Having been in a non-weight bearing leg cast for almost six weeks, I have some advice for you, my new, wounded friend. I feel your pain, I know your misery, and I understand everything you are going through.
Hang on, sister. Let me help you through it, okay?
I have compiled ten tips for the woman in a leg cast to help you manage this treacherous road a bit easier. There will be nuggets of skills you will acquire that I won’t mention here because you will naturally learn what’s best for you.
I could tell you that you will spend more time on the floor than a crawling baby. I could tell you to not reach for things too far and that the walls and doorknobs will be your best friends. I could go on and on about the very details of those moments, but you will soon find those things out on your own.
These tips are about managing the big stuff that all those little things create. Allow me to lead you through this tiring trial, with hopes to help you and inspire you to make it through.
1. There is no hurry, no longer.
Oh sweetie, long gone are the days when you would jump out of bed and make it to the bathroom to relinquish that everlovin’ urine that had been storing all night to wake you. You will find new meaning in the “Let It Go” anthem that still rings around the world. Running late? You can do NOTHING about it. Nothing. Pace yourself, or you will fall. Promise. Those days before your cast, that fast-paced life you lived? Gone baby. “Let. It. Go.” You must be very deliberate with your moves and pace yourself through each attempt at getting somewhere- anywhere. Slow and steady hun. SLOW and STEADY.
2. Crutches or Scooter?
I am blessed with both but have learned very quickly that the crutches will mangle your arms and shoulders to no return. Did you know how hard it is to balance on those things? It’s amazing how much stuff lives on the ground of this world. Steering clear of it all and navigating the glorious unpredictable wavering levels of turf leaves you constantly on alert. Do not. I REPEAT do NOT try to go down or upstairs! Simply drop to the floor (like that’s easy?) and scoot up or down those forbidden steps. Your crutches come in handy, yes. But they can wreak havoc if you need to go far, and cause even more pain than you are already in, so use them sparingly.
The scooter is a blessing from God. It will save your arms but kill your knee. Using a scooter is a bit like a bumper car running with one leg. Actually, it’s EXACTLY like that. It saves your arms, but it eats at your working leg little by little as you push and pull and steer over and over again to make a turn, then lift and twist around to go a different direction. As for the resting knee, make sure you put padding on the seat. The weight on your knee should at least have a soft landing.
Be well aware of your working leg. With all the hopping and straining and bending, it can only take so much, and you have a long time to depend on it. I will warn you; this poor over-used leg will be in more pain than your casted leg after weeks of compromise. Try to rest your healthy leg just as much as your wounded leg. Before too long, you can anticipate struggling to use them both.
3. Patience owns you.
Yes, you may have thought you were a patient person before this lovely cast prison, but oh no sweet soldier… you are in for a new peeling of layers upon layers of control that will beg and plead for mercy. This is a New Patience: A torturing type that does NOT relent. It will beat you down until you surrender, thereby giving in to any tantrum brewing or screams stifled inside. Don’t try to fight this beast. The battle has already been won. Surrender. You have no choice.
Each day, every hour and precious minute, you must relinquish time, duties, expectations, desires, needs, and daily rituals- you will slowly die to patience. It will take you. Breathe through each moment you sacrifice to the pain, the limitations, and the dire need for more than what you have and what you can do. Exhale the anxiety of dirty dishes and laundry piles and the smelly clothes you may ferment in for days. Allow yourself to inhale the burning dinner and muffle the screams and whines of children as you relinquish all power over your world. Don’t worry, it gets easier to give in. You become weaker with every fight.
4. Don’t wait to pee or eat.
Seriously. Just don’t. Remember the first tip. You just can’t hurry at ALL. So if you wait- You WILL pay for it. On that note, don’t wait until you are starving to head to the kitchen to get something to eat. Just don’t. Your rule of life is this: Everything you do, will take a total of 20-30 minutes. If you wait for these two life-saving missions, you will surely fail or die. Don’t test it. You’d be a fool to, like me. When “Hurry” stepped out, “Patience” crawled in. Learn fast this sacred rule. Honor it. And your bladder and stomach will thank you.
5. Bathing is a necessary heavenly hell.
Stripping your murky clothes off and tying a garbage bag around your leg and hoisting yourself into the bath is not for the weak, especially after you have pulled yourself up the stairs step by step and crawled your way to the bathroom. You will surely need a helper with this task. You will have to hang your leg outside of the tub, and after you balance your body in the tub while scooting this way and that- you will undoubtedly start to feel it in your back/hip/leg/neck. It’s not natural to sit like that!
Bear through it, to feel the hot water on your face and the dirt sliding off of your skin. Allow that heat to penetrate your sore muscles before you have to hoist your body out of the bath and go about the feat of drying and dressing on one leg. It’s a workout. But the soothing water and soapy cleanse is sure to invigorate you enough to get you back down the stairs one step at a time and hop on your scooter to steer toward your couch home.
6. Healing hurts.
No matter how you ended up in your cast, I’m guessing you have a mighty fine mess underneath it. Broken bones, torn ligaments, scrapped joints, twisted tendons… you name it. PAIN. And healing. Is. Painful. Those jolts that shake you awake, the thundering aches that never let up, the twinges that erupt randomly and zings of electricity that zap your nerves over and over again are healing signs. Then there is the added fiery blaze underneath the cast and the liquid acid that melts your skin, sensations that are all NORMAL. Take meds. Breathe. Hold on. Healing hurts.
7. It gets old.
This pain thing, this hopping and scooting and pulling and hoisting and no hurrying and patience thing gets old. Very old. After the first day. But after 40 days, it gets very, very old. Somewhere this existence starts to weigh on you and the gravity of the burden gets heavier and your mind starts to become vulnerable. It’s usually the pain that does it… but sometimes the very act of being ‘stuck’ strips you of all that you are and beckons you to that slippery bridge toward despair. DON’T GO! This is when you need to use all the strength you’ve got to hold on and find your HAPPY PLACE within. What brings you joy? Find beauty in this mess. It’s there- FIND IT. Despair does no good. If you need to let it out, by all means, cry, swear and then pray. Go there. But only for a short time. No use in staying there. The one thing you DO have control over is your mind, and that dictates your heart. Those two things are so much more important than your physical body. Don’t ever forget that.
8. Dive into your loves, somehow.
Although you are in a captive state, you still can choose to embrace those things that are within your reach. Drench yourself in them. Are you crafty? Artsy? An avid reader? Writer? Movie Critic? TV junkie? Prayer Warrior? Meditation guru? Knitter? Work from home if you need to, it will be a fantastic distraction from the pain. Do SOMETHING. The moment you stop and focus on every detail of your pain, the downfall begins. Have an agenda every day that is reasonable, and then pour your heart into it. Make this time count for something! Give it purpose.
9. Receive receive receive…
Are you a giver? Not very comfortable with people serving you and lavishing you with their time and effort, are you? You are a woman, which means you do it all. ALL. Well, sister, that is gonna change. This time you will be doing very very little. If someone offers you anything, say “Oh yes, thank you so very much!” It is my prayer that you have a community around you that is willing and ready to take on caring for you and your family. If people reach out to help, you simply must allow them to do this. It feels wrong to you because you think of so many others that so desperately need help more than you do. You feel guilty that they are interrupting their lives for the sake of serving you. Let it go. Be comforted in the caring. Your family is struggling just as much as you because they are unable to fill your role and that leaves them stressed and exhausted. This is a new level of living, my dear broken friend. Acceptance is key. If someone asks “What can I do for you?” Pick one thing, and tell them. It’s one less thing your family has to do. Be grateful for any help you can get. Your friends are a blessing you cannot deny. Be grateful you have them.
10. Reality check yourself constantly.
This is hard. Every day, you wake up to more pain and patience in new and resounding ways. Each day, while your wounded leg slowly eases it’s furry, the rest of your body has taken the hit. It’s okay to hate it, be angry and start your day with fitful tears. It’s okay to wrestle with why the hell your wrists are so bruised and yell at your working leg to WORK. It’s okay to throw out pleas for mercy and feel the defeat of the long-fought battle.
There has not been a day that I don’t thank my Heavenly Father for my two legs. This business of living on one leg? Countless warriors spend their entire LIVES like this. I think about it all the time. I suggest you do too. It changes things. While you might be slipping off into the depths of despair, adjust your lens and change your perspective. This season of struggling is just that. It is not a lifetime sentence. Can you imagine?
Oh my friend, as sure as time flies, this agonizingly slow season will be a fast faded memory. A ‘remember when’ on the timeline of your life. It will speak to your character and reveal a new-found strength. Both of which will be invaluable tools to plunge deeper into gratitude and living. Remind yourself often, of this very truth. Think of those who rise to the call of a life like this one you are living. Realize how blessed you truly are.
I’d love to help you through your season of healing and recovery, whether you are in a leg cast or facing surgery of any kind.
Check out my book sold on Amazon.
Need more encouragement with post-surgery life?
Here ya go…
20 Truths about Life After Foot Ankle Surgery
Managing The Pain: Stay off the Bridge.
Meet Me At The Cafe- That’s What Friends Do
Five Things You Need To Know When You Are Recovering From An Injury, Surgery, or Illness.
How To Help Someone Who Is Hurting And Healing
Friends Are God’s Way Of Taking Care Of Us- REACH OUT!
Important Advice For Moms Facing Surgery
To Those Who Are Hurting: A Message About Self Love
Funny and heart-warming! Another triumph my talented friend!!
You are SO sweet to come by and cheer me on, Marcia!!! MWUAH!!! Thanks babe. <3
Oh my did this resonate with me. It was everything I’m thinking as I lay here in a cast. I needed to read this tonight, it brought laughter and tears. The doorknob is my best friend lol so true.
I’m so glad this brought you a little laughter and encouragement just knowing you are NOT alone, Carrie! How long have you been in your cast? If you need more help and hope while you’re healing, email me your address and I’d be glad to send you my book. 🙂 Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I’m getting ready to get my hardware out next week, a lot of anxiety setting in, I found your site and must say I cried as much laughing as I actually cried from reliving everything. It’s as if I wrote this, I felt so guilty for feeling sorry for myself and I tried so hard not to complain knowing others suffer much harder challenges in life , so I cried everyday when no one was looking. Reading these made me realize I’m not crazy It really was a nightmare experience I continue to be in constant pain I have screwing bulging out my skin so I finally got the courage to do this next surgery …Thanks for making me laugh I feel now that everything I felt both physically and emotionally has been validated!!
Lisa, I am SO GLAD you found my blog! YES- you are not alone in this exhausting, difficult experience- and I hope (and pray) you can recover quickly from your next surgery to get the screws out. I had the same issue, and did the same thing. Hang in there, new friend! You have made it through the hardest part- you can DO THIS. <3
Thank you soooo much for this!!! I’m day 3 into my long road to recovery after having surgery to repair my ruptured achilles tendon. Your post resonated with me so much. I’m someone who is always busy, always on the go go go. I’m very active, the gym is my happy place. So I know God is going to teach me so much during this time of patience, resting, and letting go. Thank you x
You are an angel. I am 4 weeks into 8 of non weight bearing and my spirits are down. Every pain, every muscle spasm and every tinge of electricity is terrifying. I really really needed this today. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
I’m a 20 year old Marine. I’ve been in a cast for the last 40 days and counting, the doctors tell me I have another 28 days before I can put weight on my leg…. I haven’t seen my family in almost a year… and they tell me I won’t see them why time soon. Being stuck in a place that’s only made for the strongest and proudest of us is really starting to get old! This has been one of the most difficult things I’ve ever experienced, but this came at the best possible time… and by best I mean worst. Thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart. This will help me get through the agonizing coming months I’m sure of it.
OH, Alex, it’s already so hard to be in pain and dealing with the challenges of recovery and healing, but to also not be near your family during this time when you need them most? That is heartbreaking. And you’re only 20 years old, injured, and going through this alone. I’m just so sorry!! I can only imagine how “strong” you have to be as a Marine- but please know it’s okay to *feel* all those feelings that I’m sure you have felt throughout these long painful weeks. Even Marines are HUMAN and I guarantee that every single marine has struggled in some way, at some point too.
I’m just so glad you found my blog and it helped encourage you. Alex, you are so strong and so brave and I KNOW you will survive this really hard season of your life. Hold on, friend. And keep reading this when you start to feel hopeless, okay?
I’m sorry to hear this…. I am on day 45 of 60 I hope…. in a non weight bearing knee to ankle cast…. I’m 70 and what was my bad knee is taking all my weight????….. I’m surviving… my butt hurts from sitting… thankful I have no pain????????For all of you????
Thank you for this! 3rd time in 2 years I’m casted and it’s my driving foot! There just aren’t words to describe how I’m feeling, yet, I laugh out loud as I read the above tips because they’re SO true! Thanks, again!
Oh man, Christina! Third time? Driving foot? I am SO sorry. Can I send you my book? I’m thinkin’ you’re gonna need it. Email me your address- Chris@TheMomCafe.com
6 weeks today of 12 weeks non weight bearing. So hard and I don’t have young children at home. Well, my grandchildren are dropped off frequently ( 3,5,7 ) but I can say uncle. My husband is helpful but gets frustrated with having to step and fetch it. I have wonderful neighbours who are still being me food and baking and yet….
At 3 weeks I was feeling so sorry for myself that I searched the internet for some consolation and came upon the MomCafe 10 tips. How reassured I was that my feelings and frustrations were acceptable.
My kneeling scooter has been my best friend except when I crashed two weeks ago on the porcelain bathroom floor. The frame caught my arm and ripped off a layer wrist to elbow, however, it it is healing nicely. The bruises on my body have turned a lovely yellow ochre shade but most are in censored areas on my body. It took my mind off the pain in my foot for a few days which I suppose is something.
What I really want to say is thank you Christina for your words of wisdom and putting my short term discomfort into perspective. It is not a life sentence! I will survive!
Oh Noryne, I’m so sorry you injured yourself so badly! Like it wasn’t hard enough, right? You poor thing… I remember crashing my scooter into a bench in our hallway and falling HARD on the floor. I just sobbed. Your injuries sound awful, painful, and added wounds to the ones you already have… Sigh. I’m just so sorry.
I’m thrilled you found my blog, new friend! I’m so glad it has helped encourage you during this difficult time. I’d love to get my book into your hands, so if you are unable to purchase it on Amazon, (here https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ ) I’d be happy to send you a copy if you email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
Hang in there. I know it is soooo hard, painful, exhausting, frustrating ETC. Just keep reminding yourself of all I share on my blog. I hope you read the other posts I added in this post to find more encouragement.
You take care of YOU. Be kind and patient and gracious with yourself as you heal…
I’ll be 6 months in a cast with a fused ankle. My driving foot too and I get chronically car sick even over the shortest distance. Summer in Australia so 38 degrees C. I have secretly been banking up play dates and big favours to school friends parents for I need to play dirty and call them in when needed. Also installing grab bars in bathroom and a shower stool in and out of the bath. Basically being an obsessed control freak. Mostly because I think I know what I am in for but I’m kidding myself aren’t I ??
Oh Simone, bless your heart! It honestly sounds like you are being SMART, preparing for your recovery! You will need all the help you can get, so I hope you ask for it, whether you “earned” it or not. You WILL get through this. One day at a time. And please get my book STAT! It will help you during this difficult season of healing. I would offer to send it to you, but Australia is a long way away. lol
You can DO THIS. It will be TEMPORARY. Be good to yourself. Be gracious and kind and compassionate… You will need to love yourself through it. Okay?
It’s like you read my mind. It’s only been a week and I am going crazy. I know it’s not the end of the world but I am so down. I don’t have many friends and so I totally feel isolated and alone. I am a single mom and have 9 yr old twins and I am not getting any help from my family. I don’t know whether to scream or cry.
Oh, Neva, my heart just aches for you going through this difficult time feeling so alone while also raising your twins and not getting the support you need! I’m so sorry I am just seeing your comment now. Praying you are staying strong and healing okay. Let me know how you’re doing and if I can do anything to help you! I’m sure it must be sooo hard. 🙁
Oh, my Lord. This is Bible for anyone laid up with a non-weight bearing injury. Thank you for articulating exactly what this feels like! I can’t wait for it be behind me, but this was a boost for me!!!
I’m so glad you found this blog, and it spoke straight to your experience, Kathy! I know how hard and painful and just plain exhausting it can be, so I hope you are taking good care of yourself and you have people in your life who can support you through your recovery. I also hope you read the other articles about healing and recovery. They might be helpful for you too. And of course, please take a look at my book on Amazon! If you aren’t able to purchase it, I can send you a free copy if you email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ Hang in there, my new friend. You can DO THIS.
Currently recovering from my tibia spiral fracture- this is the most painful thing I have experienced. I had 3 c-sections but the pain was not as bad as this bone fracture. I am hanging in here and not even counting the days until I can put any weight on my leg. I’m taking day by day because there is no need to rush because I will still sit here while everything piles up and I won’t be much help.
Oh, Karen, that injury sounds so painful! I’m so sorry you have to go through this awful experience. I hope you looked into getting my book to help guide and encourage you through the rest of your recovery. If you are unable to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Here is the link to my book in case you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Stay strong and take good care of yourself during this difficult season of healing.
Hugs,
Christine
This sounds like I wrote it… These are exactly my thoughts and struggles day in and day out. I have never felt self pity in my life ..until now, and I’m draining myself and everyone else around me. I really needed to read this tonight to know that I’m not alone and others do go through this. Yes. It could be worse, but this is pretty bad for an active person such as myself. Thank you for this article. Perfectly written and appreciated by us going through it.
OMG! yes! to all that you said. You hit the nail on the head with every thing you said. Im only 2 days in with my broken leg. Having a hard time navigating thru my house and up my stairs to go to bed. Loved every thing you said, feeling every emotion you said. Cant imagine 6weeks to go. Your article made me laugh which was much needed after all my tears. Hospital gave me a walker they said no crutches . Walker makes me feel so old and hurts hands and shoulders. I’m miserable, just like you said I also never stop always things to do with a family and pets. This sitting around is so very hard and frustrating. Yes, I need to let others help me I have no choice.
Thank you for your article.
Vincenza, I am SO glad you found my blog and it encourages you! I hope you were able to read the other posts added below it so you could get some more encouragement and not feel so alone!
It can be so hard to manage such a grueling recovery and I’m so sorry you are in this difficult and sometimes maddening season of healing! PLEASE go get my book on Amazon! Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
If you aren’t able to purchase it, email me at Chris@themomcafe.com your address and I will ship one off to you. I want to walk with you through this and I truly believe my book can help. HANG IN THERE!! YOU CAN DO THIS!! #THISISTEMPORARY is your mantra for the next several weeks, okay? 🙂
Thank you for the tips! I’m so miserable, feel like a complete burden! I have no idea on how to get around! My talus and 5th metatarsal are broken but I already needed knee surgery on both knees w torn meniscus and much damage, a torn right shoulder rotor cuff and very overweight! This struggle is so awful! I can’t seem to get out of bed or to bathroom on one leg! Or in cAr, or anything! Two story home w bedrooms upstairs,
Monica—I feel like you and I are on parallels as you have described many of the problems I have faced. Back fusion, meniscus tears both knees, multiple hand surgeries etc. I fell on 07/27/17 and broke the 5th metatarsal and destroyed ankle ligaments. Waiting for swelling to come down and hoping X-rays show the metatarsal is healing. The back fusion really kicked me in the butt and I am hoping this latest setback isn’t going to be as devastating as that recovery was. I hope you are on the road to recovery and that you have not had any addition setbacks.
Hang in there
Oh my, first of all I am going to pray for you Monica and so many ladies doing the one leg recovery dance.
I had to make some serious lifestyle changes with my ankle tendon surgery 9/21/2017. I am still in a wheelchair, but with some pieces of durable medical equipment I have been able to take charge most of my daily living stuff, going to the bathroom, cooking my famiy meals.
If you can is there a way you can sleep n the first floor?. I did not have to move bedrooms, but My hubby conceded to switch sides of the bed
his side is closer to our bathroom.
I also turned one of my bathroom drawers into a dresser drawer with pairs of undies, sleepwear and comfy easy on shorts & tees.
All of these small things have added up to less stress on me and my family. And I feel empowered to “do it myself”.
Prayers for a smooth recovery. And I understand about being overweight, I have struggled all my life. While pain and stress are excuses for me to eat, I have tried to pick healthy choices.
Peace and grace and smooth recovery.
Jorjann C
I’m at the very beginning of my journey (day twelve) in a cast from mid thigh to foot, four fractures and two ruptured ligaments in my knee. Consultant is head scratching as to what to treat first! I too am very overweight and petrified of developing dvt.
Thank you so much for this article and your responses, whilst not relishing what lies ahead, I have to believe that the outcome is going to be fine but will take time. Well done all of you lovely people who have gone through it and are now recovered xx
Sue, I’m SO sorry you are going through such a horrible injury and recovery! My gosh, that’s a lot. You poor thing…
Please look into getting my book to help you through this difficult season of healing! If you can’t purchase it, email me your address and I’ll get a copy off to you. (Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
I have 13 days behind and 27 days ahead of left leg cast, NWB, and crutches. Thank you for sharing your story as I know I am not alone. Being confined and unable to do anthing has effected me .. Need to regroup and come up with a plan to occupy my time. Any suggestions?
In addition, the lack of sunshine and cold weather had definetly added to my post-surgery malaise.
I am 4 weeks in to who knows how long cast on right leg. 2 items that have been essential to surviving this.. wheelchair and shower bench! Bought both off Craigslist for a total of $80. I can zoom around safely in the wheelchair and enjoy my shower time. Good luck!
Oh thank you, even though this is an old post – this was really a turning-point in coping with my 7-day-old ankle fracture, waiting for surgery – laughed so hard it was wonderful therapy!!!!!!
Daphne, I would love to send you my book. I hope it offers you some more laughs and inspiration and help as you face the surgery and recovery. Email me your address. My Email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
I’m so glad you found this and it helped, Daphne! I’d love to send you my book, to help you get through your recovery. Email me your address, and I can get it off to you! EMAIL: Chris@TheMomCafe.com. HANG IN THERE. <3
The best ten tips ever I don’t feel alone
Thanks you made my day (which have been very long)
Lily, you are surely NOT alone. I know those long long days, and I’m so sorry you have to endure them too. Hold on. Stay strong. Be patient. Have hope. <3
If you are in need of more encouragement and guidance, I would be happy to send you my book. You can email me your address, if you are interested. My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
I desperately needed this! Great little article. One week down recovering from bunion surgery. Everything you said resonated with me. Thank you!
So glad I found this! Broke tib fib in right ankle twist Thursday before Christmas. Had to drag myself inside from the backyard. 20 degrees. After ride to hospital and temp splint. Using crutches to get inside house. Fell and broke left wrist. Also sprained thumb on right hand in original fall. Surgery on both wrist and ankle Friday before New Year’s Day. One more week till follow up with surgeon. Been through so many emotions with this. Thank you for your tips!!! Spot on!
Oh Tracey! My heart goes out to you! That is just so awful and I’m SO sorry!! Please email me your address, so I can send you my book. I really want to help you through this. Bless your heart. My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Lauren, please forgive me for not catching your comment! I am so sorry.
Email me your address, and I will send you my book. I hope you are hanging in there. I know it is SO hard. My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Thank you so much for this. I am starting week 4 after ORIF ankle surgery and I can totally relate. Started back to work part time today as I have a sit down job. I have 15 minutes to go of my 4 hrs and i can’t wait to go home and take a nap!!! But this made me laugh and cry at the same time.
