practically on my head!!!
Well, i dont have anything much else to report! I slept in late today----WAY too late! I gotta stope that---but i am just like, what else am i gonna do? I dont like basketball, so its not like i am watching the tourney on TV!
oh well!! happy thoughts!!!!! talk to you all soon!! :wave:
Yes---the wedge pillow is really great---i mean---its big and cumbersome---but its really worth it.
Well, nothing new here to report. So, Worldwalker--you took alot of pictures at your cast change? I have heard of people doing that---and since i passed out at my last one (EEK)---I am wondering if I should ask B/F to take pictures on Monday? I dont know that I will pass out this time around---I think last time it was the fact that it was hot in the office and he was pulling out the drainage tube----and that was all she wrote! Down I went!! Of course i was on a table and so i just slumped over and the doctor and B/F and my mom all laid me back quickly and put a cool cloth on my head---so no danger of me injuring myself otherwise. But still---unpleasant!
I will contemplate the camera idea----I really want to see my incisions. And its hard to see lying flat on my back, practically on my head!!!
Well, i dont have anything much else to report! I slept in late today----WAY too late! I gotta stope that---but i am just like, what else am i gonna do? I dont like basketball, so its not like i am watching the tourney on TV!
oh well!! happy thoughts!!!!! talk to you all soon!! :wave:
WorldWalker
03-19-2009, 08:14 PM
I took pictures, but I think you should do it or have someone else do it because they'll want to put you back in a cast fast. I had a family member do it. I didn't look at all of them right away but when I felt ready. That way if I changed my mind I wouldn't have to wait until the next time my cast is removed four weeks later. I think basketball makes me envious so I flipped the channel when I saw it on.
WorldWalker
03-19-2009, 11:14 PM
Also, some people might want to see it. My friends and family got excited together, well after the goosebumps. I hope it'll help you out if you choose to take a snapshot or two.
Tracie1204
03-20-2009, 12:47 PM
I think I will take the camera-----like you said----I may not be able or ready to look at it in the office---and I DO want to see it-----i only caught a glimpse of it last time before i went backwards! :jester:
I tell you what is the most aggravating thing about being in a cast--besides ALL of the obvious reasons!!! I hate the way it rubs against my outside ankle bone---you know the knobby one thats on your outer ankle?? It just rubs against that---and I wouldnt even know I had a cast on, if it weren't for that one little thing!! LOL---
Well, its a beautiful day here! I am waiting for B/F to come in from packing his vehicle for his race trip. Then I am going to take a shower and he's going to change the sheets on my bed, and my mom will be here tonight!! Then tomorrow its my big adventure out!!!
YAY!!!!!!!
Check in on everyone later!! Bye!!! :wave:
I tell you what is the most aggravating thing about being in a cast--besides ALL of the obvious reasons!!! I hate the way it rubs against my outside ankle bone---you know the knobby one thats on your outer ankle?? It just rubs against that---and I wouldnt even know I had a cast on, if it weren't for that one little thing!! LOL---
Well, its a beautiful day here! I am waiting for B/F to come in from packing his vehicle for his race trip. Then I am going to take a shower and he's going to change the sheets on my bed, and my mom will be here tonight!! Then tomorrow its my big adventure out!!!
YAY!!!!!!!
Check in on everyone later!! Bye!!! :wave:
tijean
03-20-2009, 01:04 PM
Wow...I am so glad to read that I was not the only one who kinda fainted at the cast change. It was so weird...I went white and bam...doctor gave me OJ. I did take pictures through the whole broken ankle ordeal, starting with the ER the night it happened (I love my iphone!). I'm so glad I found this website. It has helped me a great deal just knowing others are experiencing the same pains, problems etc. Having never broken a bone before I didn't know what to expect and what was normal. Thank to everyone here!
walleye77
03-20-2009, 03:38 PM
Ok you are all more adventerous than I am. I'm scarred to death to look at it. I couldn't look at my first incision a year ago, and this one I think would be worse. My foot is going to be nothing but scars. Good thing I have alot of socks.
I started having panic attacks last night because of the cast. Not only does it rub but not being able to move much is tormenting me. I wanted to rip off the cast. I have to make it till Tuesday, its going to be very hard. Any ideas on how to stop the panic attacks??????
I started having panic attacks last night because of the cast. Not only does it rub but not being able to move much is tormenting me. I wanted to rip off the cast. I have to make it till Tuesday, its going to be very hard. Any ideas on how to stop the panic attacks??????
WorldWalker
03-20-2009, 04:28 PM
I hate the cast rubbing against the scars. I've been describing it as an egg and my leg is ready to hatch. I wish I knew what to tell you about panic attacks walleye, I wiggle my toes in an elevated position and just think of Uma Therman trying to wiggle her big toe in Kill Bill Vol. 1. I think I'm afraid of what'll happen when I take the boot and try to put lotion on it to help with the scars, the idea of touching it might be a shock. Maybe propping your foot up to help make it comfortable and then face away from your leg and zone out to music or tv? I get feeling anxious. I wondered what would happen if I just took a hammer to it to crack the egg in a figure of words. :eek: I gotta stop day dreaming....
tijean
03-20-2009, 04:36 PM
Ok you are all more adventerous than I am. I'm scarred to death to look at it. I couldn't look at my first incision a year ago, and this one I think would be worse. My foot is going to be nothing but scars. Good thing I have alot of socks.
I started having panic attacks last night because of the cast. Not only does it rub but not being able to move much is tormenting me. I wanted to rip off the cast. I have to make it till Tuesday, its going to be very hard. Any ideas on how to stop the panic attacks??????
Johnnie Walker and beer helped me...and having my mates around...and a good book that you can get lost in.;)
I started having panic attacks last night because of the cast. Not only does it rub but not being able to move much is tormenting me. I wanted to rip off the cast. I have to make it till Tuesday, its going to be very hard. Any ideas on how to stop the panic attacks??????
Johnnie Walker and beer helped me...and having my mates around...and a good book that you can get lost in.;)
tijean
03-20-2009, 04:42 PM
You are so right about rubbing the lotion on the scars...it freaked me right out, especially with the hardware there. It's been almost two weeks now and I can pretty easily massage the area with vitamin E (my physio guy said about 5-10 minutes a night to reduce scar tissue). I try not to look at it too much while I'm doing it though...it still makes me a bit woozy as I can feel and count each screw. Funny..I'm good with blood and vomit...but this has knocked me flat. Keep the faith and overcome the mental demons...we'll all get there!
Tracie1204
03-20-2009, 05:18 PM
Walleye-----i have been very lucky this go around----I have NOT had the panic attacks, BUT last time, was BAD. I freaked out totally. I don't know what to tell you to do, to avoid the panic attacks. As Worldwalker suggested, try to focus on the TV or whatever you find soothing, and just take deep, soothing breaths. I think thats all I was able to do last time.
Now, thats not to say that Monday, when i go for the next cast change, that I may not feel differently. This cast has actually gotten kind of loose, as when it was first put on was 2 days post op, and i was still very swollen from my thigh to my toes. So the next one, might constrict my movements more and I may not handle that as well.
As far as massaging the scars, i DO NOT do that well at all. I am brave enough to want to look at it and see what it looks like---but the thought of touching it, or it being touched, makes my skin crawl. I think thats why I had so much scar tissue last time, that this surgeon had to work through, so i KNOW I HAVE to massage it---but it gives me the creeps!!! :eek:
So i am kind of excited that its going to be hidden the cast for another 4-6 weeks!! LOL
Well, Walleye----I wish you the best at getting rid of these panic attacks...I know its tough.
And Worldwalker-----your egg comparison CRACKS me up!!!!:jester:
Here is a funny story---my doctor told me....His wife fell and broke her wrist, and was put in a fiberglass cast. he said she fussed about it for weeks, and one day she called him at the office, and said you are not gonna believe what i did!!! and he said, you cut your cast off, didnt you??? and she laughd, and said yes she did, with a BUTTER knife!!!! Can you believe that?! He said he asked her how on earth she did that, and she said she worked at it all day!!! And he was so amazed, he said, b/c every doctor has patients who cut their casts off, and he goes home and fusses about it, and here, his very own wife cut off a cast. This whole story was told, after i passed out at my cast change last time, and i really did find it funny, once i came to!!!:jester:
Now, thats not to say that Monday, when i go for the next cast change, that I may not feel differently. This cast has actually gotten kind of loose, as when it was first put on was 2 days post op, and i was still very swollen from my thigh to my toes. So the next one, might constrict my movements more and I may not handle that as well.
As far as massaging the scars, i DO NOT do that well at all. I am brave enough to want to look at it and see what it looks like---but the thought of touching it, or it being touched, makes my skin crawl. I think thats why I had so much scar tissue last time, that this surgeon had to work through, so i KNOW I HAVE to massage it---but it gives me the creeps!!! :eek:
So i am kind of excited that its going to be hidden the cast for another 4-6 weeks!! LOL
Well, Walleye----I wish you the best at getting rid of these panic attacks...I know its tough.
