May 25, 2013 - A group of us were camping at a designated OHV riding area. I was super thrilled to experience camping with my boyfriend, family and friends. We had been riding earlier; heading back to base camp to hang-out. A few of us, myself included decided to go jump on some more trails. I happened to be staying in the back; avoiding all the dust blowing into my face, making it hard to see. The past week had been dry with no rain, and these roads were gravel, with little vehicle travel; making the gravel extremely loose. I went around a corner loosing complete control; flying off the road down a steep embankment; hitting a tree in mid-air, and finally getting thrown off the quad into a very cold creek.
Not sure when I finally came around, but the most excruciating pain in my life hit me. My leg was turned in the other direction. Completely freaking me out, as I wasn't sure what had just happened? I knew that my leg was severely broken, but with the riding boots, I wasn’t able to determine if it was a compound fracture, or not? One of the guys came back shortly looking down in horror, then my son was standing next to him! I’m so glad they found me quickly, because of the location!
I will never forget seeing the expression on my boyfriends face; at the top of the road when he arrived with others. They were trying to make their way down to where I was. I’m sitting in an ice cold creek, in serious shock from what had just happened. Once they got to me, I was told, "we have to get you to the top of the road in order to get to where there's cell service." As they proceed to get me up the embankment, my riding boot being very heavy was flopping around; feeling and hearing the bones crunching inside, while trying to carefully move me. I myself had to force my body to stand, while my boyfriend and his son were holding onto me. They kept telling me to work with them, as it was the only way to get me out of there, but, the incline being so steep; brought forth the most indescribable pain. I had to use every ounce of my inner strength making it up the embankment!!!
Once to the top, they finally could get me in the back of his truck; having his daughter in-law holding my leg in place; avoiding any additional movement, or pain then what I was going through. All my riding gear was still on, as-well as my helmet. I didn’t want my helmet taken off, because of the pulling force. We had no warm blankets; being May, the weather was still chilly. They were driving as slow as they possibly could, with every bump bringing on an agonizing feeling. Finally got to a point where 911 could be contacted. Once the ambulance arrived, the paramedics kept asking me all kinds of questions, and I was soooo out of it. A police officer was evaluating all circumstances of the accident. Finally got into the ambulance. All I wanted was for them to take my wet clothes off, and put a blanket on me - question after question. Finally, (still no pain meds, or blankets on me) they start working on getting my riding boots off. Now these were difficult to get off under normal circumstances, but now they had to some how take them off with my broken leg. No one had taken them off previously, as there were concerns I might have an open fracture. The agony of pulling my boot off, felt like my leg was being ripped off. 45 minutes later, I got all my riding gear pulled off, a warming blanket, and some sort of pain medicine. We were about an hour away from a hospital. I just remember kinda coming in and out. I think it’s from the intense pain?
Finally at the hospital, surgery was scheduled for the following morning. I was pretty scared; not sure what was to follow, but the condition I was in at that given moment, I knew I would at least have my leg set in the correct position.
The night was unbearable; even with all the drugs given. Every time I had to get resituated, the movement from talking, or even breathing would make the pain of the bones hurt. I really was stuck on my back, so not being able to move was hard.
In the early morning, I was wheeled off to have the surgery; still not really aware of what would be taking place? From past surgeries, I remember how I hated waking up, still really numb. The sensation was what I hated.
I woke up, feeling really good… of course I just had surgery, and was still under some of the anesthesia, and the bones weren't moving like before. During the next three days, I simply don't remember too much, due to the large amount of pain medications being given. I also had a physical therapist start on the stretching of my ankle, and knee. I was told these two areas can be problematic for freezing up quickly.
Three days later, I was considered "ok" to be released back home, as the pain management was now under control. My boyfriend took me to his house during the healing process. =)
May 31, 2013 – Felt pretty good first part of the day, had some company, but later in the day started to feel nauseated. My stomach also felt horrible; ending up spending 4 hours throwing up and having uncontrollable bowel movements; later spiking over 101 fever. I was miserable, unable to leave the bathroom, in massive pain; especially with my leg in a non-elevated position. I had been staying at my boyfriend’s house since leaving the hospital, but all I wanted was my mom. She finally was able to get over to his house; seeing how sick I was. Someone ended up calling 911. Once the paramedics came they were able to get an IV started as the dehydration was a serious concern with me at this point.
At the hospital(again) it was deemed I had a serious infection going on from the surgery (see below image around the kneecap); hence all fluids being expelled from my body and temperature. I was then readmitted back to the hospital for another 3 days
This was the worst. I had a morphine drip, and fluids being pumped through me, but this time I wasn’t catheterized, so I was having to get up every few hours, and getting up to use the bathroom was a very intense and painful process!
June 3,2013 - After getting a nice injection in the 'ole tummy, I finally was released for the second time, with the infection finally under control. You have no idea how awesome it was to hear. I hated being at the hospital!
I spent the next two weeks at my boyfriends house before finally moving back to my house; which is a two story house. I was nervous about being there by myself, but it was time to let him have his house back! I know during the months, once I could return to work; which was a desk job *THANKFUL* I would get picked up from work, come home elevate my leg with ice! I used all my vacation and sick time on being out. It was beautiful outside as it was now summer. My boat in-which I had just un-winterized, was just sitting, and I was stuck inside. There were times I would just cry, unable to get down the stairs, my parents were gone, and since I have children, and a boyfriend, I really only socialize with them, and no friends to speak of - in order to come over to sit and talk with.
September 6, 2013 – I had a rough night dealing with the pain. Not too much sleep. I am feeling depressed at the pain level continually nagging at me. I’m told not to take the Vicodin so much, but I have to go to work. Once I take some, I feel much better. Still have some pain, but it’s more manageable at the moment!
September 9, 2013 – Feeling good. Decided to try doing the whole “one crutch” thing today, and I was really surprised at how little pain I am feeling, while putting weight on the break!
September 10, 2013 – Maybe I over did things yesterday, but I feel exhausted, and after having my physical therapy; decided to go back to two crutches. I hate days like this! Especially when you’re trying to work, and you simply can’t!
November 13, 2013 – Speaking with my doctor, we determined with all the ankle pain and limitation of ankle movement, we would remove the screws. I have an appointment scheduled November 22nd.
November 22, 2013 – Had the screw removal surgery. It ended up taking my surgeon longer than expected; close to an hour. Apparently from all the tissue/tendon damage; being the culprit and the way they healed. I was also told I would need to be non-weight bearing for about 3 days, from what was supposed to be a simple surgery; turned into more intense surgery. The doctor was unable to easily remove the hardware.
Look at my cool hardware - The nail was left inside, and the screws removed.
November 27, 2013 – Having a lot of Achilles pain; mostly on the left side, with some sciatic nerve pain. Not sure if it has anything to do with post surgery, but I wasn't having any problems previously????
December 3, 2013 – Removal of stitches, and a conversation about the new pain I’m experiencing with my Achilles tendon. I was told to continue to ice and let it heal.
December 6, 2013 – Meeting now with my physical therapist. I mentioned the problem I was ‘now’ having. After doing an exam, he came to the conclusion it’s tendonitis from over-working the tendon - previous to the screw removal surgery.
December 12, 2013 – Put me back on crutches as the problem is getting worse!
December 17, 2013 – I’m completely unable to walk, as my ankle feels completely unstable, and the pain around the Achilles is so bad, with a shooting pain up my leg, and buttocks! I have an appointment on Christmas Eve, to meet up with my doctor for a discussion about my ankle. I feel horrible, and when people ask me how I’m doing, I’m simply saying "fine." I’m tired of talking about my leg. This has been going on for 6.5 months, and it’s consumed my whole entire life!
December 24, 2013 - Went to see my orthopedic this morning. I asked him "what is wrong with me? I can't put any weight on my ankle, I'm on crutches, and the pain is so bad!" He then stated because of the nature of my last surgery; which should have been pretty basic turned into something much more difficult, and he essentially told me "he beat me up inside trying to locate the screws around the ankle area." He didn't seem surprised at my current condition either. Diagnosis: "Posterior Tibial Tendonitis."
Here's the problem however... "the area is prone to problems because of a lack of blood supply. This part of the tendon exists in a "watershed zone" where the blood supply is weakest. Therefore, when the tendon becomes injured, as a result of trauma or overuse, the body has difficulty delivering the proper nutrients for healing."
He wants me to stabilize my ankle by wearing my walking boot, and continue using the crutches, which is extremely depressing... more down time! He decided to take my X-rays today versus having me come in next week. They are looking really good =)
January 9, 2014 - The past few days I've been able to wake up, and walk on my leg for short periods of time before it really starts hurting; which has been wonderful. I still have to wear my boot for added support during most of the day, as-well as utilizing crutches. I guess one can look at this as progress, but it seems so slow, and agonizing!
I often wonder when all this will be over, but other people's stories leads me to believe it's not going to be anytime soon? I keep telling myself and others in my situation "One day at a time," but I guess you can call me a hypocrite to my own words! Not only has this accident left me in financial despair, it's left me in emotional despair; which can really bring ones attitude down... but here goes; "ONE DAY AT A TIME!"
January 20, 2014 – Here’s a little update on what’s going on, and simply how I’m feeling. I have stopped Physical Therapy, and decided to start this rehabilitation/work-out program - my Insurance deductible re-set for the year, and I’m still struggling with getting things paid off from my previous out-of-pocket expenses, so I decided the new program I am starting would be more beneficial, coming out about the same per month. It’s kinda a beast camp for injured people. Working for injured athletes, as-well as people needing to recover from serious accidents. They believe, your core body needs to be strong, in order to allow the injured part to be rehabilitated. If it’s not strong as-well as other parts of your body, then you aren’t going to get past the injuries as quick. For an example, I’ve lost a lot of muscle, strength and simply endurance since my accident. I can hardly go up my stairs without feeling winded. So, I need to work on getting in-shape; in general and once I’m in shape, I can strengthen the injured leg. It’s really cool as they tailor the program according to one’s injury, and body-type. I’m super excited, but really nervous about starting such an intense program, as my body has gone to crap since my accident, and lack of being able to do much.