Oh, Joan, I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! Healing is exhausting, isn’t it? I hope you can pace yourself with work and keep taking those naps! Recovery takes soooo much time and we just can’t rush it as much as our life demands we do. Hang in there, new friend. If you’d like to read my book, you can check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ If you are unable to purchase it, you can email me at Chris@themomcafe.com and I’d be happy to send you a free copy. 🙂
Take good care of yourself!
This brought me to tears and was so good to read. Three weeks in after major foot surgery and all of the wisdom and perspective helped so much. Patience, prayer, accepting help and gratitude that this is short term!
Oh, dear Sharon, I’m SO glad this blog encouraged you! I’m sure you are still in the thick of your recovery, and girl, I KNOW how hard it can be. YES, patience, prayer, accepting help, and gratitude- all SO important to your well-being. Please check out my book so I can help you through the rest of your healing journey! If you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@themomcafe and I will send you a free copy.
Hold on to the hope that this is temporary. You WILL get through this.
Oh my goodness, this is spot on! I broke my fibula and ankle on Monday and I’m sitting still broken waiting for surgery next Wednesday. Such a mind game I play but these are great tips!
Oh, Abby, I’m SO sorry to hear about your ankle injury! I hope and pray your surgery went smoothly and you are recovering well. Take care of yourself as best you can and I hope you are honoring your healing and nourishing your well-being too. Hold on, my new friend. Remember, even though this probably seems like it will last forever- it won’t. I promise!
I am on fracture number 6 in my foot. On November 22nd they took the screw out of the 5th metatarsal so they could put a longer one in. It wouldn’t go…there was not enough bone. I ended up with a plate and 7 screws. That gives me 9 screws and a plate in that foot. Overall I have 17 screws and 2 plates. I think I am a transformer at this point.
Your 10 tips are spot on. You have to have a sense of humor to get through things like this.
OH my gosh, Melinda! I can’t even imagine all you’ve been through… I’m so so sorry.
I’m so glad you found this post and I do hope it helped encourage you! Humor is KEY along with huge doses of perseverance and perspective. I hope (and pray) that this will be your last fracture and surgery and screws!! Oh, you poor thing. I think you may have hit a record- transformer indeed!
Thank you for taking the time to comment and share your story, my new friend. I know it will help others who read this blog and the comments.
I broke my ankle 3 weeks ago, had surgery 2 weeks ago, and I am just now reading this post. This was a great post, at this early in my journey though, I’m not sure if I can handle a whole book worth of truth at this point. This week has been rough for me and I am missing out being at work and more involved in the things that I normally do every day.
Alex, I absolutely understand where you are right now with it all. I promise my book will encourage you through the hard days ahead and give you some advice on how to manage it all. Hold on, new friend. I know it feels like you will never get through this… But I will hold onto your hope until you can feel it for yourself. You WILL make it through. Strength will come as you keep pressing on.
Thank you for writing this … I know it has been some time since you did and I really needed this today. 2 weeks in to 6 with a broken fibula. I am a busy real estate agent and my spring season is kicking off. I am trying to keep my mind busy and especially can relate to the bruised forearm/wrists from lifting my body off the floor from crawling up and down stairs. Thank you for the encouragement!
Oh, Stacy, I’m so sorry you have to go through such a painful break and I GET how hard it is to have limitations during a time when you can’t afford to be down. Hang in there and take good care of yourself as best you can. There will be more busy seasons ahead, so try to be patient and gracious with your poor broken body right now. Focus on staying positive as much as you can. You will get through this. Lots of deep breaths, rest, and hope will help you persevere.
I love that you are still trying to find humor and light during this time.
I’m sorry that it has been so rough. I hope you have read some great books, watched some fun movies and rested!!!
And, mostly, I hope that you will be completely mobile soon!!
I’ve done NONE of that Kim. Can you believe it? I keep telling Derek, “What do I have to show for all this time?!!!” He reminds me that it takes twenty minutes to pee or do anything… I pee, A LOT. And then the pain has been so *distracting* and then the parenting thing and well… it’s exhausting, so if I did have time I slept.
So much for those books and fun tv.
I get my cast off TOMORROW!!! Mobile… oh, I hope rehab goes FAST!!
Aww, Chris seriously you are such a trooper and god love you (I know I do). Hoping this too shall pass very quickly and thank you for just being you!! 🙂
I love you Janine!! You’ve been such a good friend and always so supportive. THANK YOU!!!
Hi Twin! I also have a scooter, crutches and a walker. Triple play! Whoever discovered scooters should win the Nobel Prize. Before I got one, I was using a four-prong walker and I think I tore something important in my right armpit. And that was after a week! Since using the scooter, I’m SO much better. (Just have to watch my knees, because they ache sometimes too.)
Pee advice is spot on. I lay in bed at 3 in the morning debating myself “Do I need to go? Really?” Yes, really Ceil. Get your sock and slipper on and get to the bathroom. Sigh.
Don’t get me going on baths. HEAVEN ON A STICK.
This is my life my love, as you well know. Let’s keep our chins up! I did order some books from Amazon. Here’s hoping they come soon!
Hugs and a kiss on your boo-boo,
Ceil
I swear I thank GOD for my friend’s scooter EVERY SINGLE DAY!!! I just had a bath tonight… I’ve never been so grateful to be clean. And I ordered a TON of books thinking I would just have this long six weeks of nestling in and reading every last one of them.
Nope. Not a one. They are all still piled on my coffee table. 🙁 Let me know if you get to yours!
Me too!!!!!
To urinate, use a milk bag pitcher. The oval opening fits well and you can set it aside. Use it and empty it. Rinse and repeat. It saves a lot of trips to the bathroom.
Thank you for that tip, Mary! 🙂
Great tips Chris. My friend just had back surgery and #9 was so had for her. We practically had to have an intervention! People want to help, especially givers like you! Hang in there.
It’s really hard for me too, Allie!! But we really must let others serve us when we are in need. I’m actually at the point where if someone says “Can I do anything?” I say “Well, we haven’t cleaned our sheets since early December, so yeah! Can you come do THAT?” True story.
Desperate times call for… RECEIVING.
Oh, what an experience you’ve gone through (are going through)!!! I am thinking of you! Is it nearly over?
I get the cast off TOMORROW!!!!!!! Thanks for being ‘in this’ with me, Sarah. I’m so grateful for you, my friend. <3
Still my hero!
Know why I really love this? Besides it being practical and all? I love it because if you take every single one of your points, they apply to plain old every day life.
Hang in there! XOXO
You are SOOOO GOOD TO ME!!! Thank you for all of your love and support in this mess, Lisa! You are have been such a beautiful encouragement. <3
They DO apply, don't they? Well look at that! 😉 Hmm... you are on to something, dear one. You GOT IT!!!
Chris,
You are a blessing and a positive energy!!
Love & Hugs from Minnesota. xxxooo
Aw Kim! Thanks love. <3
Going thru it right now. A week later im learning. Have my lows but learning to except this is temporary. Thk u.
Hang in there, Asha. I know how hard it can be! Keep telling yourself this IS temporary. Find strength in that truth. <3
Happy I came across this. One week post-op and months of non weight-bearing and healing sure takes a toll. I’m not used to be “down”.
Oh, Michelle, I’m so sorry you are in IT right now! I hope you can get my book to help you through the rest of your recovery! If you are unable to purchase it, you can email me at Chris@themomcafe.com with your address and I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Here’s the link to my book for you to check out. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Hang in there, my new friend. I know how difficult it can be…
*grins* You’re the goodest brilliant example a person could ever ask for, Kitty – look at you taking all that awfulness and redeeming it – rendering it beautiful, even – by turning it into a ‘how to cope’ guide for others. Bless your boots, my darling, you are a miracle.
I swear I still choke up when I read your words, Faves. You just know EXACTLY what to say, don’t you. Thank you for keeping me going, hun. You really do. <3
You let me do nothing more, so I will KEEP TRYING. It is my honour and delight to be useful and effective in this way.
Your positivity and humor are infectious Chris. Hang in there, girl.
I hope you’re back on your feet again soon.
AW Linda! Coming from YOU, that is a HUGE compliment my friend!! I’m so glad you stopped by. 🙂
I so wish I could be there to entertain you, Chris! I would be so incredibly impatient with one leg. But, really, how lucky are we to have both our legs? And you will get through this! xoxoxo
Thanks dear friend… some days it feels like it’s been months. But TOMORROW THE CAST COMES OFF!!! I hope rehab goes FAST.
Poor you:((( But I love your humour! Hang in there xoxo
Thanks Leah. I HAVE to have humor… I just have to! I literally pretended to do a kick line from my wheelchair after I got my first cast, while my daughter was wheeling me in to the rehab to make appointments for next month. The entire staff cracked up at this CRAZY lady entering the clinic! Ya just gotta laugh.
I adore how you see the humor in the situation and the memorial of how yes you have one leg NOW but some have one leg forever. that you take that moment of crap this sucks into a moment of thank you Father that this is temporary, please let it be temporary because the pain is overwhelming but I am determined to get through it with my grace and humor intact.
Oh Kerri… your words are so perfect. That is truly my heart. Thank you for always getting it. <3
I’m not surprised that you have used this experience to gain some wisdom and insight, Chris. And I have to say that #4 is always true, whether you are in a leg cast or not!
BWAAHAHAHA!! And here I thought “all of these really truly pertain to life, except the pee/eat one.” You proved me WRONG girl!! That’s my Dana! And now that I think about it…
You’re totally right.
This is all 100% accurate!! I peed my pants more times than I care to admit. Hopping on a full bladder? Let’s just say I don’t recommend it.
I KNOW!!!! And you warned me Amy… I got cocky. But you WARNED ME!!! 😉
You poor thing! I broke my ankle when Tucker was 6 months old and to get down the stairs, I had to sit on my butt, put him on my good knee, and scoot down one by one with my bad cast leg sticking out in front of me. Also, tried to use the scooter at the grocery store and totally knocked over an entire box of cereal display thing when I tried to turn. Yikes. Hugs to you – love that you’re keeping such a delightful sense of humor through it!
OHYGOSH Kristi!!! I can just picture you scooting down the stairs balancing your babe on your good knee! Now THAT is amazing!!! I
always knew you were a superwoman. 🙂
I have knocked over more things than I can count.
Bless your heart. <3 Love your advice. I'm not in a cast, but the last six months I have been dealing with a seriously broken toe and a pulled core muscle. I could hobble on one foot….once I could manage to pull myself up. Ha ha. I hear you on the crutches. I tried to use an old pair, they were awful. They hurt my shoulders, and were brutal on my hands where I have been dealing with joint pain. You were spot on with the bathroom thing. One morning, when my core/back muscle was at its worst, I was in a hurry to get to the bathroom, and my back gave out on me, and the weight went…..on my foot with the broken toe. Back to square one. Ugh. This stuff is not for the faint of heart that is for sure. Love your advice about doing some things you love. Love that. That is so healing all by itself. When you feel normal again, you are going to want to celebrate! It does make you much more appreciative of what we have that does work. Hope you feel better soon, my friend. xo
Oh Topaz! I could just picture you trying to get to the bathroom and your back giving out on you and then your poor toe getting the brunt of the fall!! I tripped on my scooter- toppled over it and fell on my casted leg, then immediately (reflex I’m sure from the pain) jumped off of it and fell on the bench in the hallway and rolled onto the floor slamming my wrist and hip. It was a good start to the day. LOL
I just lied there facing the ceiling while the kids yelled “DADDY!!!! MOM FELL!!!!”
ugh. You and me both girl. I SO wish we lived close, so we could nurse our wounds together!
This give me a whole other understanding of what my mom went through when I was in high school. She broke her ankle and had surgery and was in a cast for several weeks. I remember thinking how silly she looked going up and down the stairs on her but…as a sprightly teen, she looked ridiculous. But that would be me now. Hope the cast is almost over!
Oh your poor mom! I can tell you Bev- it’s NOT easy. 😉 And I look completely ridiculous plopping on the floor and crawling everywhere. I’m over it. Humility wins, when you spend this much time on one leg. lol
So well stated. Wish it weren’t your reality WPB, but you navigate it graciously. XOXOX
Oh gosh Tam, I love you for saying that!!! You know – of ALL people, how hard it has been. I pray I come out of this season running with new found faith and fortitude!
No matter what life throws at you — you remain upbeat, positive and are able to find a way to help lift others hearts up. Hope you are out of that cast and feeling better soon!
Oh you are so kind Andrea! I am *trying* to stay upbeat. It’s been HARD. But Cast coming off TOMORROW! I pray the rehab is FAST. I’m ready to get back into LIFE.
Oh friend, I have been watching your progress and agony on the faceplace. I hope you see light at the end of the tunnel. Prayers for you and your leg!
Aw! Thanks honey!! Cast comes off TOMORROW!! Please pray for fast rehab and recovery!! This has definitely been difficult… 🙁 But TEMPORARY.
What did you do to get in cast cafemom? I fractured my right tibia and fibula. Long story on that . But I trust god with it. I wish I can do all I need to for my family. It’s been stressful. ! Can’t drive . Can’t play or do anything for or with my four kids. Husband works a lot and has been hard finding people to help. Till this week. Trying to live one day at a time. I can’t go in my war room. Till can bear to get on floor. And can’t yet. Can’t pray much. And really need to. Enemy strikes left and right. I’m a good mom and wife and person. This is really hard. And find my self angry because can’t do anything. I have to get help feeding me and family. Kids are being watched while I’m home and daddy working. Doing stuff alone when no help is hard. Crutches and cast. And trying to walk no weight at all. And home is being worked on. And is on hold till get better. House looks so cluttered . Soo much more. But won’t get into that. I liked reading all the comments though. Trying to stay calm , not easy right now .
I flashbacked to the time I had knee surgery with every single word. I didn’t have a cast, but I was immobile and in pain for many weeks. Stairs were not my friend. And I barely go anywhere fast when I am not injured, but oh yes — this was an entirely different kind of slow.
And that’s why I do not run. Ever. Again. No way I am risking another blow out and have to go through that pain, patience and MIND numbing again.
Do you know that I TOTALLY get this, Leslie!! I covered *every damn divot on the ground* so I WOULDN’T twist my ankle. I ran to FIRST base, and went DOWN on one there. ~Apparently I didn’t think to look right near the bases. Well played, Irony. Well played.
I ended up breaking off the rest of a broken bone dislodged in my ankle from ANOTHER tball game I played back in my 20’s.
Double well played… Irony. DOUBLE.
Pff.
I tried not to ‘run’. I really tried!!! LOL
Oh.. sigh. You definitely cracked me up, and made me sad.
I’ve never had pain or any injuries (knock on wood). I did joke to Cassidy about the scooters at Disney World the other day because he has really long legs and I can’t keep up with him while pushing a stroller and diaper bag. I just can’t. However, I’m pretty able-bodied and I found it very hard to walk around for 13 hours.
Glad for scooters for many people.
Wishing you a faster recovery, my dear! And let it go! That pee. Let it gooooooo!
Thanks babe. The scooters are the best- unless you have small corners to get by or a fridge that opens into the stove… whereby you cannot get to the fridge. BUT- I’ll take it. I had my first rehab yesterday… this is the beginning to the end. 🙂
Thank you so much for this… Broke my foot 15 days ago and I can relate so much to everything you are saying… helps to know I am not alone, everyone feels the same way! Thank you!!
I’m SO glad you were able to read this and that it helped you in some way Viviana! I do hope that by now, you are back on your precious healed foot again?! If not, please know it takes TIME. I am still not moving fast, and still sore and aching. Hang in there… be patient… it will come. 🙂
Perhaps you should add a chapter about life in a full leg-toe to groin plaster cast. No scooters for Edwina. The problem you have to guard against is soiling the top of the cast. Because of the time it takes to get to and get seated on the throne I wore a diaper for three months. Kids loved it a mommy in a diaper, snicker snicker. .
OH my gosh Edwina!! That sounds absolutely terrible!! I can only imagine how hard that was for you! You must have really broken something fierce underneath that cast! Bless your heart…
I bet your kids ran with that one!
How are you doing now? I hope and pray you are out of that cast, and up and moving around now. It sounds like you had a long recovery road ahead. SO sorry. <3
Thank you, thank you, thank you! My 7th week of my right leg in a cast ends this coming Friday. I know first hand everything you wrote is true. I CAN’T WAIT to be able to walk again. I had broken bone fragments (degenerative joint disease) and a cyst between my tibia and talus bones. Doc had to break the bottom of my tibia to get them out. I have 3 screws and a plate now. I’ll never complain again about having to park in the back of a parking lot ever again!
Oh Lisa!!! That sounds SO painful and difficult!! I’m so sorry you have had to endure such a complicated surgery and recovery! It’s amazing what we take for granted, isn’t it? Lets dream of going for a LONG walk together, okay? 🙂 I do pray you recover and heal soon. Hold on… your first steps are coming!
This was such a relief to read! To know that other grown women break bones and are going through something similar doesn’t make me feel so silly. I broke my tibia and fibula of my left leg and shattered my ankle as well! It has only been a week but some of this advice was so great and I know I will be putting it to good use. I was playing softball and tried to slide into second base, my leg had other ideas. Thanks again, I have another week in a splint, than its 4-6 weeks in a cast and then physical therapy.
Oh NO!! Bless your heart, Rachelle!! I’m so glad this post could encourage you! Hang in there, my broken friend! 🙂 I know the recovery road is long, and healing has it’s own time… but you WILL make it. Promise! (They are taking my screws out July 7th… back in the boot I go. Sigh. Baby steps… wobbly, weak, weary baby steps! But they DO go forward!
Thank you. With tears. I broke my leg/ankle in July and I needed this so much. I didn’t expect it to make me break down and cry. I thought it was just going to tell me to grab doorknobs. Thank you so much.
Bri, I am sitting here crying too!!
Well, now I’M CRYING!! lol
I am so deeply touched that my words are resonating and (hopefully) encouraging you Anna! It brings that amazing feeling of confirmation that such a difficult time in my life can have a purpose. <3 HANG IN THERE!! It gets better. I know. I've lived it. 🙂
Bri… hold on sweetie. Hold on. I KNOW exactly what you’re going through. I am your *future you* and I can tell you that it WILL get better. You WILL heal. It will come… maybe it already has?! I’m guessing you’re not there *yet*.
I do hope you held on to those doorknobs though. And counter tops, and any railings or furniture that surrounded you!! 🙂
If you’re still struggling to heal, just know I get that too. It all takes precious time. Try to honor it, and YOU. <3 And if you need to cry some more... go right ahead. Imagine me giving you a big HUG.
OMG…….I broke my ankle on August 11th. Just had surgery on August 19th. Every single thing in this piece is perfect. I have felt every single one of them. I am going stir crazy!!! I really am not alone. I have a fabulous husband, children and friends. I am very active but am learning to take things at a slower pace.
I. GET. IT.
Try to keep perspective… this is truly one dot on your timeline. Surrender to it, allow yourself plenty of grace and honor your healing. Use your down time to establish something purposeful in it- so you can still feel ‘busy’ despite not moving!! That was key for me! Make this season count for something. Set a goal. And remember all of these tips!! HUGS!!!
Loved this post–thanks for keeping it real! One the *almost* one year anniversary of breaking my foot! I now have broken my tibia! Anther 8-12 weeks off of teaching for this school year. I’m in total shock that this could happen twice! I’m heading to surgery in a few weeks, after the swelling goes down. My heart sinks to think that the 8-12 weeks of healing starts over again after the surgery. These first three weeks of agony don’t even count. Trying to not let depression set in as I face the mountain of patience that’s standing before me.
Anyway–your article is spot on. Wish others knew what an ordeal it is. Some people just think it sounds like fun , plopping on a couch all day. Not fun!
Carol
Oh Carol!!! You POOR THING!!! Okay.. okay… Lets look at this as a sabbatical. You got this! This is your time to discover something new- for yourself. Try to find something that will inspire you, or perhaps allow you to grow and learn something that you couldn’t if you were active. Give this time purpose. I will be praying for your ‘down time’!! I can only imagine how difficult it is to deal with not only the pain and all the recovery, but the mental anguish as well. Find purpose! You can do this! Big picture thinking… widen your lens to realize that despite another low lying season, it is still a blip on your timeline. You will have so much more life ahead of you to live on your feet! Take this time to LIVE on your bottom, your back. your side. LOL You are still very much a valuable and worthy soul. Remember that, always.
I just found your blog tips for moms in a cast! I’m just out of my second surgery after I fell through the attic (about 12-15ft) out onto a concrete breezeway at a preschool where I teach 4K. I initially had a external fixator on for close to 3 weeks and then the week of Christmas I had my surgery to rebuild my entire ankle. I shattered and broke both ankle bones (one bone breaking through my skin). I’m now in a temporary splint. I’m hoping to get my cast on shortly, but have been told I am to be non-weight bearing for at least 3 months at this point. I have already found your tips to be very comforting and I love how blunt and honest your tips were. Thanks for being REAL!!
Broken Down mommy of 2 ❤️
OH my goodness, Lisa!! You POOR THING!! I am so so sorry you had such a horrific accident! How on earth did that happen? I’m guessing the preschool is hopefully covering all of your time off and medical bills. Just terrible! Bless your broken bones! AND you’re a mommy of 2? Oh my. I hope you are taking good care of yourself and honoring your healing, dear mom! I can only imagine how hard it has been for you! I’m so glad these ‘tips’ spoke to you and comforted you in some way. I know you get it! I will be praying for you.
Oh man I fell & broke my foot tonight & am sitting here lying in my daughter’s bed because our bedroom is upstairs. I could barely make it up the stairs into the house. Feeling sad, unable to sleep & having no idea what to expect your post is a total comfort to me! I’m in a splint cast until tomorrow when I see an orthopedic doctor. I can already see that you are 100% right about accepting help. I am incredibly bad about that but have had some hard lessons that have forced me in the past couple of years to receive help. I am putting out the call for help tomorrow! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom & experience!
OH Kalani!!! I am SO sorry you broke your foot! Sigh… it’s not an easy road- but and this is a BIG BUT- this IS TEMPORARY. It feels like you have fallen into a big pit and the agonizing climb out of it will take so much time, pain, and hard work… but I promise you WILL climb out. I’m SO glad you read this, and that you are putting out the call for help! Honor your limits, your pain, your healing. Pace yourself and be good to your broken body, okay? I’ll be praying your recovery goes smoothly and QUICKLY. Hold on mama. Hold on.
I got foot surgery 15 days ago and THIS is just what I needed to read right now ! thank you for sharing !!
OH Anna! I’m SO glad you found this! Hang in there, my new friend. Healing WILL come. You got this. 🙂
I sobbed as a read through this. Ten days ago I broke my ankle, requiring four hours of reconstructive surgery and five days in the hospital. The real kicker is I had rotator cuff repair surgery at the end of December on the same side as the broke ankle. Essentially my entire right side is down, and the doc says I won’t be weight bearing on the ankle for two MORE months (the shoulder estimate is 4-6 months). That means no crutches and no scooter… wheelchair bound for the duration.
No stairs. No driving. No showers.
I’ve only made it this far on the generosity of my sister friends, women who are so wonderful, thoughtful and generous they scheduled themselves around the clock to care for me, arranged meals to be made and delivered, and attend to my every need, anticipated or not. I’m still overwhelmed by their love, and I know there are lessons in this slip on the ice (ironically, while on the way to shoulder PT)… slow down, be patient, let go of thoughts and actions that don’t serve… As a yoga teacher, I preach these things but don’t always practice them…
Anyway, this post touched me. Now I’m going to stop being a martyr and take the pain relief I was scheduled to take an hour and a half ago…
Thanks for sharing.
