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I broke my pelvis and ankle when my horse fell on me and was NWB for 2 months. I was scared, too, but my physiotherapist told me that I was not going to be limping, and he worked with me from the beginning, even before I could put weight on my leg. I was very motivated, because I wanted to get back to riding as soon as possible. 3 months after the injury, I was back in the saddle, and was walking unassisted way before that. It may be a process, even a long one, but you'll get back on your feet if you want to. Are you doing physio? It's super important for your healing.
A serious injury will change you, but probably in ways you haven't considered. It sure changed some things in me, I can tell you that. It mostly made me realize life is short and shit we can't control happens all the time, so I need to give less of a fuck about stuff :) I even wrote a book about my healing journey: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
You'll feel better once you can put weight on your leg, that's for sure. Progress will be faster at that point, too. Good luck!
It won't be as long as you think! The first couple of weeks are hard mentally, but it will get better, I promise.
About a year ago my horse fell on me and I broke my ankle and my pelvis. I was so scared and annoyed, I didn't know when I'll be able to WALK again, let along go back to riding. The first days were horrible. BUT, it got better. I got home, started physiotherapy, had a list of goals to achieve and improved constantly (I even wrote a book about it!).
I was back in the stables after 2 months and 3 months after the injury, I was back in the saddle. I know it sounds like a lot of time, and some injuries take longer, but you WILL get there.
Think about the skateboarding and how bad you wanna go back to it, and do whatever it takes for that. Rest, eat well and do tons of physiotherapy - you'll be back.
Recommend you ask on any apps that you use for a loaner knee scooter, I got two from my Nextdoor app (all terrain and indoors) but your friend’s moms or dads might have one from their procedures. 1000 x easier than crutches. Maybe you can commute with a fellow student after 8 weeks. I think schools have to help you because you are disabled, perhaps provide you with tutoring. Please ask at your health center. You are young and will heal quickly. Don’t give up! I used a handicap toilet because it was higher up and had bars to help me sit down gently. Use clean kitchen garbage bag to keep your cast from getting wet. Moisture creates mold. Get the doctor to fill out paperwork for handicap permit, even if u don’t have a car it will come in handy. You may need to visit ur doctor every couple of weeks.
Life Extension Bone Restore + Vitamin K2 Vitamins & Minerals Maintain Bone Health & Strength - Fortifying Nutrients Calcium, D3 & Important Bone Building Minerals - Non-GMO, Gluten-Free -120 Capsules https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009E9YK90/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_0N67NSZ2QHMAJHNYWB86
Wait, are you sure you're not dead?! :)
Sounds like things suck, but at least you got the proper diagnosis eventually. I broke my pelvis and my ankle last year, when my horse fell on me, and almost got released from the hospital with a broken ankle. They didn't even bother with an x-ray of the leg, because they did a CT for the pelvis and figured the lump on my ankle was just a bruise. Good thing I insisted, so they x-rayed it and scheduled a surgery. Got to spend 10 days in the hospital because of that shit.
But hey, I'm all good now. Got back to riding after 3 months, and used the time to write a book about healing from an injury, too :)
Timeline is different for everybody. I broke my ankle and pelvis and was 8 weeks non-weight bearing. Once I started putting weight on my leg, the crutches went away pretty quickly. I went back to horseback riding after 3 months (even wrote a book about it). My best advice is to do physiotherapy. Start right away, even with a cast on. There are many exercises you can do even while NWB. Physiotherapy is one of the most important things for healing.
When I broke my right humerus about 8 years ago, they put me in a sling like this. It was pretty comfortable. Nice to have the arm cushion to rest on.
https://www.amazon.com/Vive-Shoulder-Abduction-Sling-Immobilizer/dp/B06XRB4PL9
(SADLY) This time I broke the left humerus and got ORIF. I don't know when your surgery is, but it may be kind of a non-issue. I was told I don't have to wear the sling at all when I'm home. I did wear it for the first 2 or 3 days but after that I ditched it. They said wear the sling when you go outside so people can be aware you are injured and hopefully avoid you. I've been using the crappy one they gave me at the hospital and it's been fine so far.