My ankle is still giving me grief, and completely dumb-founded on why? I’ve been wearing my walking boot to keep the ankle stable, as-well as using my cane. I will be discussing my frustrations with my doctor on January 27th, 2014 appointment. The thing I’ve also been struggling with is finding shoes that match the same height as the boot. This boot is big and bulky, and I’m having problems with pain in my knee, hip and lower back from not having the other shoe be of the right height. I would love to know if other’s also have the same type of problem I have? The feeling of isolation seems to be something I feel… with so many questions, and concerns, but not too many places I can find other people and what they have gone through… so again “day by day!”
Also, I’ve recently started having more problems with my whole entire tibia aching. I’m not sure if it’s from the nail, or not? I’ve read stories of people having bad aches from their hardware; forcing them to finally get it removed. I know I would hate to get my nail removed, as I’ve read and seen the process, and it’ looks rather nasty!!!!
I hear people inquiring on how they're leg is still swelling and "whats wrong?" Eight months after my accident, and I to swell.
January 21, 2014 - Today I'm going to try a whole new approach with being rehabilitated. I am super excited, yet extremely nervous. I will share how things go later! =)
January 27, 2014 – Today was my Doctor’s appointment. I have finally been released after nine months, and two days! All restrictions were removed, but given caution because of my Achilles tendon. Basically, what he indicated, is start working back slowly into my activities, as-long as my leg permits. I obviously can’t ride yet, as that would require use of the leg that I don’t have yet. But, I am determined with my new rehab program to get back to riding soon!
It’s defiantly a bittersweet feeling! Funny thing, as I walked out of my doctor’s office; in-which I’ve spent the past nine months going to, realizing “I’m done!” Part of me feels like celebrating, and the other part of me feels sad! ‘Go-figure’ I think the reason I feel sad is I’m a broken person from this accident! I still have pain, I still limp, and I still have emotional distress from everything. I guess going to the doctor made me feel like I had an excuse, and now I don’t. Just left in a state I can’t control. As I type this, I feel so odd, trying to explain my reasons behind my feelings! I keep wondering if others have, or are going through similar situations?
I can say however, the past two days I feel great, meaning I didn’t have to wear the walking boot, and not needing too much assistance with the cane; unless I have to walk from my car to my office. Not sure when my limp will go away, or when I can start running, but as I’ve learned these past nine months – be patient, and listen to your body!
February 5, 2014 – I have now had my walking boot off four days, and might I say it does feel great! Still can’t get the walking down correctly. I've tried so hard to make sure I’m focusing on heal-toe, but I always end up with the limp in my gate! Maybe its the loss of muscle needed for walking?
I’m hoping my rehab program will work on strengthening, so in-time, I can finally start walking as I once did? I stepped on the treadmill a few days back, in order to focus on getting some strength, but as I put all my weight down, my whole entire tibia simply ached! By the time I decided to quit, I was left frustrated and wanting to breakdown! How can this be after 9 months!? Never would I have guessed in my wildest dreams that I still would be dealing with the pain, and difficulty walking???!!
February 5, 2014 - Adding on from earlier... today I've been feeling pain, and as the day progressed getting very intense. I couldn't figure out what I had done? Simply a massive throbbing, aching and a burning sensation. Throughout the day there was talk about a snow storm heading our way, and snow expected on the valley floor; which we usually don't get. Looking at the weather channel, temperatures were taking a nose dive quickly... ahhhhh, I think I'm experiencing the aches, and pains of pressure changes. My question is, will I have to endure this kind of pain everytime we get major pressure changes - because IT'S HORRIBLE! I'm also wondering if part of this aching is from the hardware? The pain is pretty much the entire tibia, and some centered around the area of my breaks? Hmmmm, I think I'll do some research on this???? Currently heat pack is my friend! =)
February 13, 2014 – Today is a day I always dread. I experience pain daily, but today is a really bad day! I don’t understand… when, will this pain stop!!?? To be quite honest, I feel like crying right now. I’m trying to hold my head up high, but dealing with colleagues, and other people at work is simply a task too difficult to handle. I just want to go home, and hide underneath my covers!!!
Nine and a half months later, gives me doubts about being able to do summer activities I enjoy doing. I remember after the accident, I knew I wouldn’t be able to do any summer activities, so I made sure to set a ‘realistic ‘ goal, and my goal was feel better by winter time; allowing me to get out and ride on my snowmobile – yet another surgery, which didn’t go as expected, has made this goal completely unrealistic. Now I’m starting to have my doubts about being able to get out anytime soon!?
I see other people much further in their healing process, still dealing with so many problems; wondering “why,” and will I be like that? Most of the time, I am pretty good at having a positive outlook – which I believe is essential with the healing process, but some days, I feel weak and spent; unsure of my future.
February 17, 2014 – I’m feeling a little frustrated with things today. Months back I decided to see a counselor, as I had been dealing with a bout of depression from my accident. I had gone through calling therapists, but they were months out for scheduling an appointment. I was able to get in to see a doctor at a clinic I work at. He actually is an obstetrician, and a family counselor. After the initial visit I was then diagnosed with “post-traumatic stress disorder.” He felt “Cymbalta” which assists with depression and pain would be a win-win for me. I was given two weeks’ worth of samples; seeing how it worked for me. I then decided to get the prescription filled, not realizing the sticker shock… after my insurance pays for it, the cost would be over $100.00 – for only one month’s supply!! I couldn’t believe this, I was nowhere able to pay for something like this; especially since I’m still paying bills from the accident.
I got really excited when I recently read the FDA has finally approved a generic version of Cymbalta. I figured I would email my doctor about getting the generic filled for me (I had already paid for a visit, so I thought he would just do a refill). His response was “I’m not sure if it’s yet available, so a phone call to the pharmacy is in order” he then proceeded to mentioned “I haven’t done an annual (female exam) on you, so I’ll need to do this before I can prescribe more medicine! WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My annual has nothing to do with my mental status. I have an actual female obstetrician I see yearly! I saw him on a “therapist” level, not an obstetrician level. I feel like the state of mind I’ve been going through since the accident has simply gone in circles. I still have many nightmares and daily visuals about the wreck, and just the whole feeling of being stuck; unable to do the things I like! I’ve only been surviving by taking Tramadol; which takes the edge off of my pain, and also is a serotonin booster! I can’t keep taking these drugs!!!
At this point I’m feeling spent, and don’t know what to do? I did call a pain management group here locally, but they will not do payment arrangements, and I simply can’t add to my medical bills, as I’m upside-down now! I guess I’ll have to do some major brain-storming on my end. =(
February 19, 2014 – I have completed one month of my rehab program, which might I add kicks my butt – IN A GREAT WAY!!!!!! I’m glad I can now say, just after one month - I have muscles starting to wake-up… Whoot whoot! It does feel weird however, as I haven’t used them in a long time!
Another positive update is up until a few days back, I couldn’t even rise up on my tip-toe, but now. So, with these changes, I have to tell myself… “Things are happening, and will continue, through hard work!” honestly though, I want to know when the pain will lessen, and when walking isn’t so uncomfortable/painful?
Do you see a little muscle showing through my calf! This is huge considering it was just droopy skin and bones!
You can see how small my leg has become from the muscle atrophy, but eventually through strengthening, it shall return =-)
Finally starting to see a difference in my muscle tone. The picture on the left is from July 2013, and the picture on the right is from February 2014. Boy is this a long process!!!!!
February 25, 2014 – Today marks ten months since my horrendous accident, and might I say - I am disappointed where I’m at; especially the pain level I’m dealing with daily! I’m thinking it might be time to discuss hardware removal?
This past month, I finally decided maybe looking up information on hardware removal might be warranted, as I feel the pain is related to the IM nail. The thought of having another surgery, and a surgery like this, is defiantly scary, and will put me further into debt, but as a friend put it… “What about the quality of your life? You certainly can’t put a price on that!”
Another concern is missing out on another summers worth of activities - certainly disheartening. I guess at this point “God” is in control, and if it’s meant to happen things will work out?
I just got a phone call from the doctor’s office, and there was a cancellation for tomorrow. I will be meeting with him for further discussions.
February 26, 2014 – I went to see my orthopedic today; discussing my pain experienced daily. I’ve read so much from others experiencing similar issues, to medical studies, and all stated the same info about nail removal. I am going to the doctor’s not to push for the removal; as I know it’s a major process, but to see what my alternatives are at this point?
X-Rayed the leg, and it looks great. He decided the first thing is to make sure my Vitamin D levels are within a normal range. I’ve been taking a Vitamin D with 1250% supplement since my accident - 9 months ago, so I can’t imaging I would be low??? The next step is a CT scan, making sure there is nothing going on with the bone, which the X-Rays are unable to detect. A nail removal would be last resort, and he said this with great hesitation.
Because the bone is now dynamized, it’s putting all the stress across the bone; which even after the amount of time since my last surgery, he feels could also be a reason behind all the bone pain. Of course this was all said in theory. I will wait for my blood tests and go from there?????
Today's Newest X-Rays
February 27, 2014 – I received test results from my blood work I had done; checking my Vitamin D level. I was a little unclear why he wanted this test ordered, simply because I take Vitamin D supplements, and have been since my accident.