Oh dear Chelsea…
I’m crying with you! <3 Hold on. Receive the love and support from your sisters and soak in the goodness of having such a strong community of beloved friends. You will learn much during this time. And you will rise once again, in time- stronger than before, in spirit and in wisdom. Grab onto a new purpose during this time of your sedentary season. Take a look at some of my posts surrounding my surgery- Like this one: https://www.themomcafe.com/shift-your-lens-wider-perspective/ And this one: https://www.themomcafe.com/managing-pain-stay-bridge/ And perhaps this one: https://www.themomcafe.com/devotional-beautiful-painful-reminder/ AND one more for good measure! lol https://www.themomcafe.com/devotional-diary-from-pain-to-prayerful-purpose/
By next year, you will BE BACK!! And in time, you will be able to be a light and a help to another sister in need. This is your time to honor your healing and find peace in knowing it WILL end. It WILL come. You WILL be WHOLE again. <3
I thought of one more! 🙂 This one: https://www.themomcafe.com/waiting/
Know I will be thinking about you and praying for you, Chelsea! *Hold on*
Thanks for all the inspiration and reading… Now I know what to do on this snowy day!
You can learn to become comfortable in a cast, it is a matter of attitude and accepting you life sytle change.
About 3 years ago I broke both my tib and fib falling down a flight of stairs. Clean break, and the doc gave me a choice surgery or not surgery. Surgery meant I would be in a long leg cast for a much shorter time like 3 months, no surgery meant I most likely could be a cast for a minimum of 4 month and possible over a year.
I decided to go with no surgery. The doc set the bones in my leg and put me in a long leg fiberglass cast. Being in a cast does very much immediatly change your life style. First I noticed once my bones were set into place and I was put into a cast after about 2 weeks the pain started to go away. I made up my mind that I would just accept everything like it is that I will be in a cast and be on crunches for quite awhile and that was it. What I found once I got my frame of mind to accept being in a long leg cast it wasn’t so bad, I found I really interesting enough did not even mind it – which was a really good thing because after 4 months the doc had to rebreak by leg and recast me, he told me that most likely it would take a good year before I could go without a cast. I am actually glad I did not go through surgery even though I had to be casted for a good year once I did learn to accept it which is key it really isn’t that bad.
I was delighted to read your post. I am about to be put in a full leg plaster for 4 months. Like you I decided to avoid surgery. I am in hospital now with leg in traction to stabilize my fractures. Can’t wait for the cast, but am apprehensive about what it will do to my life. Any advice on what to expect would be welcome
I can’t even imagine four months in a full leg plaster, dear Alexis. I hope and pray you have the support you need and some good ideas on what to do with that time while you are healing! This sounds like an agonizing journey, but try to remember it WILL be over. Use those four months to work on something, pursue a new hobby or purpose that you can invest your time and your focus on so that you can still feel fulfilled in other ways. Whatever you can do to help you learn and grow while you are ‘stuck’ will be SO important. If you can, please keep me posted, okay?
This made me laugh!!! Thank you!! I wish I saw this 2 months ago before I got my TWO leg casts! Broke both my ankles and had surgery. I have knee high casts. My daughter (9 yrs) and I had to move back home with my parents (which you need humor for as well ????) I needed a lesson in patience…. And I got it…, X 2….. Getting casts off tomorrow!!! I’m ready for boots!!
YOU BROKE BOTH YOUR ANKLES?? Oh my goodness, Kristen!!! You POOR THING!! I’m sooo glad you (by now) have the casts off. Oh girl, you just HAVE to find the humor in all you must have went through. Oh my gosh. I am so sorry though. How on earth did you manage that stunt? 😉 I’m so glad your parents were able to help. I hope you are healing in those boots and almost near the end of this incredible road. And I’m so glad this made you laugh. Just perfect!!
I’m so grateful I found your post. I had the misfortune of first discovering some posts and vlogs that shamed for using scooters to shop or wheelers to… exist insisting that I should instead be run/hopping some sort of marathon around a running track (in crutches) for cardio?! I felt like I was failing at healing from a broken ankle.
Reading your post (aloud) I just cried! I’m not some cross-fit, superwoman but I’m not weak or lazy. I struggle so badly with letting people help me or wait on me… even when it’s appropriate. This has been like psychological torture to accept or ask for help. Thank you SO much for saying everything you said and amusingly and beautifully as you did. I needed it more than I realized.
I think I can handle this afterall. 🙂
You CAN handle this, sweet new friend!! I can’t even imagine what posts or vlogs are out there pushing that nonsense! Good grief. You just keep honoring your healing RIGHT where you are, and please keep letting go and letting others help you! (I know how hard that is!) Remember, this is TEMPORARY and people WANT to bless you with their help. Let them. 🙂
Your comment means SO much to me. I’m just so glad this post helped give you some encouragement and hope. XOXO
Today is 18 days for me. I stumbled upon your article, it is exactly what I’m going through. Thank you! It’s good to know that all these things I’m going through are normal.
One thing I would add, I’ve learned ouch, is wear a good shock absorbing shoe on the good leg. It saves it from being rolled on with the scooter, lessens stress on the foot…
God bless you!
Ah- that is such great advice, Jennifer! I wish I had read this before my own surgery! Do you know that I finally figured out JUST last night why my pants don’t fit right? It’s been over a year and my one leg is bigger than the other- from all that my working leg had to do and the atrophy of my casted leg. Isn’t that nuts? I wonder when they will level off again.
I hope you are healing well and quickly. Hang in there!!
Day 6 after surgery – I sure did need to read this. I will have to keep coming back to this. I can’t imagine day 44. I am Non-Weight Bearing for 12 weeks. I see the Dr. tomorrow for my first post surgical appt.
Thank you!!!!!
Oh Patti! I’m so sorry. I wish my book was published NOW, so you could have it to help you through your recovery! I hope at least you can visit the other posts I added at the end of this piece, for additional encouragement. Hang in there. You WILL get through this. Keep repeating: “This is temporary.” <3
Thank you so much for writing this! I’m in a cast now after a foot surgery, and really needed to hear all these things from someone having a similar experience. I especially needed to hear everything under # 7 after nearly breaking down in tears anytime I have to do what was previously a simple task with two working feet, to what is now a huge ordeal. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
You are SO welcome, Emily! Oh girl, do I know what you are going through! I do… It was SO frustrating, and sometimes unbearable. You can DO THIS. Please be patient with yourself and remember, this will be OVER. I just had this inverted corn cut out of my foot, and I was IMMEDIATELY thrown into that same lack of control, having to be off my foot. It’s incredible how quickly those memories come. Just a few days is NOTHING compared to those weeks turned into months. Find your strength in reminding yourself that this is temporary- and distract your frustrations with all things you are GRATEFUL FOR. I swear this helped me survive.
Keep that big picture perspective, okay? This is TEMPORARY.
Hi emily in a cast, this is another emily in a cast. I have two more weeks left, I had broken one ankle in 3 places and dislocated. The other ankle remains sprained. I just stumbled across this post and cried… It’s been flowing tears for weeks now! To go from caregiver to caregivee in an instant is a tough lesson. And usually a very lonely one! Friends that have gone thru it before are so understanding though. It s a terrible club to be in, but here we are!
I will be joining in a week or so. Planning to spend the next 4 months in a “toe to groin” cast. Your blog is wonderful. I don’t know anyone who has had to wear one of these casts so i am trying to learn about them Does it really go all the way to your groin? Yuck!
OH Alexis, I’m so sorry! I can’t even imagine a ‘toe to groin’ cast… It sounds utterly awful! I hope your recovery goes quickly and I’m so glad you found my blog!
I needed this. I am in a cast with a broken foot. It really helped me. Did you go through depression also? What bugs me the most is not being able to drive.
Hi Vicki
I am also in a cast with a broken right foot. i had a 2 hour surgery with 2 screws & 4 wires inserted. i am now 2 weeks post surgery. countdown is on for nonweightbearig – doctor says i need 2-3 months!!! i am a mother of a 6 year old. the knee walker has saved my life. i have come to accept my injury and have to stay in a positive frame of mind. it is what it is and we will get through this. keep strong & message me if you like…mernadaoud@hotmail.com
Thank you so much!!!! I had surgery on my ankle and leg 3 weeks ago and am in a cast for a while! I am a mom of three young kids(1,2,4) and have my brother living with me and my husband to help while I recover!!!! This article helped me so much on such a rough day!!!!! I love my scooter. I have all three crutches, walker, scooter. The scooter has made it so much easier to do things…..except maybe stairs.
Oh sweet mama, I can’t even imagine life with three kids those ages WITH a working leg, let alone without. God bless your HUSBAND, because I’m sure he is using ALL his energy to help manage things while you are ‘down’. I know all too well, what it’s like to parent from the couch- LOL. It’s so very hard. Hang in there, my new friend. Take good CARE OF YOU, so you can heal smoothly and as quickly as possible. <3
Oh man! It was nice to find your article and read your advice, tips & humour on having a leg cast. I am currently in a leg cast after breaking my foot on a trampoline and had surgery. It is tough at times because it’s my right foot and I can not drive. I am housebound and reliant on my mother for help with everything. Time is going too slow and I miss my old life. Can not wait to be weightbearing again and live life to the fullest! It’s nice to read about someone who has survived this!
OH Merna, I understand all too well that place you are in! It is SO difficult- but please remind yourself over and over again that this is temporary and you WILL get back into your life and live it to its fullest SOON. Hang in there sweetie. You can do it!
Thank you so much! So wonderful to read…funny but true!
You’re so welcome, Sidney! I’m glad you enjoyed it, but not glad you can relate! 🙂
Thank You Thank You Thank You !!!!! I seriously needed this blog!!!! It definitely helped my mood and my mind !!!! I thought I was going to go crazy especially with a 4 bed 2 bath house and 2 kids and 2 cats and a German Shepherd and a husband who doesn’t get home til about 8:30 -9 at night so I kind of have to do everything and now living with a broken foot it is incredibly difficult if I try I always end up hurting myself so I was literally losing hope !! Thank you again you have lifted my spirits!!
Thank you for the words of encouragement. I fractured both of my ankles falling off some stairs. Had surgery on one. H ave had 2 casts for the last 2 months. Can do next to nothing and yes it’s discouraging at times BUT the Lord is definitely using this time to change my perspective on many things. And yes when the discouragement sets in I pray for those whose situations are not temporary. I praise God for his grace and mercies every day!!!!! Next step is walking boots on both legs for 4 weeks. I continue to embrace everything the Lord is showing me and how he will use me to serve and encourage others through my experiences. Blessings to you!!!!!
Oh Dawn, what a beautiful perspective you have! You are an inspiration to us all! Keep that strong faith and keep shining His Light through every laboring step of the way. Just amazing… I’m SO glad you shared your story here so we can ALL be encouraged by your incredible perseverance, and trust in God’s purpose in and through this difficult season. I pray God’s blessings on you and hope by now you are fully HEALED! (I’m so sorry I am just seeing your comment now!)
Thank you so much for this. I broke both my left cuboid bone in my foot AND my right leg (fibula) in a freak accident in St. John in May…I won’t even get into how ST. John is only accessible by ferry and has no hospital and their urgent care was closed. I had to wait 2 days to fly home and go to the ER…harrowing experience.After 5 months in walking casts on both legs, my right leg has healed but I just had surgery on my left foot (after 170 days it never healed) to screw the bone back together and do a bone graft from my heal to promote healing- my surgeon had not seen such a bad break of the cuboid in over 10k surgeries. I’m now in a cast for at least 6 weeks. Your advice is so helpful and you are so compassionate- it is absolutely awful and very discouraging being in this situation and I wish I had read your post back in May! Thank you for this post!
Oh my GOSH you have been through SUCH a nightmare! I can’t even imagine. I am so sorry for everything you have endured, Bierrie! (Is that your name?) To be stuck without any medical attention for two days after your accident just floors me. That must have been HORRIBLE! And then having to endure such an agonizingly long and arduous recovery… I just hold SO MUCH admiration for your amazing strength and stamina, my new friend. I do hope you have had a strong community of support around you through it all! I will surely be praying for you and for this long journey of healing to come to an end SOON.
I’m 8 days post ankle surgery from an ice skating fall. I realized that I needed to find a support group/blog something before I started going crazy. Your article hit everything that has been overwhelming to me. Thank so much for your blog.
OH Dana, I’m SO SORRY! You need my book. Go buy it!! I promise it will help you. <3 Take GOOD CARE of yourself...
I wish I’d seen this 2 months ago!! I just this week graduation to a walking boot from non weight bearing cast. This article really resonated. Thank you. Glad I wasn’t the only one!
YAY for getting out of that CAST! I celebrate your progress with you, Ann! Hang in there. You’re nearing the end! 🙂
Oh dear, here I am sobbing at 4 weeks post surgery on broken tibia and fibula. I echo what everyone else has said – so grateful to hear common stories of keeping spirits up. I’ve been keeping a smile on my face as best as possible, but I’ve grown frustrated with waiting to get back to life. I admire all you mothers out there as it’s difficult enough just getting myself to work daily and taking care of my home on my own. I will pay forward all the kindness I have recieived over these weeks. Patience and acceptance, ladies!
Thanks for this space, so much.
I’m so glad you found this space here Alison! But I’m so sorry you have to be looking for it, too. I hope you can go get my book. I promise it will help you through the recovery and offer you more encouragement and help! For starters- this post I wrote is in the book as well, and I’m sure it will speak to the ‘waiting’. <3 https://www.themomcafe.com/finding-worth-in-our-waiting/
These ideas help me feel as if what I am facing is normal. Thank you!
IT IS!! I hope you hang in there Lola! It WILL get better. Be patient with yourself. <3
Today is my first day with a cast on each leg after surgery. I itch. I’m in pain as well. It stinks! I like your style of writing! This is my first time on your blog and I throughly enjoyed it! Thx for the tips!
Oh Dolly, BOTH legs? You poor thing! Please take care of yourself and I will be praying for a smooth and quick recovery. Have you ordered my book? I really think it would help you through this! <3
Thank you, thank you very much. I broke my anckle in 3 parts, still months of recovery. But I love what you write.
Greetings from Costa Rica.
Ah, that is surely not an easy recovery Rebeca! I am so sorry, my friend. I would be happy to send you an ebook to help get you through. You can look for it in your email inbox. Hang in there, and remember this IS temporary- no matter much you feel like it will NEVER end!
I just ran across your blog and I have to tell you how grateful I am. A month ago I broke the heel bone in my right foot, and living along it has been unbelievably difficult, I am used to having to be fully independent (working full time, paying bills, taking care of home, yard and pets, everything. I find myself very emotional sometimes and cry at the drop of a hat. I could go on and on but what I really want to say is thank you for your wonderful words of encouragement and the reminder that one day this will all be just a memory, and to always be thankful because I know it could have been much worse.
God bless you!
Actually it was my husband who found this blog for me after I had a bit of a meltdown tonight after a near fall in the bathroom tonight on the crutches.
I can honestly say I have resonated with each of your 10 tips, it’s comforting to know I’m not alone.
I’am a full time mum, I like to be active and out and about and 3 weeks ago that all changed in a split second I was inside running (for fun) and didn’t see that a small hand dumbbell had been left on the floor and land directly on it I broken my fib and tib and ankle which left my foot well out of place at the time and quiet possibley the most pain I have ever encountered. I was in hospital for 12 days , 10 of those waiting for the swelling to reduce so I could have surgery. It’s now been 10 days since surgery which I required some metal plates, a rod, screws plus 2 screws for a damaged tendon ( will be removed at 10 week mark) I’m in a cast and NWB for 6-8 weeks then I imagine a long recovery – I’ve been told up to 12 months.I’m determined to do the rehab religiously and come back better than I was before my accident. I’ve been home for a week – which does have challenges and while I know I’m lucky that I will walk again ( feels like eternity) it’s difficult feeling so helpless and frustrated. The hardest is not being able to drive, my freedom and independence.not being able to take kids to school makes me very emotional. My daily goals are getting to the toilet and having a shower ( I have a chair)-if I’ve done that safely then it’s a good day.
Thanks for this article and I really enjoyed the comments.
Cheers
Oh my heavens Kate!!! I am just heartbroken for you! I’m soooo glad your husband found my blog for you… I want to send you my book. Email me your address so I can get it to you right away! (Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
You will be on my heart and in my prayers. I know this might feel like a prison sentence- full of all kinds of meltdowns, pain, solitary confinement and well, torturing days ahead. But like you said: You WILL walk again, run again, and play and do ALL THE things in time. You can do this. You WILL get through this. I want to help you through it with my book. <3
I'm so glad you commented. What you did sounds like something I would do. Good Lord, it's just not fair. Bless you, mama. Hold on...
Thank you so much for sharing as God knew I needed to read this as I am NOT a patient person and I have been seeking positive outcomes from my injury. I have been through all the emotions you described and days of desperation and then having to remind myself this is not permanent finding myself praying and being thankful for it. Again bless you for allowing God to use you to speak to those who need to hear.
Oh Kathi, what an incredible attitude you have in enduring your hard healing road! Girl, I am SO not a patient person either… It’s SO hard when we are stuck in this horrible place. I hope and pray that by now, you are well on your way to healing and being fully recovered! If not, I would love to send you my book. If you are interested, email me your address. 🙂 My Email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com God bless you, my new friend.
Thank you so much for this article. I’m about 5 weeks in a 12 week nwb left leg journey and everything you have written is so accurate. I feel like no one in my life gets how debilitating this is not only physically but emotionally and mentally to accept and grow as you have described. I have found the silver linings (husband stepping up! Losing 15 lbs!) , the hobbies (crafting!!) but I still struggle daily with depression and anger. And I too now admire amputees more than I ever could have imagined!
I feel your pain. Mine was a twelve week sentence as am told that it might take longer so here is to both of us for a sweaty summer in plaster.
Oh Natalia, I’m so sorry you have to endure this road! If you need more encouragement to get to the end, I would be happy to send you my book. I just ordered more copies, so I can get one off to you if you email me your address. My EMAIL: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
I am starting week 5 of what will be at least 12 weeks NWB. I have been in a toe to groin straight cast because I have a plateau fracture of my tibia and a broken fibula from a bicycle accident. I was just put into a T-ROM brace so I can start PT. I cannot get on the floor because I could not get up. I have to pretty much stay in recliner with a raised leg because of swelling. I have a plate, screws, and lots of pins. I have an incision from lower shin to 2″above my knee. I use a walker and only to touch pressure, or a wheelchair. I thought the brace would be less oppressive than the cast. Wrong. It has its own kind of pain. Plastic and metal connectors are darn painful to lay your leg on for hours. I could be in this thing for months while rehabbing to bear weight.
I was so grateful to read your tips. I was grateful to know that their are so many who feel like I do. So many out there who feel lost in this inability to function normally. I love your humor. I am usually funny but on many days I just can’t smile. It’s nice to know it’s normal. I am a worker and action oriented. This is like an alternate universe.
I’m going to read your tips again. I need them.
Can I send you my book? I really REALLY want you to have it. Email me your address, and I’ll get it off asap to you. (My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
Hold on sister. Your strength and perseverance will hold true to the end of this gruelingly long recovery. You can do this!
From my heart to yours…
What a great blog. The loneliness of the long Leg Cast is hard to explain to others. I am in plaster toe to groin f or the next 10 weeks and found your ideas very helpful. My leg is Cast almost straight so crutching is a real challenge so I have to use the wheel, chair. I can say this the Cast is a great birth control device it has wrecked my social life.
Oh my gosh Alexandra, I can’t even IMAGINE. Email me your address, and I’ll send you my book. Hoping and praying it offers you some comfort and encouragement through this difficult recovery season! Email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
6 weeks ago today I had surgery to repair a broken 5th metatarsal, and a plate and 8 screws placed. It was no minor break either- snapped completely in half at a slanted angle. I just got the ok 2 days ago to start partial weight bearing on that foot, YAY! and will be starting physical therapy soon. I still am struggling with pain though, yesterday everything BUT the foot was hurting, LOL. Its been a long, lonely journey the last 6 weeks but thankful to be coming out the other side now. Love this article, you really get it having been through it! Wish I had known about your book at the beginning of my journey. Blessings!
Oh Angela, I sure wish you had known about my book early on too! You have made it through the hardest part, so I celebrate that with you! It can be so very lonely, painful, frustrating, and often hopeless… But you ARE ON THE OTHER SIDE! I’m so happy for you, and I hope and pray you continue to be patient, strong, and positive as you continue through your healing!
I will be having reconstructive ankle surgery soon (torn tendon and ligaments). I will be in a cast, with no weight bearing or driving for 6 weeks, and a boot for several weeks after. Did I mention my double Story house? I am dreading the process. I have an eleven year old son, husband, and puppy that need me. I am going to have to rely on other people for a lot, and that’s hard for me. My husband has a full time job so I am afraid this will put stress on him as well. The article, tips and comments really help! Keep them coming!
OH my new friend, let me send you my book okay?
Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I know, oh how I know what you are going through and will experience in the coming days of your recovery! It’s going to be okay. Hard, yes- but you WILL make it through this difficult season.
Be strong and very VERY patient. <3
Oh…so glad I found this today!!! Having screws put in my foot tomorrow…Jones fracture that didn’t heal!!! I’ll try my best to remember all these tips, but girl, I’m scared!!! LOL!!!
Oh Donna, I hope your surgery went well and you are beginning to heal and feeling more assured that you will be okay! Email me your address, and I will send you my book. I hope it helps and encourages you through your recovery. My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com 🙂
I am SO glad I came across this!! What a God send!
Im a pre K teacher and the mother of a 6 yr old. Marries but hubby travels a ton and family all in England.
Im a runner and a biker.
I tripped over my catbon our stairs and broke my ankle and have potentially torn tendons ( mri this week)
In the mean time, a non weight bearing cast.
I am just so miserable. I just want to walk, drive. Donall the things Ive always taken for granted.
Thanks for all the encouragement !!❤️????????
Emma
OH Emma, I am so sorry this happened and you are in “that place”, stuck and frustrated and sad- been there!
I would really love to send you my book. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com
On my Emma, Hang in and hang on.
Im 6 weeks postop and finding this blog and all these wonderful ladies has been a blessing.
Praying for a smooth and steady recovery for you.
Someone in one of my groups on Facebook shared this today. Oh how I wish I would have found you sooner. I feel so bad for all of the women before me who had broken bones, through no fault of their own, really.
I actually volunteered for it…well not really, because when they told me I needed to have my flat foot fixed, I had no idea whatsoever what that involved. And in the dr’s defense, he didn’t know the damage was as bad as it was, until he got in there.
They had to rebuild my foot. The mental and emotional stuff you go through, and the tears because you feel so…helpless. You wrote it beautifully and with humor!! No one tells you about the emotions that you go through dealing with this kind of thing. Heck, no one told me the dr had to break my heel, until I saw my xrays 7 weeks later, to realign my foot, among 7 or 8 other procedures he had to do to get my foot back to ‘normal’ or functioning again.
I have been telling them for a couple of years or more that my knees were a mess, the surgeon who rebuilt my foot in April finally took xrays and then came into the exam room and said ‘What have you done?!’ I told him, nothing. And he can’t figure out why my joints are failing, except that I have Lyme disease and it has decided to concentrate itself on my joints. Now, I need both knees replaced. So if it all works out by the end of this year, in an 8 mo time period I will have a new foot and new knees. So I get back on my feet, and work, after begging him to let me go back for 3 hrs..please. please!!! After being off work for 5 mo, and now I am looking at another 3 mo min back off of work again. Oh, believe me, I am learning patience in a huge dose!