And Worldwalker-----your egg comparison CRACKS me up!!!!:jester:
Here is a funny story---my doctor told me....His wife fell and broke her wrist, and was put in a fiberglass cast. he said she fussed about it for weeks, and one day she called him at the office, and said you are not gonna believe what i did!!! and he said, you cut your cast off, didnt you??? and she laughd, and said yes she did, with a BUTTER knife!!!! Can you believe that?! He said he asked her how on earth she did that, and she said she worked at it all day!!! And he was so amazed, he said, b/c every doctor has patients who cut their casts off, and he goes home and fusses about it, and here, his very own wife cut off a cast. This whole story was told, after i passed out at my cast change last time, and i really did find it funny, once i came to!!!:jester:
walleye77
03-20-2009, 07:54 PM
Thanks Tracie, & Worldwalker>>>.Good cast story. Sorry you passed out. I'll try the concentration thing or put on my ipod. All I did last night was lay there and suffer. I didn't know what to do. I do now so maybe it won't be so bad. It sure scares the poo out of you!!!!!! Tracie you get your cast changed 1 day before me lucky girl. My daughter is bringing me, she's a blood and guts type so I can imagine she'll want to see the stitches removed. yuck!!!!!!! I was a firefighter for 11 years and just hated the blood and guts. I tried not to be on the first truck out at accidents. Any way we'll all get thru this mostly because of each other. Thanks for being out there:wave:
Remember up, up, is the way the foot goes.
Remember up, up, is the way the foot goes.
Tracie1204
03-22-2009, 12:16 AM
Hey Walleye-----Hope you are doing okay today and the cast anxiety is not "eating you up" this weekend.
Worldwalker ---thanks for the info you sent---I appreciate you thinking of me.
I am getting so curious about whats under this cast-----I am going to try to explain this----
before my surgery, when i would be sitting, say in bed or in a recliner, and you know how you can sit, with your leg slightly bent at the knee, and and you would try to kind of lay it flat against the surface of whatever you are sitting on-----you can feel the tendons in your ankle/leg "pulling"---and I always figured that was part of the rupture-----but I can still "feel" that feeling-----and I dont know what to think of it......I dont even know if i am making ANY sense to any of you-----
anyway------I dont like having stitches/staples removed----so i am NOT looking forward to that----
anyway----I made my big adventure out today-----to Target and Kroger---that was about all i could handle----too much foot dangling-----even WITH the leg lifts on the wheelchair------
but it was good to actually DO my hair and put on makeup and get out of the house in real clothes-----
Hope you all are doing great------talk to you all soon!!
Tracie:wave:
Worldwalker ---thanks for the info you sent---I appreciate you thinking of me.
I am getting so curious about whats under this cast-----I am going to try to explain this----
before my surgery, when i would be sitting, say in bed or in a recliner, and you know how you can sit, with your leg slightly bent at the knee, and and you would try to kind of lay it flat against the surface of whatever you are sitting on-----you can feel the tendons in your ankle/leg "pulling"---and I always figured that was part of the rupture-----but I can still "feel" that feeling-----and I dont know what to think of it......I dont even know if i am making ANY sense to any of you-----
anyway------I dont like having stitches/staples removed----so i am NOT looking forward to that----
anyway----I made my big adventure out today-----to Target and Kroger---that was about all i could handle----too much foot dangling-----even WITH the leg lifts on the wheelchair------
but it was good to actually DO my hair and put on makeup and get out of the house in real clothes-----
Hope you all are doing great------talk to you all soon!!
Tracie:wave:
tijean
03-22-2009, 09:55 AM
Thanks Tracie, & Worldwalker>>>.Good cast story. Sorry you passed out. I'll try the concentration thing or put on my ipod. All I did last night was lay there and suffer. I didn't know what to do. I do now so maybe it won't be so bad. It sure scares the poo out of you!!!!!! Tracie you get your cast changed 1 day before me lucky girl. My daughter is bringing me, she's a blood and guts type so I can imagine she'll want to see the stitches removed. yuck!!!!!!! I was a firefighter for 11 years and just hated the blood and guts. I tried not to be on the first truck out at accidents. Any way we'll all get thru this mostly because of each other. Thanks for being out there:wave:
Remember up, up, is the way the foot goes.
Hey Walleye...can I suggest something before you get the cast off on Tuesday? Make sure you eat some good protein and drink juice before you go...bring a juice box with you too. If you start to feel funny, it will help. And don't look at it too much. The stitches don't really hurt. Just lay back and enjoy that feeling of NO CAST...it's a wonderful thing...concentrate on that.:)
And for those panic attacks...I found that Frank Sinatra on my ipod really helped a lot...I even listened to him in the ER the night all this happened.Everybody can use a little Frank in their lives...he's very soothing.
Remember up, up, is the way the foot goes.
Hey Walleye...can I suggest something before you get the cast off on Tuesday? Make sure you eat some good protein and drink juice before you go...bring a juice box with you too. If you start to feel funny, it will help. And don't look at it too much. The stitches don't really hurt. Just lay back and enjoy that feeling of NO CAST...it's a wonderful thing...concentrate on that.:)
And for those panic attacks...I found that Frank Sinatra on my ipod really helped a lot...I even listened to him in the ER the night all this happened.Everybody can use a little Frank in their lives...he's very soothing.
walleye77
03-22-2009, 04:36 PM
Good advise. Tijean. Thanks.
Tracie felt good to get out didn't it. I got out on Saturday. Hubby needed gas in the car and it needed washing so to the gas station and then a car wash for me. Just being on the crutches again was an adventure. I get to go to get my hair done tomorrow. They are really good at the Aveda Salon I go to. They have leg pillows so I;ll get to put my foot up. Plan on using the knee walker less chance of accidentally stepping of the foot. The panic attacks aren't as bad. Really trying to concentrate on other stuff and so far its helping. I have been busy sewing clothes for my grandson. I go out to the kitchen table sew for about 1/2 to 3/4 hours or less depending on how much the foot aches and then back to the recliner chair to put the foot up. I have so far made 4 shirt, 3 sets of winter and summer pj's. and have a bunch more shorts and tank tops to go.
Tracie good luck tomorrow no passing out!!!!!!!! Let us know how it goes.
Tracie felt good to get out didn't it. I got out on Saturday. Hubby needed gas in the car and it needed washing so to the gas station and then a car wash for me. Just being on the crutches again was an adventure. I get to go to get my hair done tomorrow. They are really good at the Aveda Salon I go to. They have leg pillows so I;ll get to put my foot up. Plan on using the knee walker less chance of accidentally stepping of the foot. The panic attacks aren't as bad. Really trying to concentrate on other stuff and so far its helping. I have been busy sewing clothes for my grandson. I go out to the kitchen table sew for about 1/2 to 3/4 hours or less depending on how much the foot aches and then back to the recliner chair to put the foot up. I have so far made 4 shirt, 3 sets of winter and summer pj's. and have a bunch more shorts and tank tops to go.
Tracie good luck tomorrow no passing out!!!!!!!! Let us know how it goes.
hurts2walk
03-22-2009, 11:37 PM
I had to lay down on the table when I had the MANY staples removed! I got pretty dizzy and thought I would pass out. I found it unconfortable but many here had no problem with it. I was very lucky that I never had a permanent cast...only the boot....so I could take it off once in a while and it wasn't as "tight" as what some here have described.
WorldWalker
03-23-2009, 02:52 AM
I'm happy to hear everyone has a big day ahead of them, I return to school and I hopped all around Minneapolis and St. Paul today, that took a lot out of me and I napped for 5 hours when I got home. So take it easy, enjoy yourselves and allow a nap every now and then. I look forward to hearing how things went for everyone. With the nice weather it'll be easier to go out because there will be benches to rest on instead of ice to slip on. ;)
Tracie1204
03-23-2009, 06:42 PM
Well----I am back-----new pink cast and all!!!
Let's see-----I did look at my incisions----however, I did not do so well today with my cast change. They cut off the old one and that was all good--but then it was time for the x-rays-----By the time that was done I had broke out in a cold sweat and was very nauseated-----and yes I had taken my pain killers.
So then I went back to the exam room, and he came in and had me do some rotation stuff and toe bends ---- you know all that good stuff. Then I did it again!!! My B/F said all the color drained from my face----I was drenched in sweat again---and i thought for sure I was going to toss my cookies!!
I am telling you guys---it was nuts!!! I was an EMT for 6 years---I went to school to be a paramedic---this kind of stuff should not bother me!! BUt I guess b/c its MY body and it was my pain and discomfort----thats why it happened???
in any case---Once all that was done----they re-wrapped me and casted me and I was fine----I am back home foot propped up and perfectly content. But that was a rough experience for me!!