Levels where on the high side of normal; which is great! I was also given a little more info about this whole test I had done. His reasoning before he starts ordering CT scans, or hardware removal was to make sure my level was within norm. Even though my X-rays shows great bone modeling, but with sudden drop in my levels, could have adverse effects with my continued bone healing. And with my tibia now being dynamized - from having the screws removed, all these factors could potentially cause pain throughout the bone.
This makes sense, so I’m happy it was explained to me in more detail. I was disappointed in how tongue-tied I was at my doctor’s appointment, and thought of all these things after the fact; hence the importance of making a list before your appointment.
IM nail removal is not recommended until at least the 12 month mark, and I’m only at 9 months, so he will check back in after a months’ time. If I’m still having a lot of pain, he will then have me go in for a CT scan. I think I say this continually… but it’s another bout of being ‘patient’
March 11, 2014 – I went to see my PCP today, for a complete blood panel. Since my accident, I’ve been absolutely exhausted, I can hardly keep my eyes open throughout the day. When I take Tramadol for pain management, it usually boosts me up some, because of the serotonin in the pill.
I‘ve had people including my doctor state, “you can have long term effects of anesthesia for up to a year.” My surgeries were only 6 months apart, and currently my last surgery was 3.5 months ago.
Some reading I’ve done, indicates extreme exhaustion as a symptom - if you are the lucky one to experience “P.O.C.D” Post-operative cognitive disorder; which now I am wondering if this is the case with me; exhaustion is a symptom =(
With the way I feel, it makes my daily activities so ever difficult. Work, I feel as if I just sit there and zone, and on my days off… I just want to sleep! This is a really scary feeling, as I don’t know what to do, or when this fatigue will go away? I guess I'll see what happens with my blood work results, and go from there! (I sure with there was more info on this!??)
April 5, 2014 – Today - ten months eleven days since my accident, and I have finally been able to get back on my ATV; which is what created this situation =-). I was nervous, but overjoyed; finally able to get back on. March 25, 2014 – Today marks ten months since my accident. Still dealing with the aches and pains daily, but on a positive note, my personal trainer I’ve been going to - for about three months is starting to pay off!! My leg is getting stronger, and I can now see muscle definition… I’m extremely excited about this!
Still battling fatigue, which then made me decide to go and get a full blood panel done; making sure there wasn't some other underlying problem? But, all my tests came back within a normal range =-). I have decided to schedule an appointment to meet with my primary doctor. As I was talking with the nurse today, going over what has happened the past ten months, the first thing out of her mouth was the same thing I’ve been told about people having side-effects to the anesthesia; with fatigue being a symptom. So, if that is the case, how long am I expected to deal with it? This really makes my daily life difficult!
April – 22, 2014 – Depression seems to be the center of my life. I was put on “Zoloft:” seeing if this would help with how I feel. Fatigue is still a major part that affects me daily. Decided to get blood work done, and the full blood panel came back great; which is good news.
After feeling even more tired, I decided to try the “Zoloft” at night directed by my doctor. Still felt like I could barely get out of bed each and every morning, so I decided to wean myself off, and discuss other options.
Finally went to see my primary doctor, as this fatigue and lack of being able to use the anti-depression medication kinda scared me. Through the conversation, she deemed to try another medication, and with everything discussed during the visit, feels I’m suffering major depression – emotionally and physically from the accident.
I will start on a new medication; hoping this helps? An MRI has been scheduled for this coming Thursday, which I hope will shed some light as to why I have continued Achilles pain?
It seems ever since I had my screw removal surgery this past November, I’ve been dealing with major pain in the Achilles tendon area of the ankle, and top of my foot by the ankle joint; as-well as sciatic nerve pain. I originally thought the sciatica could be caused by my abnormal walking, but it’s still a continued problem. If I push on my tendon, I can feel the pain shooting up my leg, into my butt…
Honestly, I have no idea what is going on? I haven’t done anything in-which could have caused problems, so I’m at a loss of words? Hoping to get some answers with the MRI???? Although my ortho doc stated because of the hardware, it can actually impede getting a true answer, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed =-)
April 30, 2014 - Received my MRI results this past Monday; presenting me with mixed feelings of happiness, and sadness. The MRI showed positive findings; which I’m super thankful for! I certainly don’t want to go through anymore procedures, as both surgeries were about 6 months apart, and my poor body simply feels worn-out. On the other hand, feeling frustrated, because there isn’t a direct answer as-to why my leg is hurting?
In talking with my doctor, he indicated he felt bad for the pain I’m always in, and stated “you know the severity of your accident, and what happened to the leg, is a big deal. Even though you are out 11 months, you damaged so many things in the leg, and it will take a long time to heal.” It was refreshing hearing him very empathetic to my current condition.
I will be checking in later seeing if a CAT scan might be a helpful tool for further diagnosis. Right now the weather is getting really warm, so maybe… just maybe the hot weather will help?
May 23, 2014 – My one year anniversary is approaching me this weekend. I’ve decided I’ll go back to the same camping area, where this all took place one year back. My boyfriend had been very apprehensive about doing so, but I insisted. This has always been the place he takes his boys every Memorial weekend – so who can break tradition????
Later that night I met up with my boyfriend… he was already up there; making sure he could get the site we needed for our large party. I remember during the drive up, my anxiety hitting me hard; telling myself: “this will be a good adventure for me.” Once I arrived, the anxiety set-in – hard core. I started to lose it - shaking, and crying, completely out-of-control.
I couldn’t believe how bad I was mentally, nor could my boyfriend. He wanted to pack things up right then and leave! Part of me wanted to leave, and another part of me wanted to stay. I knew if I ever wanted to overcome all this anxiety, and depression, then staying is what needed to happen.
May 24, 2014 – Today I’m dealing with some anxiety, but feeling much better than the night before. We’ve decided to start conquering some of the trails today, I went riding, and did well! Still riding pretty basic trails, but now I feel as if I’m overcoming fears from this past year, maybe this is what I needed? =-)
May 25, 2014 – It’s been one year since my awful life changing accident. It feels weird that one year ago, my whole life changed. I can say however, that for the past three weeks, I’ve been feeling pretty good, and seems the limping is getting better, just need to get over the hurdle of my emotional struggle.
We ended up riding in a large group, and all of a sudden, I noted a vegetative area, looking all too familiar! I froze, couldn’t believe this was the spot I had wrecked. The group had gone a back way, and I’m not sure if they knew I didn’t want to go riding here, but there it was!
Later that day, I told my boyfriend I wanted to drive to the spot I wrecked. I guess maybe I needed some sort of closure? I took my daughter with me, and showed her where it happened. We tried to piece things together, as to when I actually broke my leg; which we we’re thinking as I hit the tree in mid-air, I was thrown down to the creek, but we both believe, if I hadn’t broken my leg (it slowed me down) I could have been injured far worse, or even killed. So, actually the broken leg saved me!
It definitely was very eerie looking down instead of up. I’ll never forget laying in the creek, looking up at my boyfriend/family & friends. Now I’m looking down, and not looking up (thank God).
Coming to terms by going to the accident site was truly something I needed to do, and I’m extremely happy I did. I think it’s time to begin healing process – emotionally!
July 2014 – This whole month I’ve been experiencing daily pain… once more! It’s a constant ache through-out my tibia, as-well as while walking. I can feel pain in the area of where I broke my leg. How can this be!!!??? I was feeling pretty good during the previous months, so honestly, I’m not sure what could have changed.
I finally decided to go see my orthopedic doctor, so maybe he’ll have an idea as to why things are hurting again? During the cold months I had experienced this same continual aching throughout my tibia, but figured once we got into the hot summer, things would calm down; which they did for a time.
July 31, 2014 – Today I was scheduled to see my orthopedic doctor to see if we could pin-point the reasoning behind all the pain, and difficulty walking; 14 months later.
He finally came to the conclusion that it might be time to take the nail out, as it’s appearing my body is simply struggling with the hardware. In his book, he hardly ever takes out the nail, but under certain circumstances.
Today's X-Rays - Not the best quality, but you can see how well they look!
August 12, 2014 - Starting to feel the anxiety of my up and coming surgery. My poor stomach has simply been a mess! I try not to think about it, but I find myself stressing over what will be happening, and the whole thing of "what if this doesn't fix my problem!?" I will keep you posted on the event taking place after surgery! *keeping fingers crossed*
Counting down until August 19th...
August 18, 2014 - Tomorrow is the big day... finally! I just got confirmation on when my surgery is scheduled for; which is 9:45 a.m. I will be arriving at 7:30 a.m. per their request and then proceed. I will update you after my surgery *keeping fingers crossed*
August 19, 2014 – Nail Removal day… I’m soooo nervous about getting the nail removed! Arrival time was changed, so I arrived at 7:00 a.m. wheeling me into the Operating room at 7:30! Much quicker than my previous surgery =-).
I have no recollection of time, once I began to wake up. But I know the total time spent was seven hours. I had a tough time with my oxygen level wanting to stay around '84', so, until it went up to what they considered "normal," it was the waiting game.
August 20, 2014 – I decided to get-up and move around, so my knee didn’t freeze up; which seems to happen at an alarming rate. The problem I now have is getting into the vertical position causes my incision to kinda pop open and start bleeding! Once I stand up longer then the time to get up and use the bathroom, I will bleed, and bleed. I'm not supposed to take my dressing and gauze off for 3 days, then my seri-strips taken off after the 5th day. Unfortunately, the dressing and gauze came off the first 24 hours; simply because of the continual bleeding. My doctor told this time, I was stitched with dissolving stitches underneath, and he cemented the incision? When I removed the dressing, I noted a big 'ol dent where my breaks were. Weirdest thing to see, and not sure why, as they removed the nail from the center of the tibia, but apparently the bone sunk in some????? I'm curious to ask my doctor?