My physical therapist have me an ice pick type thing to go on my crutch to prevent slipping on ice. Very helpful.
This one: NEWGO Ankle Ice Pack Wrap... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NN7XRW8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I broke my tibia and fibula at the ankle, displaced, now have plates/screws on one side and screws on the other. This works perfectly to keep the ice on and in the right spots.
I heard Oofos are good, did you think they're worth the price, other than not being wide enough?
Hoka just came out with some new recovery slides that are adjustable. Expensive as per usual with Hoka, around $80.
I also found recovery slides on Amazon that I've worn a couple times now. They're great bc they're moldable, stick them in the dryer for 5 minutes, then put them on your feet while wearing socks and walk around a bit. They might mold for wide feet if you order a size up? They're cheap, $25ish, I wear them at the gym I go swimming, and water proof.
Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DN4HDP2?ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details&th=1&psc=1
Bone broth soups, don't smoke, how to heal broken bones faster
Yeah, I punched a dumpster I recommend if you have $12 to spare, and the patience to get this book How to Heal Broken Bones Faster
I had a trimal 4 months ago, and my ankle often feels sensitive, but with this being summer, I've never put boots on. I was however looking for something to help me feel comfortable in a crowded room, where someone could accidentally hit the implant area, and bought an 'ankle sleeve'' that hasn't arrived yet. Looking at the reviews, a lot of ppl bought them after breaking an ankle to relieve pressure and sensitivity, so this might be just what you're looking for:
would something like this help maybe?
I broke my foot years ago and the weight of my giant boot would make my foot fall left or right, i had a hard time being comfortable. I know a cast is worse.
A lot of the time, in order to be able to sleep, I would use a huge over-stuffed sofa cushion. i'd lay on my left side with the cushion in front of me, and my right leg and foot up on the cushion in front of me. It wasn't very elevated, but this was only for while i was sleeping so I was laying flat. My foot was above my head/heart, and more importantly I could actually sleep. Most other configurations were just horribly uncomfortable all the time. I hope you heal up well, and soon. :)
Ok, more elevation, now! My uncle is a different kind of surgeon, but he was as adamant as my ortho about elevating as high as tolerable.
There are a few options for elevating. Think short term (NOW) vs longer term (I.e., order online so you have something you can sleep with; being able to elevate when sleeping means you can elevate a substantial part of the day). If you have any close by brick and mortar medical supply/ durable medical equipment shops open on Sundays, then it might be worth a call to them to see if they have any foam wedge pillows in stock and dispatching someone to pick it up for you. Or, if you have removable couch cushions you could use those as a temporary measure. If not, then if you have large blankets (dense, less fluffy comforters/quilts are ideal) that can be folded to get a few inches of elevation.
This pillow is expensive but is ideal leg and ankle position for elevation. This one is far cheaper and you could fold up a hand towel under your ankle/foot to emulate the first pillow. I, um, bought both of them (I bought the more expensive one after I realized that the position I was most comfortable was most like that — I had moved the back cushions on our IKEA Kivik couch into just that position).
She is going to need to keep her foot and leg elevated, so there's going to be a lot of time spent laying down in bed or on the couch. So things like books, magazines, TV, music, maybe audio books if she likes those, crossword puzzles, paper to draw? IDK but things to keep her entertained without needing to move around will be nice.
Also, I have a wedge pillow that I love and it is nice to use for laying down with my legs up on an incline. There are also variations of this that have a leg shaped groove for leg injuries but this one is what I have: wedge cushion
It's nice she has you there to help her. Probably just being kind and keeping her company will do a lot. A major injury is obviously difficult physically, but mentally it is a huge challenge because you are isolated and unable to do simple things for yourself, so having people around to help and support her will be good.