Your 10 tips are SO right on the mark!!
Crutches are death sticks and a knee scooter is a God send…even though it does mess with your knee a little (mine was a mess before I got my scooter), but the scooter allows us a little bit of independence and as mom’s and grandma’s, we need that!
Thank you for writing this!!!
I guess I didn’t learn enough patience the first time *L* and now He has decided I need to learn a little more 😉
Oh Julie, I simply MUST send you my book for this go around! Email your address to: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Girl, you will be back to work- in time. Precious long and sometimes relentless and agonizing time. I’m SO sorry you have to endure all of this. But I’m SO glad someone shared my post in a FB group to get you here.
I’m so glad I found this. I broke my ankle on 12th October and had ORIF surgery on the 16th. I have cried, took it out on my family already so this article helps put things into perspective.
Only 9 days in & the days are going very slowly. I am counting the days until November 1st when I have my stitches out & a new cast fitted although I am dreading seeing what lurks under this temporary cast & bandages!
I have sensations of tightness, tingling & some numbness in my foot and toes which I read are not a good sign? Should I see the doctor earlier or hang on until Nov 1st? I wiggle my toes & it eases slightly & elevating my foot helps but can never seem to get it high enough.
I am strictly non weight bearing for 6 weeks & only have crutches so still a lonnnngggggggg way to go for me. Argh!
Oh Sarah, I’m so sorry you broke your ankle!! I remember tightness, lots of tingling and numbness so I don’t think that is unusual- BUT I would call the doc and talk to the nurse to pass those symptoms by her just to be safe.
Email me your address, and I will send you my book. (Chris@TheMomCafe.com) I know exactly what you are going through, my new friend. I hope my book can offer you some comfort and encouragement through your recovery. I know it feels SO LONG… looking ahead to all those weeks- but keep the BIG picture perspective. This is a dollop of time on your timeline. It WILL get better, you WILL heal, and you WILL get your life back. Hold on. Be patient. Love yourself through it, okay?
And love your family too. (I totally understand your emotions and taking it out on the ones you love most. I do. Be patient with them too, because I’m guessing they are doing the best they can.)
Omg, I just saw this blog when I was Googling whether I can walk with my leg immobilizer or if I really need my walking cast. On Sept. 16th, I broke my kneecap at work wrestling with some dogs. 🙂 And the worst part? I haven’t been to work since, and I miss it soooooo much!!!!!! 🙁
I had surgery on Sept. 22, and my ortho put me in an ankle-to-almost-groin cast, and everything you wrote about is soooo true, Christine! If I may add my experiences with peeing…My new home was my couch. Luckily, I’m in a raised ranch, so I only need to go downstairs to do laundry. My three boys were not around, and I’m divorced, so I was all alone, except for my three cats (which posed a challenge all on its own!).
Anyway, I would always wake up in the middle of the night and have to pee. And, as you said, Christine, when you have to go, you really need to go and not wait. I was also one of those who hobbled on crutches trying to make it to the bathroom in time. That didn’t always work. lol Ok, so full disclosure, and please, no judgments, but I was really desperate! I decided I wasn’t going to risk trying to make it to the bathroom in time (it took a good ten minutes to get off the couch and stand up, mind you, never mind the time it took getting to the bathroom!), so I took a few of those large plastic containers that you get from ordering Chinese, and decided to use those to pee in. Yes, it was crude and gross and disgusting, but I didn’t have an accident again! One time I had woken up at six, so here I am peeing with my back to the window, hoping my neighbor, who walks her dog very early, is not seeing me peeing into a container! lol
But I’ll tell you, that was my ‘easy’ time. Exactly a week after surgery, I was feeling odd. I couldn’t catch my breath, I was lightheaded, and I had some pressure on my sternum. I had to call 911. This was about 2 a.m. When the EMT checked my oxygen level, it was only at 87%, so they took me to the ER. Turns out, I had a blood clot in my surgery leg (a DVT), and part of it broke off into two pieces. One piece when to one lung, and the other piece went to the other lung. So now I had a DVT and two pulmonary embolisms. Fun. NOT. Everyone in the ER said I was smart to call 911, otherwise I wouldn’t be here today. They immediately put me on blood thinners and admitted me. That was only the first of four trips to the ER. 🙁
So now, not only do I have to deal with my knee, I have to be on blood thinners for a few months (minimum) until they do all these tests again to see if the clots have dissipated. And I was only casted for ten days! I couldn’t imagine being casted for as long as everyone on here has been! I’d constantly be worried about blood clots since I wouldn’t be able to move my casted leg!
Christine, you are so right, though: This is only temporary, and it definitely gives you a whole new perspective regarding the people who have lost a limb.
Thank you so much for your true and humorous account of being a mom in a cast! Honestly, I couldn’t imagine having this when my kids were younger and my dog was still around. I would have had to hire some kind of part-time help. It was a hard enough challenge with the three cats, letting them in and out, feeding them, and cleaning the litterboxes.
Sorry I’ve been rambling, but thank you again for your wonderful post, Christine! 🙂
Lisa
Christine
and all you wonderful Ladies,
I too found Christine’s blog themomcafe.com after internet search LIFE AFTER ANKLE SURGERY… I was in tears while my heart filled with hope and joy reading the posts here several weeks ago!
What a blessing everyone is!
Goodness I would have gone for the chinese containters too…lol
I am almost 6 weeks post op from ankle tendon surgery. Still NWB in wheelchair most of the time, but
on my tile floors in kitchen and bath I switch to BUNGEE chairs from Container Store. Chair in bath has no arms. I found these chairs very helpful. Let me know if I can get anyone more info on how this 55 yr old gal, overweight has been NWB since 9/21, if I can do it so can you!!
I will keep everyone on the prayer warriors prayer list.
And yes, its only temporary.
God bless everyone with smooth recovery.
Hugs
Jorjann C
GOD BLESS YOU Jorjann! You are such a love to offer encouragement, prayers, and helpful advice to all who read this. Praying for YOU now… <3
OH dear Lisa, no judgments EVER here. I honestly think that is brilliant to use containers!
I’m just so so sorry you have been through SO much with this recovery and blood clot to BOOT.
I would love to send you my book. if you are still struggling with your recovery. I hope it can offer you some comfort and encouragement if you are still in need. Are you able to get around now without your cast? Are you all healed up and able to be mobile on your knee?
I hope this awful time is OVER soon for you. It IS temporary, although some days it feels like forever.
Thank you for posting this article. I have bunion removal and foot fusion surgery coming up and I am trying hard to prepare while I can. Definitely bookmarking this so I can reference it often. I have 6 months of recovery ahead of me…
Karin, I would love to send you my book to help you through your recovery. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com
It sounds like you will need some encouragement through this difficult season ahead. You GOT THIS. <3
I just found your article after fracturing my ankle 11 weeks ago. I wish I’d found it sooner, I could have used the laughs while struggling around on my scooter. I swear I thought about everything you put on this list! Thank you for the giggles!
I wish you found it sooner too Dawn! (I’m glad it made you giggle! Laughter can be the BEST medicine, right?) Are you nearing the end of your recovery? If not, I’d be glad to send you my book. Just email me your address, if you are interested. 🙂 Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Oh this spoke to me at a time i really needed to hear every word!!! Falling off a treadmill caused a grade three severe high ankle sprain. The pain is rough like you mentioned, but the mental journey is a challenge for sure! I’m a full time working mom with two little ones, two dogs, and in the midst of holiday season. I was juggling 5775 things at any time and my world was stopped- fast!!! You remind me to look at the bigger picture. The moment in time on my timeline of life. To breathe and remember this will pass. To say “yes, please” when others offer help. Thank you!
Oh my gosh Maria, I SO get you. Let me send you my book okay? It is incredibly difficult to come to a screeching HALT and stop doing all those 5775 things. OH so hard. Then add to that letting go of the control, allowing others to do stuff for you, and managing the physical pain and mental anguish you are experiencing…
SO hard. I’m just so sorry you have to endure this.
Email me your address and I’ll get it off to you asap. Chris@TheMomCafe.com
I was awake in the middle of the night last night, trying to go back to sleep after the difficult trip to the bathroom. I Googled a question about what to expect when my cast comes off next month and found this post. I’m 3 weeks post major bunion/hammertoe surgery on my left foot and totally NWB.
You totally described the one-leg experience I’m having. I can’t use crutches at all but the knee scooter is killing my knee! Plus my right knee on my “good” leg loves to dislocate so I’m having to really be careful. I’m totally exhausted. I have a pin in my 2nd toe that has to come out when the cast comes off and that is freaking me out a bit.
I understand I’ll be facing a lot of physical therapy for a while. Who knows when I’ll have two feet to walk on. Not sure how long it will take to get walking again. Sigh!
Thank you for explaining this so well! It helps to not feel alone.
Oh Sue, it’s so hard isn’t it? I had pins taken out and it was really not too difficult at all! Don’t worry about that part, okay? Getting around is ridiculously annoying, and YES my hip also hurt from pushing that scooter around, along with my knee. Dislocation throws a whole ‘nother thing into the mix! Sigh. It’s a long road of recovery, but BUT in the span of a lifetime- it isn’t. Remind yourself that often, okay?
I’d love to send you my book. Email me your address so I can get it shipped off to you asap. 🙂 Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Oh my gosh, I’m so happy I stumbled upon this tonight… I had bunion surgery two weeks ago I’m in my first cast… Having never broken a bone before in my 60 years on this earth… This is my first cast. I’m amazed at how limiting it truly is. And how very much I will appreciate it after this is done.
This is the first bunion and in March, I will have my second bunion taken care of… Which means six weeks in another cast!
On top of all of this, we are moving to a new location and I have only a couple of weeks to get the packing done. LOL I find that if I don’t see the humor in this, I may cry a river & we will all drown!!!????
Thank you for your blog! I read it and a lot of the comments which has truly helped me… so as I lay here on my couch home… With my remote & my mobile phone & my cordless home phone I’m finding a lot of comfort knowing that there are others who have been through this & the helpful suggestions to make life a lot easier… it just helps so much!!! Thank you so much!!! ????????????
AH Cindy!!! Yes yes yes you just have to LAUGH because my gosh, you cannot let this sink you in a sea of tears! Girl, this is YOUR YEAR to get FIXED. Look at it that way… one year of this mess, and you will have new feet! The trick is the move, well, and the NWB. Those two don’t go together well at ALL. I hope and pray you have a village of friends and family to help support you in it all, Cindy!
I’m heading out to the P.O. this morning to send another new friend my book. I’d love to get one off to you too. 🙂 Email me your address asap. Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Cindy, you and I have a whole lot in common. I’m 61 and have never broken a bone nor had a cast before either! This has been a bit of a whole, huh?!
I had a bunion fixed on my right foot in my late 30s but this has been a much more extensive surgery. That one just required my foot to be wrapped and I was up and walking immediately at the end of 5-6 weeks. That will not be the case this time.
We’ll make it though, right?! ????
Hello momcafe,
I stumbled upon this article while researching about body aches after foot surgery. I am only 12 days in and have 5 more weeks to go non-weight bearing. I have had 2 nervous breakdowns since returning home from surgery on 12/8. I read this article and it made me laugh and cry. It is real, down to earth, comical, heartwarming and eye opening. It allowed me to remember that this a temporary condition and that there are others that deal with this hardship daily and on a permanent basis. It reminded me to be thankful, to take the time to allow my body to heal and to be grateful for any support system I have beside me helping to get me through. Thank you for your encouraging words.
Kind Regards,
Oh Carrie, your comment is just amazing. I’m so glad my blog has encouraged you as you go through this difficult time. I GET. IT. And I’m just so sorry you have to go through this too. Please go check out my book. I think it will help you get through the rest of your recovery. I’d offer to send you a copy, but my family is down with the flu. (Influenza A. It’s BRUTAL.)
Oh, wow. Reading this with tears streaming down my face. The daily emotions in just 2 weeks post-op, this resonated with me so much. My hubby’s mother came to stay with us for the first 10 days and was so kind for everything she did for me and our house. I am so thankful to have found your post to encourage me and know I am not alone.
Oh Jeanette, I am so glad you found my blog too! And grateful you have such a wonderful and supportive MIL to help you. What a blessing that is. Hang in there and keep re-reading this and the other posts I shared at the end, for more encouragement.
I would be happy to send you my book, but our family is down with the flu, so it might be a while before I can get it off to you! You can find it on Amazon too. The link is in this post!
I planned my ankle surgery. What I did not plan was Hurricane Harvey, which devastated the Houston nonprofit where I work, the departure of my boss and mentor, and two surgeries instead of one and done. Currently on week 13 of me of the various post surgical splints and casts. I have not been at my best. Husband and I have growled at lot at each other. So when I found your posts, it made me feel a little less alone and less of a failure at how I’ve managed all this time. Thank you for that.
Amy, I’m so sorry I never responded to your comment. My gosh, this all sounds so horrible and I am hoping by now you are recovering and on your way to full health? I also hope you and hubs have managed through such a difficult season. Oh, it’s so so hard. I’m so mad I missed your comment, but so glad my blog helped you feel better.
Thank you so much for writing this – this is the second time I’ve read this post with tears rolling down my cheeks in the 2.5 weeks since I had surgery for tib/fib/ankle fractures. Though I’m trying hard to remain positive, you’re right that the feelings of despair come in waves with the pain. The intermittent pain with no rhyme or reason is tough and disheartening! And in those moments I dwell on my loss of independence, how long the recovery will be and whether or not I’ll get back to the active lifestyle I had previously. It is SO helpful to hear words of encouragement and perspective from someone who’s been through it, and read the comments of others to know I am not alone. I am grateful for all the comments and wish you all strength in your healing! I am sure I will be back to read this many more times – THANK YOU.
Danielle, I am SO glad you found my blog and my words and others have helped you. Please let me send you my book, if you are still in need of more encouragement. I took some time off of blogging, so please forgive me for not responding sooner!
Oh how I needed this. Came across this on Pinterest while looking up workouts to do while NWB and casted. Just 5 days post foot surgery. At least 6 weeks casted if not 8. I am not a sedentary person and I do not like asking for help. My family of boys are awesome but I can already see they miss all I do on a daily basis. I loved reading this and every word was meant for me right now. Thank you
I’m so glad you found my blog, Cathy! And girl, I so get it- I get you. Us busy mamas who do pretty much everything and then – we don’t… It’s an incredibly hard adjustment on EVERYONE. I’m so glad your boys are doing good and I hope you have friends to come help and support you too.
Email my your address, and I’ll send you my book to get you through the rest of your recovery. 🙂
Email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Going through it right now. 12 weeks in a cast after ankle surgery. Other ankle was done 2 years ago. I feel forced into becoming a pro at this patience thing! There’s one advice I want to give everyone, that nobody told me about: protect your lower back! After the first operation, I ended up with a herniated disc from sitting in a chair with one leg up. This can put to much pressure on you lower back. And because of that, I am now forced to lay flat on my back wit my leg raised.
So glad to have found this website! I’m Dutch, and could not find any info on how to get through this. Bless you all, we will get through this. And so true: ask for help, and be specific about what you need.
And as a woman, I quickly came to terms with the fact that now every day is a bad hair day….
Emilie, you are THE EXPERT! But I’m sad you had to become a pro at this recovery thing.
Thank you so much for the important point about your lower back. That makes so much sense. My gosh, there are SO many ways we can hurt our bodies just trying to move at ALL in a leg cast. I was so sore everywhere. And sitting or laying down for long periods of time wreak havoc too. Thanks for sharing your experience and wisdom about this.
Even though you are a pro, if you want a little more help and hope while you’re healing this go around, email me your address and I will send you my book. 🙂 Email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Hello Cafemom and everyone else in the same boat of sitting in a cast. I became so happy to find your blog while goggling as much as I could about foot injuries.
My story, at a gym trying to get in shape and fell from a jumpbox and broke my heel bone and talus bone on my right foot. Cast for 4 weeks it’s gone almost 2. Then back for a new scan and the doctor to decide the next step. The first dc said 3 months NWB. I have 2 girls 6 and 9 and a busy life like everyone else. My husband is great and everyone is helping as much as they can. I live in Sweden so my family is back in the states, but I have my husbands family which are wonderful. I am trying to stay positive, but it is difficult when your life changes all of a sudden:(. I thought I would give some tips that have helped tremendously.
If you can do a large grocery shopping online and have it delivered.
Get cleaning help once a week or as much as you can, whether it be a cleaning service or family who can help, any little thing will help.
Shower Chair
And bribe your kids! LOL it’s amazing the things they can do when they get some motivation!
I will be following your blog from now on! Wishing speedy recoveries for everyone!
OH yes, I did a ton of bribing! Hazel, such great advice here and I am so glad you have the support of your husband’s family.
I’d be happy to send you a kindle version of my book. If you are interested, just let me know. 🙂
Trimalleolar fracture on Christmas Eve 2017 with surgery on the 29th. I live alone. Being housebound is not good for my mental or emotional health. I’ve reached out for help and for visits and received it albeit to a limited extent. One hint that’s really helped me in the kitchen is using my office chair. I wheel myself from frig to sink to stove. I put a wicker basket in my lap and fill it with food/ingredients from the frig and pantry. The chair frees both my hands to safely cook and clean up after myself. I’m glad to have found your blog, and doubly glad to learn that crying for “no reason” is common!
An office chair is a GREAT idea! I’ll have to try that.
I’m glad I found these tips – will hold them close during my recovery. I slipped on black ice two nights ago and fractured my tibia, now I’m home with a full-leg cast. I am not used to being inactive (I was training for a half-marathon in April!) and am DEFINITELY not used to having to ask for help. I already feel guilty that my husband has to do basically everything for me. He has been a wonderful nurse so far, and my friends are already going out of their way to make sure I’m taken care of. I hope that my gratitude will sustain me, but I also know that depression will kick in after some time and I’ll need to call on every ounce of my strength.
My heart is with everyone else who is recovering: stay strong, keep love in your heart – we got this!
xoxo Amy
Oh my gosh Amy. I am SO sorry. I’m so glad your hubs is being such a great nurse and you have friends to step in and help too. Gratitude will be a huge help in battling the depression. I understand how difficult this is and will continue to be. 🙁 I’d love to offer you my book too. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I have been in a cast now for 7 weeks and have 4 more weeks to go before I can start walking again. I am going though all the emotions and hints that you talk of to be true (especially going before you have to go!) Thanks for not making me feel like I’m the only one with these problems!
Ah, Teresa- you are ALMOST DONE! I know a month sounds like forever at this point, but you see the LIGHT, right? If you would like my book to get you through your last stages of healing, I would be happy to send it to you. I know by now, you are probably losing your mind after 7 weeks and there will be some hard PT after that cast, I’m guessing. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
Omg. This just saved my life. I fractured and dislocated my knee yesterday and have been spitting nails and frustrated for the past 48 hours. This blog post is great and sensible. Thank you.
Wow – it certainly makes you feel better knowing you are’t the only one! I have one more week to finish up my 12 weeks NWB!!! I am hoping I will be given the go ahead next week!!! I fell on Mother’s Day 2017 when we were on a picnic and broke my fibula tibia. Had surgery, plate and screws put in. Wound didn’t heal (I am diabetic), was non-weight bearing for 6 weeks. After the bone finally got strong enough, I had surgery to remove the hardware (infected), and was told I would walk out of the hospital on my own two feet. LOL! The doc came out of surgery with good/bad news…..the bone was strong enough, but the tendon had shriveled/snapped and he had to put in new hardware and this time I am non weight bearing for 12 weeks!!! So hopefully I will be getting to walk in my boot next week! I am blessed to belong to a church where the ladies have been coming to help me every day for an hour or two while my hubby is working. And my hubby is a saint, and has taken on all kinds of new tasks to help out. I am now on home infusion of two IV antibiotics twice a day (in hoping to combat the bone infection and wound that still isn’t healing) and a bone stimulator machine and we are dressing the wound ourselves. It has been a very long year!
I would have thought I would have been a good candidate for being home bound, being that I am fairly sedentary. But who knew sitting in a wheelchair hurts!!! I haven’t been able to cry over this ordeal, sometimes I wish I could, but I know it won’t help in the long run. It is also winter here in Michigan, and only leave for dr appointments, as the ramp becomes a toboggan run and on a good day I need two or three strong men to get me up and down the ramp. One day at a time!
And I will end with a quote from a book I was able to read: I broke my leg today. At least it wasn’t my neck…..I guess it could be worse, right?
Thanks for the encouragement!
Diane Vruwink Carlson
Well, Diane, I believe you have earned yourself the “Hardest Recovery Year of ALL TIME” award! My goodness, friend! It sounds like you have been through such an agonizingly long road to healing. I am so very sorry it has been so grueling with those unpredictable added challenges. I understand the difficulties in the winter too- and I’m sure sitting in a wheelchair hurts! I’m so grateful you have a wonderful church community and a beloved husband to support you through all of it. Oh, what a true blessing that is!
Here’s to getting in that BOOT next week!! I wish you had my book when this all began, but please check it out to help you through the remainder of your recovery. If you don’t have the financial means to buy it, I would be happy to send it to you. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com!
Praying this next phase of healing and recovery is smooth and you begin to see the light at the end of this very long dark tunnel! You are *almost* there! And PS: I LOVE that quote! 🙂
Hi!! I’m recovery from leg surgery and it is so refreshing to read some positive humorous posts on this topic.. Thank you everyone!!
As a Mum it’s not the easiest time but so important to try to make the best of it xxx
I’m so sorry you have to be in this group of broken ladies, Liv, but so glad you found my blog! I hope it encourages you as you continue to recover. Please make sure to check out my book. I know it will help you! And if you live in the U.S. and don’t have the financial means to buy it, let me know and I will send you a gift copy!
You can email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
Hang in there, new friend!
Thank you so much for this. I am a mom to 3 teenagers (luckily all driving) and the Controller of an electronics manufacturer. I’m everybody’s rock and painfully independent. I’m 3 weeks into my 8 week non weight bearing period and was feeling completely miserable, useless, and frustrated. I just didn’t expect immobility to be this hard! I wish that I had read your blog pre surgery! It has really made me feel so much better – thank you.
Oh Emily, it is SO HARD. And especially when you are the rock and have to surrender to your busy lifestyle. It’s just so hard. And three teenagers? I know they still need you too. Please check out my book! You can click on my book link to take you to Amazon, or if you don’t have the means to purchase it, I’d be happy to send it to you! Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com, if you’d like.
HANG IN THERE. I’m so glad you found my blog. Make sure you read the other posts I listed. I hope they help you too. <3
Thank you for this! I’m 2 weeks in an finding it really hard not to sink into that pit of despair. And I can’t help obsessing about the fact that this will get worse. What then? Ughhhh!
While I”m sorry for your pain I’m happy to know someone gets it. Thanks.
I’m so sorry you have to endure this difficult road to recovery, Maureen! It’s hard to imagine things getting worse and we wonder how on earth we will survive- but somehow, we discover more strength when we need it most. Believe me, you WILL find it. You can DO THIS. And have hope- hope that this will end, you will be healed, and you will be restored. I encourage you to check out my book. I truly believe it will help you through this! If you don’t have the financial means to buy it, and you live in the U.S.- I’d be happy to send you a copy. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com if you’d like.
I got side-swiped by a car whilst on my bike 10 days ago over here in damp England. I am now in a full leg cast -broken leg and damaged knee. I remember that day so clearly. As I left for work my daughter, laid up,with a winter cold, said ‘Mum, never take your health for granted’. I had reflected on her words on my bike commute but little did I know how serendipitous they would prove to be, nor that I would get to put her words to the test firsthand.