You can see the dent in my leg:
The bleeding was relentless:
August 21, 2014 - Pain is ok if I'm on pain meds. I haven't experienced the pain I was always having before! I don't want to get too excited, as I haven't been able to walk on it too much... yet *keeping fingers crossed* Second day after surgery, I was able to put full body weight on the leg, but for the most part I'm using crutches simply; because my leg feels very weak, and my knee keeps locking up. It's crazy how different this whole experience has been so far
Incision looks great today:
August 25, 2014 - Six days post, and I'm back to work (Luckily I have a desk job). Last night I didn't sleep well because of the pain, and the lack of taking any type of medicine; which was dumb of me. I'm certainly struggling with being tired from the surgery, and then not getting a good nights rest certainly hasn't helped... at all!! I do have to say, so far... I'm glad I actually went through with the nail removal! I still believe with this particular hardware, if It's not bothering you, I absolutely wouldn't have it removed.
Incision after six days:
August 27, 2014 – It’s been 8 days since my surgery, but seems only like yesterday! I went back to work on Monday; August 25th, and might I add way too soon!! sitting at a desk, I have a stool to prop my leg up, but I was sooo uncomfortable sitting all day. During the night; realizing it was simply too much for my leg, and so I decided to stay home the next day. Also having difficulties with my knee at nights, so between the surgery, and lack of sleep, I think staying at home proved to be a smart choice?
Today - Wednesday, August 27th, I made it back to work, hoping I can stick with sitting in one position all day. Also deciding I would drive to work, simply because I can rise-up on my tip-toe with no pain. Allowing me to accelerate, and brake successfully; which is what the doctor told me I would need to do in order to safely drive. I decided to wait taking any pain med until I got to work, so I’m thinking by the time I leave 7.5 hours later, I should be good?
A lot of the previous pain experienced before the nail removal hasn’t been a problem now, and I’m hoping as I continue to heal, and make use of my leg those symptoms will not return?? Honestly, even with the pain, I’m glad I’ve removed the nail; simply because of all the pain I was experiencing daily!
My knee is still swollen, so once ‘it’ decides to calm down some, I’ll have a better idea of the whole out-come!? I know someone I met had her nail removed a few days before me, and another guy I met off of the forums, had his nail removed a few days after me, and we all seem to be about the same as far as pain, and healing; which makes me feel good. I’ve always been known for such a high pain tolerance, but within the last 15 months, sometimes I feel as if I’m a big baby!
I have my follow-up doctor appointment tomorrow, and some questions I’m curious about. One is: If I stand for even a few minutes, the lower part of my incision starts to bleed??? Also, the bottom of my incision I have a small piece of stitch poking through – I can pull it out several inches, and push it back through… why!? Kinda gross in my opinion. Oh, and he has my trophy… my titanium nail! Can’t wait to get that!!! I’m trying to figure out what I can make out of it, and the four screws removed previously????
In this image you can see one arrow pointing to the stitch I've pulled up some (so you can see it), and then you can see the lower part where the incision keeps popping open.
August 29, 2014 – I went to see my doctor for a post-op today; which went really well! He didn’t like how the wound had popped open toward the bottom, but hey if that is the only problem, and it really is aesthetics then I’m ok with that.
I finally got to see (and keep) my nail which had been in my leg for 14.5 months. Some people have commented it looks smaller than imagined, or smaller than what they have. Keep in mind these lengths are established by the length of the tibia. So a man obviously might have a bigger one, because of the tibia size.
Here is it:
September 19, 2014 – Today marks my one month since the removal of the IM nail! I can’t begin to tell you how wonderful I feel! Still exhausted, but it seems like every time I’ve had my surgeries, I’ve dealt with long term exhaustion =(.
The only pain I’m still dealing with is in my knee, but my lower incision wasn’t wanting to heal, keeps popping open with every knee bend, and still feels bruised inside. If I bend my knee all the way, it really hurts. In time however, this should reside, simply because the nature of what was done to get the nail out.
Yesterday, and today I actually had some pain at the breaks, we did have some light rain… maybe this will always be a problem? I guess I’ll be finding out soon, as winter is vastly approaching.
Here's a picture of my incision a month out from my surgery. The muscle and skin still hangs off my leg, but hoping now the pain has finally depleted, I will start getting my leg back =-)
September 25, 2014 - Sigh, it’s been 5 weeks since my nail removal surgery, and my emotional status is out-of-control! A roller-coaster of feelings from feeling angry and depressed! I dealt with a lot of depression after my accident; given the nature of the accident, and simply being down for so long.
Around May - one year post, I decided to visit the place where I wrecked - wanting to go back; conquering my fears, and simply overcome all things I was dealing with since the accident. It seemed once I did this it really helped with my mental status! So for months, I wasn’t taking any anti-depressants, and feeling pretty good in that sense.
Honestly, I feel great; all of the pain and limitations from before are gone, and I can walk! I recently got a new vehicle, which I’ve wanted for so long, and one other item I’ve wanted for years (mentality changed after my accident, and meeting up with death head-on, kinda changes your thinking) but I’m still sooo depressed! I have a wonderful family, a good job, and ‘our’ health! So why? I’ve been told having so many surgeries back-to-back in such a short amount of time, can cause anyone to feel the way I have been feeling! I'm going in for a follow-up with my surgeon today, so I’ll discuss this with him.
October 1, 2014 – Today marks the third day my leg has been bothering me. Not the pain like before, maybe weather changes? Definitely noting the limp in my walk =( I guess it can’t be completely perfect - after what I’ve gone through, and for the fact I’m simply on the go, go, go! Not giving my body a break.
I’ve also noted I’m still having a lot of emotional problems, and I’m gonna get back on my anti-depressants I started taking after my accident. Hoping this will improve my mental state. Not sure what’s going on with me????
November 25, 2014 – Today marks 18 months since wrecking on my ATV, and busting my poor leg! It’s strange that 18 months has gone by so quickly; feeling as if it was only yesterday that I injured myself!!!
Three months ago, I had my third surgery for the nail removal, and might I add, having the nail removed certainly helped the aching throughout the tibia, but I’m still having a lot of nerve pain, and extreme stiffness in the ankle, and the knee. Hoping the pain and stiffness is simply due to the wet, damp and cold weather winter brings on?
The pain is weird… it’s all different sensations experienced. One example where my breaks are, feels like someone has wrapped both hands around my lower leg, and are twisting the ankle area? I have sharp, jolting, throbbing sensations, anywhere from the ankle to the knee. So with that I’m thinking is permanent nerve damage? The original word by my orthopedic surgeon was “it can take up to 18 months for the nerves to completely heal.” Hmmmmm, it’s been 18 months, and all the weird sensations leads me to believe they aren’t healed up????
I would love to hear from others after this time period - about how their injuries are doing, but most people don’t keep any type of internet based updates =(
Here is what my scars look like after my nail removal 3 months ago!
December 9, 2014 – I put a call into my primary care the day before, I wasn’t sure if I should now be dealing with my PCP doctor, or my orthopedic surgeon? My orthopedic doctor’s last day is the end of the week to move closer to the family, one other reason to see my primary? When I called to see if I could get in, the next available appointment was a month+ out. So, I called my orthopedic and was able to get in the next day.
I went over all the different pains experienced – Tingling, aching, sharp pains, warm and cold sensations with the feeling of water flowing down the leg, and feeling as if someone is gripping around my lower leg, and twisting hard! He mentioned - even at 18 months he could certainly expect these symptoms still simply with the nature of my injuries and all the surgeries.
UGH, REALLY! I thought I was being realistic with an 18 month recovery period, but evidently I was wrong =(
I’ve been using a heat pad constantly, and when I put heat on my leg; especially when I have pains, it does seem to make my leg feel much better.
My orthopedic doctor is sending a report to my primary to get some meds to help with the nerve pain. I will see what happens with that????
January 28, 2015 - It’s now been five months since my last surgery, I still have leg pain, accompanied with some good ol’ sciatica (I started having the sciatica pain after my second surgery – 6 months post-accident), and it feels mostly like “nerve pain,” which was mentioned at my last orthopedic appointment. It’s exhausting hurting all the time, and had hoped 20 months later, and 3 surgeries I would be feeling great! After my last surgery I felt pretty darn good until about 3 months ago. Currently, I get pain in the knee, mid-leg, lower-leg and ankle area. It can range from burning, aching, feeling like the leg is cold and partially asleep, and a water sensation running down the lower leg.
I’ve been taking Tramadol daily and sometimes twice daily to simply take the edge off, and function in a normal life. I’m a very active person, and have been riding on my snowmobile, but feel utterly frustrated with some of the riding I’m not able to do; which shouldn’t be a problem, but the leg simply isn’t strong enough to do the item’s I want to do. Usually, after I ride however, my leg hurts, swells and is hot to touch. Haven’t figured out why, but hoping when I see my doctor beginning of March, I can ask those kinds of questions.
March 7, 2015 – I haven’t kept up with my blog even though there’s been activity! I guess I’m feeling down and discouraged about things; which hasn’t given me any desire to write to my blog!
I had an appointment with my primary doctor; discussing my pain and fatigue. This appointment was quite lengthy to discuss the nerve pain. Originally I was to take 3 – 300 mg doses per day; as-well as the Tramadol. She mentioned with the Gabapentin some people notice the change after a few days, I noted some great changes after about 4-5 days.
