Its been four months with my injury. I will start by saying how thankful I am to have had such an amazing surgeon and physical therapist. I made great improvements in my two month of therapy, but now that is over. Both told me that the rest will just take time and no promises about anything.........
At this point I am a bit discouraged, I thought I would be able to do more than what I am. I still feel pain with every step I take, it isn't physically debilitating but emotionally it is draining. I can not lift on just my left foot, can't go up on my tip toes with just my left foot. I still can not wear anything but sneakers, and in the mornings when pain is the worst, I have to wear a sneaker or the pain is too much. I don't go super fast either. UGH, I just feel down. I expected to be so much further than what I am now.
BUT! I can crouch down on my toes (this was discovered just today), go up and down stairs with little difficulty, walk long distances, stand long times. Normal life is resumed. Well as much normal as it can be. The limp is almost completely gone which is great, things are still improving, just at a much slower pace now. There is more I can do then can't do which is something to be so thankful for!
I wish, hope, and pray, that I am able to run again. Oh how I loved running. It was what I did in college to help with the stress of school work and such. I took it for granted and made excuses for not running, oh how I wish I could take back those excuses. But looking back will not help me continue to move forward.
I am able to do the bike and I will be trying the elliptical soon. I can walk on the treadmill so I have to concentrate on what I can do.
I was told that improvement will begin to slow and it will take 8 to 12 months for complete recovery, and even then, I will always deal with residual pain and such. That scares me sometimes, espically now that progress is slowing. I wonder about having the two screws removed and if I will need another surgery in the future. I wonder just what I will and won't be able to do.....
I am proud of myself though.....I push through the pain....I keep going....I don't use it as an excuse...I just keep going. I have in the past just shut down...not this time. I have found a new strength in this injury, strength I didn't know I had inside. I use the pain to motivate, to be a better person, and to prove that I am strong and will deal with whatever challenge is placed in my way. It dosent mean I don't have bad days, I have had a few good cry sessions, but then I pick myself up and move forward.
I promised myself I would be a success story, and I am going to be!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Its Been 3 Months Since Lisfranc Struck
I thought October would never come.......
When I was first diagnosed with the Lisfranc ligament tear and was told I wouldn't be walking until late September, (that was in July) it sounded so far away. I am happy to report that I am walking part time in the boot and part time in sneakers. Exactly three months after the fall.
I can happily report that I am making lots of progress. In just four weeks time I have gone from using two crutches and the orthopedic boot, to half sneakers half boot. AMAZING! I must attribute my success to my physical therapist; this guy is amazing and knows exactly what exercises my foot needs to become stronger with each visit.
I have great days, good days, and bad days. Unfortunately I do have a good deal of pain on a daily basis but it isn't debilitating. Its annoying I will admit and some days, like today, I do get frustrated with the pain. I try to remember that it is still very early on in my recovery and that it always could be worse, but really....who wants to feel pain everyday. I do get scared wondering if this is the pain I will experience from now on, but its just to early to tell. Hopefully as I get stronger and time goes by the pain will subside.
On Monday I was able to go the whole day with just sneakers, but then I paid for that on Tuesday. Then today I was able to do just sneakers again, but was uncomfortable. I am trying to push myself through the pain but I listen to my body and when it gets to a point that I feel tears coming on, I have surpassed my limit and I take it easy for awhile. I do not want to use the boot as a "crutch" and give into the pain all the time, but I think there are some moments when I push myself too much.
I have just over two weeks left of physical therapy and then I will be on my own. Total recovery is 8 to 12 months. I move forward knowing I have made great progress and will continue to do all that I can to be healthy and strong in the future.
When I was first diagnosed with the Lisfranc ligament tear and was told I wouldn't be walking until late September, (that was in July) it sounded so far away. I am happy to report that I am walking part time in the boot and part time in sneakers. Exactly three months after the fall.
I can happily report that I am making lots of progress. In just four weeks time I have gone from using two crutches and the orthopedic boot, to half sneakers half boot. AMAZING! I must attribute my success to my physical therapist; this guy is amazing and knows exactly what exercises my foot needs to become stronger with each visit.
I have great days, good days, and bad days. Unfortunately I do have a good deal of pain on a daily basis but it isn't debilitating. Its annoying I will admit and some days, like today, I do get frustrated with the pain. I try to remember that it is still very early on in my recovery and that it always could be worse, but really....who wants to feel pain everyday. I do get scared wondering if this is the pain I will experience from now on, but its just to early to tell. Hopefully as I get stronger and time goes by the pain will subside.
On Monday I was able to go the whole day with just sneakers, but then I paid for that on Tuesday. Then today I was able to do just sneakers again, but was uncomfortable. I am trying to push myself through the pain but I listen to my body and when it gets to a point that I feel tears coming on, I have surpassed my limit and I take it easy for awhile. I do not want to use the boot as a "crutch" and give into the pain all the time, but I think there are some moments when I push myself too much.
I have just over two weeks left of physical therapy and then I will be on my own. Total recovery is 8 to 12 months. I move forward knowing I have made great progress and will continue to do all that I can to be healthy and strong in the future.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Finally Feeling Independent
Today was a big day for me that I celebrated quietly. It was my first day with no crutches, just the orthopedic boot. I was so thrilled on the inside that I couldn't do anything but smile today. These little victories keep me going and keep me motivated.
So here I sit writing another blog post. Its now been 9 weeks since my surgery and I am so thankful that the worst part of this injury is now over. I feel as though the clouds are starting to disappear and I can see the sun again.