Full length cast, nwb (I’d never have known what those initials stood for 2 weeks ago), and a bruised tailbone means that there is no single comfortable position aside from a drugged sleep. Not sure how long before I recover but I’m more worried about my confidence returning to cycling. Cycling gives me such enormous pleasure so I will be gutted if the actions of a distracted mum on the school run takes that away from me. Hubster and I were booked to go to California in 6 weeks time to cycle down the west coast for a month on a trip of a lifetime, so that’s now been cancelled.
A large black hole seems to have opened up in the floor of my living room, just next to the sofa, which I slip into a couple of times a day. But your blog certainly shone a light and helps remind me that all things pass and my mind and body should hopefully heal.
Thank you.
OH dear Kaja, I’m SO sorry this happened to you! I am just crushed that you were injured and face such a difficult recovery. I can only imagine how hard it is to forfeit that long awaited cycling trip, but you WILL be able to do it when you are healed- have hope in that, okay? Please look into buying my book on Amazon. I believe it will help you keep from falling into that black hole. I know that pit well, my new friend.
Make sure to read the other posts listed at the end of this one, for more encouragement as well.
You will be in my prayers.
You WILL have the strength to endure this road, and the days WILL come when you can cycle again.
So glad I found this post. So comforting to hear that I am not alone with these feelings/emotions! I fell on wet leaves on November 14th (trying to retrieve my fur baby) and fractured my left fibula. I was in a boot at first, but then required surgery with plate & screws about two weeks later (after a couple more falls on crutches—-agile, I am not! ????) In a cast for six weeks and now in a boot again with weight bearing “as tolerated” for the past three. I go back to doctor next week for repeat X-ray & he will decide about PT then. Made for an interesting & different holiday season this year! ???? Also decided that since I was out of work anyway, to have my planned cataract surgeries while I’m down…why not? So, I am going to be 60 next week. I am still hobbling around (hopping around) with a walker. I am able to put a little weight on my leg and I have been in our room for months, because I am terrified to try the steps that lead to our kitchen. Hard to crawl due to arthritis…My disabled husband has been doing all the shopping/cooking and bringing it to me, bless him. Going out to appointments is a harrowing experience and always so happy to make it back to my “nest.” I am so anxious to get “back to normal”, get back to work & just get out & about, but I am so afraid of doing anything to prolong my recovery. Where is my courage? It has been so hard to accept help…I am another “do it all” gal & have always been the caregiver. I still need help for most things & am so terrified of falling again. Will I ever be independent again? I surely have not been through as much as others have and I pray for your recovery. God is surely teaching me humility & patience. Thank you so much for your comforting post. They surely have touched my weary heart and give me hope that this “truly is temporary!”
I am going thru the same. Just only 10days. Not sure how this gets cured after 5 weeks. Hopefully all should go well without surgery. I realised there is nothing much I can do othe4 than accepting this. One thing for sure I learnt the great support from my wife, sons and mother. They are taking care of me like a small baby. It is amazing to see the help and support from them. There are whole lot of books in pending reading. I have decided to read them and share the knowledge to neighbours.
Life is not easy. We ourselves do not realise the value of our own body parts. We take everything for granted and come to know the value of this body creator only when such things happens.
Thank you for that! I am 2 weeks in, with a broken ankle. It is hard. My husband is doing everything, and it challenging for him too,
I have 2 dogs. We’re both off from work to get through this. The food came in during the first week.
I cry from time to time, it’s a release, there is absolutely nothing I can do!
I knit one scarf, working on another.
I had 2 bunion surgeries, and had a torn meniscus surgery, that was 2 years ago, those weren’t this hard!
I miss work, I miss my get up and go life! But this too shall pass.
I was looking for ways to keep the rest of my body strong while not being able to stand on my right foot and I found your post. I’m so happy I did! I’ve been in my couch home 🙂 for just over 3 weeks due to a broken foot and I identify with everything you said. Letting go was hard, but I eventually made peace with it all. With letting my husband run the house….not the way I would have, with not playing volleyball, with letting my kids fill and carry a cup of water across the house for me (aaahhh!), with missing a superbowl party and a play (so far), with bribing people to take the dog out bc going outside in the snow with crutches is….no. Truthfully, I have begun to enjoy this time bc all too soon my couch time will be over and I’ll have to do everything for everyone again. True, I have only been out of the house twice in 3 weeks for dr appts, BUT I have also read 4.5 books, watched lots of Fixer Upper and the Olympics with my family and people bring me flowers and their company! This too shall pass. Hang in there mamas!
LOVE your attitude, Danielle! 🙂 I’m so glad you are embracing this season with all you’ve got! If you end up needing any more encouragement, add my book to your reading list. If you can’t purchase the paperback, I’d be happy to send you a copy. Just email me your address, if you want it. (Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
Thank you so much for writing this! I fell on Monday, and broke my ankle, right ankle, driving ankle…this is the first time I have laughed …out loud…since before the fall!
It’s just so nice to know that others have been struggling through exactly the same things as I have.
I’m a working mom, and yoga teacher who has 4 teenagers and a tiny golden doodle who keeps crying every time I start to cry! I can’t even remember the last time I cried!
These injuries are not for the faint of heart for sure…thank you so much for bringing me some comfort!
Carole 🙂
I am SO glad this made you LAUGH Carole!! I swear, when we are in this place of desperation, it’s SO good to laugh. Now about those four teens you have… OMG. LOL You have immediately earned my respect, girl. And that is just precious your little golden doodle cries when you cry! Oh, my heart.
You need my book. If you didn’t check it out, please do! I know it will help you and there are some more stories that will make you LOL, along with encouraging you along the way. 🙂 If you can’t purchase it, let me know and I’ll send you a copy. Email me your address at Chris@TheMOmCafe.com and I’d be happy to get it off you to asap.
Wow! What a great list of what to expect, wish I had found this before my tendon surgery on Feb. 2nd. I would’ve felt more prepared for sure! I’ve just finished my 3rd week of NWB,with one to go. Luckily for me I don’t have a cast but sometimes wish I did just to remind me to be careful with my foot. I live in a 3 story home and have only been out (with my husband’s help) twice. I’ve always been a very active and physically strong person. I teach 2 spin classes a week and try to fit in weight training twice a week, but using crutches for the first time made me feel like a complete weakling! My shoulders and arms were screaming in pain after just short walks on the crutches and I had so much anxiety because I was constantly afraid I would fall and ruin everything my surgeon fixed. My sweet husband ordered me padding for the crutches and a knee scooter and those have helped SO MUCH. I basically go up and down the stairs on my bum and need help at the top of the stairs because my good leg is not strong enough to lift myself up without blowing out the knee. I have been able to crawl from the couch to the floor and have been trying to do some stretching, leg lifts and light upper body wts. I highly recommend this to anyone in this situation, it has really helped to alleviate a lot of the back and hip pain I’m getting from all the sitting. I really feel fortunate compared to many others since I have so much help from my husband and I don’t have children at home, only my little dog and I was able to find a dog walker to walk him every day. Thanks so much for your article, it helps to know you’re not the only one going through this type of challenge. I’m trying to keep my mind engaged, stay positive and say YES to anyone who offers to help, but it’s not always easy. After my doctor originally explained the recovery process, I was under the impression that after 4 wks of NWB, I would go into the boot and immediately be able to walk and be independent, but after my 2wk follow up appt, it became apparent to me that it wasn’t going to be quite that easy. She told me that I would gradually be able to put weight on the foot over 4 wks and would still need the crutches…..UGH!!!! Why do they always leave those little details out during the initial discussions around surgery. I find it very frustrating that docs aren’t always forthcoming with all the nitty gritty details of recovery and you don’t know all the right questions to ask at that point! I think your article/list should be mandatory reading for all surgeons, most I’m sure have never had to be NWB themselves and until you’ve had to live it, you just don’t understand. Thanks again for your comforting words and reassurance that we aren’t in this alone!
Paige, I just love that you shared everything here with me and all the other readers. I can relate to everything and I’m sure everyone reading this can too. Healing is such a long and fitful process! I do hope it isn’t too long before you are using your full weight on that foot of yours! ANd yes, the benefits of having a cast is you can knock it around and although it can hurt like the DICKENS, apparently things are pretty sealed up in there. I’m sure you have to be SUPER careful without one.
I think my book would still help you through these last weeks of your healing and recovery. It can be quite frustrating! I didn’t think mine would take a FULL YEAR to recover completely from and to be honest I still have pain. But it is what it is. I am grateful I am ‘fixed’. 🙂
Check out my book on Amazon, and if you don’t have the means to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a copy. Email me at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and give me your address on where I can ship it, if you’d like.
Oh my this article made me laugh and smile! I am a wk in a half post op of ankle ligaments and tendenions. I was also vaguely told she had to fuse most of my ankle. Of course my right ankle driving one. My poor husband doesn’t remember what the doctor told him after my surgery expect wow your wife’s ankle was so much worse then I thought. I am only 32 and have a 2yr old and 10 and 11 and a 8 month old puppy. Crutches are not my friend! I went to the grocery store after breaking down and getting a uber ride and of course no scooters. So my kids running around the store like nothing and i was completely exhsusted after 2 minutes. Forget the stairs ever. Luckily no snow in my part of Az. I get so jealous when anyone runs a shower. Lol I miss it so much! Not only that but just walking. There has been so many tears in the house. Unfortunately my husband had to go to work 2 days after surgery. So I was alone with the toddler and puppy. As soon as my boys come home its whats for a snack or dinner?
Forget my house even looking clean. This momma needs sleep! The cast is so heavy it’s so hard to sleep. Thank you for making it seem like I am not alone! Thank you for the article. I needed it more then you know!
GIRLFRIEND! First of all, bless your mama heart! You have a FULL house over there! I could totally see me breaking down and ubering to the store and going crazy with my kids running wild- SO something I would do. There’s little worse than being confined and limited and out of control and WITH KIDS ( And a puppy??) I had many breakdowns too. Oh yes.
The cast IS so heavy, and doing anything requires so much strength, balance, and endurance… oh, and PATIENCE. I have so little of that, it’s a miracle I survived 8 weeks in it, then a big heavy boot and an entire year of painful wobbling to fully heal.
PLEASE get my book. You need it! You deserve it! It will help!
The link is up in my post, but if you don’t have the financial means to purchase it, let me know and I’ll send you a copy. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
Hang in there sister! You can DO THIS.
Thanks so much for this – I wish I had found it sooner in my journey. I am six weeks into ankle surgery & cast, with 1 more to go NWB. Its been a crazy journey with 4 kids and it has both crept along and flown by. I am looking forward to regaining some freedom, but trying to keep my expectations in check as I know this next stage of the process won’t be easy either.
I think you deserve superhero status for being in a cast for six weeks and having 4 kids. Just those facts alone earned you that title!!
You are almost there! I hope your PT is smooth and your recovery comes quickly here toward the end, Leigh!
I sit here at 5:30am, having not yet fallen asleep on the couch, browsing the internet for words of wisdom for the predicament I am in. I came across 20 Truths About Life After Foot and Ankle Surgery and just started following the links on here. You get it!! I am almost 2 weeks post surgery and 3 weeks post break. I’m emotionally exhausted, mentally unstable (lol) and physically spent. I cried reading everything you have written because you truly GET IT!! I am a 42 year old mother of 6 adult children and Grammy to 7 grandchildren. I am also the caretaker of 3 of my grandkids during the day, while my children work, and all of that came to an abrupt halt. I could see the panic in my kids faces that day, as they realized that I was out of service and other arrangements would have to be made for the grandbabies. We figured it out because that is what we do and I raised some really strong daughters. They banded together and figured it out by the time the day was finished. My husband works away from home, in the oilfield and, if i’m lucky, he’s home one week a month. I have felt like a deer in headlights for the last 3 weeks and the realization is finally hitting me as to the massive change that is unfolding with my family. I am the center of everything and usually depend on noone. It has always been this way. Until now. Thank you for these stories/words of wisdom. I needed this in my life right now. Finally I found something that relates to how I am feeling. I cannot express how much this has helped me. I know “this too, shall pass” but I am having a really hard time coming to grips with it right now. I feel a bit more at peace though, after reading these posts. I don’t think I can ever take my legs for granted again. God Bless You!!
Dionna, I have read your beautiful comment three times now and my gosh, I’m so glad you found my blog too. Thank you so much for sharing all you have been going through. Having six adult children (SUPERMOM) and 7 Grandchildren (SUPERGRAMMY) pretty much puts you at celebrity status. 🙂
I can’t imagine how hard it’s been for you, and for your kids who depend on you. I’m so glad they figured things out and I really hope all your kids are banding together to take care of their MAMA.
Please go check out my book on Amazon. I think it will really help you get through the rest of your recovery season. If you can’t buy it, let me know and I’d be happy to ship it to you instead. Email me your address if that is the best option. My email is Chris@TheMomCafe.com
This is a great post, so true! My injury is not very severe, but I’m in this cast and I’m still having those unexpected twinges and rushes of pain, and struggling so much with asking people for so much help. Thank you!! I feel like I should tell people though, one of the things that’s saving my life right now is my iWalk 2.0 crutch. Google it, it will change your life. It still requires a lot from your knee like the scooter, but is well padded and ergonomic, which helps. It’s taken three weeks for my knee to start to get tired. And it’s totally hands free. The ground is still a long way away, but I can carry things around with me and go up and down stairs…everyone should know about this!
Thank you for your words, they were very encouraging. God Bless.
Hi Bethany! Do you know I had recently seen someone using that iWalk crutch and it looked AMAZING!! I need to add that in my post. I SO appreciate you sharing about it and reminding me to let people know! I am glad you found my blog and that it was encouraging to you. Recovery from ANY surgery can be difficult, and I’m glad you are managing quite well. 🙂 For anyone reading the comments, here is what Bethany is talking about: https://www.amazon.com/iWALK2-0-Hands-Free-Knee-Crutch/dp/B00092RB06/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1519959932&sr=8-1&keywords=iwalk+2+0
Hello! I just came upon your post, and WOW are you right on! I ruptured my Achilles’ tendon, had surgery, and am in my fourth week, now in a cast, of non weight bearing. And I have over 2 more weeks before my next doctor’s visit! Alternating between a scooter and a wheelchair, I had to laugh out loud at the bath scenario, I go through this every night! There are times when frustration almost wins out, but I remind myself that this is temporary. And I thank God daily for my healthy body, and soon, 2 good legs. Thanks so much for your insight!
Lou Ann, you have a WONDERFUL attitude! And yes, the bath, amiright? 🙂
Make sure you check out my book on Amazon. I think it will help get you through the rest of your recovery! If you need me to send you a copy, just email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
HANG IN THERE! You are almost at the end of the recovery road!
This was a life saver . I broke my leg on Sunday and today am put into a cast .. the worst thing is walking.. to difficult but this post saved me .. thank you so much!
Oh Aratrica, I’m SO sorry you broke your leg!
I know how hard it can be, and I want to help you through the rest of your recovery. Email me your address and I will send you my book, okay? Chris@TheMomCafe.com
Thank you so much for this. You described me to a tee. I opted for surgery during a lull in an otherwise busy life of event planning and special projects for my church as well as stay at home with my kids and working weekends. Thankfully that position has blessed me with so many women who’ve blessed me with meals, visits and coffee. I’m 12 days into my 42day ordeal. My husband has been able to work from home. My job is to rest but gurl…. I don’t rest well. Talk about stir crazy and cabin fever. And fortunately I actually do physically therapy as my weekend career so I’m blessed with endless resources to help me be more mobile. However I’ve found myself here on your page for the reminders you’ve given. So thank you!
Jennifer, I am SO GLAD you have a wonderful faithful support system to help you through this difficult season. And gurl, I GET IT! Most women are good at resting!! It is H.A.R.D. But it’s amazing how we learn how to during times like this. We can fight it as much as we want, but we are forced to lay low and reeeesssssttt.
I hope you check out my book because I know it will help you through this! If you need a free copy, just email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send it to you asap!
Praying your able to find peace in this still place you are in. There are many gifts you can find when you must be still enough to discover them. <3
I’m five weeks in to recovery from foot surgery. I had no idea how frustrating this would be. Finding your website has helped so much! Just knowing that it’s not just me is so encouraging.
Marlene, I am SO glad you found my website too! It’s an incredible relief to know you are not alone, isn’t it? I hope you read the posts listed below this post and if you have more time left in your recovery, I encourage you to buy my book on Amazon. If you’d like me to send you a copy, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
Hang in there, new friend. You can do this!
Thank you so much for all your helpful advice! I am 7 weeks post op for foot fusion surgery and bunionectomy. At 6 weeks, the dr allowed me to weight bear but my foot had other ideas. I feel as though I’ve taken ten steps backward with the intense pain in my heel. I am 55, live alone, and don’t have close friends in the area. Needless to say, that s has been the hardest thing I’ve ever endured. The financial responsibility of being out of work compounds the stress tenfold. I am so looking forward to that day when I can walk and am pain free….please let it be soon!
Melissa Mills
Oh, Melissa, I am SO sorry you have to endure this hard recovery without the support of friends or family! It’s already such a painful and isolating experience, but not having anyone to help you is heartbreaking to hear. I wish I lived near you, so I could bring you some food, or stay to keep you company and help you with all the things you can’t do on your own. Then the stress of those medical bills and not being able to work is just terrible. If you would like me to send you my book, I’d be happy to. Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I’ll be praying for you… I only wish I could do more. 🙁
Thank you for the kind and funny post. Not to mention how honest it is! I am currently laid up in bed from my second modified Kidner foot surgery. I must have blocked out how painful it was the first time because everything you describe is true!
The hardest thing, other than the pain and no sleep, for me is receiving. I feel so guilty seeing my husband so tired from waiting on me. He does an amazing job caring for me and I feel terrible not being able to help him back!
I’ll be non weight bearing for around 9 weeks in total and only 10 days in. Need to practice giving up control and patience to get through this – it IS only temporary – and I focus on how grateful I am to have my husband and the privilege of improving my health with these surgeries.
I’m hoping to pick up my own writing again soon once I’m a bit stronger to help pass the time and feel somewhat productive!
Thanks again for the insightful post! Helped me on an emotional day today 🙂
Ah, Jess- I understand all too well. ALL of those hard issues we face when we are submerged in our captivity can erupt some pretty strong emotions, for sure. This is >NOT. EASY.
Please look into getting my book. If you aren’t able to purchase it, email me your address and I’d be glad to send it your way. (My email: Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
I know 8 more weeks sounds almost unbearable sometimes, and yet- in the big picture it IS just a small blip on your timeline. Remind yourself that truth OFTEN. I’m SO glad you have a supportive husband! Mine was amazing through all the different surgeries I have had- and I am forever grateful. Try not to worry too much about yours- or feel guilty! This is marriage and there will be opportunities in your future together to reciprocate the love.
YES WRITE! My book also has some journaling exercises that may help motivate you too!
Hi there,
I left a comment the other day. It pemded for a while but is now gone.
I suppose not everyone receives a response.
I shared my situation that I’ve been in since April 5 and will be for several more weeks.
I’m sorry that for some reason my content wasn’t approved.
Thank you for the article.
Pamela
Hi Pamela! I did respond to your comment over on my other post titled “20 Truths About Life After Foot and Ankle Surgery”! Here is the link: https://www.themomcafe.com/20-truths-about-life-after-foot-and-ankle-surgery/ This is a different one. Go check it out. Of course, your comment is very important and I am grateful you reached out to me!
Hi, I so appreciate it!! I was afraid that in my neurontin stupor, I said something inappropriate. ???? I’ll check out the link. Your time is so appreciated.
Thank you,
Pamela
I’m just mad. 3rd ankle fx, and I am mad.
Oh, Ann! I would be so angry TOO. I’m soooo sorry. I just can’t even imagine. Please go get my book, asap! I think it will help you through this third time around, perhaps making it just a little bit more bearable. I can send you a copy if you aren’t able to purchase it. (Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com)
Thank God I found this! Thank you SO much, I am NWB for 8-12 weeks, fractured my ankle in 3 places and dislocated it, surgery to insert and plate and 6 screws. I am a very active person and this is very frustrating.
Oh, Ruth! I’m so so sorry you have to endure such a hard injury and recovery. When we active people get sidelined, it’s so very frustrating and downright unbearable at times. Please look into getting my book to help you through this difficult season! If you can’t purchase it, I can send you a copy if you email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I’m SO glad you found my blog. Read the other posts I shared for more encouragement, my new friend. HANG. IN. THERE.
Hey girls! If I somehow missed your comment, PLEASE email me at Chris@TheMomCafe.com. Comments sometimes get buried on the back end of the blog and I’d hate to not respond to any of you, dear readers!
Thank you for your patience and flexibility. Both of which I’m SURE you’ve been forced to practice on the regular. 😉
I enjoyed reading this 🙂 I’m so grateful for the iWalk and the new inventions since you wrote this (the plastic cast cover for the shower). I have 6 – yes SIX different landing transitions in my home with one long flight of stairs, and I can navigate it all with the iWalk. After 4 days the crutches were killing me and due to the multi-levels in my home the scooter didn’t work. This allows me to navigate all of it and even walk with my husband and the dogs! Granted, it does take physical effort and balance, so I’m lucky I am (was) a runner and have strong legs. Even if you have to use one crutch with it to keep your balance, it’s worth it!!!!
Ah… The iWalk sounds like a GOD-SEND! I am sooo happy you have it, especially with six levels to navigate in your home, Zandra! I appreciate you sharing your experience with it here. 🙂
I hope you can look into buying my book to help you through your recovery. I’d be happy to send it to you if you aren’t able to purchase it! Email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com if you’d like a free copy. It’s my joy to help and encourage women just like YOU.
I so enjoyed reading this…I laughed & cried. Finally someone who feels my pain, plus some. The comments have made me thankful my unjust was not worse and I empathize with all the wonderful women who are injured. I rolled my ankle by stepping in a hole on May 6, (Saturday) Take to ER, X-ray showed no break. Referred to specialist by my dr. Saw him on Tuesday. just a really bad strain, sprain. In a boot, no weight for 3 weeks. Not to mention in own and operate our small towns flower shop and it’s the week of Mother’s Day! I have a very helpful husband and my kids are 9 & 11, they have helped so much. 3 week appointment, dr made me walk on it. I cried like a baby. More X-rays and and MRI scheduled. MRI showed a fractured talus & ruptured tendon. I am thankful talus was not displaced and only one ruptured tendon, or surgery would have been the next step. 3 more weeks, casted, no weight. We are creeping up on our year in advance family vaca to the mountains…. Dr takes off cast Tuesday, foot looks like someone else’s. Tried to walk barefoot, painful. More X-rays. They look good but stay in a boot no weight for two more weeks. If looks could kill (my hubs’s) Dr would have been on the floor. After telling him our vaca plans, he shortened it to one week. Can walk with crutches (have had a scooter PTL) this week putting 25% weight on bad foot a little each day. I go back 5 days from today to get walking. Thanks for giving me a laugh, being relatable & letting me tell my story. God bless you!
Oh, Hattie! What an arduous ordeal! I hope and pray you were able to ENJOY your vacation and heal completely! Let me know how you’re doing when you can. I’m so sorry you have had to endure such a difficult injury and recovery!
Oh how I needed this!! The humor and the clarity of my situation! So glad to know I’m not the only who’s thought these things and said these truths under my breath or in my head!!! Thank you so much for writing this!!
