The article is a true account of the experiences of the daughter of a friend who suffered a severe ankle injury as a result of not wearing the correct boots whilst walking .
Diary of a Broken Ankle
BBA (Before Broken Ankle): I have an active lifestyle and enjoy walking and cycling, getting out into the great outdoors is one of my favourite things.
Day 1: Went for a lovely walk with my partner and our dog - Ken, wearing my new wellies as there had been lots of rain over the last few days. Maybe I should have looked where I was going as I slipped, landing badly and (it transpires) break my right ankle in four places.I’m taken to hospital and after the inevitable delay in the Accident & Emergency Department I am admitted as I need an operation.
Day 2: I’m sleepy following the late night and stresses of the day so before I know it it’s operation time, I’m go to theatre about 10am and am back in my room by 1pm with screws and a plate in my ankle. There’s not long to wait before my partner visits with things to keep me entertained and delivering best wishes from our friends. I am feeling very groggy after the operation though so my other half leaves again to let me sleep.
Day 3: I am to be discharged today, hurrah, so my parents are on the way to pick me up. I am to stay with them until I’m steadier on my feet (you’re never too old to be looked after by your folks), my partner is out at work all day so worries I’ll fall when I’m on my own.
The only problem is, they live in the Yorkshire Dales, which is driving me mad as it reminds me of what I am missing out on. All I want to do is pull-on my walking boots and set off on a good long ramble in the countryside.
Days 4-11: It’s slow progress and I keep getting upset with the situation but with the help of my parents and partner I feel I’m getting stronger everyday. I’m more confident on the crutches and even manage to cook a meal. The great outdoors is still calling though, Ken the dog and I are longing to go outside for some fresh air.
Day 12: A check up at the hospital and the designated day for me to return to my house, I’m confident enough now to be home alone.
Day 12-45: Being home presents a new set of challenges, it’s difficult to carry anything on crutches so if I want a brew I have to drink it at the kitchen worktop. There’s not much housework I can do so my other half has to do it all.
Bathing and showering are a challenge but it gets easier the more I do it.
I still get upset sometimes, particularly when my injury prevents me from doing things that are normally so easy like going to the pub with friends.
Day 46: The day I have been counting down to, my plaster comes off today! I am to undergo a period of physiotherapy and must carefully manage how I put weight through my ankle again but this feels like a major step forward.
Day 47 Onwards: I’m raring to go for a trek or cycle but I follow Doctors orders and take it easy.
I decide that when I am back up to full health again I’m going to treat myself to some new outdoor gear to go with my new ankle. I now realise the importance of sufficient support for my ankle whilst walking. Being laid up has given me plenty of time to browse the web and I’ve found a great website that compares prices on Walking and Hiking Outdoor Gear and Walking Boots .
Bruno Blackstone is a freelance writer interested in all things to do with the outdoors and helping others get the most from the outdoors. Starting with a psychology degree his early career was as a social worker and family therapist working with families to help them achieve more positive and stable relationships. In his more recent career he has coached many senior executives in both small and large organisations in areas such as strategy, human resources, organisational design and performance improvement. He now continues his work in the business world but he is also co-owner of myoutdoorstore.co.uk a price comparison site for outdoor enthusiasts.