In my experience if you go to a doctor they will tell you to tape the toe to the toe next to it for support, and if you are having trouble walking maybe they'll give you a shoe like this that prevents your toes/foot from bending when you walk. The shoe will help. If it's bad you may need the shoe and tape for 6-8 weeks but if you stop having pain you can stop. I recommend buying "tender tape" because it's easy to remove and not sticky and it comes in convenient toe-sized rolls (they have it at most pharmacies)
I am only telling you this because I have broken 5 toes in my life and the times I went to a doctor I felt it was a waste of money. Except one of them was really bad and I got a vicodin prescription out of it, so that wasn't a complete loss haha.
You could try a pillow like below link, helps keep it elevated and in place. Unfortunately the pain and discomfort from a broken bone may keep you awake anyway. I couldn't sleep more than 3-4 hours the first week or so post-op.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WG3LDZT?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details
Some of these are good. I got this one. Initially it was really good, but eventually it hurt my calf area as the muscle withered away. :/
What ended up being a better set up for me ended up being a normal polyester plus a roll pillow under my knees. The roll pillow took the pressure off my calf, and it was a suggestion from someone on this subreddit. Worked really well!
My ortho told me to get a night splint for sleeping. I can’t imagine sleeping in the walking boot. You may have strict orders to stay in the walking boot though. Here’s the night splint I use: Darco Pneumatic Night Splint, Large https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002BUZW0U?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Get a good physiotherapist. Doctors can be very pessimistic and sometimes even misinformed when it comes to rehabilitation. Physio is key for getting back to your favorite sport.
Start physiotherapy right away. Don't wait. There are many exercises you can do even if you can't yet put weight on your leg. Work with exercise bands, weights - whatever is possible. Do the exercises religiously.
It will take time. Muscle loss is rapid when you get injured, and getting it back takes longer. But you'll get there.
Source: two years ago, my horse fell on me and I broke my pelvis and my ankle. Got back on the saddle after 3 months and even wrote a book about it :) (here it is, if you're interested: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ)
I'm sorry to hear about your recent injury. It really is jarring to go from being self-reliant while living alone, to needing help with something so small as feeding myself or getting out of the shower. Showering is such a challenge, there's so many added steps, but thank goodness for those cast covers!
During my first few weeks I was in so much pain I could barely get around the house to grab things for myself even if I wanted to; didn't go to the store for two months, but only because I was staying with my parents and they took care of that stuff. Now that I'm staying with a couple of friends and I'm PWB, I've made good use of a large backpack, fanny packs, and a leakproof cup and tupperware I got so I can carry my food from different rooms. I'm gonna check out a cupholder for my crutches like another commenter mentioned as well. Rolling chairs like you've been using also work great if your home isn't a total mess like my friends' apartment lol!
Thank you for sharing your experience and kind words. Definitely such a relief to know there's others who understand, although I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Hope your recovery goes great and that you receive all the care that you need 💜
This is the one I got: Copper Compression Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint - Drop Foot Brace and Dorsal Planter Fasciitis Night Splint for Right or Left Foot. Night Splints Support Sleep, Recovery, Tendonitis, Arthritis https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07JXX8QVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_YK9R6EKBFK00M9G0CSRJ
It’s a bit of a pain to put on for sure, but better than an air boot.
Aw I'm sorry to hear that 😔 I've been pretty lucky for the most part.
I got one of these: my bed is against the wall so it's pretty easy to make sure my leg doesn't move at night https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y2HPS4W/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_QTHFVRK3YQ7J8TCQ4MVX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I heard some people get a cool air system for when they're in a cast - I haven't had the need but it might be useful for when you're trying to sleep at night.
