Russian skier says she has no feeling below navel

(SportsNetwork.com) - A Russian freestyle skier who suffered a broken back at the Sochi Olympics says she has no feeling below her navel.

Maria Komissarova was injured Feb. 15 in a training crash as she prepared for the women's skicross event and underwent a 6 1/2-hour procedure after doctors discovered a fracture and dislocation of her T12 vertebra.

Komissarova said on her Instagram account Wednesday, "I do not feel the body below the navel. But I'm strong and I know that someday I just stand on legs!"

During the operation, which took place after Komissarova, 23, was rushed from the venue to a hospital built for the Olympics, doctors fitted her with a metal implant.

Komissarova was visited in the hospital by Russian President Vladimir Putin.