You are so welcome, Nicole! I hope you can check out my book for more encouragement. If you can’t purchase it, just send me your address to Chris@TheMomCafe.com, and I’ll get a free copy off to you! Hang in there!
I found this post on a Google search. Thank you SO much. I’ve only begun this journey – got my cast 3 days ago – but having to voice and ask for everything I need and want to do has been difficult and frustrating, to say the least. I am bookmarking this post to read often over the next 6-8 weeks. Thank you!
Oh, Laurie, I know it’s sooo hard. I hope you can buy my book on Amazon to help you through your difficult recovery season and if you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Just email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com! Also, make sure to visit the other posts I mention at the end of this. I hope they encourage you too. <3
Christine thank you so much for your article! It has made me laugh and cry (with joy) 🙂 I’m two weeks into this with a non-weight bearing cast. Today I got fitted with a new weight bearing cast for another two weeks, and then I see the consultant in six weeks time – so eight weeks in all. Bloomin’ torn Achilles!! Your article rang so true and it really just made my day. Thank you
OUCH to your “Bloomin’ torn Achilles”, Priscilla! You poor thing! I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! 🙂 I hope you check out my book to help you through the rest of your recovery! If you aren’t able to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I would be happy to send you a free copy. HANG IN THERE. I know it’s such a hard road to healing. You got this!
I just found this post today when I was looking on Pinterest for tips and tricks for a leg with a cast. I am technically 2 weeks into my injury and found out it’s much worse than originally thought. I still haven’t been able to see an orthopedic doctor yet so he/she will have the final say but as of right now the doctor believes it’s a fractured tibia and a tear in my ACL. It’s my 3rd day back at school before my students start and I’m trying to get classroom ready. This injury has slowed me down to say the least. (I injured it working in my classroom). My feelings have been up and down throughout this process and I know it’s just beginning. Your post was very encouraging to me and gives me comfort in that I’m definitely not alone in this. My children and husband have been helpful but again they don’t quite understand the frustration of it all. Thank you for your words of encouragment!
Oh my gosh, Amy! I can’t believe you are starting the new school year off with such an injury! It must be so incredibly hard. I’m so sorry! It is so frustrating and I can only imagine how difficult it is to get your classroom ready. When does school start for you? Praying you can somehow pace yourself and allow yourself to heal from what seems like a terrible double whammy!
Please check out my book for more encouragement as you go through this! If you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com, and I’ll send you a free copy. 🙂
Hang IN THERE!
Thank you for your post. I fractured my 5th metatarsal and a few ribs in January 2018 due to a fall (only broke 1 egg, as I was carrying in groceries!). Fortunately the ribs healed quickly but here we are 7 months later and foot surgery is scheduled in 2 weeks. I’ve been in a boot for over 3 months, out of the boot for 2 and then in and out of it for the last 2 months. I’m due to be non weight bearing for 6-8 weeks and back in the boot for another 6-8 weeks. The thought of being down and out for that much more time is starting to take it’s toll. Trying hard to remain positive and appreciate all of your words of wisdom.
Oh, Jennifer! This all sounds absolutely grueling! I am so sorry you have had to endure so much with your recovery that seems to never end. You poor thing. Please check out my book. If you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Just email me at Chris@themomcafe.com your address and I’ll get it off to you asap. Hang in there. Although it seems like you have been in this mess forever, it WILL end. Promise.
I found your article on Pinterest and I am so glad that I did. A week ago I sprained my ankle worse than I have in the past and of course two days after I started a new job at an elementary school working with 1st graders. I don’t look forward to bed time and going up the steps. I’m not even able to tuck my children in bed and have to tell them good night and get snuggles from them down stairs and then their dad tucks them in. Every task has become harder than it was. I am thankful that I can heal from this but it just seems like a long road ahead.
Thank you for the inspiration and to the other commenters I will be praying for your complete healing and patience for us all.
I know how hard it is, Crystal! I remember not being able to tuck my kids in bed and missing out on so many things as a mom. I’m so sorry. And the timing of your injury is awful! Please check out my book on Amazon. I think it will help you through this difficult recovery season. If you can’t purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a copy. Email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com.
Hang in there, mama. In time, you’ll get it all back. Be patient and allow yourself to heal by taking GOOD CARE OF YOU.
I’m really glad I stumbled across this! I substitute teach at my boys’ school and was in a classroom teaching, when I tripped and fell…broke my foot , tibia and fibula this past Thursday. I’m still in shock. I had surgery Friday and I’m not supposed to put any weight on it for 6-12 weeks! I just don’t know how to be a wife, mom, teacher, basketball coach and all the other things necessary while on crutches
Oh my gosh, Krissy! What a terrible fall and having multiple brakes is SO painful and such a long recovery! You poor thing. Life has changed drastically for you and I’m sure you’re completely at a loss on how to do it all while healing. PLEASE take care of yourself and let things go as much as you can. I know it’s soooo hard. But you must.
You need my book to get you through the upcoming weeks. Please get it on Amazon and if you aren’t able to purchase it, I can send you a free copy. Email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com.
Hang in there. It might seem like SUCH a long time, but I promise it WILL pass, it WILL end, and you WILL get back to life once again the way you did before this happened.
Thank you for the reminder and for the encouragement! I so appreciate it! I keep telling myself this too shall pass!
It’s the most important thing to remember when you are stuck in this healing abyss. It may feel like it’s taking a lifetime, but hold onto that perspective! This IS TEMPORARY.
I hope you can check out my book, Krissy. I’m not sure what happened to you or how long you’ve been stuck in this mess but know I’d love to encourage you through your recovery. If you are unable to purchase it, feel free to email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com, and I’ll send you a free copy.
Thank you…I decided to climb a ladder Saturday and was trimmimg palm tree branches (husband was out of town working and thought I would assist with the yard work) . Needless to say the ladder disappeared on me and I fell about 6 feet breaking my left foot. Thankful it was not worse. Also thankful my neighbor was out and my adult girls were home to help. As a payroll manager in the middle of programming a new system the timing could not be worse. I am too busy to be sick/down. Lol. Thank you for your encouraging words, sharing your blog with my daughters. #this.lady.is.too.old.for.ladders
Oh good LORD, Jeanie! You poor thing! So that’s what you get for trying to get things done when hubs is gone, huh? I’m so sorry! I sure am thankful your neighbor was out and your girls were home to help, and I’m especially grateful it wasn’t worse! I’m so sorry it’s such bad timing, too. I would love to encourage you through this, Jeanie. Please check out my book on Amazon (in this post) and if you are unable to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy if you email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com
HANG IN THERE.
#laddersarescary #laddersaredangerous #laddersshouldbebanned LOL
I needed to read this so bad, and to share with others that just don’t understand how hard it is! Currently at 31 days post break and moving into my first home I purchased in 2 days – this definitely wasn’t in the plans, but I’m so grateful for the help of everyone!
Oh gosh the timing is just horrible for you! I’m so sorry about this, Randi! Are you still in a cast? I hope you are well on the way to full recovery SOON. And I really hope you have an army of people who are helping you.
Thanks for taking the time to comment. If you haven’t yet, you might want to check out my book to help get you through the rest of your recovery. If you are unable to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a copy. Just email me your address at Chris@theMomCafe.com 🙂
Hi.
Just out of hospital after three weeks and three surgeries for trimellioma fracture.
From being mum, carer for disabled husband, avid walker of dog I’m reduced to helpless, useless , pain wracked , tearful mess.
My daughter due to have baby any day and despite all my plans and promises I can’t be there for her.
Im 60 but feel old all of a sudden.
Old and frail.
Reliant on husband (75 and disabled) and 25 year old son who should be out with pals etc.
Not helping his mum on a Zimmer to the loo.
Your words are so true but I can’t let it go.
I feel less of a woman..living in Pjs..can’t style hair or makeup..can’t get up to bathroom room .
Maybe I just have to give up and give in .
Christine, I feel your discouragement in your words and I am SO sorry you have to bear this terrible burden. You must remind yourself that YOU are important and YOU deserve to have tender care during this time when YOU are hurting. Most importantly, you can’t lose sight of the future that will COME where you will be healed and able to do life again. Surrendering to your circumstances is hard and painful but that doesn’t mean you are giving up- it means acceptance for this season of healing and hurting. But you must hold on to the big picture, where this is a small fragment of time in the long timeline of your life and it IS TEMPORARY.
Please go get my book. If you aren’t able to purchase it, I can send you a copy if you email me at Chris@themomcafe.com your address.
Be good to yourself, okay? I know how hard it is for you and I also know that these are the times when caretakers need to learn to be taken care of in their time of need. This is your time, my new friend.
Thank you so much for your blog! It made me laugh and cry. Everything resonated with me. I broke my ankle in 3 places, had the surgery, and let myself give in to the reality of my situation. Little did I know that each and every day I would awake to a new pain in my body, another part giving up on me, from being used to compensate for my ankle. These secondary injuries were so unexpected. Thank you, thank you for your honesty and beautiful blog. It reaffirmed my perspective!
Aw, Diane! I’m SO glad my blog encouraged you! It is SO. HARD. And my gosh, the toll it takes on the rest of our bodies is sometimes more painful and debilitating than the injury! You poor thing. I’m so sorry you are having such a rough time. Please go check out my book. It will give you some more encouragement and a few laughs too! 🙂
If you aren’t able to purchase it, I can send you a copy if you email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com.
I hope you were able to click on the other articles listed at the end of this post. I think they will help you too!
Hang in there, new friend. You can do this!
It sure got me when you said that if the person is wearing a cast, then they need to reserve 20-30 minutes just to do something, so if they feel like they are getting hungry or needing to go to the bathroom, they should head there before it gets worse. My brother will be needing a cast over his leg because of an injury, so I will share this with him. He’s the type to put things off until the last minute, and he needs to know that this time, it won’t work.
YES. Please tell your brother, or he will suffer the consequences! I do hope he recovers well, Lavi. Thanks for reading and sharing my tips with your brother.
This article was hilarious and extremely relatable. I fractured my 5th metatarsal bone in my right foot while walking in a shoe with a platform. It happened at work so hopefully I qualify for workers comp. The doctor told me to stay home considering that I am a teacher and I work on the 3rd floor and there is no elevator in my building! That would be 12 flights of stairs everyday (going up in the am and down in the pm). My working is leg is definitely already tired and I’m only on Day 6 lol. I’m grateful to God that I’m in no pain and after reading the comments, I will take my time maneuvering around so as to not injure myself again. Thanks for the encouragement!
Oh, Joanna, I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you and made you laugh. Gotta just laugh, right?
I hope you qualify for workers comp too! (It sounds like you should) I’m so sorry this happened! How long will your recovery be? If you need more encouragement through it, please check out my book! If you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com, and I will send you a free copy.
Hang in there! And definitely, no stairs. 🙂
Oh my Gosh! Week 3 of 16 and I am on the rim of that hole! Not much physical pain, was not at all prepared for the emotional roller coaster of being in a non weight bearing cast. I have such a hard time LETTING GO, no Elsa here ???? . Thank you for your input, found many of your pointers by accident????
God Bless, Chris
Chris, you are too cute! I’m really glad you aren’t in too much physical pain. That is awesome!
Yeah, the emotional tailspin that comes from being BOUND up is agonizing at times.
Hang in there and try to remind yourself this is TEMPORARY. It always helped me during my meltdowns. 🙂
Did you check out my book? I hope you are able to purchase it because it speaks to so much of what you are going through! If you can’t and you’d like me to send you a copy- just email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I’ll ship it off to you asap!
Im crying reading through this! I recently broke my fibula and I am not working at the moment. I am having g trouble with crutches and, at my doctors office, I fell forward and yelled for my boyfriend to catch me! There was an elderly lady, in front of me, and she was reaching out to catch me, but she was petite and slender and I k ew Id hurt her. So, instead, I put my injured foot down and caught myself from falling forward even more. I started bawling like a baby…the pain was unbearable! I have a splint on and will have surgery and then a cast put on in a few days. The injury is fresh! I do hope I didnt injure myself even more. But, Im using a computer chair, that has wheels, to get around and I already feel my knee getting a work out. My arms are sore and I have a vein that popped up on my hand…which feels sore. I will be recovering for 6 to 8 weeks…aim going to cry! My biggest fear is reinjuring myself on crutches and/or my wrist or knee going out on me. I havent even had a shower because I find it hard to get in my tub. I am so clumsy!!! The pain is so terrible!!! I cant even afford a bench shower and I know having one would be extremely helpful. My hope and prayer is that someone reads this and helps me! I would be forever grateful! I feel so alone in this and I dont have the proper medical equipment to help me get around safely and shower safely…showering seems like such a luxury at this point! I have uet to bathe in 4 days!!! I dont want to injure myself…Ive tried countless ways to shower and I end up nearly falling. Please help! Someone! Anyone! At this point, I feel so helpless…
Oh, Jeannett! I can feel the desperation in your words! I am SO sorry you are going through such a difficult time with your injury! My heart just breaks for you…
You are in the THICK of the crisis- which is the WORST possible place to be. I promise you, it will get better. I hope you can ask your doctor for a shower bench and maybe your insurance would cover this! If not, can you find a plastic lawn chair or card table chair to fit into your shower? I know how hard and grueling it is to get around let alone maneuver yourself into a bathtub! I went days and days, maybe even weeks before I tried it.
Sponge baths are so helpful in times like this. I know they aren’t the same but they will do. I hope your boyfriend can help you through your recovery and care for you while you are immobile!
Please keep me posted on how you are doing. I’ll be praying for you and hoping your surgery went smoothly and you are finding ways to manage it all.
If you’d like me to send you a free copy of my book, I would be happy to. I think it will encourage you through your healing.
Hang in there, okay? It might seem like this is nearly impossible to handle- but strength somehow rises in us all when we need it. Yours will TOO.
I am sitting here wanting to throw myself a putty party as I am waiting for my first ortho appointment and I came across your post. Thank you for the tips. I just broke my ankle yesterday getting into a boat at Disney world (happiest place on earth right?) I keep replaying it in my head and couldn’t sleep last night, one because of the pain, and two because of the anxiety or thinking of the incident. It could have been so much worse since I had my 21 month old in my arms getting into the boat. Not as I struggle with the thought of having a toddler and the unknown of how long this injury will take to heal. The no driving and the fact I can no longer run my Princess half-marathon with my girlfriends I’ve been training hard for, all these images pop into my head and then I stumble across this, get a chuckle and realize it could be so much worse. Thank you.
Dana, I wrote a very long comment and it disappeared. UGH. I am SO SORRY you are going through such a horrible injury! I’m also so grateful your toddler was okay! I understand all the feelings you are experiencing, from the fear in how you are going to parent to the frustrations of surrendering ALL the things you were looking forward to doing! (And my gosh, training for the half-marathon is HUGE and I’m SO sorry you can’t do it now!!).
I hope you read the other posts below this one, Dana. I think they will help.
Also, you need to get my book. The link is also in this post but I’ll add it here so you don’t have to go back and find it! (You have enough going on!) https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
If you are unable to purchase it, you can email your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send you a free copy.
Thank you for this post. I soooo need it right now! 2 and a half weeks ago I broke my ankle in 3 places and partially dislocated it. I had to wait 2 weeks for surgery and am now going through the “real” healing process post surgery.
This has been hell on my normal life! As a nurse, I’m used to taking care of people, not having anyone take care of me. Now I’m relying on my boyfriend and friends to help me with everything! You nailed it with this article! I’m still trying to grasp the acceptance of my situation and all the realities you discussed, but I will be rereading this article to help get me through this long and difficult journey. And yes, thank the Dear Lord, it is NOT permanent!
Oh, Teresa, I am SO sorry you are struggling so much! It is SO. HARD. when you have to be the one to ask for help and ALLOW people to take care of YOU. I hope you were able to read the other posts I wrote that I added below this post because I think they will be encouraging for you too. And you MUST get my book. You can find it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
And if you are unable to purchase it, please email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send you a free copy.
I hope and pray you hang in there with your recovery and yes… thank GOD it’s not permanent! Remind yourself that every day.
I fell 12/6/18 and partially crushed my right ankle — a tri- malleolar fracture with an additional break in my 5th metatarsal. I also severely sprained my left ankle. I’ve had 4 surgeries, 3 planned, one unexpected, worn an ex fixater for 3 weeks, a splint for 2 and am in my second week in a fiberglass cast. When my surgeon told me there was a chance I could lose my foot, I felt sick. Thankfully, that risk is greatly diminished now.
I will be 10 weeks NWB which has been challenging with my “good “ leg being severely sprained. My biggest complaint is the extraordinary level of disrespect and disregard so many people have when dealing with an incapacitated person. My best advice to anyone who has to go through our health care system is make sure you advocate for yourself and that you have someone who can step into that role when you are unable to. Do not let anyone treat you with disrespect and read and understand the patient bill of rights. Also, if you’re like me, you don’t like to cry in front of people because we feel it shows weakness and we usually don’t look very attractive while doing it. However, I found it was very effective st getting people’s attention, which you sometimes need. I am not advocating for anyone to cry deliberately to manipulate people, just saying that if you do feel like crying, it may help people realize that they need to help you.
Thanks for writing this helpful blog. To anyone who is hurt, I am sorry for what you’re going through. Remember Churchill’s wise advice — “If you’re going through hell, then keep going.” Namaste.
My gosh, Diana. I am SO sorry you have been through such an excruciating injury and recovery! You poor thing! Thank God you didn’t lose your foot and it’s just amazing that you were able to endure four surgeries AND now you are faced with 10 more weeks of NWB- along with a sprained ankle with your “Good” leg. You are indeed a warrior in a battle for healing and I do hope and pray this is the last stretch with your cast… I’m sure you are exhausted and so very tired of it all.
And yes, thank you for your advice about advocating for yourself because everyone deserves to be heard and understood and respected ESPECIALLY when they are suffering. Sometimes it takes crying and even losing it COMPLETELY before anyone takes you seriously. I’m glad you were able to get the help you so deserved, whatever the situation was.
I wish you could have found my blog sooner, to help you through your surgeries and yet, it seems you could still use so extra encouragement with what looks to be a long road ahead, still. Please check out my book! If you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will gladly send you a copy.
Keep ‘going through the hell’, my new friend. As much as it might seem like it is forever- it isn’t. There will be an end to this awful, most difficult season of pain and slow healing. Please keep in touch and let me know how you’re doing, okay?
I appreciate your comment so much and I can sense you are a STRONG woman through your words. Hold onto that strength. It’s in you when you least expect it to be.
Thank you so much for writing this and thank you to all those who shared their stories! I stumbled on this looking for a diy way to cover my foot and leg cast because I’m sick of looking at it. I tripped over my dog (he’s fine) and have a bi-malleolar fracture as well as a broken fibula and tibia. I had surgery with 2 screws on the medial side and a plate with 7 screws on the lateral side.
This has been a hell I wouldn’t wish on my least favorite person on the planet. I have osteoporosis, which can severely impede the healing process. I don’t get my first post-op x-ray for another 2 weeks and it’s killing me because I just want to know if it’s healing. The upside is that after 2 years of denials, my insurance company finally approved my $20,000 per year medicine for the osteoporosis.
I’ve been finding myself getting more and more frustrated and angry lately and reading this blog and all the comments has given me some perspective. And some hope that I’ll come out the other side only slightly worse for the wear.
To anyone going through this or something similar, take care of yourself. Remember to breathe. Let those around you take care of you. Listen to your body. And get a scooter if you’re NWB! Just make sure it’s steerable and if it has rubber tires instead of plastic, that’s even better. The plastic wheels make it hard to maneuver on wet surfaces and around anything that might be on the ground (acorns, pebbles, cracked or uneven pavement, dog chew toys…).
Oh I am so glad I found this. I’m week 3 post op for an ankle break. Doctor had to insert a plate and screws. I am extremely stressed out, because I am working from home and I have a very demanding job. I’ve definitely been feeling like a big baby lately, but this post made me feel like every struggle I’m having is normal. I also have nerve damage from the break, so I have neuropathy very badly in my caster foot. Taking a new medication for that, so hopefully it goes away. My discomfort is at an all time high when I try to sleep, so I just feel utterly exhausted. Thank you for sharing your experience and I loved reading some of comments as well!
Allie, it sounds like your recovery has been brutal! I’m so sorry. I am hoping by now the pain has eased and the neuropathy has improved? I hate that you had to dive back into your demanding job post-surgery. I can only imagine how hard that was for you and I’m guessing it’s impacting your healing progress as well. Please let me know how you’re doing if you can Allie.
You have no idea how much I enjoyed finding this site. I was searching for clothes that fit over a leg cast when I found it. It is so hard to get dressed for work alone. I wish I would have found it 15 yrs ago. I originally broke my leg on ice in 7 places and was in a toe to twat cast for 4 months, walking cast for 2 & then a boot for 2 more months. I have since broke the same leg 3 different times, tib & fib. I am not uncoordinated. Thank you for the inspirational messages. I plan on reading more every day & will be sharing tips that work for me on getting around. I will definitely be buying your book. THANK YOU!
Oh my GOSH, Melanie, you win the award for THE woman in a leg cast the longest. And I am so sorry to give you that award. I cannot even imagine all you’ve been through and the suffering you’ve endured through your first injury/ies and then three more following that horrific time. I do hope you find the other posts encouraging and I am SO GLAD you are getting my book!! Please keep me posted on how you are doing and any advice you can offer my readers is SO appreciated. You are amazing.
I must tell you your article was very, very helpful. My surgery is coming up June 11th and I am trying to think of all the things I need to get in order. I so appreciate your helps and I would appreciate your prayers. God bless you!!
Cathy, I will be praying for your upcoming surgery. Please get my book to help you prepare for it and see you through the recovery! If you aren’t able to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send you a free copy.
You can DO THIS. And God is WITH YOU.
You are an angel. I am 4 weeks into 8 of non weight bearing and my spirits are down. Every pain, every muscle spasm and every tinge of electricity is terrifying. I really really needed this today. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
Oh, Pamela, I’m SO glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! Please get my book! If you’re unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send you a free copy! Hang in there, friend. I KNOW how hard it is. You are half way through to the other side! You can DO THIS. 🙂
I’ve read your blog over the past 8 weeks I’ve been in a non weight bearing cast. I have now been transitioned to a boot. My heel hurts terribly but the ortho is telling me it’s common. Also, after this amount of time, I can’t walk without using a walker. Did you experience any of this? Thank you.
Ah, Mary, I bet you are so TIRED of the pain and this entire healing process, aren’t you!? I’m so sorry you are still hurting. I know for me, I was still hurting for the entire first year after my surgery, so be patient, give it time, and love yourself through it. I know how frustrating it can be to not be fully restored sooner than you thought you would! Hang in there, my new friend. Give it time…
Thank you! Thank you! I’m 3 weeks into this living with my feet up and on my back. My hips hurt, my good leg is exhausted and buckles under me. I’ve had three trips outside the house, two doctors apts and just got back getting my in laws. My adult children and friends have filled my home continually and have done EVERYTHING!
My husband took me to my in laws and had an absolute fit I couldn’t navigate the three cement steps without great caution and slowness. “I guess you aren’t as athletic as I am” may have been uttered. That patience had to kick in to keep me from falling to the ground in tears from the lack of compassion in his words and the spasms of weakness in my good leg threatening to drop me to the ground. The imbalance of the cast pulling me backward and the memory of how many times the crutches have unexpectedly shot out from under me, slamming all my weight onto my broken leg. Fighting the tears, quietly explaining why it is far past my inability to skate board.
It’s my 24 years of caring for his every need through his autoimmune disease being returned by his offering to re-fill my water. Even though I berate myself for feeling resentful when he works every day, enduring great pain, so I could be a stay at home mom. Be patient with yourself and find gratitude in this time you have to get to know yourself better.