ymmv for sure with that (esp if you're stay in the cast for longer)
I hope that you're able to find a solution for the pain soon 🤞🏾
Yes, simply carrying stuff was a huge problem especially when I was home alone when my wife and kids went to work/school. I ended up getting an iWalk from amazing instead of a scooter. I will post a link, but it’s basically a peg leg (yes, lol) that you kneel on and can walk with. It was invaluable for me as it allows you to use both your hands while moving, even won stairs. It’s probably not for everyone, but I took to it very well. It’s $160 which isn’t too pricey, but may be hard to justify if you only need it for 6-8 weeks. I was skeptical at first, but definitely felt it was worth it for me. Check it out.
iWALK3.0 Hands Free Crutch - Pain Free Knee Crutch - Alternative to Crutches https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08WJRWR57/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4KMPD2KF5N6WJJHQ9SS8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Hello! I broke my Tibia in two places and had a trimalleolar ankle fracture in early February and in May had a long flight to Nashville from Portland > Seattle. It was pretty darn swollen post flight.. I'd recommend getting compression leg sleeve.. I wore the one linked below, and since my ankle (lower tib & fib) and tibia (another location) were healing I'd slide it over my heel.. Your trip is definitely doable.. I ended up walking ALL over Nashville, and that was my first week post weight bearing w/o crutches and boot!
I had a foldable cane I used too, that way if I got tired I could whip it out of my bag and didn't have to always use it or carry it. I also had a Tramadol prescription but I only needed it the evening post-flight because the swelling from flying and 20k steps of airport and hotel walking was making it more painful. Other than that Ibuprofen and Advil did the trick! Don't cancel your flight though! Wishing you quick healing!
Absolutely get a walker. I've been helping my boyfriend who experienced this injury in January, and the walker was an absolute godsend. After he fell twice on the crutches, he was understandably petrified of going anywhere.
One thing I did for him that he really likes is that I took one of our storage bins and I stocked it with various snacks and drinks and I keep it near the couch. That way he doesn't have to bug me every time he wants a snack.
So far the worst experience we've had (aside from him falling) was when our apartment building caught fire and we had to evacuate. That...was not fun.
But yeah. It sucks. Hard. I've had my own ankle problems for years, so I'm able to sympathize with him.
Also, buy a cast cover. Something like this. It's a goddamn godsend for the shower.
Life Extension Bone Restore + Vitamin K2 Vitamins & Minerals Maintain Bone Health & Strength - Fortifying Nutrients Calcium, D3 & Important Bone Building Minerals - Non-GMO, Gluten-Free -120 Capsules https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009E9YK90/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_0N67NSZ2QHMAJHNYWB86
Oh yes. I got some compression socks off amazon and they are amazing!!! They were about $30 for 6 pairs.
I think that's a common feeling, at least I felt that way after my talus surgery. Just feels like it's flopping around at night and wanted some gentle support for it. I found this ankle pillow thing on Amazon that helped a bit.
Skil-Care Heel Float -Heel Protector Pressure Relieving Pillow Boot, 4 Inch Wide, Medium (Pack of 1) (4332421527) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LX0K5Q/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_BVAWETM5EXW9BPE5Q7PK
Oh no, it's like a regular sock but with a toe cutout. I honestly don't even notice it once it's on. In the beginning may the incision area was a little sensitive taking it on and off but that's gone away. If I didn't wear it my ankle would throb and the incision area would swell and turn red if I was on my feet for awhile, or sitting with my feet down for longer periods of time. My PT suggested this one from Amazon, which I've basically lived in up until the last week or so.
Also, for reference, this is the comparison of the broken (L) vs. non-broken ankle (R) now. I thought i was at 14 weeks but just did the match and its 15 weeks.
See if you can get some of these where you are, they're really good.
Koolpak Luxury Reusable Hot and Cold Pack https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001RXNF92/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_J89KCFAZVTWCXNDM43FN
Oooh I had a look at these on Amazon, I’m in the uk. Was going to order the below but was worried it would get stuck going upwards on the bulky parts. What do you recon?
