MW

I am a healthy 52 W/F. I fractured the right tibia, located behind the menicus. Dr. stated surgery would have risks to include tearing up other areas within the area of the fracture. Instead of surgery, has me on on crutches, brace with a 30/70 extention. Rest, ice, elevate leg. No weight placed upon the leg at all. Injury occured two weeks ago. Yesterday, the foot/ankle now has sever edema even after the RICE. What is going on. Is there a need for concern. What's next in the treatment plan. Can anyone help me.

[JainMD]

Hi Mary,
How are you feeling?
I assume that you are talking about Tibial plateau fracture.
The tibial plateau is the proximal weight-bearing surface of the tibia. It is the surface which articulates with the femoral condyles to form the knee joint. It can be divided into medial and lateral components.
A tibial plateau fracture is any fracture involving the proximal articular surface of the tibia. Associated soft-tissue injuries to the knee are likely. The incidences are as follows 91% for lateral meniscus abnormality, 44% for medial meniscus tears, and 68% for tears of 1 or more of the postero-lateral corner structures of the knee.
What is the imaging study done? What is being reported?
I think you should be using a large, bulky dressing with plaster and splints or a well-padded knee immobilizer is used to prevent excessive swelling.
Keep me informed if you have any queries.
Bye.

[maryjg655]

On Tuesday they did a sonogram on the leg due to the swelling. They did find a blood clot. The immediately gave me a shot. (Arixtra) And a shot for the next 10 days. When I have the brace on I swell more and I also have more pain. So I have not been compliant in wearing it. Since Tuesday, the swelling has gone down. Pain level is very low. The doctor did say there was a 2mm shift in bone placement on the lateral but no tears of the meniscus. I am feeling better. Swelling within the joint area is evident. Slow recovery. I am still elevating and bearing no weight on it. Hopefully, within a week or so, I will be able to walk without the use of the crutches. I am an avid runner and I am anxious to return to doing the things I love to do. I know, I will take it one day at a time. I had been training with a team of 11 people to complete a run in March called the Texas Independent Relay 200 plus miles. Maybe next yr.
Thank you JainMD for your response.

[JainMD]

Hi Mary,
Hi Mary,
I am sure you would run for Texas Independent Relay as early as possible.
Non-displaced fractures may be treated without surgery, but they should be immobilized initially and then placed in a hinged knee brace.
I think you should be consulting a physiotherapist as passive range of motion and quadriceps strengthening exercises should be performed until full range of motion is achieved.
Keep me informed if you have any query.
Bye.