I already struggle with fatigue, and the Gabapentin seemed to intensify things. Not only was I fatigued, but completely out of it – it’s like a temporary lobotomy of sort. I tried taking the doses differently as this med is very flexible. I decided to try it around bedtime, but I literally was sleeping through my alarm in the mornings. I was waking up feeling as if I hadn’t even slept a wink. I tried changing it so more of the doses were earlier, but same problem. Finally after a month, I stopped taking it and made another appointment to see my doctor.
My last appointment was March 2nd, again a very lengthy appointment. I was in tears describing the pain, and the lethargy experienced. I asked her “what is wrong with me?” Through her findings she mentioned someone with constant pain, and dealing with it day-in, and day-out for 22 months can simply wear at one’s body! My activities I love to do, are so much harder now, because I lack the energy. I wake up in the morning, and all I can think about is when I can go home and sleep. I’ve been sleeping all day on my days off. Laying on the couch as soon as I get home from work! I simply can’t live like this?
With my symptoms my doctor wants to try 1 Gabapentin - once a day at 100 mg, 1 tablet (can’t remember the dosing) of Sertraline. She has upped my pain meds; to 3 Tramadol per day, and 1 Vicodin to assist with the pain.
I’m beside myself right now. Work has become so difficult, I’ve missed a lot of days because of my leg, and the fatigue I feel! I don’t know exactly what’s next!? My doctor has been super compassionate and really spending the time to help me, but I am tired of the pain, and the fatigue! I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the smaller dose of Gabapentin will help?
May 7, 2015 – Today is a tough day. I’m really beside myself with the pain and fatigue, and it’s wearing on me! I’ve been missing a lot of work, or getting up late, as I can’t hardly drag myself out of bed, and when I do, I feel awful!
I’m taking Gabapentin for the nerve pain; unfortunately my doctor lowered my dose as it was making my fatigue worse, but now I feel as if it’s not really doing too much. I’m taking Sertraline to assist with the fatigue; which can take up to 8 weeks to really start feeling the med work. I’ve been on it for about 6 weeks now. I also take Vicodin and tramadol for the pain.
For the most part the pain meds take away the majority of the intense pain, but it’s just this constant mild feeling pain that really gets to me. I eat, breath, sleep my leg. It’s always the topic of everything on my mind! When will I ever start feeling normal???
I keep thinking of how I can just sleep and not have to get up to work, as it’s a huge struggle. I have kids, bills, and simply responsibilities, but honestly I don’t know how much longer I can take this???
I’ve talked to the doctor’s office, but the wait for an appointment is out of control, and my appointment isn’t until the 20th of May! I’m trying so hard to keep working, but as I mentioned I can hardly function and I honestly don’t know what to do?????????
May 13, 2015 – Went to see my doctor today; which was about a week earlier than my scheduled appointment – this fatigue I’m experiencing, is taking a huge toll on my life! I’m missing at least one day of work per week, and I can hardly get out of bed. The current meds aren’t really working because I can’t take the desired dosing needed; in order to assist with the nerve pain. The Tramadol works, but starts wearing off around the 3 hour mark. And, I did note the Gabapentin was helping with some of the nerve sensations, but this was taking 300mg three times daily. Gabapentin knocks me out. So she had me try 100mg once daily, but nothing.
She wants to try having me take 100mg twice daily of the Gabapentin, as-well as upping the dosing of the tramadol to 100mg, and adding Cymbalta to the mix. Found out there is now a generic form, and it’s on a preferred list through my insurance company. That means it was around $125.00 per month, but I can now get it for $30.00. At this point I’m willing to give it a try.
I'm very excited however, to see how the Cymbalta works - because of the pain in my leg, but also because the fact my emotional status is kinda spiraling once more into depression from the accident. I feel bad for my family and boyfriend, as I’m kinda like a sack of blah, all I want to do is sleep, and I never go over to hang out =( All the things I love doing, I haven’t because of the tiredness and discomfort of my leg! I know it takes some time for this product to work, so I’ll update on this once I see some sort of effect!
On a positive note, I was able to get a handicap place card for my vehicle. This will really be beneficial as there are so many times I need to do something, but I have to park quite far away. I won’t go anywhere that involves too much walking, or having to park far away. So, when needed, I can utilize this easier parking, and less stress on my leg!
May 21, 2015 - Today, I'm starting the Cymbalta, and stopping the Sertraline instructed by my doctor. Unfortunately I had to wait to get this med filled, simply because of the price (not bad however, now that there is a generic form available). Hoping this variation will work? Early on in my recovery, I had started taking it for about a month, as my doctor gave me samples. Once the samples ran out, I went to actually get the med filled; finding out it was going to cost well over $100.00. Sadly I had to decline the medicine, and at the time generic form wasn't released to the public. But now, I can actually take it for longer than a month; getting a feel if it will truly work for me... feeling optimistic! =-)
May 25, 2015 - WOAH!!! 2 years ago today my life changed greatly! As you know my leg is still giving me grief, but I'm wanting to try and hope for a better year!!! Sadly my leg has become very ugly, but here is what it looks like after one bad accident, and 3 surgeries later...
June 4, 2015 - I’ve decided to try and go another route for handling my pain and fatigue. People have mentioned to try acupuncture, and with nothing really helping thought "why not!" Unfortunately found out it’s not covered by my insurance – I think I'll still see what the out-of- pocket expenses would be? I have also decided to talk with a local pain consultant; leaving a message regarding the process to get in and be seen? I’m not sure at this point if I have to have my primary doctor send in a referral, or what my insurance covers to be seen by them?
The problem with our great health insurance system, is it’s now a long waiting game to be seen by anyone, and at this point I feel I can’t wait! Every day is a struggle to get out of bed. My bosses at my work have given me an extra day off during the middle of the work week, to see if this helps address my tiredness, but I woke up today, barely able to get out of bed. Something is wrong with me, and it’s scaring me! I seem to be getting worse each and every day. The quality of my life has dwindled to an all-time low! I wish I knew something that understood and knew what I’m going through!
July 17, 2015 - I had my bone scan done on July 13th. I was able to review the scan results, but have no idea what they mean!? And the reason I say that, is I have access to my personal medical records because I work in the medical industry. I can say it’s a nice little perk, but not being versed on reading these, it’s like a foreign language to me. I am scheduled to go over them with my doctor on Tuesday, while I go in for my nerve conduction test. *so not patient*
If you look at the scan you’ll see there’s definitely problems, but hey I severely broke my leg, so we’ll see. Keep ya posted.
July 21, 2015 – Today was my nerve conduction test. The first series of this study was done by a medical assistant. She started off placing electrical type leads to specific nerves; measuring the speed of conduction through electrical pulses. It sounded like a knob clicking, and the sensation is very mild, but gradually goes up – can I say it is the weirdest sensation when your whole leg jolts up.
For the most part it was weird, but ok. Two spots ended up being very uncomfortable, and felt as if I had a Charlie horse starting. She then completed the study, mentioning the doctor would come in to go over my results of the nerve conduction, and the bone scan I had done the previous week.
When the doctor came in we started talking about the studies being a two part. As he was explaining things, it was brought to my attention that this would involve needles, inserting into the muscles along the leg, and back. In his description of what it would feel like, he begins to explain “it’s a feeling like when you get you’re flu-shot!” I don’t know about you, but I do fine with shots (hate them), but HATE the flu shots, they are the worse. I remember thinking “ugh, NO!” But I had to continue. After he injects the needle he asked me to tighten (contract) the muscle… how fun was that – oh great, so I now I have this needle in my muscle; having to contract the muscle!
After 8 shots in the lower leg muscles, 4 in the upper leg, and 2 in the back, I was feeling elated when he was finished! I had no idea about this part of the test; using needles!
Results are in…
Well as the bone scan indicated “abnormal,” which we already knew! But he was looking for any “NEW” changes. I guess my body is still healing? The nerve conduction study didn’t show nerve entrapment, or nerve damage. I asked him “WHAT?” Then why do I have all these crazy symptoms related to nerve damage. As mentioned muscle, tendon, sheath (covering) damaging causing neuron activity in-which leads to nerve activity above normal firing in-accurate information to the brain – referring to pain.
I am waiting again for an email regarding my results, because after my doctor mentioned “that it is my opinion that she would likely have pain long term,” I was doing everything in my mind to keep my emotions inside – not bursting out like a bawling baby… and things at that point were “blah, blah, blah, blah, damage, blah, blah, problems, blah, blah.
He feels it’s in my best interest to talk with a ‘Pain specialist’ helping me deal with better long-term pain management, as-well as helping with the fatigue. This doctor like my PCP stated again “you are fatigued because even when you go to sleep, your body is continually dealing with the pain, and the mis-firing of things – so basically I’m not ever getting a good nights sleep.
July 30, 2015 – So I had an epiphany, after leaving my doctor’s appointment today... (my 90 day pain management check-up) when you are injured, you may be left with broken bones, and soft-tissue related injuries – the doctors put your bones back together, fixing the soft-tissue injuries if they can, but what about all the scar tissue that develops from injuries/surgeries?
Part of my after-care involved massaging all injured areas, per my doctor’s directions. Even two years later I am very tender to the touch, with lots of scar tissue – having 3 surgeries in a very short amount of time was a big factor. I decided to google “scar-tissue and chronic pain and leg injuries.” I found some great articles that seemingly put a smile on my face.
