Broke my left ankle 7.29.12 MAJOR CRAMPS & PAIN

Hi Rox, I too broke an ankle - the right one, in May 2008.  I also had some hardware removed a couple of years later - I had one of the plates and a number of screws (bolts) removed,  the removal really lessened the pain for a while.  I also had a couple of arthroscopy surgeries (to abrade bone spurs etc), which increased the dorsa flex in the joint.  I've had many many appointments over the past couple of years with my own GP, rheumatologist, ortho surgeons etc.  Not really given much hope by any of them to be honest.  At one point I was told the only thing they could do was fuse the joint.  The would be permanent and irreversible and although would stop the pain from the bone on bone action, would cause its own problems by making the joint immovable and therefore cause a severe limp.  The surgeon was insistent I have it done but my GP did warn me that it would lead to problems with the knee joint and the joints of the other leg due to altered gait.  I said no thanks.  There doesnt appear to be an effective joint replacement options such as with knees or hips at present, so we're stuck with it.  Physio was offered about a year after I had the accident which really helped but our health service wouldnt provide any more than three appointments and I dont have the money to pay for it privately.  I rub ginger (fresh ginger, minced and mixed with body lotion) into the ankle and leave it on for a few hours and it really takes down the inflammation.  I stopped taking anti inflamms because they cause more problems than they solve to be honest.  I suggest you ask for a referral to an ortho to get some xrays done to see if there is an secondary cause for the difficulties you're having - bone spur, displaced screw, etc etc., and ask about physio help too.

Hi rox,

1st of all, have you seen a Dr.?  Don't know anything about background. (other than you had hardware removed) Also, do you take anything for the pain and muscle cramps?  Anything either prescription or natural?  I have arthritis in my left hip (need to have it replaced according to Dr. but am putting it off) and I take some natural supplements that help, and I can really tell if I don't take them. Any physical therapy?