Question (this describes my break and surgery....)
IzzyA little while back I tripped on a kerb stone, falling badly and fracturing my femur.
I was chasing an offender (I'm a Police Officer).
I was taken to hospital and had surgery the next day. I had a rod placed in the cavity of the femur (right) and screws placed at the hip and knee to stop the rod spinning. The fracture is about 12 inches from the knee.
I am now on the road to recovery and have just started using the gym. However, I still experience a lot of pain.
Is this normal and if so, how long does it last?
I am trying to push myself to get fit for Christmas so that I can get operational again.
AnswerIt takes about six weeks for bone to heal, and because you've had surgery the healing time might be even longer.
As long as there is still a fracture to be repaired, there will be pain.
It doesn't help recovery to push the pain. I would advise you to make sure your activity level is monitored by a professional physiotherapist.
Maybe your employer has someone who could help? If not your GP will be able to suggest someone in your local area.
Yours sincerely
Dr Bob Leckridge, GP
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/ate/musclesjoints/203796.html