I hope everyone else is having a good day---Worldwalker sounds like you had some adventures this weekend!!! Good for you!!!
Check in with you all soon!!
Tracie
Let's see-----I did look at my incisions----however, I did not do so well today with my cast change. They cut off the old one and that was all good--but then it was time for the x-rays-----By the time that was done I had broke out in a cold sweat and was very nauseated-----and yes I had taken my pain killers.
So then I went back to the exam room, and he came in and had me do some rotation stuff and toe bends ---- you know all that good stuff. Then I did it again!!! My B/F said all the color drained from my face----I was drenched in sweat again---and i thought for sure I was going to toss my cookies!!
I am telling you guys---it was nuts!!! I was an EMT for 6 years---I went to school to be a paramedic---this kind of stuff should not bother me!! BUt I guess b/c its MY body and it was my pain and discomfort----thats why it happened???
in any case---Once all that was done----they re-wrapped me and casted me and I was fine----I am back home foot propped up and perfectly content. But that was a rough experience for me!!
I hope everyone else is having a good day---Worldwalker sounds like you had some adventures this weekend!!! Good for you!!!
Check in with you all soon!!
Tracie
walleye77
03-23-2009, 07:25 PM
Glad your ok. Sounds like it was pretty rough for a bit. Our mind and body reacts differently when it is us it is happening rather than someone else. Glad you didn't hurl or pass out. Was the surgical incisions as bad as you thought? Pink cast sounds good.
I got out to get my hair done today for 2 hrs. Did take an extra pain pill tto make it thru. Wasn't too bad, felt good to have my hair done by someone else. They were all impressed with the knee walker and how you can really move around on it. Safest mode of transportation for me right now. Glad to be back home to put the foot up. Yeppie tomorrow I get this cast off hopefully changed to a airboot. If not they'll have to give me knock out drugs for the next 6 weeks in a cast. :rolleyes:
I got out to get my hair done today for 2 hrs. Did take an extra pain pill tto make it thru. Wasn't too bad, felt good to have my hair done by someone else. They were all impressed with the knee walker and how you can really move around on it. Safest mode of transportation for me right now. Glad to be back home to put the foot up. Yeppie tomorrow I get this cast off hopefully changed to a airboot. If not they'll have to give me knock out drugs for the next 6 weeks in a cast. :rolleyes:
Tracie1204
03-23-2009, 07:42 PM
Walleye----I will keep my fingers crossed for you that they do not put you into another cast. I can tell you that this one does not have the "give" that my last one had--we are pretty sure he even wrapped it tighter than last time.
Good luck tomorrow and let me know how it goes----I really hope you have a positive experience----if nothing else---make sure they have the air conditioning on !!!!
Good luck tomorrow and let me know how it goes----I really hope you have a positive experience----if nothing else---make sure they have the air conditioning on !!!!
emmie54
03-24-2009, 12:54 AM
Tracie, I'm sorry you had a rough day! I think I'm weird because I loved seeing my incisions and I always want to watch everything they do. I elected to stay awake during my hardware removal because I was fascinated by it. I know....freakazoid!! :eek:
Glad you made it through. It'll probably be better next time. Maybe Xanex along with pain pills ? :D
emmie
Glad you made it through. It'll probably be better next time. Maybe Xanex along with pain pills ? :D
emmie
Tracie1204
03-24-2009, 02:21 PM
Hey Emmie!
LOL----You aren't a freakazoid :jester:----I don't blame you for wanting to see what your incisions look like----I don't think any of my "weakness" was related to seeing the incisions---I don't think-----I never felt the nausea or anything while i was looking at the incisions-----it only came from the awkwardness of the x-rays and the pain from the rotation exercises that the doctor had to have me do to see how much improvement I had.
I absolutely think a Xanax next time would be helpful!!! LOL----well thats 4 weeks off, so hopefully it will be much better then!!!!! I am hoping!!!!
LOL----You aren't a freakazoid :jester:----I don't blame you for wanting to see what your incisions look like----I don't think any of my "weakness" was related to seeing the incisions---I don't think-----I never felt the nausea or anything while i was looking at the incisions-----it only came from the awkwardness of the x-rays and the pain from the rotation exercises that the doctor had to have me do to see how much improvement I had.
I absolutely think a Xanax next time would be helpful!!! LOL----well thats 4 weeks off, so hopefully it will be much better then!!!!! I am hoping!!!!
walleye77
03-24-2009, 05:51 PM
Well off came the cast. My daughter was purely happy to be able to see and photograph my foot while they removed the 3 staples and 5 stitches. Me on the other hand had to lay down and not look once I saw all the dried blood in the cast that was it for me, no more looking. I haven;t looked at the pictures yet. I did get an air cast without any problems. And was told that it MUST stay on all the time. If I have a rsd flare I may remove the top part. It will take some getting use to. Got home and my toes were numb. Have to adjust so I can feel the little things. It was good I took an extra pain pill. I didn't expect it to hurt so much. She had alot of cleaning to do before she removed the staples and stitches.There is still alot of swelling but all looks good. Felt good to have it out in the open air. Am very glad to be home and have the foot elevated. Hope everyone is doing good today. :wave:
Tracie1204
03-24-2009, 06:04 PM
YAY!!!!!!! Walleye=-----I am so glad you got your cast off!!!!!! I am envious!! I don't blame you one bit for laying back and not watching---you look at those pics IF and When you are ready!! :jester:
Well, you rest and take care of that foot for the next couple of days!!
When was your surgery again---the date, I can't remember??
Well, you rest and take care of that foot for the next couple of days!!
When was your surgery again---the date, I can't remember??
USMelissa
03-24-2009, 09:13 PM
Walleye congrats on your cast coming off it must be the best thing ever. Relax and take your time healing, I think I can say all our thoughts are with you
emmie54
03-24-2009, 09:48 PM
wall, how did you get by with only those few stitches? I had something like 35 total. :eek:
hurts2walk
03-24-2009, 10:48 PM
yes..no fair I had 33 staples removed...OUCH! Not having had a permanent cast, I can't relate....I can only imagine the relief!
WorldWalker
03-25-2009, 12:05 AM
Kudos for all the good news I'm hearing. I'm home sick from the meds (AGAIN!) so it really helped to hear progress with someone since we deserve it.
Tracie, forgive yourself for the almost fainting. I almost fainted at the spa just from such a strain of being up and about so much that day. Our bodies get the best of us.
Walleye I'm excited you got the aircast, I'm a week from hopefully that step. Aha, step...:D Eh...get back to me if that's funny. I make the joke but I only laugh because it sounds lame. At least no one else steals the material!
Either way, I can't wait to share good news when I'm feeling better.
Keep up the good work everyone. :p
Tracie, forgive yourself for the almost fainting. I almost fainted at the spa just from such a strain of being up and about so much that day. Our bodies get the best of us.
Walleye I'm excited you got the aircast, I'm a week from hopefully that step. Aha, step...:D Eh...get back to me if that's funny. I make the joke but I only laugh because it sounds lame. At least no one else steals the material!
Either way, I can't wait to share good news when I'm feeling better.
Keep up the good work everyone. :p
emmie54
03-25-2009, 12:13 AM
:DI hated casts. I ended up with about five because I'm "castophobic" and always thought something was wrong - too tight, too loose, rubbing something. Once I fell in a mud puddle and soaked it. When I had a walking cast pre-op I broke it at the heel. So I didn't have a lot of luck with casts! My doc finally gave up and put me in a boot a couple of weeks early. :D
Worldwalker, are you sick from the pain meds? I always have to take Phenergan with mine or they make me sick. But just half a Phenergan does the trick for me.
Worldwalker, are you sick from the pain meds? I always have to take Phenergan with mine or they make me sick. But just half a Phenergan does the trick for me.
WorldWalker
03-25-2009, 01:10 AM
I take some other pill with the pain medication, but I think I want to call my doctor up about it because it's just frustrating despite my efforts to not get sick like this. I even reduced my intake of meds and no good. I really only have a week before I see the doctor, but I'm seeing the cute one so I may address this before then.
walleye77
03-25-2009, 12:41 PM
Emmie54 I don't know why so few. He went in and cut the heal bone in half, moved it over and put 2 screws in. To me it sounds just terrible. And looks terrible. You and cast don't get along at all I feel for you.
hurt2walk I can't imagine 35 staples or stitches. Now those would have but me on the floor!!!!!
I emailed the doc's office to ask if I could wash my foot. Nope I have to treat this air cast like it is a full non removable one. I can Only remove the top piece if my RSD flares. Glad I asked. It's ok I can live with the answer just knowing I'm not 100% trapped is a big relief. I am not move the ankle or foot at all or I could screw up everything. I DO NOT want to go thru this again.
