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Fractured ankle, anyone else had one?

(36 Posts)
Chrissielou Sat 31-Jul-21 14:49:14

Yes, I too broke my ankle in 3 places some years ago. I had lots of physio over many months and was told I would probably walk with a stick. I don't, am an avid walker but do have to be very careful on uneven ground. Was told to expect to get arthritis in that ankle too.

MayBee70 Sat 31-Jul-21 14:44:48

About 10 years ago I developed arthritis in my knee and it was interesting to read back over that time. It seemed to go on forever but it took 9 months. A visit to a chiropractor ( or osteopath) turned things round for me. You do tend to forget minor details that are actually important. Would it be insensitive of me to ask how you coped with the dog when you were injured? I often worry about something happening to me when I’m out walking mine. My big worry pandemic wise is something happening to both of us and there being no one to look after the dog.

Smurf52 Sat 31-Jul-21 14:32:37

MayBee70

I’m so sorry to read this. I’m ashamed to say I’ve been feeling sorry for myself just because I can’t walk as well as I used to. Could you keep a diary, a record of your progress? It might seem like a long haul at the moment (and you mustn’t rush things!) but you will be able to read back and see how things have improved. And, of course, you can come on here and have a moan or report on your progress.

Good idea MayBee.

Smurf52 Sat 31-Jul-21 14:31:08

Thanks all for your encouraging posts. It's perked me up a lot.

MayBee70 Sat 31-Jul-21 14:29:14

I’m so sorry to read this. I’m ashamed to say I’ve been feeling sorry for myself just because I can’t walk as well as I used to. Could you keep a diary, a record of your progress? It might seem like a long haul at the moment (and you mustn’t rush things!) but you will be able to read back and see how things have improved. And, of course, you can come on here and have a moan or report on your progress.

Oldbat1 Sat 31-Jul-21 14:23:35

Sorry to read about your accident. I broke my ankle aged 16 does that count? Hope you heal very soon. Best wishes.

Dogsmakemesmile Sat 31-Jul-21 14:01:19

Don't despair Smurf. I had similar fall and subsequent diagnosis of fractured ankle some sixteen weeks ago. Felt all the emotions you are undergoing but don't! Focus on yourself and your recovery. It is a long slog but worth it to get right. I did not need an operation, was put in plaster for six weeks then a boot. Just got the hang of walking again then fell down some stairs (stupidity to blame) and currently have fractured bone in knee. That was some two weeks ago. Felt like Groundhog Day. Any offers of help please accept. Your confidence will be knocked. I also fell while out walking my beloved dog and had to wait for assistance. I think I was in shock for a couple of weeks and then I accepted situation and focused on what I could do. YOU WILL GET BETTER. YOU WILL WALK YOUR DOG AGAIN. Apologies if this is a bit dogmatic but I so wanted someone to say that to me. I was able to shuffle around on my bottom and get to the bathroom . Buy a shower stool if appropriate. I was not very good with the plastic covers to put over my leg so just stuck it out and covered with a towel. PM me if you want any support. There is an excellent old post here re fractured ankle. It contains link to a SAGA magazine article in diary format written by someone who fractured her ankle. Found it invaluable.

Luckygirl Sat 31-Jul-21 13:51:19

Bad luck - I broke my foot and it was a bit of a long haul - feet are fiddly things with lots of bones.

A friend of mine had similar fractures to you and she is now running around as if nothing happened - must be about 3 months ago I would think.

Take heart - waiting for bones to knit is tedious.

GrannyGravy13 Sat 31-Jul-21 13:48:23

Fractured my ankle and bones in my foot 3 years ago aged 61, I was on 2 crutches for 6 weeks, then 1 for a couple of weeks.

Had 10 weeks of Physiotherapy, all in all approximately 3 months until I was up and running.

Bluebellwould Sat 31-Jul-21 13:47:27

Oh dear what a horrible thing to go through. I can’t help with the broken bone repair timing etc, but I can say I know it will get better and you will get back to your old self. Please don’t feel guilty about feeling upset and miserable, just because there are others worse off than you it doesn’t mean you are not entitled to feel down and out too. Look after yourself and eat well. Before you know it you will be all mended and running a marathon. Wishing you all the best. ?

Smurf52 Sat 31-Jul-21 13:35:37

A month ago on holiday I broke my ankle in three places at the age of 69. Taken my dog for a walk before bedtime, I fell down a wet grassy slope and felt my left leg give way under me and heard a crack. I waited 4 hours for an ambulance in the wet and cold lying on the ground, after a fellow holidaymaker heard my cries for help and phoned 999. My partner was watching the Euros so didn't hear my cries.

I was admitted to hospital and had an operation a week after. I also managed to pick up an ecoli bug in my bladder. I was discharged a week later. Have been home a week with carers coming in twice a day. My sister stayed with me during the week and partner (who I don't live with) at the weekends.

My question is has any GN gone through the same thing. If so, how long after op were they able to get around? I've just been using a commode. I have a frame on wheels ready to move around but haven't got the confidence yet. My first fracture clinic 2 weeks after the op is on Monday 2 August.

I feel helpless and miserable right now at the seemingly long stretch ahead of me before I can be independent again. I also feel guilty feeling like this when there are a lot of people worse off than me.