I am only using crutches in the morning when I am bare foot. Otherwise I use the orthopedic boot when at work or out running errands and then use sneakers when I am at home. I have a pretty bad limp, but the ortho said it is just going to take time for that to disappear But walking, even with a limp, is so thrilling I don't even care if people stare or how awkward it looks.
First and foremost I want to make it clear that I am so thankful that my injury was not worse, I know things can always be worse. But, at the same token I am also acknowledging that this whole situation has been incredibly frustrating. I am blessed that it wasn't worse, that I had an amazing surgeon, a wonderful physical therapist and a huge support system of my family (especially my hubby) and friends. But let me tell you......two months non weight bearing was AWFUL!!! Thank God this nightmare is almost over!
I have always heard people when they say, "I just had a flash back." But I never really has experienced one until this past Sunday morning. I was just sitting on the couch when my mind jumped back to the day I fell. My mind took me quickly through all the events leading up to surgery, then through all the changes I have dealt with as far as living a semi normal life. I snapped out of it and was never more thankful for all the blessings in my life. Its funny because I was beginning to feel frustrated again and it was like my mind was reminding me of what I overcame. After the "flashback" all the frustration left my body and I was happy go lucky again.
This injury has been a physical struggle, but the biggest battle has been the emotional one. I read that it was going to be but didn't believe it until now. The mind is the strongest most influential part of our being. I was recently feeling like everything was going wrong and that it couldn't get worse, then it did. But through this injury I have never felt more thankful and happier. What I thought was the worst thing that could have happened has turned out to be the greatest blessing. I asked God for strength and he gave me the opportunity to be strong.
So here I sit writing another blog post. Its now been 9 weeks since my surgery and I am so thankful that the worst part of this injury is now over. I feel as though the clouds are starting to disappear and I can see the sun again.
I am only using crutches in the morning when I am bare foot. Otherwise I use the orthopedic boot when at work or out running errands and then use sneakers when I am at home. I have a pretty bad limp, but the ortho said it is just going to take time for that to disappear But walking, even with a limp, is so thrilling I don't even care if people stare or how awkward it looks.
First and foremost I want to make it clear that I am so thankful that my injury was not worse, I know things can always be worse. But, at the same token I am also acknowledging that this whole situation has been incredibly frustrating. I am blessed that it wasn't worse, that I had an amazing surgeon, a wonderful physical therapist and a huge support system of my family (especially my hubby) and friends. But let me tell you......two months non weight bearing was AWFUL!!! Thank God this nightmare is almost over!
I have always heard people when they say, "I just had a flash back." But I never really has experienced one until this past Sunday morning. I was just sitting on the couch when my mind jumped back to the day I fell. My mind took me quickly through all the events leading up to surgery, then through all the changes I have dealt with as far as living a semi normal life. I snapped out of it and was never more thankful for all the blessings in my life. Its funny because I was beginning to feel frustrated again and it was like my mind was reminding me of what I overcame. After the "flashback" all the frustration left my body and I was happy go lucky again.
This injury has been a physical struggle, but the biggest battle has been the emotional one. I read that it was going to be but didn't believe it until now. The mind is the strongest most influential part of our being. I was recently feeling like everything was going wrong and that it couldn't get worse, then it did. But through this injury I have never felt more thankful and happier. What I thought was the worst thing that could have happened has turned out to be the greatest blessing. I asked God for strength and he gave me the opportunity to be strong.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Two Months Ago......
Exactly two months ago my life changed forever in a matter of seconds, literally just two seconds. The morning I fell, and the two weeks after, I felt like all I was getting was bad news and that I would never be the same after this injury. I felt sad, scared, worried, and confused about the future. But now....two months after my surgery I am almost happy that this injury has happened, it has given me a new perspective on life.
I will start by saying that I do live everyday with pain, almost constant. Every move I make involves some amount of pain. Its not too bad, but uncomfortable and there are moments when I wish it would all go away. However, I get stronger everyday, what bothers me in the morning many times is gone by night, at night I am very tired but that means I have been active during the day, and the pain I feel now will hopefully subside in the next months of physical therapy. I was told today it will be 8 months before I am "healed", or as "healed" as this injury can possibly be. But things look great and the physical therapist says I am really doing very well and seeing improvements each week.
I can now walk long distance in the boot with one crutch, short distance in the boot no crutch, and at home in a sneaker and one crutch. These little victories are what keep me going and I am determined to get as much function as possible back in my foot. There are moments where I wonder if I will ever make more progress, but then I remind myself of how far I have come in two weeks of therapy. I started in a boot and both crutches and I am so close to being in a sneaker full time.
I used to only see the negative in situations and then stress about them. I would worry worry worry and then worry some more. I would be consumed with "what if" scenarios and then worry about things that may not even happen in the future. Then I fell. There is a silver lining with everything, sometimes you just have to look harder to see it. I now see how strong I am physically, I see that I can overcome the challenges that life throws my way, I am a much stronger person emotionally than I ever believed I could be, and that staying positive really truly does work wonders.
Yes, of course there are negatives. I have two screws in my foot that hurt like heck, I needed a scooter to get around for two months, I needed surgery and will have to have another, I have pain every day, my foot is swollen almost every second of every day, I walk funny and have to wear a crazy looking boot, and I could go on forever, but I won't. I won't because I don't want to give the negative parts of this any attention, because what does deserve my thoughts are all the positives.
It is funny sometimes how God answers prayers. I wonder if in some way this injury was placed in my life to teach me how to be calm, be still, be thankful, and how to find the good in every situation. Because they are all things I was not good at before this. But whatever the reason my scars and this injury will always be a positive memory for me of what I overcame and what I achieved.