Worldwalker being sick from the med's is aweful. What are you on that's making you sick. For me 40mg of oxycontin and 50mg vistral makes me violently sick. I wasn't aware that there was a pill you could take to help you not be sick from the meds' Thanks I learned something today. :D
hurt2walk I can't imagine 35 staples or stitches. Now those would have but me on the floor!!!!!
I emailed the doc's office to ask if I could wash my foot. Nope I have to treat this air cast like it is a full non removable one. I can Only remove the top piece if my RSD flares. Glad I asked. It's ok I can live with the answer just knowing I'm not 100% trapped is a big relief. I am not move the ankle or foot at all or I could screw up everything. I DO NOT want to go thru this again.
Worldwalker being sick from the med's is aweful. What are you on that's making you sick. For me 40mg of oxycontin and 50mg vistral makes me violently sick. I wasn't aware that there was a pill you could take to help you not be sick from the meds' Thanks I learned something today. :D
Tracie1204
03-25-2009, 02:10 PM
I know its such a relief for you, just knowing that if you absolutely need to, you can remove the top of that air cast!!!
The pain medicine that my doctor gave me, actually is a combination of phenegran and pain medicine----so I don't get sick from my medicine at all---if anything it helps me sleep b/c phenegran makes me sleepy!
I am also on blood thinner injections----I don't know if I have shared this either. I have to give myself shots in my stomach everyday----b/c my doctor said b/c I am young, and am going from being really active to completely sedentary, that I need them for 8 weeks until i start P/T nd am up moving again------They explained it that b/c I was young and active, and on birth control, that it put me at more risk than say a 75 year old person who had the same type of surgery------I found that to be very interesting------
well---I hope you are enjoying your cast free day (sort of) Walleye---
and Worldwalker----I hope you find some relief from those pain meds.
Thanks Emmie for checking in on everyone!!!:wave:
The pain medicine that my doctor gave me, actually is a combination of phenegran and pain medicine----so I don't get sick from my medicine at all---if anything it helps me sleep b/c phenegran makes me sleepy!
I am also on blood thinner injections----I don't know if I have shared this either. I have to give myself shots in my stomach everyday----b/c my doctor said b/c I am young, and am going from being really active to completely sedentary, that I need them for 8 weeks until i start P/T nd am up moving again------They explained it that b/c I was young and active, and on birth control, that it put me at more risk than say a 75 year old person who had the same type of surgery------I found that to be very interesting------
well---I hope you are enjoying your cast free day (sort of) Walleye---
and Worldwalker----I hope you find some relief from those pain meds.
Thanks Emmie for checking in on everyone!!!:wave:
WorldWalker
03-25-2009, 06:59 PM
Whoa whoa whoa whoa... how old are you tracie?
I'm on birth control and he never said anything like that and I don't have any required belly shots. Sounds creepy. Maybe it's cause I went back to school after 2 weeks. I've really cut back on meds for being able to focus in school but I take 50MG of Narco and Vistral. I also have been enduring the pain because I don't like being ill. I only take it 2-3 times in a 24 hour cycle so I feel really upset about it all. SOmetimes being sick I just don't want to talk about it or explain it to my teachers. I'll try to go to class tomorrow and hope it's ok.
As for not being able to bathe, maybe you could take a cotton ball and just wipe it with water?
I'm on birth control and he never said anything like that and I don't have any required belly shots. Sounds creepy. Maybe it's cause I went back to school after 2 weeks. I've really cut back on meds for being able to focus in school but I take 50MG of Narco and Vistral. I also have been enduring the pain because I don't like being ill. I only take it 2-3 times in a 24 hour cycle so I feel really upset about it all. SOmetimes being sick I just don't want to talk about it or explain it to my teachers. I'll try to go to class tomorrow and hope it's ok.
As for not being able to bathe, maybe you could take a cotton ball and just wipe it with water?
walleye77
03-25-2009, 09:33 PM
It always suprisies me how everyones bodies are so different. We all react differently as this post inform us. From the younger to the older.
Yes its great to know that I can remove the top part but it's also scarry that if I do not not move the ankel/foot at all. Let's pray I don't have to remove it.
Sounds like everyone is having at least a somewhat pleasant day. ;)
Tracie how are you doing with the new cast? Is your mom there this week? Just checking you have someone with you.
Ok your doctors are talking pt already? Mine hasn't said a word except STAY OFF IT. Hope everyone has a good night rest!
Yes its great to know that I can remove the top part but it's also scarry that if I do not not move the ankel/foot at all. Let's pray I don't have to remove it.
Sounds like everyone is having at least a somewhat pleasant day. ;)
Tracie how are you doing with the new cast? Is your mom there this week? Just checking you have someone with you.
Ok your doctors are talking pt already? Mine hasn't said a word except STAY OFF IT. Hope everyone has a good night rest!
yaohua
03-26-2009, 02:10 AM
Hello everyone,
I feel like that I know all of you, walleye77, hurts2walk, worldwalker, hsk, emmie54, etc. because I have been reading everything about PTTD in this message board for the last few months. I got so much information from you all and finally decided to join in.
A year and half ago when my right ankle pain first started, it was diagnosed as tendonitis. At the time, I was able to tolerate the mild pain, walk and do most of the normal activities. However, after one podiatrist, two orthopedic surgeons and all conservative treatments, I was finally diagnosed with PTTD, stage II October 2008 (a year later). In the meantime, the ankle pain has drastically increased. I was told by my first OS that my foot arch was moderately collapsed. He suggested tendon transfer surgery. The second OS left the surgery decision to me. He said that a lot of people live with this condition. Personally, I just could not believe that anyone would live with this pain daily, with limited motion and activities. Just the simple task of walking is consistently in pain. I finally decided to go ahead for the surgery. Reading this message board definitely gave me insight information about everyone’s experience, which helps me understand what I am going to face after the surgery. I hope that I made the right decision to have surgery. Sometimes, I wonder if PTTD, stage II patients normally choose surgery after conservation treatments are exhausted. Hopefully, I get positive result from surgery, scheduled on 4/1/09.
Based on doctor’s suggestion and my research, I purchased a knee walker. I bought a bath chair to use in the shower. Does anyone have any other suggestions? Do I also need a wheelchair? I basically eliminated the idea of using crutches because I could not handle it when I had a knee surgery two years ago. Most of you are healthy young females. I am a reasonably healthy 64-year-old female; and I imagine my recovery will probably be harder than most of you. The surgery involves posterior tibial tendon debridement, flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer to the navicular. A calcaneal slide osteotomy as well as a first tarsometatarsal fusion of the medial column. I am not sure what the last one is.
I don’t know how the “thread” works. But I am giving it a try to tag along Tracie1204's topic. Hopefully it reaches to you all. I promise that the next message for not be this long. I am nervous about the surgery and not looking forward to the long recovery. But, I guess that I am ready. I really want to get rid of the pain and get back to a normal active life.
I feel like that I know all of you, walleye77, hurts2walk, worldwalker, hsk, emmie54, etc. because I have been reading everything about PTTD in this message board for the last few months. I got so much information from you all and finally decided to join in.
A year and half ago when my right ankle pain first started, it was diagnosed as tendonitis. At the time, I was able to tolerate the mild pain, walk and do most of the normal activities. However, after one podiatrist, two orthopedic surgeons and all conservative treatments, I was finally diagnosed with PTTD, stage II October 2008 (a year later). In the meantime, the ankle pain has drastically increased. I was told by my first OS that my foot arch was moderately collapsed. He suggested tendon transfer surgery. The second OS left the surgery decision to me. He said that a lot of people live with this condition. Personally, I just could not believe that anyone would live with this pain daily, with limited motion and activities. Just the simple task of walking is consistently in pain. I finally decided to go ahead for the surgery. Reading this message board definitely gave me insight information about everyone’s experience, which helps me understand what I am going to face after the surgery. I hope that I made the right decision to have surgery. Sometimes, I wonder if PTTD, stage II patients normally choose surgery after conservation treatments are exhausted. Hopefully, I get positive result from surgery, scheduled on 4/1/09.
Based on doctor’s suggestion and my research, I purchased a knee walker. I bought a bath chair to use in the shower. Does anyone have any other suggestions? Do I also need a wheelchair? I basically eliminated the idea of using crutches because I could not handle it when I had a knee surgery two years ago. Most of you are healthy young females. I am a reasonably healthy 64-year-old female; and I imagine my recovery will probably be harder than most of you. The surgery involves posterior tibial tendon debridement, flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer to the navicular. A calcaneal slide osteotomy as well as a first tarsometatarsal fusion of the medial column. I am not sure what the last one is.
