akaykay, on Dec 24 2007, 05:09 AM, said:
Happy Holidays everyone!
Just found out I broke both about 6 weeks ago. I can't get into an ortho doc until after the holidays.
All suggest I go to the ER and get the ortho on call. To compound matters I have a pressure sore on the same heel.
I don't want to spend Christmas in the hospital and I'm afraid the ER ortho will be clueless about quads (C5-C6).
I'm sure the healing has begun all wrong. Heard one of the x-ray techs say 'displaced'.
I'm 10 years post injury. Am I being an idiot?
Should I go to ER armed with any information?
Thanks for any info.
Hi Akaykay,
Sorry to hear of your misfortune!
Ok, have you seen a dr to evaluate this at all? Were they the ones to say that you would have to wait to see an Ortho?
If so, then I would get back in touch with them and ask them what They propose you should do. I mean, I know you have had x-rays, but not clear if you have had them evaluated by the dr. It may be that they haven't got the report yet, so a call may speed that up.
Like you have stated, the bone(s) could heal out of alignment which may impede matters. However, it may be that they have to re-fracture and fixate anyway, so that may not be as big an issue as long as you are comfortable and pain free.
Also, bear in mind that any fracture has a risk of internal bleeding and bruising. I gather that this was evaluated at least at the x/tray dept, but its something to be mindful off. Excess swelling and any dis-colouration ( aside from normal bruising patterns) should be reported to a dr immediately.
remember that even if your pain is low/nil, you still need to treat the limb as you would if you had full sensation. Elevation, icing ( even at this stage can be useful as long as wrapped in a tea towel or similar to prevent ice burns).
I would think that it would be important to immobilise at least partially the limb to prevent any further internal injury. An aircast or splint which can be removed to check skin integrity may be best.
With the above in mind, I would place a call to the dr if not seen already, and i would definitely go to the ER. It is going to be a ball ache, but its essential to prevent further injury/deterioration. Also, its worth mentioning that when somone has a fracture and they have reduced mobility, the risk is increased for Blot Emboli ( clots) so if only for peace of mind and an air cast ( or similar) to help you function whilst you wait.
In the meantime it is also essential that you take anti inflammatories ( unless you are allergic etc) to reduce the internal inflammation, Do not put yourself at risk for further trauma to the bone ( protection with air cast, modify transfers).
Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and Protein to assist in lowering inflammation and assisting healing eventually.
Take care, HTH
K
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