Oh, Andrea, I know how hard it is to manage your broken and battered body with a leg cast! I’m so sorry you are having to not only manage the pain and limited mobility, but also the lack of compassion from your husband to make matters so much worse. Sigh.
Your last line is where it’s at… Use this time to dig deep within to find that gratitude and get to know yourself better! Please check out my book- https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ The paperback is best so you can complete the writing exercises! I know it will help you! If you are unable to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I’ll send you a free copy. 🙂
Hang in there, my new friend. This difficult and exhausting season WILL END. Be good to yourself, okay?
I’m so glad I came across this blog. I had major foot surgery after being struck by a drunk driver. I live in Italy with my husband and four kids. Crutches are no fun, uneven roads are even impossible with my scooter. The ladies from my church are blessing me beyond words with food and company. It’s hard for moms to let go of our responsibilities. In this case, I have no choice.
OH, Sammie, I’m so glad you found this blog too- but I’m so sorry you had such an unfortunate accident and terrible injury. It’s so so hard, this recovery thing- especially when you are a mom. I’m thrilled you have the support from your church friends- keep asking for what you need, okay? Please consider getting my book. I think it will help you through your healing. You can purchase it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Hang in there, my new friend. Be patient with yourself and remember this is TEMPORARY.
XO,
Chris
The best advice I’ve gotten for bath time is to get a shower chair/stool and have a detachable shower head. It is easier to prop yourself and your leg up when in the chair or stool and being able to manipulate the shower head is great. You can get pretty cheap shower chairs and stools on amazon or in a pharmacy.
GREAT idea, Jamie! I wish I had done that. 🙂
Thank you for writing this post. I know it’s a few years old now but still so applicable. I feel seen – when I was reading #6 I kept saying, ‘yes, yes!’ out loud. I’m 2 weeks into a 6-8 week NWB outlook, co-parenting an almost 5 year old and it’s a bit isolating.
Oh, Faith, these hard seasons of healing and recovery are timeless because there’s always someone who is hurting and healing, right? I’m so glad you found my blog and I hope you read the rest of the posts I suggested at the bottom of this one. They will offer you more encouragement. I know how isolating this can be, so please reach out to any family or friends who can show up for you! It’s uncomfortable to ask for help, I know… But these are the times you must.
Please look into getting my book. (There’s a chapter on reaching out in it! 🙂 ) I think it would be a really helpful resource for you as you continue on this long road of healing. If you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@TheMomCafe.com and I will send you a free copy. Here’s the link for you if you missed it in the post: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Please take good care of yourself and remember this is temporary. That always helps! It will be over… in time- precious time!
Sooo happy to have found this site..I was on Pinterest trying to find things to do to keep me busy. I love to crochet, do artwork etc.. so I am trying to throw myself into that to keep my brain occupied and not on my aches and pains. I fell a week after moving into our 2 story townhouse balancing between the toilet seat and the side of the tub to hang a shower curtain. Please don’t do it, and I know a lot of women do..but my 3rd attempt the seat shifted and I fell into the tub clawing at the the shower curtain all the way down. I fractured my 5th metatarsal and my ankle..right foot so no driving and NWB now for the 4th week. I’ve fallen on my crutches, they grab the carpet and trip me up. I now have a knee scooter and live in the recliner during the day,,at night I make the climb upstairs and grab the doorknob (lol) and my husband supports my other arm so I can stand. I am at that tired point and was just told I will be NWB longer since I can’t stand any pressure on that foot yet. It can be lonely as the lone female in my house and the rest of our family doesn’t live close. Thank you for this post, for your words and your sweet spirit.. next time my mind travels to that dark place, I will remember them…so many are worse off.
Andrea, I’m SO glad you found my blog and I hope you read the other posts I included at the end for more encouragement as you continue to recover! I KNOW how lonely and exhausting and painful it can be, my new friend. Please look into getting my book as well. I really believe it might help you through the rest of your healing! If you aren’t able to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. Here’s the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Thank you for your kind words! I’ll be hoping and praying you continue to stay strong and remember this is TEMPORARY. Hold onto that hope and reach out to any friends for support. You need it now more than ever. You WILL get through this!
Thanks so much for writing this post! I found it on Pinterest when this first happened, two and a half weeks ago. When we were visiting family, I was going down some stairs at night, missed the last step, fell and broke my ankle. I was so mad at myself, but as my retired fire fighter husband said, who witnessed the whole thing: “Don’t beat yourself up! You were trying to be careful, but with white stairs and a white floor, you couldn’t see the difference in that lighting, missed a step and fell. That’s why they call these things accidents!” Thank God for good husbands—he clicked into EMT firefighter mode, carried his injured wife to a makeshift bed on the first floor and checked my vitals etc. If I wasn’t in so much pain, it would’ve been kinda romantic to see my firefighter in action—on me!
I just finished 2 weeks with a NWB cast and have 3 more weeks to go with my 2nd NWB cast. This is getting LONG and your article has been a Godsend! God has used your practical tips, humor and your compassion to greatly encourage me. I’m at the point where the rest of my body is weak from supporting myself, especially my good knee, but it would be much worse if I hadn’t been taking your advice and resting A LOT. I go to notes I took from your post at least once a day: it helps me keep my sense of humor and keeps my head in the right place. For example: REST YOUR HEALTHY LEG, YOU HAVE A LONG TIME TO DEPEND ON IT! Doing it. DIVE INTO YOUR LOVES SOMEHOW. Doing it. I’m a singer/songwriter and I’m finding creative ways to still work on my music, when I’m up to it, am going deeper with God with prayer, reading a lot, binge watching some fav shows etc. Thanks again for writing this wonderful post…
OH, Janice, I’m so sorry you fell down those stairs and broke your ankle! Your husband was RIGHT – accidents happen all the time and they are out of our control. I love that your husband swooped you up to care for you- I agree, how romantic to picture that! It would be a beautiful movie scene! I’m just so grateful you have a good guy to take care of you!
It thrills me to pieces that my post has been helping you navigate your way through this recovery, my new friend. I LOVE that you are referring to it and taking my tips seriously. It made me cry reading how you are diving into your creative loves and deepening your faith and doing things that bring you joy! I also hope you were able to read the other posts I listed below this one to help encourage you too!
PLEASE get my book! If you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy! You can send me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com if you’re comfortable doing that. Here’s the link if you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Hang in there these last three weeks and for the rest of your recovery. Keep coming back to these tips and get my book to help you through it all! You got this, friend. I’ll be praying for you!
Just had surgery on my Achilles 2 weeks ago and you are spot on about all of it! The best part though is that my husband, who is taking such good care of me, keeps saying that he hadn’t fully realized how much I did around the house, that he didn’t have to, for the last 38 years. Priceless!
Lucy, that IS the best part! The validation of all that you do is priceless! I’m so glad you have a husband who is caring for you and super supportive. That makes all the difference in the world!
I hope you look into getting my book to help you through the rest of your recovery. If you aren’t able to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I will send you a free copy. 🙂
Take good care of yourself while you heal. I hope and pray the rest of your recovery goes smoothly and quickly!
I got hit by a motorbike and had a tibia fibula open fracture last November. I’m still on a cast and I’m waiting to undergo another surgery with an ilizarov. I was surfing the web trying to find a way to reduce my food belly when I came across your article. It was very interesting and also helpful as it relates to my situation.
Thank you for writing this post as I was feeling miserable in this situation as I have been a very active person and being in one place for almost a year now makes me sad and to cry at times.
Thank you once again for this post.
Oh, Anida, I’m so sorry about your accident!! I understand all those hard emotions you are experiencing as you recover from such a painful injury. You poor thing!!
I hope you look into getting my book to help you through this next surgery and recovery. It seems you are going to be healing for some time. If you live in the U.S. I’d be happy to send a copy to you. If not, I can send you the Kindle version, which isn’t as helpful because there are writing exercises in the book, but it will do.
Here’s the link to my book for you to check out.
https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I’m glad you found this blog post and I hope you read the others listed below it for more encouragement and support, my new friend.
This article was spot on! Thank you for writing it and making me laugh along the way! Especially the part about the scooter! I’m currently 5 weeks post surgery and 5 weeks on a non weight bearing cast-I ruptured my Achilles’ tendon playing volleyball! I like to tell people that I was trying to be 20 again—as a 33 year old mom, with 3 kids (ages 5,4 and 1.5) and a kindergarten teacher this has been one of my biggest challenges in my life! I have one more week to go and then will get my walking boot! You are right about “thanking God for 2 feet!” I never knew how hard it was to manage on one leg!
It IS so hard and especially when you have THREE KIDS and you are a Kindergarten teacher to boot! I’m so sorry you had such a terrible injury, Katie. I’m sure that was SO painful! I bet these past five weeks have been brutal. I’m SO glad you made it through the hardest part and you will be getting your boot next week! Yay!
Before you know it, you’ll be back on that volleyball court acting like a 20-year-old again soon. 🙂 (Don’t we all try to do that? Actually, being 52, I’m done trying. LOL)
I just moved from the US to South Korea to teach. I have only been here 6 weeks, live alone, and don’t speak the language. I broke my foot after falling down some steps. It’s been an absolute nightmare, and I’m being made to work every day, including the day if my surgery.
I’m definitely having a really hard time being away from my family. I fortunately have made a couple friends since moving here, and one of them came with me to surgery. It’s definitely demoralizing, and I’m not sure if in should just move back home to the US, because at least there in could get some rest. But anyway, this post really spoke to me and helped lift my spirits. Thanks for sharing! You’re helping people all over the world ????
Nicole, I am SO sorry you are not only going through the pain and devastation of your injury, but you are also experiencing so much stress and hurt from your job! I am angry for you and so upset that they are making you work and even on your surgery day? Being in a foreign country is already so overwhelming and hard, but add to that this horrible injury and the awful care you are receiving- it’s just too much for anyone to go through! Oh, my new friend, please look into going home so you can get the care and comfort and support you need to heal! You deserve soooo much better…
I will be praying you can get home asap. Oh, you poor thing. Please update me if and when you can, okay?
Wow I am so glad I stumbled across this today as I’m sitting here in tears with a fractured ankle 6 days before Xmas with 4 kids and a husband that works away you nailed everything that I’m feeling at this exact moment so thank you so much for that
Oh, Amanda, I’m SO SORRY!! What terrible timing and having four kids with your husband working away is already so hard! You poor thing. 🙁 I wish I could have sent you my book a week ago! I think it might still help if you are interested in reading it. Check it out and if you are unable to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Here it is in case you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I’m so glad you found my blog. I hope you were able to read some of the other posts included in the end. Praying you made it through Christmas and you are able to take care of yourself somehow amidst the madness of it all. Hang in there, mama. I know how hard it can all be…
Wow! Just like everyone has said, this post definitely helped me feel like I am not alone, and I will get through this! I recently had a distal fibula fracture, exactly one week ago today. Each day I tell myself one day at a time!! Who knew that crutches were soooo hard to walk in, and then you’re also worried about hurting your other leg hopping around on. I do have a scooter so thank god for that! Again, thank you for your words!
Andrea, I am just seeing your comment, so please forgive my late response! I’m so sorry you are in this awful season of healing. It is SO HARD and I’m SO glad you found this post and it encouraged you!! I hope you looked into getting my book. I want to help you through this! If you can’t purchase it, email me your address at Chris@themomcafe and I will send a copy out to you asap. Here is the link in case you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Hang in there, girl. You got this! Please be kind and patient with yourself while you heal. Keep reminding yourself that this is temporary. I know that helped me keep perspective and give me hope. Are you in a cast? If so, for how long? Oh, I know how grueling it can all be. 🙁
Update me if and when you can, so I know how you’re doing.
Hi!! Thank you for the response!! I was in a cast for exactly 6 weeks, and yesterday the cast came off!! I am now in an ankle stirrup brace that I can take off at night or while laying down. I can start putting partial weight on my ankle, but I am waiting to see a physical therapist soon. I am on the road to recovery! Definitely been telling myself that this is only temporary and I’m always one step closer to being able to walk again!
Your blog is amazing… I too am in a cast, broken ankle 🙁 I was on holidays in Mexico, day before leaving I stepped off a sidewalk and rolled and snapped my ankle. I didn’t want to make a fuss so I walked on it to my room, the next morning made the hike to the hotel lobby.. typically a 10 to 15 min walk… I was hauling my luggage and hanging on to the railing for dear life to get to my destination, took forever and I was in so much pain by the time I got to the lobby. Still had to get out to the bus, 20 to 30 min ride to the airport… omg huge airport… then 4 hours on a plane… landed … more walking and walking and walking to get through Toronto Airport… another bus then an hour and a half car ride home. I was hurting by the time I made it home. I live alone and had no one at home to help. next day I went to the ER to have it checked. Yes it was broke, a temporary cast and sent home, back the next day for an ultrasound to make sure I didn’t have a blood clot.. I didn’t thank god… Next day a 45 min car ride to the fracture clinic to get a cast. … back home and into my lazyboy chair. omg it hurt so bad in the morning… bladder wakes you up but putting the foot down causes all the blood to flow to it and the pain starts…. bathroom journeys were hell. Back to the chair… wishing anyone would stop in , just get me a coffee, a glass of water, anything. Everytime I had to get up to get something the pain was horrible. Within a week the swelling started to go down and the cast was so loose… another 45 min car ride back to the fracture clinic , cast #3 … omg it was tight… so tight and so uncomfortable… I told them while they were putting it on it was to tight but they said it would be okay. Well it wasn’t… 2 weeks of agony, toes started to turn black… 45 min car ride back to the clinic for cast #4. I rented a wheelchair, I knew I would fall trying to use crutches and that was not a pleasant thought. 6 week check up and I’m only 60% healed, into a boot cast… it feels like it weighs a ton. I am told not to walk on it yet but I can start to put minimal weight bearing on it. Sleep is so uncomfortable. bathing is scary… alone and trying to get in and out of the tub while hanging my leg out the side… your right…it’s not normal to sit like that , as much as the water feels good the pains in the hip and leg and shoulders and arms ache. I’m at week 7 now and have had my share of melt downs, coming across your blog made me feel like I am not alone in feeling tired and cranky. Thank you for your post.
Darlene!! Omg I don’t know HOW you did it all- all the traveling, the multiple trips to the ER and fracture clinic, the 4 DIFFERENT casts, and now a boot- all the while living ALONE trying to manage it all by yourself! Oh, my new friend, I soooo wish I lived near you so I could help you get that coffee, bring you food, sit with you and be there for you in ALL the ways you need because you deserve that support!
You are amazingly strong, do you know that? I really hope you have called upon some friends or family members to help you! You should not be doing all of this alone. If you haven’t checked out my book, I would love for you to get it so I can encourage you more! Since you’re in Toronto, I would only be able to email you the kindle version- and really, the paperback is SO MUCH better. I hope you are able to purchase it. Here is the link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I hope you can keep me posted on your recovery, Darlene. Hang in there with it all- You have made it through 7 weeks and I’m hoping and praying there are not too many more to go! XOXO
Thank you for all your encouraging words, it is your blog that has honestly helped me through this journey. Right now we are all in isolation from this dam Covid so I am on my own and reading your blog helps me in more ways then you know. It’s really easy to feel sorry for ourselves in isolation but isolation alone is a whole new journey for sure. Thank you for all the kind words. xo
Oh, my word, how I needed this!! Especially the bit about accepting help. I am a woman in my mid twenties, full time school and job as well as very active in my church. My life came to a grinding halt when I broke my ankle stepping off of a curb. I’m two weeks post-op and having a hard time being “unproductive” and asking for help. This blog post really put things in perspective for me and made me appreciated my dear friend all the more. She has been invaluable cooking and even driving me to the doctor. I am so very blessed and this post reminded me of that, reminded me it’s okay to need others. Thank you!!
Oh, Sarah, I am SO GLAD you read this blog and it encouraged you! I’m so sorry you have had to face this hard season, but I am grateful you have such a trusted friend to help you through your recovery. You DESERVE that and more! Someday soon, you will be able to get back to your active life, I promise! Please take this time to allow others to serve you and allow yourself to heal and rest as best you can. And please look into getting my book! If you are unable to purchase it, I would be happy to send you a free copy. I want to encourage you more and I believe my book will offer you the help and HOPE you need. 🙂 Here is the link in case you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Wow, thank you so much for this!!! It was the very thing I needed to push me to fight through this experience. The hardest part of it all is having my first baby who is 8.5 months old and struggling with my identity as a mom since I have not been able to do all the things I want/were doing prior to this break. Your blog reminds me that I am not alone in this time and to always remember to be grateful! I have 2 more weeks left of non-weight bearing and it feels like eternity sometimes! I’ll be sure to bookmark this page to continue to remind myself not to waste this precious season.
Oh, Jen, I can only imagine how hard this has been for you! Being a new mom and having to go through this at the same time must be immeasurably painful, frustrating, and sad. Please remember that even though you feel like you are missing precious moments that you’ll never get back, even though you feel like you can’t be the mom you want to be right now- I PROMISE you, there is soooo much more time ahead on your motherhood journey that will add COUNTLESS moments for you to be everything you dreamed to be- and this small piece of time will be a faded memory. When you are “in it”- it’s hard to see beyond where you are. I am 17 years down the road from you, and I can tell you- raising your precious child will be FULL of soooo many more gifts. Just hold on for now, mama. You have a lifetime of mothering ahead!
Thankyou so much for this read! I broke my fibula in the middle of my leg im 9 days in and as they are challenging and in your head and Psyche , I work and take care of my family all the time, patience is not a strong suit and IChallenged my patience a month ago so taking this as a life lesson is something I like to occupy my time on figuring out, I have surgery tomorrow I’m getting a plate from my ankle to under my knee and btw my first surgery, by myself because of covid so thankyou for your wise words this was exactly what I was looking for in my panic stressed out head, I have to let go and and let people help even when I don’t want it. I don’t ask for help I offer it! So this shall be interesting! Pray for me
Oh, Nicole, you poor thing! Praying your surgery went smoothly and I will continue to pray for your healing and endurance during such a difficult season for you! Girl, I get IT. It is sooo hard to let go and allow others to help you! It’s all so stressful, especially when you have so many responsibilities in your life that you must try to manage. I hope you can get my book to help encourage you through the rest of your recovery! Here is the link to it in case you missed it: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
If you are unable to purchase it, let me send you a free copy! Email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. Hang in there, my new friend. And please take good care of yourself!!
I stumbled across this as I was just in an accident that shattered my ankle and left me with one good limb to use while I heal. I am looking at 16 weeks in a cast. I was laughing so hard I started crying reading this because it’s EXACTLY how I feel! Loved your writing and hope to see more! I have one other tip to add for the ladies with a leg cast…I got a shower proof cover and this shower transport chair has been a lifesaver:
Drive Medical Plastic Tub Transfer Bench with Adjustable Backrest https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VWK0T6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DTZaFbEH781WM
Good luck to the rest of you ladies out there!
Hi Kristi! I’m SO glad you found my blog and it made you laugh/cry relating to all I wrote! 🙂 I’m sorry you shattered your ankle and are facing 16 weeks in a cast. Ugh, I know how hard this can be and I think my book can help you get through these long hard weeks of recovery and healing. If you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy if you are comfortable emailing me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. Here is the link to my book if you missed it in my post: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I also hope you were able to read the other posts I listed at the end of this one. I hope they encourage you and help you manage this difficult season.
And thank you for sharing that shower chair with us! Man, I wish I had that when I was in a cast! 🙂
You take good care of yourself and hang in there through it all.
XO,
Christine
Thank you for your advice and comments. I tore my achilles tendon about 4 weeks weeks ago and I am feeling all the things you have talked about. I have 3 more weeks in a cast and then about 6 weeks with a boot and crutches. The knee scooter and crutches are both so great to have. However, there are moments I just want to cry, am so frustrated by needing help for so much, and exhausted by the simplest of tasks. It was nice to hear that these emotions are normal and that I am not just “throwing a pity party” for myself. I mentally work daily on figuring what else I can do since my favorite things to be active are out of the question. I will get through this as many others have, but thank you for sharing your story!
Oh, Kim, I’ve heard that is such a painful injury!! I’m so sorry you are having to endure a long and hard recovery. It is SO frustrating and exhausting living with so many limitations and needing so much help to do the simplest of things. I get it! I’m so glad this post and everyone’s comments encouraged you. Hang in there and keep telling yourself that this IS TEMPORARY. It might feel like it’s taking forever, but in time, precious time, you WILL heal and get your active independent life back!
I’m 43 years old and have just had my very first break. Slipped while mountain biking and snap, just like that everything I had control over is gone. 8 weeks non weight bearing. I am surfing the internet looking for anything to encourage me and i found you!
My family prays with me, my husband prays for me but i disconnect when i need to pray for myself. What is this weakness? This helplessness? They say “rest and relax” not knowing that those are the two most difficult things in the world for me to accept.
I love your blog, and i am very excited to get your book on my doorstep! Yay for overnight shipping!!
Oh, Kelsie, I’m SO GLAD you got my book! I will be praying that it encourages you through this really difficult season of healing, my new friend. I KNOW it is sooo hard to feel “weak” and “helpless”- oh do I know. I’m so sorry you have to endure both the painful injury and the loss of control that comes with it- which is sometimes even more painful than the actual break. BUT, I promise you, if you let Him, God will grow you through it all. I’m so glad your family and your husband pray with you. I think perhaps this might be the perfect time God is calling you to reach out to Him, to push through that disconnect and take a risk in being vulnerable and trust in the One who created you and knows you best. My book has a chapter on prayer, so I’ll be praying that it helps you take those faithful steps forward. One thing I know for sure is that God is so patient with us! He meets us right where we are and welcomes us into His arms with no conditions. I pray that you will feel His comfort and assurance in His love for you while you are forced to “rest and relax”. This season of stillness can actually be VERY productive if you let it. Instead of physically staying busy, you can do some serious mental work, spiritual work, and yes, EVEN rest and relax and ENJOY IT. I know that sounds like fluff- but I promise, I’ve been there many times through many surgeries and I’ve grown so much through them all. (And I am one that never STOPS going and doing allthethings- so I get YOU.)
Please be good to yourself- treat yourself like you would treat someone you loved who was hurting and healing. And remind yourself that although this feels like FOREVER, it is just a small blip on your timeline of life- it will be OVER. Hold on to that hope, okay?
I just published a piece that perhaps might encourage you in your faith. NO pressure to read it! It’s just on my mind and maybe God wanted me to share it with you. https://herviewfromhome.com/lord-you-know-what-i-need/
I found your blog today while searching for ways to exercise while wearing a foot-to-knee cast while recovering from a tendon tear and avulsion fracture in my left big toe. Thank you so much for so beautifully saying what I’ve been feeling – the rage, the fury, the patience, and learning how to slow the heck down. I have to breathe deep, mark each day off on a calendar, and remember that this is temporary. The statement about veterans living permanently with one good leg really struck home, and made me realize how good I really have it.
Oh, Joann, I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! I always appreciate people taking the time to write a response to this post and I’m grateful you did! I’m so sorry you have to endure such a difficult recovery. It is a journey of (painful) inner growth, really- all the things you mentioned are so valuable to learn and practice and ultimately help you heal. I hope you’re able to check out my book for more encouragement and support through your recovery. If you’re unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I’d be happy to send you a free copy! https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Oh this was a perfect find for me today. I was trying to explain to a friend about the ‘twinges’ I get in my ankle. I am 2 weeks post ankle surgery where I have had a plate and screws put in. I have a zimmer but as I also sprained my ‘good’ ankle, it is really hard to weight bear on it. So, I got a wheelchair. It is my lifesaver – I can whizz around our single story large flat with ease – I can get myself to the loo really easily (I have a frame around one loo so I can pull myself up) and I have a shower chair – it is pretty hard actually getting in the shower but I can do it. I have a fab LimbO leg cover that keeps all the water and moisture away from my leg.
