2003/12/21, 06:14 PM
Hi. I'm hoping someone out there can help me. I started
working out in September and have lost 42 pounds. Last week,
I broke my ankle. It's a rather serious spiral fracture and
I am non-weight bearing for the next four weeks. After that,
I am either to be re-casted or put in a brace - for I don't
know how long. I'm really worried that the lack of cardio
may cause me to gain back the weight I've lost. I'm stuck on
crutches and can do very little. Does anyone have any
suggestions for how to maintain until I can get back to the
gym? Thank you!
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2003/12/21, 06:21 PM
first of all make sure you keep your diet.....
maybe you could do some exercises while sitting or lying down - that`s what my friend used to do when he broke his ankle but make sure you use light weights
but I`m not sure, though I would ask your doc fist
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2003/12/21, 06:40 PM
Yo MJ! I was there several years ago. I broke the cuboid bone in my ankle. No fun at all. For me, the key was to just take things one day at a time. You don't want to lay back, do nothing, and have a spouse or significant other peel you grapes for 4 weeks! On the other hand, you shouldn't go out and push yourself into re-injuring things. Lower the bar a bit to compensate for your current state, and then try to make steady progress - just like when you're 100%. Like Bicep said, sitting or lying exercises might be a good start, but talk to your Dr. first.
TSMD
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2003/12/22, 01:24 PM
Our gym has one of those dorky arm bicycle things. It looks goofy - but works REALLY WELL at getting your heart rate up and providing a decent cardio workout. Try to look for excercises on the web for people in wheelchairs and such - there are cardio options out there that don't use your legs. Good luck!
-------------- ~~~~~~~ROXIE~~~~~~~
http://www.mycoffeegirl.com
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2003/12/22, 04:00 PM
MJ, first off, welcome to FT!
Ok, I've been in your position as well. In 2001 I had the same spiral fracture of the Fibula. I was in the same spot. Make sure that you do what bicep said, watch your diet. Don't start eating out of boredom. Also, move around as much as you can handle to keep the blood flowing throughout your body. You can't do much except what TSMD and Coffeegirl recommended but that will be better than nothing.
Now, are you on any type of blood thinner? They should have put you on a blood thinner to prevent clotting. If not, get to your doctor and get on one.
-------------- Pain is but a threshold to greater strength.
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2003/12/22, 05:23 PM
Preach on Jplatz!
The orthopedic clown who set and cast my ankle didn't do it correctly. Due to the tightness of the cast (up to my knee), and how immobilized my entire leg was, I developed clots in my leg that ultimately had me in the hospital for 2 weeks and intensive care 6 days. I don't want to frighten you, MJ, but pay attention to your body, and move regularly. Not necessarily weight bearing movements, but you should still move, just as Jplatz recommended. If you begin to feel unusual pain of any kind, tell the Dr. If he/she doesn't listen, get another opinion pronto. I agree 100% with Jplatz on the blood thinner, too. Probably something like coumaden to prevent clots, or the pricey eurocainase (sp?) to slowly "melt" them away if they suspect that you already have small clots forming.
Anyway, tons of people break bones every day. No need to be overly concerned, just be informed, and don't be afraid to question your doctor and listen to your own body. I'm sure you'll be back on your feet in no time. Take care.
TSMD
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2003/12/27, 04:46 PM
Thanks to everyone who offered me suggestions. My doctor didn't
offer me blood thinners. I've never actually heard of that. I
picked up some of those resistance bands and have them tied to
a doorknob. That seems to be working nicely on my back (which feels
really tense from the crutches and all the sitting>) I did like
the idea of having someone peel my grapes for me, but I think
I need the fibre. Thanks again, and if you have any other
ideas, let me know! Happy holidays.
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