LimbO Waterproof Protectors Cast and Dressing Cover - Adult Full Leg (M100: 52-65 cm Upper Thigh Circ. (5’5–6’0)) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00C2QQA90/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_WTYFHTM726ZXCFV5MRTY
Do you think that would go over the knobbly bits. Below is what I’m in
When you say the surgeon threw the brace away, does he have anything on to protect the knee when not exercising? I had a locked leg brace that started at 180 and you increased the available range as your range of motion got better, just to protect it from being forced too far if you slipped or banged it. Looked like this one: ROM Adjustable Knee Brace Support- Post Op Hinged - Universal Leg Size 67 cm Length https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0758CLQTT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_TZ8N3H7PG5RKV1FAF2P5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My only shower is a bath/shower combo, so this clamp-on handle was SO helpful. Way sturdier than the suction cup kind.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B002VWJYX4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
If you are in unbearable pain keep going back to the er. I went to the er 3 days in a row because pain was unmanageable at home so they finally kept me and did surgery the following day. Had I not done that I would’ve had to wait 3 weeks for just a consultation. Get plenty of ice packs and keep it elevated. Invest in a knee scooter. Check out this ice pack And leg elevation pillow
Wishing you a speedy recovery!!
Mental health during recovery is definitely a big issue, especially if you are bedridden for a while. My horse fell on me and I broke my ankle and pelvis. I found it best not to be hard on myself. I did work (all I need is a laptop), but I didn't overwork my little brain. I played silly video games, watched trashy TV and slept when I felt like it.
For me, the hardest thing was boredom and knowing there's very little I can do, except for PT and waiting for time to pass. I hate waiting :) Keeping a journal actually helped a bit. I kept it in a different notebook than my regular journal and tucked it away after I was fully healed.
After a while I found the energy to write a book about the experience of injury recovery.
Physiotherapy is KEY. It is. My pt was very impressed with me because I diligently did all the exercises. I asked what's the big deal, and he told me that most people don't bother. They wait for the weekly appointment and then complain that they are not making progress.
Guys, do your pt. I broke my pelvis and ankle when my horse fell on me, and less than 3 months later I was riding again (walking came sooner, of course). Even wrote a book about it.
Push yourself. Ask for more exercises. Research and come with your own ideas when you meet the pt. Be active and go for it. Movement is the path to healing!
That's great news! Woohoo!
As you put more weight on it, expect some pains in your foot--I had some shooting pains that were scary, but that's just the foot muscles getting used to working again. I did light massage on my foot to help with circulation, and that really helped I think.
I also used a product called an EvenUp shoe lift, which made walking with the boot much easier. You just attach it to your other shoe, and it raises you up so your hips are not off kilter. Have fun with your walks :)
The first few days were terrible. I was in the hospital, feeling like shit, worried sick (I broke both my ankle and pelvis when my horse fell on me). It got better, slowly, especially when I realized I don't need to be a strong hero all the time. Also, if you can't concentrate on "complicated" stuff (couldn't read a book, my mind was just not up to it), do fun stuff - binge on trashy TV, listen to music and sleep. I played Faster Than Light on my laptop for HOURS.
What helped me a lot was doing physiotherapy and writing. I wrote a journal while healing and also wrote a book about the experience (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ)
Go out as much as you can, too. You'll be able to do that more after a while. Speedy recovery!
I currently have a broken leg and accidentally breaking my arm from a fall now is my worst fear. I’m so sorry this happened to you.
I ordered this wedge pillow set and this elevation pillow on Amazon for my broken leg.
I also grabbed an overbed table on wheels since I work from home, along with a waterproof cast cover and a bath chair for showers.
It’s amazing what I found just by entering in “broken leg accessories” on my Amazon app while in the hospital. Feel better soon and hope this helps!
I broke my ankle and my pelvis in 3 places when my horse fell on me last year. Here's my take:
12 weeks NWB is pretty standard. You will lose a lot of muscle, but get a physiotherapy appointment as soon as you can - there are many exercises you can do even in bed, with exercise bands and weights. Nothing will totally prevent muscle loss, but you can work on flexibility and improve circulation.
