“Cannabis is an effective but gentle pain-killer without the bleeding gut and liver problems caused by NSAIDs or the highly addictive pitfalls of pharmaceutical opioids” - https://projectcbd.org/health/cannabis-for-contact-sports/
Recently I fractured the distal end of the fibula on my left ankle. I was fortunate that I didn’t need surgery – only a compression sock, boot, and walker – and time.
I wanted to share the start of my journey and talk about taking an active role in our own health. It’s been a learning process.
We all know that in today’s world doctors only have limited time to give us advice; especially with HMO insurance. So we have to do our own research and be our own advocates.
The medical advice from my orthopedic doctor: keep your foot raised, use a compression sock, ice your ankle, wear a boot, and use a walker for four weeks. Then, get a new X-ray and we’ll evaluate the next steps. When asked about vitamins and exercise: he said, “You can take a multivitamin, and wiggling your toes is enough exercise for now.”
But with my ‘in-general’ healthy lifestyle, this lack of alternatives did not work for me. I knew other modalities may aid the healing process. So, I did a lot of research. BTW from the research and people I spoke with, I learned that exhaustion, brain fog, and depression seem to be normal side effects – this was unexpected and difficult to deal with.
I wanted to pass on what I learned with others and share some tips:
1. I’ve known for years that Ibuprofen or other medications may have negative effects on the kidney and liver. However, I was shocked to learn that “studies suggest that NSAIDs may DELAY BONE HEALING and callus formation, impairing bending stiffness and the bones' mechanical properties.” 2. Increased my intake of vitamins B, D, K, Calcium, Zinc, Potassium, and Iron, as well as protein. These will help with the bone and tissue repair process.
3. Used Holistik RECOVER (CBD, Ginger, and Turmeric) and other CBD products for pain and inflammation relief.
4. Massage my ankle and foot with CBD:THC balms to promote pain relief and reduce inflammation. 5. Microdose with CBD and THC; THC helped with my mental attitude. 6. Added Collagen I for the first two weeks and Collagen II after that can help too. ** 7. Use Arnica (internal and external) for the bruising. 8. Ice my ankle every few hours to reduce swelling. Once a day, switch between hot and cold water to encourage increased blood flow to the injured area. I add Epsom salt to hot water. 9. Go to my chiropractor weekly since my injury was the result of a fall. They recommended Glucosamine Chondroitin 10. Perform lymphatic massages to promote lymphatic flow and reduce swelling. 11. I'm considering red-light massage therapy, which supposedly can promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation in certain conditions, including bone fractures. 12. Get enough rest, I listen to hypnosis sleep and bone healing audio on YouTube and take naps when I feel tired.
On the fun side:
· I believe in the power of sexual healing! Masturbating (with your vibrator?) or having sex and directing all the resulting natural ‘feel good’ chemicals to your ankle can help you feel better. · Start your day by listening and moving (since I can’t dance) to ‘I Feel Good’ by James Brown. Helps produce those natural feel-good chemicals.
Finally, I will invest in some high-top sneakers, so I’m ready to go dancing when approved!
Remember, healing takes time, but with a positive mindset and an active role in your own health, you may be back to ‘normal’ in a few months or at least be on your way to healing well.
I see my Orthopedist on May 10 and will write about the next steps.
Note
** “Both collagen and calcium are essential for our bone health and preventing bone loss. Collagen supplements have far more health benefits for your body than calcium alone. Collagen is needed in order for our bones to take hold of calcium and use it properly. Bones are composed largely of collagen, which gives the bones structure. Our bone matrix is composed of collagen fibers. In fact, 90-95% of the bone matrix is made of collagen fibers! Also, collagen is what helps our bones resist fractures.” https://kalumibeauty.com/blogs/in-the-glow/how-do-collagen-and-calcium-work-together-and-what-are-their-benefits#:~:text=Both%20collagen%20and%20calcium%20are,calcium%20and%20use%20it%20properly.
Update 6/21/23
It's been three months since I fractured my ankle. I've continued to take charge and learn all I could about my body's natural healing process.
The orthopedic doctor said I am 95% healed. However, it will take another 6 months for a full recovery. But no need to see the doctor again - YEA!!!
It's been a humbling experience and I have more empathy for those living with physical disabilities.
Update 8/25/23
My bones are healed, now it's time to increase physical activities to work on muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc that support the ankle. So in addition to PT exercises, more stairs and stretching -- and for me of course DANCING. I still massage my ankle with THC/CBD most night before I go to sleep plus I take CBD for sleep which also helps with the inflammation. Yes, there is still swelling after physical activity, so I ice, too.
Wow, healing CORRECTLY from a broken bone takes more time and effort than I ever knew.
Plus, I didn't realize how sedentary I had become and how I need to PUSH myself to add more cardio to my health program. Yes, I'm no different than many and need to motivate myself and push myself. I may even start to take classes at my local Silver Sneakers (silversneakers.com).
9/20/23
Last PT appointment today, but 'complete' healing will take up to 12 months.
12/01/23
Finally brought a foot massager with infrared and TENS pads - wished I had done this earlier. It has made a MAJOR difference. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0967LVRKV?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details . I've even used the TENS pads on an arthritic finger. AMAZING - my finger now flexes like my other fingers; all without drugs or outside PT. Well, THC/CBD cream helps, too!