I will start by saying that I do live everyday with pain, almost constant. Every move I make involves some amount of pain. Its not too bad, but uncomfortable and there are moments when I wish it would all go away. However, I get stronger everyday, what bothers me in the morning many times is gone by night, at night I am very tired but that means I have been active during the day, and the pain I feel now will hopefully subside in the next months of physical therapy. I was told today it will be 8 months before I am "healed", or as "healed" as this injury can possibly be. But things look great and the physical therapist says I am really doing very well and seeing improvements each week.
I can now walk long distance in the boot with one crutch, short distance in the boot no crutch, and at home in a sneaker and one crutch. These little victories are what keep me going and I am determined to get as much function as possible back in my foot. There are moments where I wonder if I will ever make more progress, but then I remind myself of how far I have come in two weeks of therapy. I started in a boot and both crutches and I am so close to being in a sneaker full time.
I used to only see the negative in situations and then stress about them. I would worry worry worry and then worry some more. I would be consumed with "what if" scenarios and then worry about things that may not even happen in the future. Then I fell. There is a silver lining with everything, sometimes you just have to look harder to see it. I now see how strong I am physically, I see that I can overcome the challenges that life throws my way, I am a much stronger person emotionally than I ever believed I could be, and that staying positive really truly does work wonders.
Yes, of course there are negatives. I have two screws in my foot that hurt like heck, I needed a scooter to get around for two months, I needed surgery and will have to have another, I have pain every day, my foot is swollen almost every second of every day, I walk funny and have to wear a crazy looking boot, and I could go on forever, but I won't. I won't because I don't want to give the negative parts of this any attention, because what does deserve my thoughts are all the positives.
It is funny sometimes how God answers prayers. I wonder if in some way this injury was placed in my life to teach me how to be calm, be still, be thankful, and how to find the good in every situation. Because they are all things I was not good at before this. But whatever the reason my scars and this injury will always be a positive memory for me of what I overcame and what I achieved.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Making Progress
7 weeks post surgery and 9 weeks post injury I am down to walking in the boot with one crutch almost full time.
Today was my second session of physical therapy. The therapist said that most people have zero degree range of motion and I am at three degrees coming right out of the boot. He is impressed with my range of movement and what I can do in such a short period of time. ALL GOOD NEWS!
Given all the horror stories I have read online about these lisfranc injuries, I must say I am doing remarkably well.
This week has been the best yet! I am walking up and down the stairs with the aid of crutches, and now that I am down to one crutch I have one hand free! I feel so much more independence! I felt for the longest time that this day would never come. I feel so great, am in such good spirits, and feel so blessed to have amazing doctors to be treating me.
When I went to the doctor's office at six weeks post injury, I had no clue what to expect. I was even more nervous visiting the pt for the first time, but all has turned out great. I whole heartily believe that it has been the positive attitude that has made all the difference.
I can't wait for the one year anniversary where I can blog for the last time and hopefully post that I am a success story!
Started off non weight bearing on a scooter, then in the boot using two crutches, now down to the boot and one crutch! Progress made!
Today was my second session of physical therapy. The therapist said that most people have zero degree range of motion and I am at three degrees coming right out of the boot. He is impressed with my range of movement and what I can do in such a short period of time. ALL GOOD NEWS!
Given all the horror stories I have read online about these lisfranc injuries, I must say I am doing remarkably well.
This week has been the best yet! I am walking up and down the stairs with the aid of crutches, and now that I am down to one crutch I have one hand free! I feel so much more independence! I felt for the longest time that this day would never come. I feel so great, am in such good spirits, and feel so blessed to have amazing doctors to be treating me.
When I went to the doctor's office at six weeks post injury, I had no clue what to expect. I was even more nervous visiting the pt for the first time, but all has turned out great. I whole heartily believe that it has been the positive attitude that has made all the difference.
I can't wait for the one year anniversary where I can blog for the last time and hopefully post that I am a success story!
Started off non weight bearing on a scooter, then in the boot using two crutches, now down to the boot and one crutch! Progress made!
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
I AM WALKING!!!!!
Well, I got great news! Looks like being positive, optimistic, and listening to the doctors orders have paid off! I am WALKING!!!
I took my first steps in over two months today. Exactly 6 weeks and one day after my lisfranc surgery.
It is a crazy wierd feeling. The doctor explained that enough time has gone by and that no more healing will occur. Ligaments need 21 days to heal and I have given them 43. It is as healed as its ever gonna be. Now I will begin a month of physical thereapy and the doctor thinks I will be in sneakers and out of the moon boot in 4 weeks. Much sooner then we originally thought!
So when the doctor left the room I picked up the crutches (my husband then took immediate advantage of the scooter) and then I pasued...........I had forgotton how to walk! The first few movements were so scary, then I took these little tiny steps until my husband finally said, "umm you put one foot in front of the other." Then I was like , "oh yeah!"
Its slow going, and some steps are painful, others arent, but it feels so good to be moving again. As the night has been progressing I can go a little faster and I am getting used to my "sea legs" for lack of a better phrase.
I cried for 15 minutes after we left the office, I was just so happy. There has been so much bad news that it overwhelmed me to get good news. Sitting on the couch the day after surgery I felt like this day would never come. But it did, God gave me the patience I needed and I pushed through. I have never felt stronger then I do now emotionally.
The doctor said walking with the hardware in will be painful and I am sure physically thereapy will not be pleasent. But every pain I feel is a reminder of how strong I am, what I have gotten through, and a big reminder that I am walking again.
I am on my way to being a success story!!!!!!!!
I took my first steps in over two months today. Exactly 6 weeks and one day after my lisfranc surgery.
