Hi all, I got my cast off today after 7 weeks being immobile.
I’m full weight bearing as tolerated - my ankle, foot, and part of calf is numb however.
I had an orif fibular repair with a plate and 7 screws inserted. Is the numbness normal?
I’m able to put some weight but can’t walk unless I’ve got the crutches. I start PT in a few weeks.
Can anyone else chime in with their experience with their first few days post cast and into a walking boot?
Hi Sandra, That's so exciting! Your progress will go so much faster now. I am almost 7 months post op with 16 screws and a plate. My foot is still numb in certain spots mainly around my toes. Take it slow and get a good PT, they actually have more too do with your recovery than your surgeon at this point. I started PT right after the cast came off. It took about 3 weeks in the boot until I could walk unaided across a room. Good luck hopefully the hardest part is behind you.
You have a bruised nerve probably. Give it six weeks. If it improves then it's not permanent. It will all go away.
Sandra,
Congratulations on your promotion to full weight bearing (as tolerated, keep that qualification from your doctor in mind right now).
I know it comes as a surprise to many ankle patients that, although their doctor has essentially turned them loose since their fractures are stable, they are now experiencing difficulties getting back on their feet. Where to turn now?
Well, you are essentially on your own. The usual path for these folks is to struggle with walking, often with pain, swelling, and nerve-related type symptoms. This is usually the stage where any soft tissue injuries that accompanied their fractures rear their ugly heads (ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves-- the list goes on and on).
Please don't be discouraged, and please be patient with your body. Human bodies are far stronger and resilient than we give them credit for.
I highly recommend an aggressive physical therapy (find a competent professional PT is you need one as a coach) and nutritious diet regimen (no junk) to help with the 3 S's for rehabbing a broken ankle: Support, Strengthen, and Stabilize. This requires time, diligence, patience, and above all a positive attitude.
Thank you so much! All of these responses were helpful, but yours has been the most!
I struggled through the weekend and might have pushed myself a bit too hard (mornings and nights are the worst with pain). I’m doing okay walking in the boot and I start PT at the physical therapy center affiliated with my surgeon (Illinois bone and joint institute) next week. I’m anxious to begin driving again (it’s my right foot) - so I’ve been focusing on bending and flexing my ankle and trying to get some of that movement back.
Thank you again for the encouraging words!!!