Why Breaking Your Ankle on Purpose is a Risky and Dumb Idea

Imagine breaking your ankle intentionally just to avoid something you don't want to do. It might sound like a tempting way out, but it's foolish, dangerous, and has numerous potential health risks. In this article, we will explore the reasons why this is a terrible idea and why you should reconsider your plans.

Risk and Consequences of Intentional Injury

Breaking your ankle intentionally is not something you should do if you value your health and safety. The potential risks are significant and can lead to life-altering consequences.

For starters, it's highly unlikely that the outcome will go as intended. Intentional injuries often come with unpredictable and severe side effects. In some cases, it could result in the loss of the affected foot, or even death. In other cases, the injury might cause long-term pain, disability, and suffering. The risks are simply too high for a temporary or perceived benefit.

Examples and Historical Precedent

Historically, this practice has been observed and documented. For instance, during times of conflict and war, some individuals have resorted to self-harm to avoid being targeted. During the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, some Russian males attempted to break their own ankles to avoid becoming targets. Is it really worth it to put yourself in such danger to avoid something you don't want to do? Are you at risk of being shot, blown up, or vaporized? While the idea of escaping harm is appealing, the risks are not worth the potential consequences.

Based on personal experiences, breaking an ankle can have irreversible effects. In one instance, an individual broke their ankle 42 years ago. Since then, they have experienced chronic pain every day. The pain tolerance might be high, but the long-term discomfort can be unbearable.

Health Risks and Future Concerns

Intentionally breaking your ankle involves a host of potential health risks. Here are a few of the most concerning:

Risks of Complications

Bleeding Out: A sharp edge of the bone can pierce an artery, leading to rapid blood loss. While waiting for an ambulance, you may bleed to death. This is a severe and life-threatening complication. Compund Fracture: Other scenarios might involve a sharp bone edge puncturing a muscle and protruding through the skin. This would necessitate a trip to the emergency room and surgery. Such an injury would result in significant costs, both financially and emotionally. Nerve and Tendon Damage: Broken bones can injure nerves, tendons, and ligaments, which can take a very long time to heal, if at all. Even a minor break can be debilitating.

Future Impact

The impact of a broken ankle can extend well beyond your current age. As you grow older, the consequences might become even more pronounced. You may find yourself needing a cane to walk comfortably, especially if you break a joint as you get older. The pain and discomfort can be immense, and the image of your arthritic and deformed ankle might haunt you for years to come. Imagine having to use a cane to reach your favorite chair and contemplating the sacrifices you made.

Conclusion: Consider the Realities and Rethink Your Plan

Instead of breaking your ankle intentionally, consider the consequences and think through your challenges. Many unpleasant tasks and situations can be endured, but the price of an intentional injury can be too high. Rethink the strategies you use to avoid difficult tasks and come up with safer and more effective alternatives. In the long run, doing what you are assigned to do and accepting the resulting punishment can be a better approach. Remember, there are always consequences to our actions, and they can be severe.

As someone with over a dozen broken bones myself, including several that required surgery, I can tell you from personal experience that there are no good broken bones, especially those that involve weight-bearing joints. Take a step back, reassess your situation, and consider alternative solutions. In the end, you will regret your decision to break your ankle on purpose and wish you had faced the challenge head-on.