Pain is a very personal experience. The first few weeks are the worst in most people, so just take the pain meds when you can. I personally refused any opioids, and only took over the counter stuff. After I got home I stopped pain meds altogether. But that's just me. Do what you need to alleviate pain, just make sure you're not taking too much of the "good stuff".
As for moving around - sure, your body is still in shock right now, there's trauma to the muscles and blood vessels around, everything feels weak. It will get better. You can also try a walker or maybe a knee scooter - just talk to a doctor or a pt first.
While I was healing I wrote a book about recovering from an injury, so if you're interested, here it is: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
I broke my pelvis and ankle when my horse fell on me, which of course prevented me from riding for about 3 months. You'll be back! Do the physiotherapy exercises with a vengeance, rest and eat well - your body will eventually heal itself.
If you are interested in reading about the entire experience, I wrote a book about it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
Congrats! I’m at a similar landmark and it is exhausting isn’t it 😂 Keep up the stretching though, it helps so much. If you’re struggling with your a stiff achilles maybe try and work up to stretching with a calf/ankle stretcher . It gets easier, keep it up!
PTSD from an injury is a real thing. I didn't have it as bad as you did, but ambulance sirens still make me anxious and bring back that horrific ride to the hospital. I am perfectly fine these days, but still super careful about my ankle and I avoid jumping if I can. Sometimes I'm even scared to land on my right leg, even though there's no problem or pain when I do it (I was injured about 16 months ago and recovered well).
An injury changes you. Some of these changes pass, some will stay with you even after you heal.
I wrote a book about being injured and healing. I am translating it now and even though time has passed - there are parts of the book I am uncomfortable reading. It's just the way it is, I guess. (here's the book if you're interested: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08RZCV6XZ
I would say talk to them after the surgery. He will need help, but he will probably want to do some things by himself, and won't feel comfortable when help is offered constantly. I know I refused physical help quite a few times, because I didn't want to be touched or supported sometimes (I found it easier to get out of the car by myself, for example, instead of leaning on someone).
Generally speaking, good company is always great, get him treats or small gifts, watch movies on Netflix, that sort of thing. Maybe he'll need help in doing stuff around the house - just offer and let him take you up on it if he wants to.
I wrote a book about recovering from an injury, detailing my healing journey after my horse fell on me - in case you or your friend are interested: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
Last year I broke my ankle and pelvis when my horse fell on me. I started basic PT while in the hospital and bed ridden. Moving any part of the body regularly is VERY important.
I started the "real" PT after the cast was removed from my ankle, and it was great. I thought of it as personal training, only this time I was training to go back to normal. Progress was sometimes slow, but there was always progress, and things moved along VERY quickly once I was allowed to bear weight on my injured leg. Even before that, we did exercises with weights and exercise bands and it gave me something to do, a challenge and of course exercise makes you feel better in general.
Three months after the injury I was back riding my horse. I'm crediting PT for a big part of my healing (even wrote a book about it. if you're interested: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ).
Good luck and keep on moving!
I broke my ankle and pelvis when my horse fell on me last year.
I remember starting to walk after being NWB for about 8 weeks. It was bad at first. I didn't trust my body, I didn't want to put weight on the injured side, I felt weak and achy, unbalanced and annoyed.
It's perfectly normal. You lost a lot of muscle, and you're still kinda shaky. That being said, my pt was INCREDIBLE. We were working way before I could put weight on the leg, and on the day I was allowed to bear weight, he told me it's like starting over, and he's treating me as a new person. He also told me things will go much faster after that, and he was right. I advanced in leaps and bounds (doubts, fear and all), and was back on my horse's back mere 3 months after the injury (and wrote a book about it, to boot! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ).
At first I could only walk very slowly. But we quickly advanced with the exercises and I could walk further and further, we practiced jumps and we even had a short RUN at our final pt session. I fucking hate running, I don't run, I didn't run for YEARS, but run we did, and it was fine.