I’m going to copy and paste info found off of these website: http://www.pijn.com/en/patients/cause-of-pain/diagnoses-per-body-region/upper-back-chest/scar-tissue-pain/
The cause of scar tissue pain is damage to a small skin nerve, or when a nerve is squeezed by the scar tissue. In scar tissue pain, which can occur after an operation, there sometimes mention of neuroma formation at the end of a damaged skin nerve. After some interventions, such as inguinal hernia, lung, heart, kidney, and shoulder operations, as well as breast amputations, scar tissue pain is more common.
Patients with scar tissue pain typically complain of neuropathic pain, during which continuous pain is present, alternating with spontaneous attacks of stabbing pain in the scar area. This pain can sometimes occur after a complaint-free period lasting some months postoperatively.
• SCAR TISSUE IS WEAKER: As you can imagine, the tangled “clump” of tissue that characterizes a microscopic scar, is far weaker than normal connective tissue. You already know this. Sprain an ankle, and it is easier to sprain it again and again and again.
• SCAR TISSUE IS LESS ELASTIC: This is a no-brainer. A hairball is less elastic than well-combed hair. Look at it another way. Put your hands out in front of you with the palms facing away. Now run the fingers from one hand, back and forth, between the fingers from the other hand. Notice how the fingers glide? Now run your fingers from one hand to the other, and ball up your fingers. This is what tangled and twisted connective tissues do microscopically. Subsequently, they lose their stretchiness and elasticity.
• SCAR TISSUE DOES NOT OXYGENATE WELL, CREATING A LOW (acidic) PH: Known as hypoxia, decreased oxygenation is terribly harmful because oxygen is critical for proper tissue healing to occur. When connective tissues are injured, swelling occurs; and it is this combination of swelling and twisted / tangled tissue that restricts the blood flow and oxygen supply to the connective tissues. Lack of oxygen also creates a very acidic environment, which is detrimental not only to the healing process, but to health in general.
• SCAR TISSUE IS DIFFERENT NEUROLOGICALLY: It is easy to see how microscopic scarring is different mechanically and chemically. What most doctors fail to tell you (many do not realize or understand this concept) is that scar tissue is different neurologically as well. Why don’t doctors ever talk about this aspect of tissue injury? It has not been around long enough to get into the textbooks! The latest scientific research tells us that the nerves in scar tissue can conduct pain up to 1,000 times more effectively than the same nerves in normal tissue. WOW! This is critical for you to understand. Re-read the last few sentences a couple times and let it sink in. This hyper-conductivity of the nerve system creates what is known as Type III pain (Super sensitivity).
http://bodyinbalance.com/856/muscular-injury-pain-muscle-healing/#comment-27928
Your muscles heal very differently than your bones. If you fracture a bone, as long as it is set and fixed in place properly, it will tend to heal so thoroughly that it will become stronger than it was before the fracture!
Bone tissue heals with calcium and other minerals, components of bone, in a process that creates a bond that is as strong as or stronger than the original bone structure.
Lloyd, for example, breaks his leg and strains (pulls) several muscles in a skiing accident. The fractured bone is set, his leg is placed in a cast, and after the requisite amount of time, and the cast is removed. It’s as good as new or even better—the bone anyway…
Your muscles however, do not actually heal with muscle tissue, but with “foreign” substances including collagen. The resulting scar tissue is weaker, less elastic, and highly prone to re-injury. Once a muscle is damaged, it can become the source of a great deal of pain.
If you click on the actual links, you can read further, but this was exciting to me, and I HONESTLY BELIEVE THAT THIS IS PART OF MY PROBLEM!! Maybe not all, as I had a lot of damage from my accident, but it really makes sense!
August 21, 2015 – I have been referred to a Chronic Pain Specialist in order to help assist with the pain, and fatigue? Medical records are requested by them first before scheduling an appointment. However, this past weekend I got my bills from my bone scan, which was over $500.00, as-well as the bill for my nerve conduction test, being over $400.00 this is the remaining cost after my insurance. Another $1000 I have to pay towards my medical bills.
Not only has this accident devastated me physically and mentally. Working is very hard for me, and I’ve had to cut back a day per the work week. I never know what day is gonna be a good day, or an extremely bad one? At this point I’m not certain what to do? I want to work, but even 4 days per week has proved extremely difficult.
The feeling of this financial stress upon my shoulders doesn’t do anything for my physical, or emotional well-being. I was in a conversation with a colleague mentioning his friend who lost a job due to a drinking problem. He went and got health insurance funded through the State. One night he was injured in a motor vehicle crash; which so happened to involve alcohol. Not only did he receive injuries, but also a citation for being under the influence. The insurance has paid for his MVA, and all his classes he has to take in order to satisfy his DUII. This also included the breathing apparatus he has to have installed in order to drive... with only the minimal co-payment!
After hearing this, I suddenly felt angry; wanting to break down and cry. I’m losing so many things that I’ve worked so hard for. I had to sell my beloved ski boat, in order to pay for medical bills. My bills keep piling up with all the tests and procedures. I see people who have a life event happen, yet get things handed to them on a platter, not having to worry so much about how they might pay for their expenses... becuase the government will take care of it! I know life isn’t fair, but this is stuff that really yanks my chain! I just don’t understand the system at all!!!
You work so hard throughout your whole life; paying into the system. One day your life completely does a 180 with something out of one’s control - being middle-class you’re doomed! Financial institutions don’t care, as long as they get their money, on time!
I’ve made calls to try and make financial arrangements for bills. Some places are very accommodating, and others simply don’t care; expecting their money! I guess I hate seeing people who are lazy and don’t care, get everything given to them. I worked so hard to get to where I am… after the accident everything has changed, and it makes me sooo sad!
September 25, 2015 – Still dealing with daily pain and fatigue. I’ve noted I’m getting pains in my joints within my hands and feet? Now what is up with this problem???? Has nothing to do with my injury???? The one thing I did notice is since hurting my leg, I’ve had all kinds of weird problems. I’m seeing the whole picture of how all your nerves, tendons, bones, etc. certainly work with each other, and when you seriously injure those body parts, it really throws the “whole” body off kilter!!!!
My poor attitude is getting awful… I feel like I'm now becoming an introvert, as-well as starting to become generally angry with a lot of things! I know other people have it far worse than me, and I try so hard when I’m feeling down, to realize this, but I think dealing with pain daily, and being super exhausted changes ones perspective on the way you think!?
Still trying to get in to see a chronic pain specialist, but I can’t see one until the end of January…of next year! That in itself is extremely depressing! We don’t have many pain specialist around locally. I do have one other alternative, but I’m still waiting to get the requested referral by this medical group.
October 5, 2015 - Saturday I volunteered for a specific organization… normally I wouldn’t do something like this, as I just never have the energy, but I did. Sadly, I had to stand on my leg most of the 4 hours. Oh how the night (bedtime) was unbearable! The pain was so bad it had me crying. The strange thing is the type of pain/s; I had aching, throbbing, stabbing, twisting, pins and needles feelings from the knee down to the foot. It was crazy in about 5 locations had so many types of pain sensation???
Sunday following my bad night, I had somewhere to go for about 3 hours; hurting some, but wasn’t too bad. I, however am struggling today. I think the lack of sleep from the pain has simply kicked my butt. I keep falling asleep, and can’t keep my eyes open. I’m hoping I make it through the end of the day =(
I'm hoping later this week, I'll get an answer about getting into see another group dealing with people with chronic pain. I did have someone I work with talking with someone, as she was forwarding the referral by her Doctor. What she was understanding is because it's not my spine, but just my leg, might not be able to get me in. Apparently they deal with the spine, and symptoms in other parts of the body, due to disk problems, etc. I guess at this point I think I'm gonna reach-out to a different location outside where I live; seeing if I can get in sooner? I am falling apart every day... just too hard, but having kids really pushes me to move forward, regardless of the pain. I have to provide for them, so as a parent you do what you got to do!
October 12, 2015 – Today was interesting, sitting here at work, with my leg propped up, and a heating pad applied, I started having these painful muscle spasms. Now it didn’t feel like a “Charley Horse.” The whole lower leg muscle tightened with a jolt of pain… I can’t really describe the difference between this one, and a “Charley Horse.” But I can honestly say I haven’t experienced these in a long, long time… maybe back in the beginning of my injury?? So what the heck is this all about?????
October 19, 2015 – Very disappointing day for me. My scheduled disability meeting with Social Security was today. The big deal breaker was, I make more than $1090.00 gross per month, I don’t qualify for anything. If I made under the requested amount, my case-worker suggested based on my information, it wouldn’t be a problem to qualify for disability.
This is very discouraging news for the fact I HAVE to continue working - I'm in daily pain and rarely sleep! Because I have a family to support, and financial obligations I can't just quit in order to satisfy the $1090.00 per month. And besides it could take months before I would even get money. What does one do? Should I just walk away from all my bills, leave my house and live on the streets???? I’m very confused… in my eyes, disability shouldn’t be based on income per-say… I physically am struggling with work, but like I said I have commitments, and responsibilities to take care of.
I’ve been continually looking for a smaller and cheaper place to live (one that is a single level home), but rent has gone through the roof around here. Still too much for me to continue paying by myself, and working one less day per week really puts a toll on my finances.
The system is so completely broke, and since I’ve put into the system, I can’t utilize it based on a significant injury I acquired? Savings account is gone, I’ve already sold item’s I worked hard for, so I could pay for my bills since my accident. I asked about using a little of my 401K, so maybe I could take some time off, and essentially I would have to be terminated in order to dip into it, but the money wouldn’t be accessible for close to 4 months. I feel like they want you to quit entirely and not work; getting on welfare to live. I want to work, and I worked hard to get where I’m at, but I simply can’t do it 4 days per week! *sigh*
October 23, 2015 - I'm having an awful day with major sciatica pain...hahaha, if it's not one thing it's another!! The pain has been altering my ability to walk, or even sit down. As I’m updating my blog I'm lying in bed with a hot pad on my back; feeling very down.
