post tramatic arthritis

[bumankle]

I had a small fall in my yard which resulted in a bad break of my ankle. The first surgery put one screw in which was supposed to be done to keep me from getting arthritis. Later I was told that the surgery was not done right and that my ankle was falling out of joint with each step. So they did another surgery to rebreak the ankle and this resulted in two plates and 12 screws. After 8 months the ankle has swollen and is painful. I am not told I have post tramatic arthritis from the surgeries. I am young and like to wear heels, scuba dive, hike etc. I am now told that my only option is to have the ankle fused with yet another surgery. I am trying to live with the pain which in the am and at night causes me to limp but is ok in the middle of the day. fusion would ruin my life..Any ideas?

[Allison]

Hello Bumankle,

It sounds as though you've certainly been through the ringer lately... all of those surgeries and still no pain relief. I understand your frustration and considering the amount of pain you are experiencing - I do agree that you need some form of long term pain relief.

Unfortunately, we do not recommend use of our Portable Ultrasound unit over any area with metal implants - like the 12 screws and plates in your ankle.

Our Ankle/Achilles Inferno Wrap may be used, but I strongly suggest that you consult with your physician before considering this product. The Inferno Wrap plugs into a wall outlet and provides a soothing heat with our patented Energy Web insert. This gentle heat will increase the blood flow to your injured ankle, stimulating the area to effectively provide oxygen and nutrient rich blood to your injury, while dispelling of any cellular waste. This product would be ideal for you when you are experiencing chronic pain and inflammation - but do not use the Inferno Wrap when your ankle is swollen.

If you are experiencing severe swelling you may also use our Ankle/Achilles Freezie Wrap. The Ankle/Achilles Freezie Wrap promotes R.I.C.E. therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) which is often recommended by doctors to soothe swelling. It is important for you to rest your injured ankle as much as you possibly can. Now I know this may be difficult, as you seem to be quite an active person and love your high heels, but you must make sure you aren't placing any undue pressure on your injury. Ice your swollen ankle 2 to 4 times a day (reduce the treatments if you plan to use the Inferno Wrap as well) for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. By adding slight compression, you will not only be able to support your ankle injury but you will also be able to reduce the swelling. Finally, you should elevate your ankle above your hip by resting with your ankle propped up on a few pillows. This will encourage the fluid in your ankle to drain. What I find the most helpful with our Freezie Wrap is that it provides the necessary Ice and Compression that you need for pain relief, and all you need to do is concentrate on the Rest and Elevation.

I sincerely suggest that you consult with your surgeon or physician about any of the therapies I mentioned above in order to receive a treatment that will work best for you and your ankle injury. They may also be able to come up with some safe and reliable treatments that will help to heal your injury, without the need of an ankle fusion surgery.

I hope I've provided you enough information to jump-start your information search on Blood Flow Stimulation Therapy and Cold Compression Therapy, but if you require additional information or have any questions at all you may reply to this post or contact one of our helpful customer service advisors at 1-866-237-9608 or phone 1-705-445-3505. You may also reach us through email at: service@mendmeshop.com.

Best of luck with your ankle injury, and I really do hope that you find some much needed pain relief SOON!

Allison.