Trust your body and work hard. You'll be better sooner than you think.
First of all, don't be upset. We've all been there and felt like shit, especially in the beginning of the healing process. It's perfectly normal to be depressed and angry and many other things. It will pass, don't be hard on yourself.
Allow yourself to rest and do as little or as much as you can. I watched HUGE amounts of trashy TV and played stupid games on my laptop (but I also used the time to write a book about healing from an injury: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ - it actually has most of the info and stories you may be looking for at the moment).
As for exercises - you can probably do a lot of leg work, but I would get an appointment with a physiotherapist. A professional pt can really help you with regaining mobility once the cast is off, and can recommend other great exercises to keep you busy.
Rest, don't smoke, eat good food, take vitamin D and calcium and be patient. It's mostly about the body healing itself, really. Just give it a chance.
Also, this here is a pretty great little community, so feel free to rant, vent and ask for advice when you feel the need.
PT was the best thing for me. I broke my ankle and pelvis when my horse fell on me. I started PT even while being NWB and it really helped - physically and mentally. I did all the exercises religiously, my pt was very happy with that. He said that lots of people just wait for the next appointment. I treated pt as personal training and it was great.
The boredom thing was hard. I just let go, really. Watched a lot of trashy TV and played games on my laptop in bed. I did use some of the time to write a book about my healing journey, though :)
The first couple of weeks are the hardest. I know, I've been there and I was so fucking annoyed and scared. I broke my pelvis and my ankle when my horse fell on me. It's been a journey, but I made it through, went back to riding and even wrote a book about it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ. You'll make it, too!
Be patient, rest and get a physiotherapy appointment as soon as possible. PT is what got me through, really. It's the key for healing, in my opinion.
I know that feeling of uncertainty, it really pissed me off when I broke my ankle and pelvis (my horse fell on me). The doctors were really unhelpful. Couldn't find good info on the net, either. So, I wrote a book myself, to try and help those who've had an injury like me. Maybe you can find it useful: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
Also, get a physiotherapist ASAP. In my experience, they are VERY helpful when it comes to info and explaining the process and schedule of healing.
Have a speedy recovery! I was injured over a year ago (my horse fell on me, broke my ankle and pelvis - even wrote a book about it!), and my goal was also to return to my sport ASAP. It takes time, but you'll get there. Rest and do physiotherapy. Make sure you get a good pt, who knows your sport and understands your needs. Get well soon!
I broke my pelvis in three places (plus my ankle) when my horse fell on me. I was none-weight bearing for 8 weeks. I didn't have surgery on the pelvis, just the ankle. I used a walker around the house and crutches outside. It was a humbling experience, but I tried to make the best of it (even wrote a book about it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ).
That was about a year ago. No limp. Got back to riding my horse after about 3 months. The best advice I can give you is get a physiotherapist ASAP and do lots and lots of exercises. Healing is achieved through motion and movement. Even while you are bed-ridden, you can do lots of exercises with weights and special exercise bands.
Other than that, there's not a lot you can do but rest and wait till your body mends. Have a speedy recovery and feel free to ask anything!
The uncertainty and fear are the worst at this point, I know how you feel. I bet most of us do - because no matter the injury, it's really the same: you don't know how your life is gonna look like in the coming months, and that's fucking annoying. I broke my ankle and pelvis when my horse fell on me.
I know it's hard, but you need to let go and be patient. After all is said and done, the thing that heals you is time. Your body needs time to mend the bones. There's not much you can do to make this process faster. Rest, eat well, do physiotherapy (don't wait, get a pt appointment after the surgery - there are many exercises you can do even without bearing weight on your leg), let others help you and try to get a good night sleep when you can.
It will get better, bit by bit. Make a list of achievements you need to get to - even very small ones. For me, at first, it was something as simple as lifting my leg up straight. I went through that list of "stations" while I was healing (walking without crutches, driving, going up the stairs), all the way up to the ultimate one - going back to riding my horse. It took slightly longer than I thought it would, but I got there (and even wrote a book about the process).