My boyfriend, and my kids all went to the local high school football game, which would have been nice to go myself; enjoying getting out, and the fact it’s Friday night - no work then next day should be good times.
Since the second surgery, I’ve had continued having Achilles problems, but not bad enough to affect me, or my daily life. This time however, was probably the worst episode so far. My lower back, pain down the butt muscles, and continuing into the leg was to the point I wasn’t able to move. Not only did I have the normal symptoms, but an immense pressure in my lower calf muscle. The calf muscle felt so tight, like it was going to pop. Even the Oxycodone (5mg) and the Tramadol wasn’t helping at all! The heating pad defiantly helped some, but certainly feeling miserable.
I honestly believe something isn’t right with my leg!? My Primary doctor can only make certain assessments based on info she’s been given, but not being an actual “Pain Consultant,” there will be limitations on what she can, or can’t do???
I can’t help but continue re-playing back in my head how the sciatica pain began… maybe I hurt more than just the leg in my original accident… after all I hit a tree in mid-air; getting thrown down into a creek; hard-enough to snap the leg in half. Being thrown such a distance, and not being injured anywhere else on my body is kinda hard to believe? The obvious parts that weren’t hurt was my head, due to a helmet/goggles being worn, and the riding boots preventing leg loss, or a severely compounded leg? If you’re going through such profuse pain with one body part, can you overlook other injuries mentally because of how severe one injury is?
Because the sciatica wasn’t a problem until after my second surgery, I’m assuming it has nothing to do with original accident? But what would have happened to cause this flare-up literally after my surgery? Hmmmm, I guess I’ll have to wait to find out?
November 2, 2015 – Today I would post some positive news, since this whole darn blog is nothing but a depressing dialogue, of pain and frustrations. However, this past Friday, I actually had energy, and the leg wasn’t hurting too bad at all! Wow, how exciting it was for me to have such a great day!!! These truly are few and far between. Even the entirety of the weekend was a welcome of a break from pain and fatigue! Oh how I wish I could have more of these days!?
November 6, 2015 – I got a call from a different pain management’s office today, and they can see me next week (November 11th) How about that!? I’m so excited I can’ hardly stand it! Maybe they will have ideas on how to get me more comfortable with my pain, which in-turn could also help out with my fatigue?=-)
November 11, 2015 - Yeah, I finally got in to see a chronic pain specialist! With the large volume of information needing discussed, I feel as if I’m still in the dark? Everything was extremely overwhelming, and hearing the chronic pain will probably be with me permanently left me in a “deer in the headlight” type state of mind! After that, I couldn’t even begin to HEAR what he was saying, kinda stunned!
I am however happy he was able to finally get a TENS unit prescribed; which I’m getting next week, because the person dealing with the insurances was out. Called me back with the unfortunate news of my insurance company will pay a portion of the $800.00. But I’m left with $287.00 my cost. Geez this is a never-ending venture for me!? Not only physically, but financially! I’m sure the part of always owing soooo much money to all these medical clinics doesn’t help my emotional status. I’m always so stressed out about having to pay for this, and pay for that!
Discussed plan of action – TENS unit and a type of topical cream that is made at a pharmacy compounding type services (still waiting on this). The doctor wants to see how these work, and if needed he stated trying a “lumbar sympathetic nerves block,” but is leaning more towards a “peroneal nerve block.” Let’s see what happens?
November 16, 2015 – Today I FINALLY got my TENS unit! Having to wait 5+ months because of insurance issues. So I’ve been showed how to use it; getting me all dialed in with the unit. But what was told to me is “every person responds differently, and every persons injury is different.” With this, I’m going to need to play around and see what works best for me? I started out at 2.5, and have since bumped it up to 3.5. It seems however, after a few minutes my body gets kinda numb to the electrical pulses, and I don’t really feel them? Not sure why?
Update... I have since moved the numbers up to 50, but I can't go any higher, because then it starts getting uncomfortable. I'm assuming you want to go as high as you can in order to get the effects of the unit?
November 24, 2015 – Today I’m going in for an MRI. This one will be the entire lower leg – Knee down to the ankle. Obviously I won’t have the results until next week, so I’ll have to patiently wait.
December 1, 2015 – I had an MRI done one week ago, yet I have to wait until December 10th before the doctor goes over the actual images. I had requested a copy of the images, which I now have, but I’m unable to read and understand what things mean. Obviously to an untrained eye, one can see where the original injury was, but other than that, I’m clueless????
Here are a few examples of the MRI done November 24th
December 10, 2015 – Today I’m scheduled to meet with my doctor to review my recent MRI; which I’m hoping they have something to tell me besides “well there is evidence of trauma, but there is nothing that can be done!” I’m tired of seeing all the problems, but nothing that can be done! The quality of my life has dwindled tenfold, and I just want to feel better, with a normal amount of energy; instead of sleeping all the time.
Anxiously awaiting my MRI results, I decided to look up in my medical records…(one great thing about where I work, I have access to view my medical records). When I opened up the letter in my records, I was APPALLED to say the least. The whole 4 page letter was filled with in-accurate information. Thinking to myself… “I would never have known this, unless I read the doctor notes from my original exam back in November." Astounded, and I will be calling this clinic out today.
The original exam had bothered me some, when I left with a feeling of "what-next?" And then the prescription given to me had the incorrect birth date, but I decided not to get too worked up about it. So here are a few tid-bits from the notes by the doctor… “No sleep disturbances noted.” WHAT… really, this is a huge thing we discussed during my initial visit… I go weeks-on-end with-out much sleep!
Under the “Gait and Station: Appearance of normal gate and no assistive devices.” Really, cuz I use a cane, and my walk has a horrible limp to it. In-fact I was told by him how my bad leg appears to be shorter than my good one, leading me to believe the way I walk is causing problems with my back, and causing the leg to not be correct because of how bad my limp is.
Now this is the best by far… “X-rays were ordered and reviewed by me today demonstrating the IM rod and screws. I’m not sure if the screws are exaggerated in length… MRI was discussed as-well as a possibility in the future depending on the results of the current regimen and if her hardware is MRI compatible.” Really… you have to be kidding… clearly discussed all hardware was removed during my initial visit! Are you sure you have noted the correct patient!? I would go ahead and fire this doctor, but we don’t have many around here and the wait times are 5+ months out.
The incompetence of this clinic and others I have contacted clearly bother me! I’m going to have to see what the next step is, and do some heavy thinking. ****************************************************************
December 14, 2015 – Well its official, and my biggest fear by far… Doctor feels with all the findings over the past few years that the supported verdict is CRPS Type II. I guess Type II is much better then Type I? Type II doesn’t seem to spread like the Type I does. With that being said, doctor feels I might be a candidate for the “Spinal Cord Stimulator” surgery. With the nerve problems I have, and since my second surgery, I’ve also dealt with a lot of sciatica issues. I would think a device going into the lower leg would be what would help, but apparently it goes into the back. My leg has healed, but the nerves aren’t right, so they are continually mis-firing telling my brain there is pain. The stimulator blocks the “bad” messages, to the brain, so my body isn’t experiencing the pain.
The trial isn’t that big of a deal, but the permanent one is a much longer surgery, which being told a 2 week down time being average after this surgery. The reading I’ve done sounds more like 6-8 weeks? And of course, I had a problem with my nail being inside me; hence why it was taken out. What if my body does a repeat of what it did with the nail? Apparently this surgery is very expensive and one reason they have a lot of things to get addressed before the surgery even takes place? I guess going in for the trial is nice; seeing how well it will work with me and my body, as-well as allowing me to get a better feel of what it will be like to have this in my body forever!?
My insurance plan recently changed and now the deductible has doubled from what it was before? Ugh, can’t I ever catch a break? I already owe about $1800 currently. So with this surgery it will be a new year, and a fresh deductible of 6 grand! Another stressful time for me! Not sure how I’m going to manage, but I’m hardly able to manage now!
Oh, I did have a nice chat about all the screw-ups taken place, and there had been a temp that day, with a lot of apologies, but I’m still not sure about things either… so I have this surgery and doctor to really think about. ****************************************************************
February 8th, 2016 - I’ve been going through the process required to get the spinal cord simulator. I had the evaluation with a mental health individual. Of course it was stated I had some depression; which I know that… no surprise simply for the fact I’ve been in a very profound amount of fatigue and pain since my accident. And anyone in their right mind would end up with a feeling of hopelessness, and sadness; leading to depression.
Last week was my appointment with the doctor; discussing the up-and-coming surgery; which he wanted to do in the next three weeks. I got a call from the doctor’s office – of course I’m thinking they are calling to get me set-up on the calendar for the surgery, as I knew they had to contact the insurance company first. No it wasn’t that, it was stating the person that did the mental evaluation felt it was in my best interest to get counseling for a bit before the surgery.
In complete dismay over this, I stated “really? “The reason I’m depressed is I went from being completely active to unable to hardly walk, experiencing daily pain and fatigue. Anyone would be feeling depressed over this. And by getting this surgery to help with the pain, will then allow me to get out of this slump.” She will speak with the doctor about this, and update me. But in the mean-time, I have to get counseling before I will get this surgery. I’m not happy about this, and feel it’s ridiculous! ****************************************************************
March 18, 2016 – Sorry about the delay in updating things. Since my last update, I’ve been told to seek continuation with counseling. I went in a few days back, and during our conversation, It was told they never stated I couldn’t get the surgery. It was also mentioned in their records “it’s recommended, but not mandatory in order to move forward.” I've decided to email the pain consultant, and their reply to me - according to the insurance companies policy, I had to be given the “ok,” on my mental status. So, it appears the group doing the counseling is saying I certainly can proceed, and the pain consult is saying I can’t proceed until I am “ok’d” through the councilors *sigh*. I’m gonna have to make some phone calls.
