... about the long road to recovery. Though my break wasn't as severe as yours, mine was in the knee area as well (Tibia Plateau fx with 1 ate and 8 screws). I am at just about 6 months into this, and though the break has healed, I am still using two crutches to walk, plus I am continuing to work on getting my motion back (bending and straightening).

It has been a long haul, but you know something? I have realized that all I have is time, and that I am not in any hurry to recover - it will happen when it is meant to be. Not to say I require no effort on my part - I must work at least 6-8 hours a day to keep my leg working properly (or at least as properly as it can at this stage). But as long as I see incremental improvements, I know I am getting better, and that has helped my spirits tremendously!

I think the first 4 months when I couldn't put any weight on my leg was the worst - I couldn't drive or get around well. Friends and family have been great - still are in the areas I am not able to do things on my own (I've also learned how to accept help, something I've had a hard time doing in the past!!). Once I made it through that time period, I seem to have adapted well to life on crutches - which I will have to endure for the foreseeable future, though I hope to get down to at least one crutch in about a month's time.

My advice to you as your bones heal: work on getting back your range of motion (ROM) right away - I messed up in that area and am now playing "catch up" but I am doing nicely now that I am working on it. Movement - not only bending and straightening - is the best way to get it back. I use a stationary bike at home which has helped. Of course, until you are able to bear wt., you may be limited in what types of movement you can do.

Please read my story at mybrokenleg.com at this link:

http://www.mybrokenleg.com/kathy

it may help you see what mistakes to avoid in your recovery, and help you see you are not alone in this, Mike. If you need to vent, use the Discussion section, it will help you tremendously as it has me.

I pray for your recovery, Mike.

Blessings,

Kathy from Georgia :)