I don’t know how the “thread” works. But I am giving it a try to tag along Tracie1204's topic. Hopefully it reaches to you all. I promise that the next message for not be this long. I am nervous about the surgery and not looking forward to the long recovery. But, I guess that I am ready. I really want to get rid of the pain and get back to a normal active life.
emmie54
03-26-2009, 02:07 PM
Hey, welcome to the board! glad we could be of help. I wish I had found this board before my surgery instead of afterwards. There is lots of good information on here, as you have discovered already. Re: wheelchair- I LOVED my wheelchair as it gave me the opportunity to get out of the house when I wasn't up to navigating myself. example: Christmas parade that was so crowded there would have been no way to manage crutches or a knee walker and stand for that long. In the wheelchair I could sit with my leg out (get one with the raising leg option) with a Christmas stocking stuck on my foot and my red and green striped cast and I got all kinds of things thrown to me! Also, my husband would take me to the mall and push me around so I could feel like a part of civilization. My surgery was Nov 16 so all of the Christmas shopping was going on. Also, I was able to be a lot more independent because I could sit and blow dry my hair, unload the dishwasher, fold clothes, even vacuum! Granted, some of those things can be done with a knee walker also but the fact that I could keep my leg elevated made a huge difference in the beginning.
I know you are probably nervous and that's normal but you can do this. a positive attitude goes a long way in the healing process and you sound like you've got it all together. Ask any questions you need to and I'm sure someone will be around to give you advice.
Take care.
emmie :wave:
I know you are probably nervous and that's normal but you can do this. a positive attitude goes a long way in the healing process and you sound like you've got it all together. Ask any questions you need to and I'm sure someone will be around to give you advice.
Take care.
emmie :wave:
SoCalGal09
03-26-2009, 02:38 PM
Hello everyone. I, too, have been lurking in the background for the past few weeks reading everyone's posts and thinking how odd it is that we all had similar surgeries and our doctors and treatments post op are all so different! It's been great to read what everyone is doing to recover. I thought I was going to lose my mind until I found this site. It's so good to know I'm not alone in this struggle.
My surgery was 3/3 and I feel great. I've pulled way back on pain meds and only take one every 8-10 hours now. I don't like being on the meds, but I like the pain even less, so it's a trade-off I have to make.
A few things that really helped when I got home from the hospital were a recliner chair (I slept in it the first two weeks!). I have stairs and they were a huge no-no until I got the hard cast (had splint and wrappings at first), but I've found scooting up and down on my bum works well. Also, something that I don't think I could live without is the railings on my toilet. I sent my husband down the first night home to get them from CVS because I just didn't see how I could get up and down safely without them. And they are awesome. I also put a step stool in the bathroom so I can put my foot up while doing my business and also I can kneel on it to brush my hair, teeth, etc. when I get showered in the morning. A shower bench is a must as well. I bought a little apron with pockets in it from Home depot so when I'm home alone I tie it around my waist and I can carry stuff when I'm on the crutches (which I hate). I got a walker and it helps when I want to prepare stuff in the kitchen, but I find it easier to get around on the crutches. Something about the wheels on the walker kinda scares me. I fear I'll fall and I really don't ever want to go through this again.
The best thing I found is patience when dealing with this recovery. When my doctor told me six weeks nwb cast, then six weeks partial weight bearing, I guess I thought after that I'd be running, jumping, skipping, and playing. But one thing I've garnered from this board is that it will be much, much longer than that until I'm able to do many of the activities I'm used to.
Thank you everyone for sharing your stories. It has helped so much, you've no idea!
My surgery was 3/3 and I feel great. I've pulled way back on pain meds and only take one every 8-10 hours now. I don't like being on the meds, but I like the pain even less, so it's a trade-off I have to make.
A few things that really helped when I got home from the hospital were a recliner chair (I slept in it the first two weeks!). I have stairs and they were a huge no-no until I got the hard cast (had splint and wrappings at first), but I've found scooting up and down on my bum works well. Also, something that I don't think I could live without is the railings on my toilet. I sent my husband down the first night home to get them from CVS because I just didn't see how I could get up and down safely without them. And they are awesome. I also put a step stool in the bathroom so I can put my foot up while doing my business and also I can kneel on it to brush my hair, teeth, etc. when I get showered in the morning. A shower bench is a must as well. I bought a little apron with pockets in it from Home depot so when I'm home alone I tie it around my waist and I can carry stuff when I'm on the crutches (which I hate). I got a walker and it helps when I want to prepare stuff in the kitchen, but I find it easier to get around on the crutches. Something about the wheels on the walker kinda scares me. I fear I'll fall and I really don't ever want to go through this again.
The best thing I found is patience when dealing with this recovery. When my doctor told me six weeks nwb cast, then six weeks partial weight bearing, I guess I thought after that I'd be running, jumping, skipping, and playing. But one thing I've garnered from this board is that it will be much, much longer than that until I'm able to do many of the activities I'm used to.
Thank you everyone for sharing your stories. It has helped so much, you've no idea!
walleye77
03-26-2009, 08:53 PM
Welcome socalgal90 & yaohua. This sight is the best. Good luck with your surgery. We are here any time you need answers or a hug. Start a new thread so we can keep up with you. Most of us check regularly. I do every day while sitting in my recliner with my foot in the air.
Today I had to make a run to the cities (Mpls) my mom is in intensive care for a heart/blood pressure problem. My daughter bless her heart drove me down. Mom is doing much better. I have to admit it was a little tough on my foot. The drive is an hour there, couple hours visiting and a hour home so my foot was telling me I don't like you right now. Glad to get home crawl up the stairs and hit the recliner for the rest of the night. I took my knee walker what a godsend this thing is. Went to Olive Garden for lunch got a both so I could put my foot up, worked well. The waitress wanted to take my knee walker and put it around the corner where I couldn't see it (ok scarred someone would steal it), she said it was a fire code violation to have it sit next to my booth, its not over 12 inches wide. Ok that was a crock a crap. A child's high chair would also fall into this same thing. I just folded it up and put it under the table. Lunch was good. Hope everyone has a good night.
Today I had to make a run to the cities (Mpls) my mom is in intensive care for a heart/blood pressure problem. My daughter bless her heart drove me down. Mom is doing much better. I have to admit it was a little tough on my foot. The drive is an hour there, couple hours visiting and a hour home so my foot was telling me I don't like you right now. Glad to get home crawl up the stairs and hit the recliner for the rest of the night. I took my knee walker what a godsend this thing is. Went to Olive Garden for lunch got a both so I could put my foot up, worked well. The waitress wanted to take my knee walker and put it around the corner where I couldn't see it (ok scarred someone would steal it), she said it was a fire code violation to have it sit next to my booth, its not over 12 inches wide. Ok that was a crock a crap. A child's high chair would also fall into this same thing. I just folded it up and put it under the table. Lunch was good. Hope everyone has a good night.
Tracie1204
03-26-2009, 09:57 PM
Welcome to the boards socalgal90 & yaohua-----I hope you will find lost of helpful info---and ask any questions when you need to!!
Walleye----that would have aggravated me too about the waitress-----those knee walkers are not that big!! and I am like you---I would not want it around the corner out of my sight :)
I am sorry to hear your mom is in the hospital--- I know that is probably frustrating for you too----b/c you probably would like to be there more and I know its just not possible with these feet!!! I hope she improves soon and gets home :angel:
Worldwalker---I know the injections sound crazy----My doctor is just very precautious----and I have literally gone from being on the move, everyday, up at 6am, and pretty much not stopping until 10pm each day---I do sit at my job, but I am still on the move for meetings and such, and I am always out running around in the evening....And now, since surgery---the most I move each day is to go to the bathroom, and maybe hop to the kitchen to let out the dogs----I really have no other activity.....
So my guess, is yes, the difference is that you went back to school within 2 weeks, and were back on the move and maybe it wasn't necessary for your doctor to consider them for you??? I am not sure---I am just guessing----
I have been in alot of pain the last couple of days so I have not been checking in as much on here. I am hoping it will get better----its very rainy here and cold---and I think that must be why.
hope everyone is well :)
Walleye----that would have aggravated me too about the waitress-----those knee walkers are not that big!! and I am like you---I would not want it around the corner out of my sight :)
I am sorry to hear your mom is in the hospital--- I know that is probably frustrating for you too----b/c you probably would like to be there more and I know its just not possible with these feet!!! I hope she improves soon and gets home :angel:
Worldwalker---I know the injections sound crazy----My doctor is just very precautious----and I have literally gone from being on the move, everyday, up at 6am, and pretty much not stopping until 10pm each day---I do sit at my job, but I am still on the move for meetings and such, and I am always out running around in the evening....And now, since surgery---the most I move each day is to go to the bathroom, and maybe hop to the kitchen to let out the dogs----I really have no other activity.....
So my guess, is yes, the difference is that you went back to school within 2 weeks, and were back on the move and maybe it wasn't necessary for your doctor to consider them for you??? I am not sure---I am just guessing----
I have been in alot of pain the last couple of days so I have not been checking in as much on here. I am hoping it will get better----its very rainy here and cold---and I think that must be why.
hope everyone is well :)
SoCalGal09
03-26-2009, 11:23 PM
Walleye - so sorry to hear your mom is in intensive care. That sure will add to your stress. I hope she gets well soon!