The nights are the worst. I have restless legs anyway and they seem much worse. I lie with my bad leg elevated on 2 or 3 pillows and try and keep myself still whilst maintaining regular turns to prevent a sore bum.
Life is so much more difficult and I will never ever take my legs for granted again. I am only in a half back cast at the moment until my stitches dissolve then next week I have a new full cast on and then another 4-6 weeks of non weight bearing.
I managed to make dinner one night last week which was an amazing feat! I have some great kitchen stools which move around so I can move my body without my leg hurting.
Covid made my daughter lose her overseas job so she moved back in with us two days before my accident – what a huge relief that was. She is an amazing cook. I am 64 now (had my birthday in my cast) and have always looked after people, always refusing help for myself. It is a massive change being reliant on people. I do get a bit arsey about it at times and feel sorry for myself.
You cheered me up no end and I will march forward (well, glide) with a new found determination.
Thanks and happy healing to all those that need it
Oh, Adrienne, thank you SO much for sharing your story with us all. I’m so sorry you have one to tell, but also grateful your daughter is home to help care for you while you are healing. It is SO HARD. Especially for the ‘care-givers’ to allow others to care for them! I hope your recovery goes smoothly and you grow more comfortable with allowing others to help you. Also, make sure you are patient with yourself while the healing takes place. It can be so frustrating not being able to do things you used to do so easily and healing takes SO. MUCH. TIME. Remind yourself often of how YOU would treat someone in your condition, then do the same for YOU. I think we tend to be so hard on ourselves and this is the worst time to do that. We need unconditional compassion and relentless grace while we struggle in pain and are challenged by so many limitations.
And please look into getting my book. I think it will offer you even more encouragement as you continue to recover. If you are unable to purchase it, I can send you a free copy if you email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com.
Take good care of yourself, okay?
Gentle hugs.
Thank you so much. I’m 55 years old, single and broke a bone in my foot. I’m in a cast up to my knee. Wow it’s nice knowing I’m not crazy about my feelings going thru this! My 35 year old son makes me feel like I should be able to handle everything myself! I thought I raised him better, lol. He doesn’t understand how tired I am and all the difficulties it brings. Thank you again for sharing this!!
Patricia, I’m SO sorry you broke your foot and have a cast up to your KNEE. I KNOW how hard it can be to do ANYTHING with that cast and that’s on TOP of all the pain you are experiencing. And we aren’t young and agile like we used to be- so that makes this entire recovery THAT much harder.
Please tell your son to read ALL THESE COMMENTS on this post and then tell him that I said, “Shame on you for not being COMPLETELY encouraging and supportive of your mom during this difficult time. She sacrificed everything to raise you and care for all your needs for YEARS, the very least you could do is be kind and supportive when she is hurting and needs your help. And sir, you better hope that YOU don’t have to endure any surgery or recovery because then you will quickly discover for yourself, the agonizing pain and suffocating captivity of being stuck with a broken body and you are powerless to do a damn thing to change it. Please, son, take good care of your mom. She loved you well, and you best love her well, too.”
Oh, and Patricia, get my BOOK. I promise it will help you through this. Make your son buy it for you. 🙂
https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I just read this and how true all of this is. I broke my femur and bones around the knee in July 2020. I never thought something like this would happen to me. But it did. It has give me time to think about my life and what is important and what isn’t. All you have mentioned is exactly what I have went through. Once I accepted that some things are just going to have to be put on hold. I begin to think of things I could do while setting in a wheel chair or in bed. I am doing things that I have put off doing, because of no time, and amazed at how much I feel and realize I am being productive by doing those things that you can’t or no one else might see you have done are getting done. I have been cleaning out cabinets, drawers and organizing things that were long over due to be done.
I enjoyed reading this and yes it made me laugh too. As you mentioned I have both legs and I will return to normal and I think of those that are not as lucky. Some of them have been an encouragement to me.
Edith, thank you so much for sharing your story with all of us! I’m so sorry you had such a terrible injury, and yet, I’m THRILLED you have been able to use your recovery time to realize what is truly valuable in your life AND find so many productive projects to do! THAT, my new friend, is AMAZING!!
I’m two weeks in recovering from Achilles’ tendon surgery and I am miserable. First was on a splint, now I’m in a cast I hate the crutches! I won’t use them, I have no upper body strength so the knee scooter is a god send but be careful outside with it, the concrete hurts …I have a great mom she’s doing her best to help, but she’s 84 I can’t see her take out the garbage, so I find ways to continue to do my chores around the house but sometimes the pain comes out of nowhere. Thanks for your blog, I now know I’m not alone, oh and taking a shower is too much, I can’t stand on my leg I have ordered a shower seat that swivels , I can’t wait to get it! Thanks again.
Anna, you poor thing. I can’t imagine how hard recovering from Achilles’ tendon surgery is- I’ve heard it is brutal. I hear you on those crutches, I couldn’t handle them either! Bless your mama for helping you, and at 84 years old! Is there anyone else you can reach out to for more support while you’re healing? I hate the idea of YOU taking out your trash!
I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you. You are surely NOT alone, my new friend. Please check out my book to help you through the rest of your recovery! If you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Just email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. 🙂
Hang in there, warrior! Stay strong and be good to yourself and remember this is TEMPORARY.
Also crawling to the bathroom in the middle of the night and having the dog thinking that it’s play time and jumping all over you. Getting angry that he is going to wake everyone up and then giving in and laughing at your ridiculous predicament.
I HAVE BEEN THERE. But without the dog. LOL There might be many more of those “ridiculous predicaments”! 🙂
Thank you! I broke my fibula & dislocated my ankle Saturday & had surgery Sunday & I am so glad I came across your blog ❤ You worded everything I am feeling perfectly.
Oh, Sharisse, I’m so glad you found my blog too! But I’m SO sorry for the reason, my new friend. I hope you are hanging in there with your healing and recovery. I KNOW how hard it all can be and I’d love to encourage you more with my book. If you haven’t looked into getting it, please do! And if you are unable to purchase it, email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I would be happy to send you a free copy. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
I needed this! I needed this so bad! I am a doer and a giver. Accepting help and depending on family and friends has been just as hard as hopping around.
Thing spasms are excruciating! I hold a stress ball in each hand!
I’ve been using shower wipes verses the struggle of going up and down the dang steps. I’ve developed anxiety. Maybe I’ve always had it?! I’m constantly HOT! I’m nauseous – even with meds.
This blog really helped me to realize that what’s happening is “normal” and it will end!
Thank you
Oh, Michelle, it is ALL NORMAL!! And it is all so HARD. I’m so sorry you have to be going through this. I’m so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! I hope you can read the other posts I wrote that might offer you some more help and hope as you recover… Also, my book might be exactly what you need to find the strength and the inspiration during your healing process. Check it out and if you are unable to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I will send you a free copy. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
HANG IN THERE, SISTER! YOU CAN DO THIS.
I wish I had seen this a year ago. I destroyed my ankle on the first day of the pandemic shut-down. I was furloughed while waiting for the results of the X-ray! awe are women, and we can do it, even on our butts.
Such a good article!
A couple things I would suggest would be a waterproof cast, Good Bye trash bag! A shower seat and a hand held shower head make showering so much easier!
We have a tri-level home, one bath on the 2nd level…. I would use a walker in the lowest level and sit on a five gallon bucket to do laundry, I used a knee scooter on the main level and outside the the home and in public, and I scooted on hardwood floors and used crutches in the 3rd level…. Getting up and down the stairs was VERY difficult, I ended up having shoulder surgery due to a torn rotator cuff from lifting myself up each and every step on my bum. Not fun. I purchased a porta John thingy to hide in a living room closet to use the bathroom, it was a snap on toilet seat for a five gallon bucket, I used small trash bags and cat little, icky, but it worked. NEVER want to break an ankle again, if there is a next time, I’ll move into a hotel for the duration! BTW, my healing process was 10 weeks with no driving. ????????
Oh my goodness, you sure have been through it ALL. People have no idea how hard it is to get around and do the smallest of daily tasks and functions with a leg cast! And your poor shoulder! I can’t imagine how hard all of this was for you! I’m so sorry. You did such a good job acclimating and being inventive with your adaptations! Thank you for sharing them all and your difficult experience here, my new friend!
Thankyou for this…I’ve been in a cast now for 9 weeks and I have no idea for how long…First they said 6-8 then they admitted it was more like 14-17. My medical team are not very helpful and make me feel quite powerless. Whenever I go to clinic I feel like a drama queen when I ask questions and express any frustration. It’s so helpful to me to read that actually, I’m not being demanding…this IS difficult. I’m normally buzzing around doing everything a million miles an hour. I have two boys who are 2 and 4 and I need to be. Thankyou for making me realise that I’m not alone in this crazy, frustrating time.
Oh, Magdalena, that is an excruciatingly long time to have to be in a cast! You POOR THING!! I’m so sorry the medical team is making you feel that way. Shame on them! Of course, you are struggling and frustrated and wanting to know more about your recovery! You have every right to ask as many questions as needed to have the information you deserve to have about your healing process and how long it will take. I can only imagine how hard it’s been for you- especially with parenting your two young boys!
Hang in there, mama. I’m sure it feels like you will never have your active life back, but in precious time, you WILL. Keep reading my blog for encouragement and please check out my book too! If you missed it, you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ If you aren’t able to purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Just email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. Hoping and praying your cast gets off SOON.
Oh my, I wish I had found this sooner in my time in this cast! However, I am still grateful to have found it at all. You have given me comfort knowing that all the emotions and physical feelings I experienced are valid. Yes! Somebody understands!!! I have been in my foot cast for 2 months after surgery, and I pray that I will graduate to a walking boot TOMORROW!! I am so excited! Then, in 3 months I will have a total knee replacement. Back to square one.
Thank you sooo much for writing such a caring piece.
Oh, Laura, I’m SO glad you found my blog, and it still spoke to you after being in your cast for two months. I’m SURE you can relate and I’m so happy you found comfort in our shared experience. You are probably in a boot by now, YAY! One more step (pun intended) toward your freedom and full healing! Praying you are slowly but surely getting there! And I will be praying for your next surgery. My gosh, you poor thing! I’m sure you have learned so much that you can apply in this next round of recovery. Take care of yourself and let me know if I can anything else for you! You have surely proved to yourself that you can do HARD THINGS. Take that confidence and courage and wisdom into your next surgery season, my new friend! YOU GOT THIS.
Oh thank you from the bottom of my sad, frustrated and anguished heart. I broke my ankle a week ago and am in a cast up to my knee. I just got on Pinterest today and happened upon your article. It’s the best read I’ve had in a very long time. I’m not alone. You nailed every aspect of what I’m going through. I laughed out loud and it felt amazing. I’m 50 years old and have never broken anything and for the first time I had a very real reality check of how out of shape I really am. My body is my hell and you’re so very right that no matter how I feel or what I want to do….I just can’t! Thank you for writing this out so perfect. It truly made my day!!
Oh, Tracy, I’m SO GLAD you found my blog, and what I shared seemed to encourage you and even made you laugh! It’s all so true, and hard, and painful, and frustrating… And also? Despite it being such a nightmare, somehow we manage to get through it- little by little, day by day, and I pray you are recovering in this way. I’ll be 54 this week and girl, I GET YOU. The older we get, the harder it is to do anything physically, especially HEAL. Hold on. You got this. Here’s to finding and gritting our patience and strength and perseverance, my new friend.
Thank you! I needed these words more than I knew. I’m in week 2 of 6 week non weight bearing air cast. I missed 2 steps and have 2 breaks. I also have CRPS (nerve damage) from the break. At times, I don’t think I can tell which pain is worse. I keep beating myself up with the “if only”. If only I hadn’t gone outside to untangle the dogs lead, if only I had paid more attention to the steps, etc… I’m 51 and my 4 grown children are no longer at home. My husband works 2 hours away. I have a dog that I unfortunately tried to put out on his lead for the first time since my injury yesterday due to the fact of no one being available to stop by. Of course, I fell…and my foot along with the hand/wrist I tried to catch myself with are not happy. I am in congestive heart failure so the getting out of bed with my crutches or knee walker leaves me beyond short of breath, as I imagine it does for even healthy people. I was crying a lot this morning and then I found your article. It has put such a different perspective on things. I am grateful to you for sharing and plan to order your book. Thank you again!
Oh, Kimberly, you POOR thing having to go through this terrible time without anyone to help and your husband working so far away! I can’t imagine how hard and lonely it can be for you. Can any of your children come home to assist you while you are recovering? I’m just so sorry you have to manage your pain and serious limitations on your own and it seems your health makes it all so much worse! I would be crying a lot too. Praying your fall didn’t hurt your foot or hand/wrist too badly. Oh, how I wish I could come over and help you with it all! (I’m in Columbus, Ohio, in case you were anywhere near there please let me know!) I’m SO GLAD you are getting my book. I will be hoping and praying it encourages you through these difficult days and gives you the strength and hope you need.
I literally just sent this to my pediatrist. I wish I would have had an IDEA of what I was really in for! I’m only 3 weeks in… and have 7 more to go! Depths of hell is where I’m currently crawling out of! The first few weeks, your family is so eager to help out… then the excitement is gone… it seems like no one really understands where your mind is at… cause being 10 weeks no weight bearing MESSES WITH YOUR MIND! Which is worse than the pain of the surgery itself. I’ve cried more than I ever have. Patience? What is that? I’ve NEVER been patient! God knew I needed this trial. Crawling up and down any stairs, is also humbling! Accepting service…. I’d NEVER!!! Bless all those that have served me anyway… even if I say “we are fine!”
I really think that Every woman that needs some sort of cast, needs to have your tips in their TAKE HOME PACKET from surgery! Thank you for the real truth, and humor!
Oh, Tenaya, I nodded all the way through reading your beautiful, true, and spot-on comment! I’m SO glad these tips spoke straight to your experience, and I would LOVE to have this in every take-home packet for all the women who have to endure the painful, humbling, mind-messing experience of healing and recovery. It’s SO HARD. When I wrote my book, my dream was for it to be in all the hospital gift shops and in every surgery center, for people to find. Please look into getting my book. If you are unable to purchase it, I’d be happy to send it to you. You can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com. If you missed it in the post, here is the link to it on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ I think it might help you through the next 7 weeks and honestly, I will warn you, your healing will take much longer than that. I know I KNOW, you want to rip through the screen and tear my head off right now!! But try REALLY hard to take it one day at a time- patience is KEY and girl, THIS is where you learn what that word really means. Don’t worry about tomorrow or 7 weeks from now… We can only handle one hard moment at a time. And I promise you, this will all be a blur of a memory, years from now. BUT you will come out of this so much stronger and wiser, so much more compassionate for all those you see in similar situations- and you will feel so much gratitude for your health and every bit of your life you can live freely.
I just found this post today and everything you wrote resonated with me; I so wish I had found you earlier. The doctors do a great job with the medical and physical aspects of an injury, but no one tells you how to manage the emotional and mental parts. It would be beneficial for all patients to have a “How to Manage…” packet after your first medical appointment because when I first heard “X weeks to Y months”, I actually started tearing up in front of the doctor.
I ruptured my achilles 8 weeks ago yesterday, while on a family beach vacation of all times, and its been arguably the most frustrating period of my life. I’m a breast cancer survivor so everyone thought this would be, I don’t want to say “easy”, but “doable” for me. It has not been so: sleepless nights, lack of appetite, depression and tears dominated my weeks early on, and included a lot of pain for a week-plus after surgery; admittedly I still have those moments but happy to say, not as frequently. I will have my cast removed in exactly one week today, followed by weeks of PT in a walking boot; but at least I can remove the boot and I know it sounds crazy but I can’t wait to be able to wash my lower leg! I’m sure there will be pain again as I bear weight on the injured leg, walk and learn to trust my achilles so I will bookmark this site and come back to it frequently. I won’t even go into the financial strain the medical bills are taking on a household affected by the pandemic. Lots of stressors in my life so finding positive thoughts and keeping that perspective is foremost for me. Thank you for this post and to everyone who commented, for making me feel like I wasn’t alone in what I was going through!
Oh, Lorna, I’m so so sorry you have been through this horrible injury/recovery! I’ve heard rupturing your achilles is the most painful and difficult injury to heal. And on your beach vacation of all places!! You poor thing!
I wish you found my blog sooner too. I would have offered you my book as well. BUT you have made it through the hardest most agonizing parts of this hard season, and my gosh, getting into that boot will bring newfound freedom and hope!!! (And warning- your poor skin under that cast will look like death. But it will be revived with gentle care!) And yes, oh yes, the financial strain with all the mounting medical bills adds sooo much stress to it all too. AND going through this during a pandemic and all the stressors THAT brings on too, it’s all just SO MUCH.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story. I also wish every surgeon included a packet every patient could have that focuses on caring for your WELL-BEING- at that first visit. That is actually why I wrote my book. Ideally, I’d have it at every hospital and surgical center and surgeon’s office too.
Hang in there, new friend. You have endured the worst and you are finally nearing the turn on your recovery road that will bring you out and into the light of living once again. You’re almost there!
This is a huge blessing to me. I’ve cried, laughed as I read this. God knew I needed your words of wisdom. Two weeks ago in my garage I passed out and broke several bones in my right foot. I’ve been saying “what’s the lesson I’m supposed to learning here? It has to be to slow down and and have patience. I had been going to physical therapy for a torn rotator cuff at the time I broke my foot. My heart goes out to all of the others who have commented. We can all relate. My third time fighting cancer since 1994. You’d think by now I’d have patience. I’m truly blessed each day. Again, thank you for uplifting me today. As others, I needed it. Prayers for you and your family. Praying for all the others going through this situation, may all heal well and quickly. Be safe….
Oh, my goodness, I can’t imagine how hard it was for you to break several bones WHILE you were going to PT for your torn rotator cuff- which is painful and hard enough! You poor thing, Libby! I’m so so glad you found my blog and it encouraged you! And my gosh, that question is a doozer, isn’t it? What are we to learn through these difficult seasons of suffering and healing? And the answer is different for everyone, but I always believe there’s a wealth of wisdom we gain in and through it all. YOU are so wise, so strong, and you will get through this hard, painful experience too… Just as you have through your battles with cancer and that poor torn shoulder.
I hope you can get my book to help you through this recovery. If you are unable to purchase it, you can send me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I will gladly send you a free copy! Here’s the link if you missed it in the post: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/
Take GOOD CARE of yourself, new friend. Praying you heal quickly and learn all the lessons you were supposed to learn through it all.
Hi – Glad to have found this webpage. I broke my ankle in three places while out hiking. That was 3 weeks ago. I am two weeks post surgery. I’ve been told and saw the x-rays that plates were put in, and NINE screws. I have to sit with foot elevated till June 1st. Was fitted with a boot two days ago and that is bringing on a new round of severe pain. At this point I am becoming so depressed with the pain, having to cancel every activity, and asking for help. I live alone, so it is an extra challenge. I cannot put weight on my foot till June 1st. Then I foresee months of physical therapy. I am also looking at losing my job because of this.
Colleen
Oh, Colleen, I am SO sorry you are going through this horrible injury and painful recovery! Your depression is valid as pain and hopelessness in this stage of healing are so real. PLEASE keep asking for help. Please keep reaching out to others for support. You are in the hardest part of this horrible season. You will slowly start to heal. It takes time and so much effort, I know. Hold on, new friend. Stay strong and try to remember that although this feels like you will never get through this difficult time, you WILL. Praying for your mental health as well as your physical health. And praying you can keep your job too. I’m holding onto all the hope for you until you can hold it for yourself. You can DO THIS.
Gentle hugs to you,
Christine
Thank you!! I’m so glad I found this blog. 2 weeks ago I broke my ankle in 2 places and this has been an exhausting and completely frustrating experience. I’ve never had an injury that completely stopped me in my tracks. I have always been the care taker, the doer, and the one who holds it together. Accepting help is not easy. Thankfully I have an amazing family and a truly wonderful husband who will do anything for me. While I understand how blessed I am to have them, this injury has been so aggravating and I feel like I’m going to lose my mind if I have to do this much longer. Reading this had me laughing so hard. You explained everything perfectly. I learned very quickly not to wait to go to the restroom, shear will, will not help speed you along, I really need to work on my upper body strength, and that crutches are from the pits of
hell. Thank you so much for the lift in my spirits!
Oh, Tonya, I completely UNDERSTAND all that you’re going through! It’s sooo hard to let go of everything and allow others to do things for you. It’s even more difficult to be stuck and be still, which is SO unnatural for us doers, caretakers, and busy-bodies. I’m so glad you found my blog and I sure hope you ordered my book to help you through the rest of your recovery! If you can’t purchase it yourself, I would be happy to send you a free copy if you email me (chris@themomcafe.com) your address.
Hang in there, new friend. This journey will grow you and give you newfound strength you never knew you had. Honor your healing process and love yourself through this. It may feel like it will be YEARS until you are back to life again… but it truly is temporary and in time, life will resume again. And you will be wiser, stronger, and more grateful when it does.
XOXO,
Chris
Oh my goodness! I am two weeks in from foot surgery and every other page I’ve read says I should be good by week two with the pain and it’s a piece of cake. Thank you for sharing your real experience!! I am going crazy with the sporadic pain, feeling helpless as an independent woman who never asks for help, and trying to find new ways to pass the time. I will be on the scooter for another 6-8 weeks. I hate the crutches too even though everyone tells me to use them. Finally, I don’t feel like it’s just me!!! You explained bath/shower time perfectly. LOL Thank you!
Oh, Tonya, I’m SO glad you found my blog! It is NOT just you! It’s HARD and I’m so sorry you have to go through this painful and challenging season of healing and recovery. I hope you read the other posts I’ve written about this so you feel encouraged and SEEN.
Also, you might want to check out my book on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ If you can’t purchase it, I’d be happy to send you a free copy. Just email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com.
Hang in there, Tonya!! It may feel like you are in this FOREVER, but remind yourself this IS temporary and give yourself the grace and tender care you deserve right now. Healing takes a lot of time, so try to honor your body and allow others to help you through it. You will find strength you never knew you had and grow in new ways you’d never grown before and come out on the other side of this difficult season so much stronger and wiser and more grateful. I promise!
What a helpful, realistic take you’ve provided! I’ll be having foot/ankle surgery in a few weeks and I’m dreading being non weight bearing for 6 weeks…in a 2-story home with no shower/bath downstairs, and it’s my driving foot, so will be mostly stuck at home. In my typical fashion, I’m trying to prepare myself and be sure I’m all set up (physically and mentally) for this coming season. Thank you, thank you, thank you for offering all this advice!
Ah, Chrissy, you are SO welcome and I’m just so glad you found my blog! I hope you looked into getting my book to help you through your recovery! https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hope-While-Youre-Healing/dp/0990830330/ If you aren’t able to purchase it, you can email me your address at Chris@themomcafe.com and I will send you a free copy.
I KNOW it’s going to be hard- especially with the stairs and surgery on your driving foot. OH, do I know… But I can tell that you are so wise and strong- and as challenging as it might be, you will get through it all. Remember- be patient and gentle with yourself and honor your healing. This is temporary, not a lifelong hardship.
HUGS,
Christine