A different topic in-which I’ve tried locating others out there about some issues I have now, or still. Almost every morning I’m awaken by leg pain, or if I’m not awaken by the pain. I’ll stand-up; placing weight upon the leg and then I’m hit with pain! I can’t figure out why? The leg is so-called healed, so why does the pain hit me every morning to the point of waking me up, or placing weight upon the leg????? I’m such a researcher, and simply can’t find others having the same issues.
Another problem that is getting worse, is the pain and stiffness in my hand joints. It started awhile back where it was just one, or two joints… now it’s both hands, and most of the joints. Is this a symptom of the CRPS? I have been diagnosed with CRPS type 2, but some things I’m experiencing isn’t described in notations of CRPS. Not understanding things makes me crazy! I simply wished more people would share their experiences, so people in my shoes could get a better idea of what’s happening? ****************************************************************
April 4, 2016 – As you know, I’ve been dealing with sleeping problems since my accident. I’ve tried many things, but to no avail - I’m not getting relief! My last visit was met with uncertainty, as I was prescribed Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril). I was skeptical to use a “muscle relaxer” thinking to myself “how does this address sleeping problems?” But hey, I’m no doctor…why not, I have nothing to lose!?
I’m directed to take 3 tablets per day, and after a few weeks… nothing? Still the inability to sleep, so off to try another ‘muscle-relaxer’ – hoping this one might help? I’m picking up the prescription tonight, and hoping for some assistance????
I recently started keeping track of my sleeping patterns, in order to show my doctor. On the average I’m up about 12 times per night. Sometimes I simply will be looking at the clock, wondering how long it had been since previously peaking at the time. Or, I’ll note the time, decide to look again, as I’m thinking I actually fell asleep; realizing I was only out for 30 minutes.
This past night, I wasn’t able to sleep AT ALL. As I’m typing this out, I’ve been awake for 31 hours straight now. Last night was a combination of pain, not excruciating, but enough pain to keep me awake, and I simply couldn’t fall asleep. It’s out of control, and I can’t figure out for the life of me, what is going on, and why? ****************************************************************
April 13, 2016 - Well... I finally got the call to get scheduled for the stimulator "trial" May 10th, 2016. Excited, but really nervous... I can't help but think, "what if this doesn't help!?" I would be crushed to go in for the trial, and then what... I would also be responsible for my crazy out-of-pocket deductible, for something that didn't work. I'm trying to be calm, but it's hard not to think those things. Like my leg injuries, not a lot published on the internet *sigh*. Ok, I'll keep ya posted =-) ****************************************************************
May 3, 2016 – Sadly I lost my job today =(Over 7 years of employment with this company, is truly a bummer, but with the high amounts of stress, brings some relief to me right now. Even with things being pretty volatile, not having a job is really scary in itself. But thankfully, I was given continued health coverage for two additional months, and the whole process to get the spinal cord stimulator has taken months, upon months to get. I am worried if something has to be postponed, then essentially I’ll have to start over, and that’s if it will be covered by whomever I get insurance from? Right now I have so many things I need to worry about before my scheduled surgery next week, and figuring out future income… geez if it’s not one thing, it’s another! ****************************************************************
May 10, 2016 – Today is my surgery, bringing fourth excitement, as-well as some nervousness with things. Trying to be optimistic of success, but also keep in mind things might not work as desired, and to stay positive no matter what!
After I woke up from my surgery I was in pain, they gave me something to keep me comfortable, but given the nature of what is happening, and only 7 days trial, they don’t want to medicate too much, as they need to know what’s happening with the stimulator?
The night proved painful around the lower-mid back; which is where the leads were placed. I couldn’t move too much because of pain, and it took forever to get in a comfortable position assisted with many pillows. I was only taking 10/325 hydrocodone for things, but it wasn’t really helping. The programmer from Boston Scientific told me usually it’s about 24 hours before the site calms down with the pain, but the doctor mentioned 48 hours?
May 11, 2016 – My back area is feeling much better than it was yesterday, so 24 hours was about right for the indicated time to start feeling better. I do have to say the way I understood things about how this device worked, is not even close to what I thought! I was under the assumption the leads were placed into the spine, and connected to the box outside of my back. This box acted like the main communicator for taking the pain signals, and translating them back to the brain as “things are good.”
Nope not even close! It’s an electric type stimulation that in a sense is distracting the mis-firing nerves. There are different settings and program types configured for you. So sometimes you might want a more continuous stimulation, or maybe pulse-like stimulation. You can change those programmed settings from the ones pre-configured by selecting the plus or minus, depending on how you’re feeling. Kinda felt like the TEN’s machine, but the TENS seems to offer more muscle electric stimulation, and this is deeper (really hard to explain).
Well as mid-day approaches, the sciatic pain is getting worse, making it hard to gauge if things are changed in my lower leg. Hopefully this will reside as the evening approaches?
Its evening time and I’m getting really uncomfortable in the lower back… I can’t get comfortable at all. But the upper part of my back where they placed the leads feels much better. I’ve spoke to the person with the stimulator, as he wanted me to report to him at any time for anything that wasn’t right. I will be going in to see if he can modify some of the settings tomorrow.
May 12, 2016 – Went in and had the machine settings modified. He did mentioned that one of the leads had shifted some, but hopefully some re-configurations would be beneficial with the experienced pain?
My sciatic pain is progressively getting worse since the surgery, and I’ve been applying ice and heat to the area. The Hydrocodone I’ve been taking isn’t doing anything for the pain! I’m praying things get better!
As the night approached, so did the tears! I was in unbearable amounts of pain! No matter what I did to make the sciatic pain go away it was still there! I felt like my lower back had so much pressure it was simply going to explode! We didn’t know what to do, and I was in such a bad way, all I wanted was to rip out the leads from my back! I couldn’t go to the emergency room, as I had a $250.00 co-payment, and as you know, I just lost my job having no money! My boyfriend feeling completely helpless (I think I scared him because of all the crying in pain) told me “just take an extra hydrocodone, taking an extra one in this situation shouldn’t cause anything bad.” Taking the extra one helped get me to a point where I could deal with the pain.
May 13, 2016 – I was told to come in and talk to the doctor. I ended up speaking to the doctors P.A., and really liked her. I was beside myself seeing there were some medical instruments in the room; thinking if they take it out, then I wasn’t able to get a fair trial, so not only did I get nowhere in trying to relieve my pain, as I can’t do another trial, and I only have health insurance until the end of June. The new health insurance doesn’t, nor will they simply continue where things were left off.
In talking with the PA about everything that is going on, as-well as communicating with the programmer they both felt one of the leads appeared to be touching the nerve, it would have to come out… but… she mentioned with my trial getting pulled, didn’t necessarily mean I was no longer able to get the permanent SCS. I was able to update her on the effects of my actual leg pain not being the focal point, so it appeared the device was assisting for leg pain. Obviously I wasn’t able to get the full effects of the machine, but feels if the leads get pulled, and I don’t have the pain experienced once the stimulator is gone, then we could continue moving forward with the SCS as planned?
I have to say at this point, I’m honestly scared to get the permanent one… what happens if the lead moves again; which I was told the placement of the permanent leads (after healing) won’t have the opportunity to move like the ones I had temporarily placed on the outside of my body. Can I return to doing all the things I love doing? Will I have to behave like someone with little mobility indefinitely; worrying about doing something that could affect the internal leads? I don’t know if I could live like that!??I love riding my snowmobile, and ATV, and is a huge part of who I am! Being outside and active is what makes me happy! I have a very little window of time to think things through, but the first thing is waiting until I get a chance to speak with the doctor!??? ****************************************************************
May 17th, 2016 – Went in for my follow-up today, and while checking in I noticed there was a message posted that they no longer will be accepting Pacific Source as of June 1, 2016. WHAT THE HECK!!!!!? I have my other surgery scheduled for June 17th. I spoke with someone about this notice, and they mentioned the insurance company was dropping them, and it wasn’t their choice. I’m so upset over this; I can’t even begin to tell you! So I’d pretty much thought with the loss of my job and such that I’m at the rock bottom… guess not!
During the appointment however, I was speaking with the P.A. about the projected surgery, and voicing my concerns about the leads dis-lodging with my active lifestyle; she mentioned they have bigger leads they can place; eliminating this problem, but it’s a bigger surgery, and I would end up having a different surgeon doing this procedure.
June 1, 2016 - Sorry, it’s been awhile, but I’ve since been able to resolve issues with the insurance regarding no longer accepting the insurance company I currently have. So yes I will be getting the spinal cord stimulator!!! It’s scheduled for the morning of June 17th, and might I say I’m beyond elated, yet very nervous.
Because I had issues with lead movement during the trial, I can’t help but wonder if it will be a problem??? I am getting the paddle leads with a laminectomy, so I believe will be good! For the time-being I have to wait and see what is going to happen… and I’ll be placing a call to my current insurance company… To be continued...
July 18, 2016 - I'm going to be keeping video blogs on youtube, so feel free to watch the provided links of my healing process. Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink: Day After Surgery
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Day 2
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Day 3
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Day 4
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Day 5
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:One Week After
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Two Weeks After
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Four Weeks After
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:Six Weeks After
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:2.5 Months After
Video Blog Link - Click on Hyperlink:3 Months
If you would like to contact me, please feel free at: glxpassat@hotmail.com