Tracie - you said you've been in more pain the past few days, what kind of pain? I ask because every now and then I get the most bizarre pains in my foot. I can't even explain it - maybe my nerves are beginning to heal and are on the fritz? And my cast is very uncomfortable where the stitches were on the outside of my foot, but that's a different pain. I'm actually going to the doctor next week to check that out. But the other pains are new. I was wondering if anyone else has been experiencing them? They sort of feel like someone is scraping their finger along my incisions and other times it feels like the tendons are pulling, no not exactly that, but close. Like I said, it's very difficult to describe the feeling.
I think I might have to find one of these knee walkers, they sound wonderful.
Tracie - you said you've been in more pain the past few days, what kind of pain? I ask because every now and then I get the most bizarre pains in my foot. I can't even explain it - maybe my nerves are beginning to heal and are on the fritz? And my cast is very uncomfortable where the stitches were on the outside of my foot, but that's a different pain. I'm actually going to the doctor next week to check that out. But the other pains are new. I was wondering if anyone else has been experiencing them? They sort of feel like someone is scraping their finger along my incisions and other times it feels like the tendons are pulling, no not exactly that, but close. Like I said, it's very difficult to describe the feeling.
I think I might have to find one of these knee walkers, they sound wonderful.
yaohua
03-27-2009, 12:59 AM
Hi, SoCalGal09, I am glad that you are doing well on your recovery. From your post, I got a few more tips. I still have a few days before the surgery, I am trying to prepare for the long haul. Tomorrow I will go to CVS to get toilet railings. The last few days I practiced going to bathroom with one foot. It was hard, I had difficulty to sit down and get up from the toilet. I found that I have to grab the door frame to slowly sit down and get up. It helped because the toilet is in a small room and the doorframe is within reach. Another good idea is having a step stool in the bath room to rest the foot. I will leave one in there. One question to anyone is when you went to the hospital for surgery, did you wear pants or skirt. If pants, do we need a wide bottom pants, or rip the side seam of the pants so that the casted foot will be able to get through the pants. I am asking tedious questions, hope you all don't mind.
yaohua
03-27-2009, 01:19 AM
I am sorry to hear that your mom is in the hospital. Hope she gets better and goes home soon. I know how much you would want to be with her. My daughter used to live at St. Paul and we visited her and her husband a few times. It is a cold place in the winter. Do you have problem riding your knee walker on snow/ice? The Olive Garden episode should have not happened. They should be more compassionate with us, handicapped people.
yaohua
03-27-2009, 01:51 AM
emmie54--I read a lot of info your posted. You don't know how much your experience has helped others with similar situation. Many of us obtain valuation information without being members. I don't know if I will be able to make any contribution to the site like you and many others do, but I certainly enjoy reading the message board and receiving your enouragement and support.
I have a knee walker already. I may also rent a wheelchair at some point of time depending upon how well I can manage the knee walker. Are you almost half-way through the recovery time? My doctor said that it will take 10 months for me to get my foot into tennis shoes and a whole year to fully recoverd. Well, I guess I probably should get myself back to reality since I have not had my surgery yet. Anyway, thanks for the info. I will have more to report after April 1st. Hope I feel good enough then to get on my pc checking the message board.
I have a knee walker already. I may also rent a wheelchair at some point of time depending upon how well I can manage the knee walker. Are you almost half-way through the recovery time? My doctor said that it will take 10 months for me to get my foot into tennis shoes and a whole year to fully recoverd. Well, I guess I probably should get myself back to reality since I have not had my surgery yet. Anyway, thanks for the info. I will have more to report after April 1st. Hope I feel good enough then to get on my pc checking the message board.
walleye77
03-27-2009, 10:38 AM
Thanks. Right now there isn't any snow, a little ice but the side walks are clear. You are wrong about contributing sometimes just a hello can make someone feel good.. Just being out here sharing how you are or will be getting along will help you get through it all. We all will be here for you. Please let us know how are are after your surgery.
emmie54
03-27-2009, 12:00 PM
yaohua, welcome to the board! My surgery was actually three years ago. I have had some ongoing issues I won't bore you with that has kept me lurking here. Also, I SO wish I had found this board before my surgery instead of after, so I really want to help in any way I can those who are newbies. :D While everyone's recovery may be a little different we have more in common than not and it helps to share with others who understand what you are going through.
Good luck with your surgery. Sounds like you are prepared. What all is your surgeon going to do? I had tendon transfer and sliding calcaneal osteotomy. My surgery took about 5 hours, I was in the hospital two nights. was supposed to be one but I had problems with the anesthesia/pain meds they were giving me.
re: weather. It always affects my foot. always. We have had severe storms down south for the last two nights and expecting more tonight. My foot hates it. :eek:
Good luck with your surgery. Sounds like you are prepared. What all is your surgeon going to do? I had tendon transfer and sliding calcaneal osteotomy. My surgery took about 5 hours, I was in the hospital two nights. was supposed to be one but I had problems with the anesthesia/pain meds they were giving me.
re: weather. It always affects my foot. always. We have had severe storms down south for the last two nights and expecting more tonight. My foot hates it. :eek:
yaohua
03-27-2009, 04:15 PM
Thanks for your responses. I have two questions:
socalgal09 -- I went to CVS this morning. They don't have railing on toilet. However, they do have raised toilet seat. I don't think that is what you meant. Are you allowed to give me more information about the railing you bought? I do find myself having difficulty sitting down or getting up from the toilet seat.
Emmie54 -- Your experience have helped us a lot, so did everyone else who jumped in the message board. What kind of the wheelchair did you use? A transport one (needs someone to push you), or one that you can move yourself by moving the wheels? From what I understand (not completely) from my doctor, my surgery involves probably 4 procedures: 1. posterior tibial tendon debridement (this is tendon cleanup, I think), 2. flexor digitorum tendon transfer to the navicular (I think this is tendon transfer), 3. a calcaneal slide osteotomy (this must be shifting my heel bone, or something), and 4. first tarsometatarsal fusion of the medial column (this one, I don't really know what it is. I think that it probably has something to do with my big toe, but I don't really have any big issue with my big toe. However, I did have buion removed 9 years ago.) All these medical jargons confused me and even with a proper Chinese translation would not help me understand. I am Chinese American, but have lived in the US for almost 44 years. Do you by any chance know what #4 procedure is? These last couple of weeks, my foot pain has shifted from posterior tibial area to the top and outside of the foot. Hopefully, there is no new problems of my foot. I want to keep my foot and use it for the next 30 years. ;) By the way, I was told that my surgery would last 2 to 2-1/2 hours, and I am supposed to spend one night in the hospital. Thanks for your help.
socalgal09 -- I went to CVS this morning. They don't have railing on toilet. However, they do have raised toilet seat. I don't think that is what you meant. Are you allowed to give me more information about the railing you bought? I do find myself having difficulty sitting down or getting up from the toilet seat.
Emmie54 -- Your experience have helped us a lot, so did everyone else who jumped in the message board. What kind of the wheelchair did you use? A transport one (needs someone to push you), or one that you can move yourself by moving the wheels? From what I understand (not completely) from my doctor, my surgery involves probably 4 procedures: 1. posterior tibial tendon debridement (this is tendon cleanup, I think), 2. flexor digitorum tendon transfer to the navicular (I think this is tendon transfer), 3. a calcaneal slide osteotomy (this must be shifting my heel bone, or something), and 4. first tarsometatarsal fusion of the medial column (this one, I don't really know what it is. I think that it probably has something to do with my big toe, but I don't really have any big issue with my big toe. However, I did have buion removed 9 years ago.) All these medical jargons confused me and even with a proper Chinese translation would not help me understand. I am Chinese American, but have lived in the US for almost 44 years. Do you by any chance know what #4 procedure is? These last couple of weeks, my foot pain has shifted from posterior tibial area to the top and outside of the foot. Hopefully, there is no new problems of my foot. I want to keep my foot and use it for the next 30 years. ;) By the way, I was told that my surgery would last 2 to 2-1/2 hours, and I am supposed to spend one night in the hospital. Thanks for your help.
WorldWalker
03-27-2009, 04:54 PM
Goodness I have a lot of reading to catch up on the board! I'm happy to give my late welcome to the board and hope it helps!
