Patient Stories: Rehabilitation

Memorial Hermann|TIRR

Bobbie: Crushed Leg
After a severe injury to his leg, Bobbie is enjoying life and traveling again

Bobbie, of Temple, Texas, was part of a city crew clearing a right of way in his hometown of Temple when a large piece of newly cut tree rolled to the bottom of the 25-foot embankment where he was working. His left leg was pinned and severely broken in three places, and the main artery in his leg was severed. Bobbie was transferred to Houston for surgery and his leg was rebuilt using steel bolts, rods, plastic and plates.

Transferred to TIRR for rehabilitation, Bobbie, 46, began a comprehensive program of physical therapy and occupational therapy involving strengthening and endurance-building activities, as well as those that would enable him to function independently. The medical complications as a result of the crush injury were extremely complex.

Guided by TIRR’s highly skilled interdisciplinary team, Bobbie was able to receive treatment for a deep vein thrombosis and an open wound while undergoing the rehabilitation process. Soon, Bobbie became ambulatory, learning how to move from his bed to a wheelchair and later to a walker.

TIRR staff instructed Bobbie and his wife on how to manage his exercise program and nursing needs at home and they provided guidance for adjusting to his disability and in making their home accessible while he was using a wheelchair or walker.

Just four months after the accident, Bobbie and his wife took a week’s vacation to California, affirming their determination to continue to enjoy life.