It is a crazy wierd feeling. The doctor explained that enough time has gone by and that no more healing will occur. Ligaments need 21 days to heal and I have given them 43. It is as healed as its ever gonna be. Now I will begin a month of physical thereapy and the doctor thinks I will be in sneakers and out of the moon boot in 4 weeks. Much sooner then we originally thought!
So when the doctor left the room I picked up the crutches (my husband then took immediate advantage of the scooter) and then I pasued...........I had forgotton how to walk! The first few movements were so scary, then I took these little tiny steps until my husband finally said, "umm you put one foot in front of the other." Then I was like , "oh yeah!"
Its slow going, and some steps are painful, others arent, but it feels so good to be moving again. As the night has been progressing I can go a little faster and I am getting used to my "sea legs" for lack of a better phrase.
I cried for 15 minutes after we left the office, I was just so happy. There has been so much bad news that it overwhelmed me to get good news. Sitting on the couch the day after surgery I felt like this day would never come. But it did, God gave me the patience I needed and I pushed through. I have never felt stronger then I do now emotionally.
The doctor said walking with the hardware in will be painful and I am sure physically thereapy will not be pleasent. But every pain I feel is a reminder of how strong I am, what I have gotten through, and a big reminder that I am walking again.
I am on my way to being a success story!!!!!!!!
Monday, September 10, 2012
6 Weeks Post Surgery, 8 Weeks Post Injury
Here I sit the eve of my big doctors appointment. Tomorrow I will be examined and it will be determined if I am allowed to begin learning how to walk again..........
I pray and hope that I have not done any damage, and that I have healed successfully. The future of how much movement and how strong I will be from now on in unknown, and the unknown is very scary. I have done my best to stay positive and optimistic, I hope that it has done me well.
I will stay true to my word and will be thankful for whatever my new normal becomes. I will work hard and do exactly what my doctor and physical therapist tells me to do without missing a beat. And...if tomorrow I am told that I need a few more weeks I will listen and be thankful regardless.
My foot looks good, less swelling each day, it doesn't turn that awful shade of purple when hanging down anymore. Now it just turns a reddish color. I am not as sore at the end of the day, can bend and flex without much pain, and the incisions are looking good. Physically I believe all has gone well.
Emotionally I have more good days then bad, I push through the bad and do my best to make them good again. I am so happy to be at the end of the 6 weeks non weight bearing. It is really frustrating not being able to be independent and do all the things I am use to doing. Thank God I have the amazing husband that I do.
I would be lying if I said I wasn't scared of what the doctor will tell me tomorrow, but no matter what the news I will be OK, and I will be a SUCCESS story.
I pray and hope that I have not done any damage, and that I have healed successfully. The future of how much movement and how strong I will be from now on in unknown, and the unknown is very scary. I have done my best to stay positive and optimistic, I hope that it has done me well.
I will stay true to my word and will be thankful for whatever my new normal becomes. I will work hard and do exactly what my doctor and physical therapist tells me to do without missing a beat. And...if tomorrow I am told that I need a few more weeks I will listen and be thankful regardless.
My foot looks good, less swelling each day, it doesn't turn that awful shade of purple when hanging down anymore. Now it just turns a reddish color. I am not as sore at the end of the day, can bend and flex without much pain, and the incisions are looking good. Physically I believe all has gone well.
Emotionally I have more good days then bad, I push through the bad and do my best to make them good again. I am so happy to be at the end of the 6 weeks non weight bearing. It is really frustrating not being able to be independent and do all the things I am use to doing. Thank God I have the amazing husband that I do.
I would be lying if I said I wasn't scared of what the doctor will tell me tomorrow, but no matter what the news I will be OK, and I will be a SUCCESS story.Monday, September 3, 2012
5 Weeks Post Surgery, 7 Weeks Post Injury
As I typed the titled of this post reality set in on just how long it has been since I have last walked. I am in a much better place now than I was then, but some moments of the day are still tough.
My incisions are completely healed. Still look like Frankenstein marks, but they will be a positive reminder for me everyday of just how strong I am. They will remind me that things can always be worse, that I overcame a challenge, and will be my motivation for the future. I will never again take for granted walking or running. I pray and hope I am able to run again.
I never really believed people when they said they could feel it when it was going to rain, until yesterday. I woke up with an ache in my foot and then it dawned on me........it was raining. I hope this is not a sign of what is to come in the future, but I fear it might be.
Working is really tough emotionally and physically. I have to accept a lot of help and ask for even more. My co workers have been amazing and I am so blessed to have them in my life. Emotionally I get really tired because I know how challenging each day is going to be, but I made it through week one, and I am hopeful that each week will be even easier. I am amazed at how much I am able to do when I just push through it. With this injury you must remain positive and mentally strong, there is no other way to get by. That doesn't mean I don't have bad minutes, or even hours, but most of each day I try to be positive. I am learning (something I often dismissed before this injury) that your mind is much stronger than the body, and if you tell yourself that you can do it and that you are strong enough, then your body follows. I see signs of that each day. When I first got injured I read so many posts, forums, etc and they all stated that you must be mentally strong, they were right. All the success stories out there has one common theme, BE POSITIVE!
Physically there is not much change. I am in my last week of non weight bearing (hopefully) I experience little to no pain, some dull aches here and there, but considering what I have dealt with its nothing. Foot still is swollen but nothing like it was, I am just going to have to get used to the swelling. It will turn purple if it is out of the boot and hangs down. Otherwise it is almost back to its normal shape, no longer sore to the touch, besides over the incisions, and does not hurt when I am laying on my stomach (now I get much better sleep).