If you have any more questions, don't hesitate! Talking about this shit helps, especially with people who have been through it already :)
Heal time can change from person to person. It's probably at least 6-8 weeks until you can start putting weight on your leg again. After surgery, get a physiotherapist and start working right away. Do whatever you can without putting weight on the leg, rest a lot and eat healthy. This is mostly a waiting game, while your body mends.
I broke my ankle and pelvis a year ago, after my horse fell on me. It took me about 3 months to go back to riding, and about a month or so more to feel like I'm OK. It's a journey, no doubt (I even wrote a book about healing from an injury), but you'll get there.
I bought this one a few years ago for a foot injury (and fortunately kept it). It's pretty bare bones, but relatively cheap and has a basket.
The uncertainty really scared me, too! Also, as an independent person that was suddenly bed ridden and needed people to help her, I understand exactly how you feel. It's understandable that you are confused and scared and maybe even angry at this point. I was so pissed when I broke my ankle and pelvis, especially during the first days of the healing process. I even wrote a book about the journey, which I think can answer some of your questions: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ
The fact that you are young is in your favor. See a doctor, do what's need to be done, do your physiotherapy and rest. Your body will heal itself and it's very likely you'll be back to your old self rather quickly. Feel better and if you wanna talk - I'll be happy to answer any question I can.
I know the feeling, I am an impatient healer myself. One of the lessons I've learned from my injury (broke my pelvis and ankle when my horse fell on me, even wrote a book about it), though, is that while you can do some things to heal better and faster, it's mostly about waiting till your body fixes what needs to be fixed. Relax and don't rush it :)
Buy the cushion pads on amazon, for the shoulders. its what i had to do, and also wrap black tape on the crutches for the hands, as after a while your hand will hurt here:
I know the feeling! My accident last year was my first (my horse fell on me, broke my ankle and pelvis), and I knew NOTHING about what's going to happen and what needed to be done. I learned, though. I asked questions and researched. Not knowing is the worst!
Even wrote a book about it :) (shameless plug: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RZCV6XZ)
Im using this guy and its been extremely helpful. Its not big at all but works perfect. Also recently had ankle surgery.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MTQFTPW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I bought this off Amazon: Water Proof Leg Cast Cover for Shower by TKWC Inc - #5738 - Watertight Foot Protector https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F17YKV8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Y6FJ0PM11NVFMWECHA48?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It works great! I also bought a shower chair from Walgreens. With both products I am able to sit in the shower and bathe myself.
Get a shower chair and if you need to buy one of these from amazon...
Routine helped me. Pretty sure I was off Tramadol 4 weeks after my injury, which was a month before yours.
After I was off the drugs I did breathing exercises and white noise apps on my phone. If I was having difficulty sleeping these helped me and were done around the same time I would dose on Tramadol.
So PT went pretty well. He seemed to like where I was at since I had already been doing range of motion with the alphabet exercises. He gave me a theraband and some exercises to to once a day (though I'll probably try to do it twice) and something where you set your foot on the ground and curl your toes to try to make an arch and one where you lift your big toe only then lift your little toes only. Both of those do 10x. Also wants me to do a calf stretch with a non stretchy band. I found a really nice yoga/stretching band on amazon, I'll link it. It's really good for all kinds of stuff. I'll go back tomorrow to work on some more, but he's helping me work on my upper leg also because it's super atrophied too. Be clear about your goals so they can help you as best they know how. He said 3-4x a week for 6 weeks is overkill for where I was movement wise so I'm only going 2x a week for 6 weeks. I'll see if I can post my exercises to Imgur so I can link them here for you.
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Check out elevation pillows on amazon. I preferred the ones with out the channel as I was in two boots and had to elevate both but this works if you are trying not to move: LightEase Memory Foam Leg, Knee, Ankle Support and Elevation Leg Pillow for Surgery https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GF9FTBV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zJ6gEbR6EF835