Yaohua: I wore PJ pants that were kinda stretchy but comfy, I had no problems there. I have no need to rip my clothes anytime soon and I haven't had to yet. I'm also in MN, despite the london thing. I had trouble at first and falling was bad because a lot of people slip in MN so I got a few looks like why is that a big deal and then they realized I had crutches. Sometimes when I have trouble people help me up. It's weird, but nice when I'm on the bus. I have yet to take the knee walker out, I use crutches and suggest padded bike gloves for less pain. My worry is now without the snow and ice that the sand will make me fall. I still cover my toes in case it's wet from melted snow or the unusual amount of rain that we had last week. As for sitting down and getting up, I just use my good leg, but I also live in my grandfather's old house so I've got bars built into the house I'm at, maybe a cane would help or something sturdy to grasp like a chair? I looked some of my procedure's up online and saw some very intense pictures :eek: I also regret looking at videos but I was ok in the end knowing so much about it. I guess it depends on if you're one to squirm. I cringed a lil so I'm not hard core but I try. As for crutches I really love mine and I think they're better for mobility because they're the forearm crutches and not the regular kind, maybe test drive those for a good investment.
Walleye- I hope your mother is doing well and I invite you to mentally jump for joy at the fact the MN winter is over! :bouncing: As for going out, I can't recall going to eat, 'cept at Mickey's which was very hard and small. I'm surprised at how many places aren't handicap friendly and on what conditions.
I'm glad the discussion is growing.
Yaohua: I wore PJ pants that were kinda stretchy but comfy, I had no problems there. I have no need to rip my clothes anytime soon and I haven't had to yet. I'm also in MN, despite the london thing. I had trouble at first and falling was bad because a lot of people slip in MN so I got a few looks like why is that a big deal and then they realized I had crutches. Sometimes when I have trouble people help me up. It's weird, but nice when I'm on the bus. I have yet to take the knee walker out, I use crutches and suggest padded bike gloves for less pain. My worry is now without the snow and ice that the sand will make me fall. I still cover my toes in case it's wet from melted snow or the unusual amount of rain that we had last week. As for sitting down and getting up, I just use my good leg, but I also live in my grandfather's old house so I've got bars built into the house I'm at, maybe a cane would help or something sturdy to grasp like a chair? I looked some of my procedure's up online and saw some very intense pictures :eek: I also regret looking at videos but I was ok in the end knowing so much about it. I guess it depends on if you're one to squirm. I cringed a lil so I'm not hard core but I try. As for crutches I really love mine and I think they're better for mobility because they're the forearm crutches and not the regular kind, maybe test drive those for a good investment.
Walleye- I hope your mother is doing well and I invite you to mentally jump for joy at the fact the MN winter is over! :bouncing: As for going out, I can't recall going to eat, 'cept at Mickey's which was very hard and small. I'm surprised at how many places aren't handicap friendly and on what conditions.
I'm glad the discussion is growing.
SoCalGal09
03-27-2009, 05:12 PM
yaohua - I went the the CVS website and couldn't find the seat rails that I got, but when I Googled 'toilet safety rails' I found a site - nextag.com that sells them. You can go to that site and see what I'm talking about so you have a visual. I didn't want the raised toilet (balancing on one foot, I didn't know if my aim would be great, if you know what I mean).
I found out a few more things that might help before your surgery - one, these fabulous knee walkers a few people have mentioned on here can be rented and most insurance companies will cover the cost! I had no idea. But you need a prescription from your doctor. It took some calling around, but I was able to find a place that carries the knee walker close to me, so check around.
Also, you can get a handicapped placard for your car! Again, you need a doctor's note to get it and then you have to go to the DMV for the placard, but that's a small price to pay for being able to park close to your destination. I wasn't allowed to drive until I got my hard cast and for the first 10 days I only drove to pick up my son from school. But now I'm getting out more, and the placard will really help. (my surgery was on my left foot. from what I understand, right foot surgeries are not approved for driving for a long, long time).
Something else I thought of - the pain meds they give you in the hospital will really constipate you, so have some exlax at home and some fiber, lots of extra fiber.
I think I had all the things done you are having done, I don't know the technical names for everything and I have no idea what your #4 is, it might be achilles lenthening (I had that, too). Anyway, just breathe, be calm and know that it will all be better in the long run. My friends and family don't really get why I'm out of breath just going to the bathroom, but all of us here on the boards totally get it!
I'm so glad I found this board and all these fabulous women who understand.
I found out a few more things that might help before your surgery - one, these fabulous knee walkers a few people have mentioned on here can be rented and most insurance companies will cover the cost! I had no idea. But you need a prescription from your doctor. It took some calling around, but I was able to find a place that carries the knee walker close to me, so check around.
Also, you can get a handicapped placard for your car! Again, you need a doctor's note to get it and then you have to go to the DMV for the placard, but that's a small price to pay for being able to park close to your destination. I wasn't allowed to drive until I got my hard cast and for the first 10 days I only drove to pick up my son from school. But now I'm getting out more, and the placard will really help. (my surgery was on my left foot. from what I understand, right foot surgeries are not approved for driving for a long, long time).
Something else I thought of - the pain meds they give you in the hospital will really constipate you, so have some exlax at home and some fiber, lots of extra fiber.
I think I had all the things done you are having done, I don't know the technical names for everything and I have no idea what your #4 is, it might be achilles lenthening (I had that, too). Anyway, just breathe, be calm and know that it will all be better in the long run. My friends and family don't really get why I'm out of breath just going to the bathroom, but all of us here on the boards totally get it!
I'm so glad I found this board and all these fabulous women who understand.
walleye77
03-27-2009, 07:35 PM
My mom is doing better, thanks everyone.
This is kind of a spendy thing to do but our toilet wasn't working to my standards so I had my husband put in what I call the handicap high seated one. Its pretty nice not having to feel like you are going to end up sitting on the floor and how the heck are you going to get back up!!!! Most older homes do not have a large bathroom so we have to be creative. I don't have hand rails and have asked for them but no such luck. My right foot and leg is getting its muscles worked real good.
Question for those that have casts. Does your feel like it rubbing all the time? Even my air cast feels like that. Is there a way to make it not feel like that?
This is kind of a spendy thing to do but our toilet wasn't working to my standards so I had my husband put in what I call the handicap high seated one. Its pretty nice not having to feel like you are going to end up sitting on the floor and how the heck are you going to get back up!!!! Most older homes do not have a large bathroom so we have to be creative. I don't have hand rails and have asked for them but no such luck. My right foot and leg is getting its muscles worked real good.
Question for those that have casts. Does your feel like it rubbing all the time? Even my air cast feels like that. Is there a way to make it not feel like that?
SoCalGal09
03-27-2009, 07:47 PM
Hey Walleye, that's great your mom is doing better!
My mom also got one of those higher toilets, I never knew they made them. When I remodel, that's what I'm putting in, not for my recovery, because I'm getting old and the less lowering I have to do, the better!
As for the rubbing, my foot rubs all the time! I went today and got a new cast because it was rubbing so bad I couldn't sleep at night. I was afraid the wounds were open and bleeding. They weren't, thankfully. The new cast has a lot more padding and I haven't felt the pain as much as before, but I fear once the foot and leg swelling goes down some more it will. I just try to find a position where the cast is off the wound (back of foot, near heel and under ankle bone). I would love to hear what others are doing because this is driving me nuts!:dizzy:
My mom also got one of those higher toilets, I never knew they made them. When I remodel, that's what I'm putting in, not for my recovery, because I'm getting old and the less lowering I have to do, the better!
As for the rubbing, my foot rubs all the time! I went today and got a new cast because it was rubbing so bad I couldn't sleep at night. I was afraid the wounds were open and bleeding. They weren't, thankfully. The new cast has a lot more padding and I haven't felt the pain as much as before, but I fear once the foot and leg swelling goes down some more it will. I just try to find a position where the cast is off the wound (back of foot, near heel and under ankle bone). I would love to hear what others are doing because this is driving me nuts!:dizzy:
emmie54
03-27-2009, 10:44 PM
walleye-I'm also happy to hear your mother is better.
yaohua- I used the raised toilet seat. It was wonderful. My wheelchair was the regular kind. The transport chairs don't have the legs that can be elevated and that was a big thing. I pushed mine around with my good foot, didn't really use the big wheels to get myself going. Also, the regular chair is much more comfortable to ride in when being pushed as the transport chair just has four little wheels and bounces a lot. (My Mom had one of those and I would rattle her teeth out taking her to the doctor!)
I'm not sure about your #4 procedure. The others are exactly what I had. Not sure why mine took so long.
yaohua- I used the raised toilet seat. It was wonderful. My wheelchair was the regular kind. The transport chairs don't have the legs that can be elevated and that was a big thing. I pushed mine around with my good foot, didn't really use the big wheels to get myself going. Also, the regular chair is much more comfortable to ride in when being pushed as the transport chair just has four little wheels and bounces a lot. (My Mom had one of those and I would rattle her teeth out taking her to the doctor!)
I'm not sure about your #4 procedure. The others are exactly what I had. Not sure why mine took so long.