I wear the boot every day for protection, it has become my security blanket. I use crutches to get around the house, and the knee scooter when at work or out running errands. I don't drive, not until I can partially bear weight. I go up the stairs on my knees, and down the stairs on my butt. I use a bath seat in the shower (which has been so helpful), I use a folding chair to do my hair and makeup in front of the mirror, and have placed things around the house in easy reach. Other than that I try to live normally with lots and lots of help from my husband. He still remains to be my greatest source of strength.
As I enter what will hopefully be my last week of non weight bearing I am so hopeful of what the future holds for me. I know I will never be the same, but I am excited to continue my journey. This injury is just now part of who I am. In a strange way I am thankful God put this challenge in my life. It has made me realize just how strong I am, and that with my husband by my side there isn't anything we can get through.
My incisions are completely healed. Still look like Frankenstein marks, but they will be a positive reminder for me everyday of just how strong I am. They will remind me that things can always be worse, that I overcame a challenge, and will be my motivation for the future. I will never again take for granted walking or running. I pray and hope I am able to run again.
I never really believed people when they said they could feel it when it was going to rain, until yesterday. I woke up with an ache in my foot and then it dawned on me........it was raining. I hope this is not a sign of what is to come in the future, but I fear it might be.
Working is really tough emotionally and physically. I have to accept a lot of help and ask for even more. My co workers have been amazing and I am so blessed to have them in my life. Emotionally I get really tired because I know how challenging each day is going to be, but I made it through week one, and I am hopeful that each week will be even easier. I am amazed at how much I am able to do when I just push through it. With this injury you must remain positive and mentally strong, there is no other way to get by. That doesn't mean I don't have bad minutes, or even hours, but most of each day I try to be positive. I am learning (something I often dismissed before this injury) that your mind is much stronger than the body, and if you tell yourself that you can do it and that you are strong enough, then your body follows. I see signs of that each day. When I first got injured I read so many posts, forums, etc and they all stated that you must be mentally strong, they were right. All the success stories out there has one common theme, BE POSITIVE!
Physically there is not much change. I am in my last week of non weight bearing (hopefully) I experience little to no pain, some dull aches here and there, but considering what I have dealt with its nothing. Foot still is swollen but nothing like it was, I am just going to have to get used to the swelling. It will turn purple if it is out of the boot and hangs down. Otherwise it is almost back to its normal shape, no longer sore to the touch, besides over the incisions, and does not hurt when I am laying on my stomach (now I get much better sleep).
I wear the boot every day for protection, it has become my security blanket. I use crutches to get around the house, and the knee scooter when at work or out running errands. I don't drive, not until I can partially bear weight. I go up the stairs on my knees, and down the stairs on my butt. I use a bath seat in the shower (which has been so helpful), I use a folding chair to do my hair and makeup in front of the mirror, and have placed things around the house in easy reach. Other than that I try to live normally with lots and lots of help from my husband. He still remains to be my greatest source of strength.
As I enter what will hopefully be my last week of non weight bearing I am so hopeful of what the future holds for me. I know I will never be the same, but I am excited to continue my journey. This injury is just now part of who I am. In a strange way I am thankful God put this challenge in my life. It has made me realize just how strong I am, and that with my husband by my side there isn't anything we can get through.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Take It One Day At A Time
So in my last post I vented about how frustrated I am. That hasn't changed, I am still frustrated, but I have chosen to have a better attitude about it. And you know what......I felt so much better today.
My foot swells and turns colors if it isn't in the exact correct comfortable position and that is annoying, but it isn't going to change anytime soon. I have very little pain and am healing great. I can't make time go any faster, so I just have to suck it up and move on.
My Mom has given me tons a great advice through this injury, but the one thing my mom has always said is to, "take it one day at a time." I suppose a mother always know best! So yesterday was hard, today was easier. I will just take it one day at a time and be thankful for each day I am given. Injury or not, I am thankful.
I will be a success story!!
My foot swells and turns colors if it isn't in the exact correct comfortable position and that is annoying, but it isn't going to change anytime soon. I have very little pain and am healing great. I can't make time go any faster, so I just have to suck it up and move on.
My Mom has given me tons a great advice through this injury, but the one thing my mom has always said is to, "take it one day at a time." I suppose a mother always know best! So yesterday was hard, today was easier. I will just take it one day at a time and be thankful for each day I am given. Injury or not, I am thankful.
I will be a success story!!
Monday, August 27, 2012
4 Weeks Post Surgery, 6 Weeks Post Injury
It has been six weeks since I have last walked, and I still have two weeks to go before I can start partial weight bearing. Then who knows how long until I can walk without some sort of assistance. Don't get me wrong, I know it could be worse, but I am ready for this to be over with.
The past few days have been more of an emotional struggle than a physical one. Physically I am doing great! My incisions are healing well, I have little to know pain, I am able to get around a bit easier as I have figured out how to move without the use of my left foot over the past six weeks, and my foot looks pretty normal. Its been emotionally more challenging recently. Other stories I have read online told me this would happen, and to be honest I have tried to fight it for awhile now, and my mind finally gave in last night.
I am frustrated, I am annoyed, I am angry this happened. I am tired of every task taking four times as long to complete, I am angry that I can't take a normal shower, I am tired of bruising from the crutches and leaning on the scooter. I am tired of not being able to be independent and having to ask and accept so much help. UGH! Its just not fun.
I am starting back to work this week, today was my first day back. I think that contributed to the frustration, but I will figure it out, somehow things always just work out. I will find out how to compensate, I am not a quitter!
I have wonderful family and friends, supportive and helpful co workers, I am fortunate to have a job, and I am blessed that I am healing well. There are more positives than negatives, I am so thankful for that.
