Update on Pain and Loopiness

[Quixotic1]

As you all know, I have been gimping around complaining to all who would listen about the ankle that went "Pop!" under me last week.  Even though I told the Doc-in-the-Box that the worst pain was on the side of my lower leg up by the knee, she only would x-ray the ankle which was super swollen and four shades of purple.  I've been walking around on it for a week.

I saw the orthopedist this am.  I have a Massionneurve fracture.  This is a complete rupture of the ligaments of the inside ankle (with or without a fracture of the medial malleolus) which then allowed the whole ankle and foot to externally rotate - so that the big bone (tibia) and the little bone (fibula) criss-crossed one another.  This then resulted in a spiral fracture of the fibula near the top.  All the fascia in between the bones was damaged.  No wonder the calf hurt so much.  The UC doc should have listened to me.  

My ankle is unstable, but in perfect alignment and the fracture is non-displaced.  So I have a walking boot on with orders to stay off of it and keep it elevated.  If it heals in place over 6 weeks or so, then all is well.  If it stays unstable then I will need a couple screws in the ankle.  Here is a picture of the fracture that looks a lot like mine.

http://rad.usuhs.edu/medpix/master.php3?mode=topic_images&recnum=6626&quiz=#top

The fibula only takes about 17% of the weight of the load on the leg.  That's why I have been able to walk.  I would think it would heal if we leave both ends of the bone in the same room.  The ankle rupture may be more problematic.

I'm still needing more pain meds, but that should subside once it stays immobilized for a while.  I will buy a little laptop to use in my recliner so I can be on the forum with you guys.  Lots to say.

I see you all are holding down the forum beautifully, but I want to be wanted and will be here soon.

Keep the peace

Quix, the Gimpy

[rendean]

Dear Quix,

sorry I have been so late in posting regarding your unfortunate and vey paiful accident.
You have my sympathies including all the extra ones hiding in the closet. I worked on an ortho floor for almost2 years...worst pain a person can have (excluding kidney stones and natural childbirth).

I hope your healing process goes quickly and the pain subsides. I'm sure this depends on how much you follow the doc's orders. Seems docs make the worst patients.

One other note. Can I use part of a comment from a post written above by you? "I had a DEXA scan a couple years ago and my bones rival those of a healthy 35 year old woman.  I am unusually dense."  It's the last four words I was referring to. Just asking....
lol.

Sending feel better and quick healing thoughts  your way,
Ren

[steph74]

That sounds painful!  I hope it heals soon.  But I'm glad you figured out what was really going on, instead of just accepting the first answer.

Stephanie

[RedFlame]

Quix, I'm so sorry, that just sounds awful.  What a predicament you are in with the pain in your leg and the incontinence.  What a combination to have!  I'm sorry you are going through all of this right now.  

Some of these responses are just hysterical.  Sometimes life can be so bad that you just have to laugh.  

I'm not sure about the Segway thing as that involves coordination and balance.  I was thinking along the line of a Zip Line that would lift you from your chair directly to that bathroom  possibly with your laptop still in your lap.  

I know the pain you are isn't funny---just trying to add brevity when possible.

Thank you for being so available to us and allowing us to help you as well.


(((Hugs)))

Red

[HVAC]

Careful with those ligaments they are fragile the first three months I kept tearing mine.

How is the itching? I am itchy and -itchy. The forth week of poison ivy is getting to me. I just take tranquillizers and sleep otherwise I itch myself raw. Now it is on my belly.

My poor husband.

Alex

[Sparkysarah]

You are always wanted and are so helpful with all that you are able to give on this forum. However right now you need to rest and look after yourself.

2 Years ago I ruptured all the ligaments in my left ankle (by tripping over a forklift truck as one does!!)  I could not believe how long it took to heal. I was in plaster for 5 weeks and then had physio for what felt like months.

I really empathise with you and hope that your recovery is not prolonged.

With love and hugs

Sarah xxx

[Inny2009]

Wow, you really had a doosie didnt ya! My goodness. Well, the good news is you got a laptop out of the deal, bad news is your in pain. Im sorry that you have this to deal with! Keep yourself rested and take care of that ankle/leg/foot of yours!!

gentle hugs to you,

Inny