WorldWalker
03-28-2009, 12:08 AM
Quick idea, the back of the toilet has that flat surface that fills with water after a flush. I remember reading about someone having trouble and the talk of buying something to help. I'm not sure if it's youth or what but maybe you could try putting your hand on that part of the toilet for support and then stand with your good leg for stability. That way you've got something to hang on to and create sturdy balance? I haven't thought it through entirely but it worked. I hope I've helped someone and maybe save someone a few $$$.
yaohua
03-28-2009, 12:58 AM
Thank you all for all the information you gave me. I now have pretty good ideas about raised toilet seats vs. toilet safty railings. My husband also wants to install a grab bar on the wall in front of toilet, so that I can pull myself up. Thanks for the website of those safty railings. I got a doctor's order for a handicapped placard the last time I saw him, and I also bought a knee walker on ebay. Tomorrow, my husband and I will check on rental of wheelchair. He can get it for me, just in case I need it later.
Wish you all have a great weekend. This is my last free moving weekend before the surgery on Wednesday. You know what I mean! Somehow, I feel like I am going to jail for two months. Well, maybe just two weeks because I need to see my doctor for a 2-week followup.
Wish you all have a great weekend. This is my last free moving weekend before the surgery on Wednesday. You know what I mean! Somehow, I feel like I am going to jail for two months. Well, maybe just two weeks because I need to see my doctor for a 2-week followup.
hurts2walk
03-28-2009, 01:24 AM
Welcome to the newbies!
I am trying to catch up on the posts here and "get to know" our new friends.
I wanted to put my two cents in on the toilet issue. I used a walker in the bathroom. I thought it worked pretty good for "hoisting" myself up.
And I resisted a wheelchair at first but once I got one....I was so happy. I could get around so much better. I could wheel around the kitchen and hop up at the counter. I could carry things in my lap, let the dog out etc.
Good luck on Wednesday with the surgery yaohua. We will be here for you!
I am trying to catch up on the posts here and "get to know" our new friends.
I wanted to put my two cents in on the toilet issue. I used a walker in the bathroom. I thought it worked pretty good for "hoisting" myself up.
And I resisted a wheelchair at first but once I got one....I was so happy. I could get around so much better. I could wheel around the kitchen and hop up at the counter. I could carry things in my lap, let the dog out etc.
Good luck on Wednesday with the surgery yaohua. We will be here for you!
tijean
03-28-2009, 08:07 AM
My mom is doing better, thanks everyone.
This is kind of a spendy thing to do but our toilet wasn't working to my standards so I had my husband put in what I call the handicap high seated one. Its pretty nice not having to feel like you are going to end up sitting on the floor and how the heck are you going to get back up!!!! Most older homes do not have a large bathroom so we have to be creative. I don't have hand rails and have asked for them but no such luck. My right foot and leg is getting its muscles worked real good.
Question for those that have casts. Does your feel like it rubbing all the time? Even my air cast feels like that. Is there a way to make it not feel like that?
Hello Walleye... I too hada lot of trouble with cast and then air boot rubbing.
It was driving me nuts. I found I could only lay with the cast tilted to the right
on pillows, it relieved it so I could sleep... Pills helped too! With the air cast the same spot was killing me , inside of my ankle around the incision. With most of the hardware (plate and seven screws) on the outside ankle I thought that would be the place that would rub. Now I realize a lot of the pain was tight muscle tissue being irritated by the cast and boot. With a lot of massage in that area, the burning pain has diminished a lot... along with strengthening the muscle I guess. I also padded the boot with bubble wrap and a small gel pad (thanks to Ed here on the board!) it has helped tremendously. I also keep the ankle wrapped in an Ace bandage before I put on my sock and boot. This helps keep the swelling down so I don't have a Fred Flintstone foot when I take the boot off. It gets a little better every couple of days... It really does! Hang in there!!
This is kind of a spendy thing to do but our toilet wasn't working to my standards so I had my husband put in what I call the handicap high seated one. Its pretty nice not having to feel like you are going to end up sitting on the floor and how the heck are you going to get back up!!!! Most older homes do not have a large bathroom so we have to be creative. I don't have hand rails and have asked for them but no such luck. My right foot and leg is getting its muscles worked real good.
Question for those that have casts. Does your feel like it rubbing all the time? Even my air cast feels like that. Is there a way to make it not feel like that?
Hello Walleye... I too hada lot of trouble with cast and then air boot rubbing.
It was driving me nuts. I found I could only lay with the cast tilted to the right
on pillows, it relieved it so I could sleep... Pills helped too! With the air cast the same spot was killing me , inside of my ankle around the incision. With most of the hardware (plate and seven screws) on the outside ankle I thought that would be the place that would rub. Now I realize a lot of the pain was tight muscle tissue being irritated by the cast and boot. With a lot of massage in that area, the burning pain has diminished a lot... along with strengthening the muscle I guess. I also padded the boot with bubble wrap and a small gel pad (thanks to Ed here on the board!) it has helped tremendously. I also keep the ankle wrapped in an Ace bandage before I put on my sock and boot. This helps keep the swelling down so I don't have a Fred Flintstone foot when I take the boot off. It gets a little better every couple of days... It really does! Hang in there!!
walleye77
03-28-2009, 10:25 AM
I like the bubble wrap idea. Will be trying that. The pills ya I have had to take them everyday have cut down from 2 weeks ago. Was hoping to stop them but maybe not yet. I have tried more air, less air in this boot. Have tried lots of pillows to no pillows I just can't find a happy medium, sure hope it won't be like this for the next 4 weeks. I'll go nuts:dizzy:!
I get to go out tonight to a banquet. Thank god its casual as I only have starter pants with the snaps down the side I can get on. Hoping to make the whole night about 4 1/2 hours. I even called ahead to get seating where I can get out easily. I'm excited. :D Its that little kid in me oh well.
I get to go out tonight to a banquet. Thank god its casual as I only have starter pants with the snaps down the side I can get on. Hoping to make the whole night about 4 1/2 hours. I even called ahead to get seating where I can get out easily. I'm excited. :D Its that little kid in me oh well.
WorldWalker
03-28-2009, 08:45 PM
Oh, also stock up on PlumSmart Juice and one a day pills to get nutrients and vitamins to help w/healing.
walleye77
03-30-2009, 10:21 AM
Worldwalker do you find the plumsmart to really work?
SoCalGal09
03-30-2009, 11:30 AM
What's plumsmart and what does it do?
WorldWalker
03-30-2009, 06:17 PM
It's a drink that helps give you the fiber you may miss. And yes, I believe it works. It even tastes better than prune juice. I've been doing my best to eat smart, but I'm a college kid...I'm genetically drawn to pizza...x.x; You should look it up online for details to make your own judgement about it.
SoCalGal09
03-30-2009, 09:39 PM
Worldwalker, how cute are you! I thought you'd be old like me from your screen name, but no! You're just a baby. Isn't it awful how pizza calls to you when you're a college student. And you know what? It continues to do so as you get older, too.
But anyway, I found eating healthy and taking all my vitamins every day, even if I didn't want to, really helped. I also take a probiotic everday (2 times, in fact) and I'm hooked. Neither I nor my family has been sick since we started with the probiotics. I'm going to check out the plumsmart juice since I usually drink cran-grape, but can use the fiber. Thanks!
How is everyone doing this week? Yoahua, you ready for Wednesday?
But anyway, I found eating healthy and taking all my vitamins every day, even if I didn't want to, really helped. I also take a probiotic everday (2 times, in fact) and I'm hooked. Neither I nor my family has been sick since we started with the probiotics. I'm going to check out the plumsmart juice since I usually drink cran-grape, but can use the fiber. Thanks!
How is everyone doing this week? Yoahua, you ready for Wednesday?
yaohua
03-31-2009, 10:07 AM
Thanks for asking, socalgal09. I am OK. I am ready and I am not ready for Wed surgery. I could not sleep well the last two nights, surgery was on my mind. I went for a body message yesterday, which helped loose up a little. Anyway, I have to be ready. We have to be at the hospital at 6 a.m. tomorrow We live an hour from hospital. So I will be up at 4:30 a.m. latest. I am scheduled to spend one night at the hospital. If everything works fine, I should be back home Thursday afternoon, I think.
I will start a new thread when I come back from hospital reporting about my post-op. I find that I rely on all of your support, information, and experiences more than my family and friends. Thay will help you and do whatever you ask for, but it is hard for them to totally understand what we are going through. If I am up to it, I will try to report back on Thursday.
I will start a new thread when I come back from hospital reporting about my post-op. I find that I rely on all of your support, information, and experiences more than my family and friends. Thay will help you and do whatever you ask for, but it is hard for them to totally understand what we are going through. If I am up to it, I will try to report back on Thursday.
walleye77
03-31-2009, 08:35 PM
Good luck Yaohua. Will be looking for your posts when you are up to it. Bigs hugs:angel:
pamgporter
11-02-2009, 02:11 PM
Has anyone you have heard from had bone taken from their hip for the PTTD Surgery?