Medical Question

[riggins44]

I am at a complete loss when anything medical is discussed, so have quick question.

My mother fell Friday afternoon. She couldn't put weight on one leg. At ER the x-rays showed a cracked knee cap. Not sure if any other damage. Question is how do you treat a cracked knee cap? We're praying she won't require surgery. Mom is almost 81.

The Orthopedic doctor is off today. She can't see him until tomorrow. Last night and this morning she has been able to get up and move around. No longer needs pain medicine.

 

[Nobody]

If she can move her leg around ok (which the doc will ask her to do) they will put her in an immobilizing brace because of her age. If there is severely limited movement, or a lot of damage internally, they will operate on it.

Even with her age, surgery on that type of injury is not as serious as other knee surgeries at all. They make a small incision on the front of the knee, and pin the pieces together. Just make sure she stays off of it until she sees the ortho.

 

[Miles Monroe]

A girl I dated many years ago fractured her knee cap. She had to spend about a month in jordan splint. I also had to wear a jordan for an severe sprain on my ACL. They go from the ankle to the hip, and fasten with velcro, so there easily removed for bathing.

 

[Nobody]

I always wondered what they called those. I had to wear one for 6 weeks after a dislocation. Uncomfortable to attempt walking in, it's like having a peg leg.

 

[Miles Monroe]

I always wondered what they called those. I had to wear one for 6 weeks after a dislocation. Uncomfortable to attempt walking in, it's like having a peg leg.

Ya, it's not the most fun to have on for an extended period. I use to unstrap the top so I could drive to work.

 

[riggins44]

Thanks for the 411. She goes this morning to see the doctor. I just hope and pray there isn't additional damage or surgery required.

 

[Nobody]

Thanks for the 411. She goes this morning to see the doctor. I just hope and pray there isn't additional damage or surgery required.

If she doesn't need pain meds and can get around pretty good, I'd be breathing a huge sigh of relief. I've had severe knee problems in both knees for years, and with my experience, it seems that even the most minor tears, pulls, strains, etc. would require either pain meds or near total immobilization to even comprehend a thought properly. The knee is a pretty sensitive joint.

 

[riggins44]

My wife has had knee problems, plus arthritis for years. She takes white raisins soaked in gin for arthritis.

 

[riggins44]

Mom got a good report yesterday. She does not require any surgery. Huge relief for her, my dad, siblings, and I.

 

[Lanky Livingston]

Happy to hear, Riggo! Hope your mom is able to enjoy Thanksgiving, despite her injury.

 

[Nobody]

Awesome news, glad to hear it. Thanksgiving should be that much more enjoyable for your entire family now