The past few days have been more of an emotional struggle than a physical one. Physically I am doing great! My incisions are healing well, I have little to know pain, I am able to get around a bit easier as I have figured out how to move without the use of my left foot over the past six weeks, and my foot looks pretty normal. Its been emotionally more challenging recently. Other stories I have read online told me this would happen, and to be honest I have tried to fight it for awhile now, and my mind finally gave in last night.
I am frustrated, I am annoyed, I am angry this happened. I am tired of every task taking four times as long to complete, I am angry that I can't take a normal shower, I am tired of bruising from the crutches and leaning on the scooter. I am tired of not being able to be independent and having to ask and accept so much help. UGH! Its just not fun.
I am starting back to work this week, today was my first day back. I think that contributed to the frustration, but I will figure it out, somehow things always just work out. I will find out how to compensate, I am not a quitter!
I have wonderful family and friends, supportive and helpful co workers, I am fortunate to have a job, and I am blessed that I am healing well. There are more positives than negatives, I am so thankful for that.
Monday, August 20, 2012
3 Weeks Post Surgery, Halfway to Weight Bearing
WOW.....I am now three weeks post surgery, and exactly halfway through the non weight bearing phase. You know I always hated Mondays before, then I fell on Monday, had surgery on a Monday, I just really have a reason to hate Mondays now, lol. Nah......could always be worse! (I hear my Dad say that to me all the time.)
I am feeling pretty great physically. My foot looks better every day; bruising going away, swelling going down, still little to no pain (enjoying that while it lasts), and incisions are healing well. I fear I will have ugly scars....thank goodness my husband didn't fall in love with my feet. :)
I still don't have full range of motion, but that is why I will be doing physical therapy. It definitely feels tight in many spots and if I move my foot the wrong way I get pain, but otherwise I can't complain. I am just thankful that my doctor didn't put me in a cast for six weeks and I can at least move my foot somewhat.
Emotionally I also am doing pretty great. Whenever I feel myself slipping into negative territory I pull my self right back and think of all the positives. This is a habit I am trying to create, as being positive and staying calm are not my strengths, but I am trying to create positive habits. I hear that helps with recovery! I find I am less frustrated each day and am able to do a little more and am a bit stronger!
I am feeling pretty great physically. My foot looks better every day; bruising going away, swelling going down, still little to no pain (enjoying that while it lasts), and incisions are healing well. I fear I will have ugly scars....thank goodness my husband didn't fall in love with my feet. :)
I still don't have full range of motion, but that is why I will be doing physical therapy. It definitely feels tight in many spots and if I move my foot the wrong way I get pain, but otherwise I can't complain. I am just thankful that my doctor didn't put me in a cast for six weeks and I can at least move my foot somewhat.
Emotionally I also am doing pretty great. Whenever I feel myself slipping into negative territory I pull my self right back and think of all the positives. This is a habit I am trying to create, as being positive and staying calm are not my strengths, but I am trying to create positive habits. I hear that helps with recovery! I find I am less frustrated each day and am able to do a little more and am a bit stronger!
The Scooter!!!
Being on crutches was no fun and very dangerous. Not only did it take me forever to just move about the house, I was also terrified that I would fall and do more damage. During the first appointment with the surgeon I had mentioned that I would need to return to teaching at the end of the summer. I asked how he thought that would be possible being non weight bearing......his answer......the KNEE SCOOTER!
Now at first my husband and I kinda blew it off, laughing like really I am going to get a scooter??? But then we thought more about it as the days passed and I wasn't getting any better on the crutches. My husband decided to Google knee scooter and we could not believe what we found! There were tons of videos, positive customer reviews, and different kinds. My husband researched and found the best one in our price range and we ordered it for cheaper then you can rent one for the amount of time I will need it. See....the problem is that I won't be weight bearing until the 11th of Sept and then only partial weight bearing with restrictions. It is going to be some time before I won't need some sort of assistance walking so the knee scooter started to make some sense.
Let me tell you....I was a changed person once the scooter arrived. Within the hour my husband had put it together and we were at Target. It took me all of five minutes to get used to it and off I went. I felt happy for the first time since surgery, I felt like I gained some independence back, and was no longer a prisoner of the couch. I then became even more positive about this injury!!
One women said it gave her back her sanity after her lisfranc injury, and it totally gave me back mine. It is actually easier to be at work then it is to be at home with the knee scooter. Now, you have to be careful on this thing and watch for transitions, bumps, rocks, etc. But I personally have had no problems. Other people online said they have taken spills, so it isn't risk free. I am not a dare devil so I won't be doing any fancy tricks, I am just thankful that it has made my life so much better during this healing time.
Now at first my husband and I kinda blew it off, laughing like really I am going to get a scooter??? But then we thought more about it as the days passed and I wasn't getting any better on the crutches. My husband decided to Google knee scooter and we could not believe what we found! There were tons of videos, positive customer reviews, and different kinds. My husband researched and found the best one in our price range and we ordered it for cheaper then you can rent one for the amount of time I will need it. See....the problem is that I won't be weight bearing until the 11th of Sept and then only partial weight bearing with restrictions. It is going to be some time before I won't need some sort of assistance walking so the knee scooter started to make some sense.
Let me tell you....I was a changed person once the scooter arrived. Within the hour my husband had put it together and we were at Target. It took me all of five minutes to get used to it and off I went. I felt happy for the first time since surgery, I felt like I gained some independence back, and was no longer a prisoner of the couch. I then became even more positive about this injury!!
