Accident, Weber-B Fracture and CRPS – Discussion Thread

[Fabian]

Looking Back – What I Would Do Differently

From today’s perspective, there are several things I would definitely do differently after my injury:

1. Specialised Care Is Key
   After the initial treatment (which usually takes place near the accident site, and unless your injuries are life-threatening, you’re sent home for further care), I would never go to a regular hospital again. As athletes, we have completely different needs compared to, say, Grandma Hildegard, who isn’t used to doing sport five days a week. That’s why I strongly believe it’s essential to choose a hospital with a sports trauma department – one that understands how to treat athletes properly and recognises our specific needs (As example: Sana Dreifaltigkeits-Krankenhaus Köln – Specialised sports traumatology and accident surgery).
   
   
2. Always Get a Second Opinion
   Whether surgery is being considered or not, I would always seek a second opinion. Blindly trusting just one doctor is not something I would ever do again.
   
   
3. Don’t Underestimate the Mental Impact
   I totally underestimated the mental burden of being bedridden for weeks. As athletes (and I include myself in that group), we’re used to dealing with stress and emotional strain through physical activity. When that outlet is suddenly taken away, frustration builds up quickly. So don’t wait too long – talk to friends, family, or even a psychologist. It can make a real difference.
   
   
4. Be Patient with the Recovery Process
   As we get older, recovery takes longer – that’s just how it is. I’ve learned not to pressure myself so much and to accept that rehabilitation can’t be rushed.
   
   
5. Start Physiotherapy Early
   It’s essential to begin physiotherapy as soon as possible. In my case, I should have started physiotherapy for my back in weeks 1 or 2. Lying on my back for weeks quickly took its toll, and by the time I began back treatment, the damage was already done.

!	Message from: Fabian
	If you have any questions about the injury, the rehabilitation, Complex Regional Pain Syndrom (CRPS), or anything else, you are free to ask or discuss them here. =)