DD with fractured ankle and walking cast. Any advice?

[mrs2cats]

DD who's almost 10 fell off her bike at the weekend and has a slight ankle fracture. Yesterday she was fitted with a walking cast and sandal. We've been told to let her rest for a couple of days with her leg up and, when she's ready, she's to start bearing weight on the injured leg. She does have crutches as well.

I'm a little concerned about open toes and our changeable weather. Does anyone know of any stretchy socks that we can put over the cast? I've tried DH's and I've tried some other old socks that seemed to be stretchy but they aren't stretchy enough.

Also, is there anything we should consider for when she goes back to school? I've spoken to the school this morning and they suggested early drop-off etc. DD seems OK in herself but I'm not sure when to take her back to school. I think Friday might be a good option as that's just one day and then it's the weekend. Dunno! Just a bit confused as the hospital gave very little information really.

Any other tips/advice would be greatly appreciated.

TIA

Many years ago I was in a full leg plaster for 3 months ( on two separate occasions!!!) and found it the most frustrating thing ever. I had to take a bath wearing my swim costume with a black binliner taped tightly to the top of my leg with my husband or mum helping me in and out. If I had a shower, it was easier but still had to keep it dry. I had a bin under the desk at work to keep my leg up and therefore more comfortable. When going out, I wore a plastic bag over my foot (with a sock on my foot too). I had to go up and downstairs on my bottom (it was safer than trying to use the crutches which is extremely scary coming down!!). if you want something material - what about the leg of a pair of tights or half a pair of leggings - either left open for air or tied in a knot at the to?? I'd personally keep her off for a few days because it is very early days, kids do tend to push and shove even when they are being careful and the healing will still be fragile. I am surprised they suggested walking on it so early actually.

If you are in any doubt about the advice they gave you, ring the Department and ask for clarification. Hope she is better soon - she'll be loving every minute and all the extra attention she will get.

Best Wishes.

D

DS2 broke his ankle when he was 6. He went to school as usual. It takes hardly anytime at all to master crutches (I use them permanently) and they can get round quite well. One thing to bear in mind though, is your hands get really quite sore. You can end up with blisters on your palm, and it is tempting to wrap some bandage or something round the handles, but this makes the crutches unsteady and harder to use. It is better to invest in some cycling gloves if she needs something.

I would talk to the school about pain relief, too. DS2(16) has just come out of a sling after breaking and dislocating his shoulder. He went back to school after having one day off, but needed pain relief at school so took Paracetomol with him. Your DD might need some keeping in the office of a few days, especially of she is having to use it more than if she would be at home.