One women said it gave her back her sanity after her lisfranc injury, and it totally gave me back mine. It is actually easier to be at work then it is to be at home with the knee scooter. Now, you have to be careful on this thing and watch for transitions, bumps, rocks, etc. But I personally have had no problems. Other people online said they have taken spills, so it isn't risk free. I am not a dare devil so I won't be doing any fancy tricks, I am just thankful that it has made my life so much better during this healing time.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Post Operation
So....the time after surgery......you have a lot of time considering you can't walk and that limits what you can do. I did not, and do not do well on the crutches. Even going to the restroom was a challenge. Then you are trying to balance on one leg since absolutely no weight can be applied to your foot. I was going insane.
I have never really been a "calm" person, I tend to be very emotional and concentrate on the negative. So to be told first that I needed surgery, then that I was going to be non weight bearing for so long did a number on me emotionally.
Thank goodness for my husband. We have had a tough five years of marriage. We have been dealt a tough hand to play and somehow have always come out on top and more in love, and this injury has just added to our stress. My husband has been my greatest strength. He has cooked every meal, cleaned every corner of the house, kept up with my medicine, and has managed to make me laugh everyday. My husband refuses to allow me to fall into a self pity mode. He allows me to cry when I am frustrated, but then he says to keep positive and continue to look forward not back. He makes me smile everyday and that more than anything else has kept me positive.
This injury does have a silver lining.....it has taught me to relax, stay clam, and that some things can just wait and be dealt with later. Resting and healing are what are most important right now, and that is exactly what I have been doing. When I do get out I listen to my body and when I feel swelling or pain its time to go back on the couch. But really.....in all honesty....there have been many positives. I have had an overwhelming response from family and friends of well wishes, gifts, cards, and most importantly prayer.
Some days are better than others, and yes sometimes I start to cry because I can't walk, get my own things, it takes me 3 times as long to complete a task, and so on. But.....its just the nature of the beast right now. Like my Dad always tells me, "it can always be worse" and like my husband always tells me, "its not that bad" both are right. I need to start listening to the two most amazing men in my life.
I have learned to stay positive, because if I don't it will not help my recovery. I want to believe that staying positive will help my healing and I will do better in the future. I am scared of the arthritis and how much pain I will be in on a daily basis when I start walking but I will deal with it then. For right now I have little pain unless pressure is applied to the screws (yes you can feel them through the skin) or if I move my foot the wrong way. I have to remember that the entire portion of my leg has not been used in five weeks and is rather weak.
I have read horrible stories about people with this injury and that is why I am blogging. I never really understood blogging until now. I want to be a positive lisfranc story and I will be, I am sure of it. I refuse to allow negativity in, I have wasted too much of my life being negative. I am taking this opportunity to change my perspective. Yes I am injured, but I will be ok. I am excited to learn what my new normal will be, and I will embrace it and be thankful for whatever movement I get back. This will be a success story!
I have never really been a "calm" person, I tend to be very emotional and concentrate on the negative. So to be told first that I needed surgery, then that I was going to be non weight bearing for so long did a number on me emotionally.
Thank goodness for my husband. We have had a tough five years of marriage. We have been dealt a tough hand to play and somehow have always come out on top and more in love, and this injury has just added to our stress. My husband has been my greatest strength. He has cooked every meal, cleaned every corner of the house, kept up with my medicine, and has managed to make me laugh everyday. My husband refuses to allow me to fall into a self pity mode. He allows me to cry when I am frustrated, but then he says to keep positive and continue to look forward not back. He makes me smile everyday and that more than anything else has kept me positive.
This injury does have a silver lining.....it has taught me to relax, stay clam, and that some things can just wait and be dealt with later. Resting and healing are what are most important right now, and that is exactly what I have been doing. When I do get out I listen to my body and when I feel swelling or pain its time to go back on the couch. But really.....in all honesty....there have been many positives. I have had an overwhelming response from family and friends of well wishes, gifts, cards, and most importantly prayer.
Some days are better than others, and yes sometimes I start to cry because I can't walk, get my own things, it takes me 3 times as long to complete a task, and so on. But.....its just the nature of the beast right now. Like my Dad always tells me, "it can always be worse" and like my husband always tells me, "its not that bad" both are right. I need to start listening to the two most amazing men in my life.
I have learned to stay positive, because if I don't it will not help my recovery. I want to believe that staying positive will help my healing and I will do better in the future. I am scared of the arthritis and how much pain I will be in on a daily basis when I start walking but I will deal with it then. For right now I have little pain unless pressure is applied to the screws (yes you can feel them through the skin) or if I move my foot the wrong way. I have to remember that the entire portion of my leg has not been used in five weeks and is rather weak.
I have read horrible stories about people with this injury and that is why I am blogging. I never really understood blogging until now. I want to be a positive lisfranc story and I will be, I am sure of it. I refuse to allow negativity in, I have wasted too much of my life being negative. I am taking this opportunity to change my perspective. Yes I am injured, but I will be ok. I am excited to learn what my new normal will be, and I will embrace it and be thankful for whatever movement I get back. This will be a success story!
Surgery Day!
Exactly two weeks after my fall I was in for surgery. Dr. Overly moved my bones back into place, I believe it was called an open reduction internal fixation, but I can't be sure. I have two screws placed into my midfoot to keep the bones in place while scar tissue forms in place of the ligament. The doctor did the surgery in twenty minutes!!! It was outpatient and I had minimal pain post op.
Now I am almost five weeks post injury and three weeks post op. The bruising is almost all gone as well as the swelling, but I have to be careful not to let my foot hang down for too long or it turns purple. Yuck, I know! I am out of the post operation splint and back into an orthopedic boot to help protect my foot. I am allowed to bend and flex my foot, can can take the boot off to shower and sleep. Since being in the boot life is a little bit better. I am more comfortable and can move around a little easier. I no longer take any pain medications and if I have pain it is minor and due to too much movement. I will be non weight bearing for the next four weeks and then I will start partial weight bearing and physical therapy. The doctor says I will be in pain then, but at least I will be walking again. The non weight bearing is a challenge, I hate crutches, but I keep telling myself it is only a short period of time and worth it to be sure I heal properly.
Now I am almost five weeks post injury and three weeks post op. The bruising is almost all gone as well as the swelling, but I have to be careful not to let my foot hang down for too long or it turns purple. Yuck, I know! I am out of the post operation splint and back into an orthopedic boot to help protect my foot. I am allowed to bend and flex my foot, can can take the boot off to shower and sleep. Since being in the boot life is a little bit better. I am more comfortable and can move around a little easier. I no longer take any pain medications and if I have pain it is minor and due to too much movement. I will be non weight bearing for the next four weeks and then I will start partial weight bearing and physical therapy. The doctor says I will be in pain then, but at least I will be walking again. The non weight bearing is a challenge, I hate crutches, but I keep telling myself it is only a short period of time and worth it to be sure I heal properly.
The Day Lisfranc Struck!
It was July 16th, 2012 the day I had my injury. I was waiting for workers to come and install insulation above my family room and they were late. I had opened the outside garage door and heard some fussing outside. I got up off my couch, opened my laundry room door into the garage, saw the trucks parked in the driveway, lifted my right leg to step down to greet the workers, and BAM, I was on the concrete floor.
That is all it took, falling down two steps in a matter of seconds! I was mid fall and I remember turning and saw my feet twisted in a very unnatural form. When I hit the ground I checked my head, shoulders, arms, fingers. All ok. Then I rolled over and could wiggle my toes and move my legs. I remember thinking to myself that I was ok and was very lucky. Then......I attempted to stand up. That was when I realized something more was wrong. As I tried to stand up I could not bear weight on the inside of my left foot. It was an awful amount of pain and my foot had a huge bump on the inside. Adrenaline kicked in, I made it inside my house and screamed for my husband. We both assumed I had a broken bone.
We told the workers to leave and went immediately to the emergency room. When at the hospital they took NON WEIGHT BEARING XAYS, that was the mistake! The x rays showed no broken bones or fractures, they told me it was a sprain, sent me on my way, and told me to follow up with an orthopedic doctor. Thank goodness I did!
The next day I went to the ortho and he suspected the lisfranc injury. The thought of it being something more than a sprain jolted me into a panic. They said I might need surgery (which I did) and told me to get an MRI. I had the MRI on Friday of that same week and saw the specialist the following Wednesday. I needed the MRI because this injury can not been seen on a non weight bearing xray. You need to be standing for the separation of bones to be seen, but since the pain was so terrible what doctor in the ER was gonna get me to stand. Most of these cases go unseen I am blessed I had an ortho doctor who knew what to look for.
I am so thankful that God lead me to Dr. Overly. He does reconstructive foot surgery and has been my foot hero since this injury.
Basically when I fell I bent my foot and a ligament tore allowing all my bones to separate. It is an injury to my midfoot (the lisfranc joint or complex). That is why we thought I had a broken bone because one of my midfoot bones came down and out.
My surgeon said that I will be able to walk again but will always have residual issues I will have to learn to live with. Hopefully I will be able to run (though the doc did not promise anything). I will learn my limits and learn to live with the pain, I will develop arthritis soon and have traded in my sports car for a mac truck. That is how the doc described it anyway.
This injury is the worst to the foot, rare, and each case is different. But, I am hopeful and positive and whole heartily believe that everything happens for a reason, and that God has me learning something from this.
That is all it took, falling down two steps in a matter of seconds! I was mid fall and I remember turning and saw my feet twisted in a very unnatural form. When I hit the ground I checked my head, shoulders, arms, fingers. All ok. Then I rolled over and could wiggle my toes and move my legs. I remember thinking to myself that I was ok and was very lucky. Then......I attempted to stand up. That was when I realized something more was wrong. As I tried to stand up I could not bear weight on the inside of my left foot. It was an awful amount of pain and my foot had a huge bump on the inside. Adrenaline kicked in, I made it inside my house and screamed for my husband. We both assumed I had a broken bone.
We told the workers to leave and went immediately to the emergency room. When at the hospital they took NON WEIGHT BEARING XAYS, that was the mistake! The x rays showed no broken bones or fractures, they told me it was a sprain, sent me on my way, and told me to follow up with an orthopedic doctor. Thank goodness I did!
The next day I went to the ortho and he suspected the lisfranc injury. The thought of it being something more than a sprain jolted me into a panic. They said I might need surgery (which I did) and told me to get an MRI. I had the MRI on Friday of that same week and saw the specialist the following Wednesday. I needed the MRI because this injury can not been seen on a non weight bearing xray. You need to be standing for the separation of bones to be seen, but since the pain was so terrible what doctor in the ER was gonna get me to stand. Most of these cases go unseen I am blessed I had an ortho doctor who knew what to look for.
I am so thankful that God lead me to Dr. Overly. He does reconstructive foot surgery and has been my foot hero since this injury.
Basically when I fell I bent my foot and a ligament tore allowing all my bones to separate. It is an injury to my midfoot (the lisfranc joint or complex). That is why we thought I had a broken bone because one of my midfoot bones came down and out.
My surgeon said that I will be able to walk again but will always have residual issues I will have to learn to live with. Hopefully I will be able to run (though the doc did not promise anything). I will learn my limits and learn to live with the pain, I will develop arthritis soon and have traded in my sports car for a mac truck. That is how the doc described it anyway.
This injury is the worst to the foot, rare, and each case is different. But, I am hopeful and positive and whole heartily believe that everything happens for a reason, and that God has me learning something from this.
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