The premier remains in intensive care after being transferred to The Alfred Hospital trauma centre overnight.
He is being treated for broken ribs and spinal damage after falling on wet stairs at a holiday home on the Mornington Peninsula yesterday morning.
He is expected to remain in hospital for at least a few days and may require surgery, with no indication as to when he will return to work.
Orthopedic Spine Surgeon John Cunningham said the kind of fracture the premier has suffered can be painful.
“It can cause pain, it can cause immobility and I would expect the pain to last if not three, maybe six months,” Dr Cunningham said.
“These fractures can be really common and often caused by minor trauma, but the pain from them can persist for quite some time.
“Fortunately they don’t all end up in paraplegia.”
Dr Cunningham said he expected Mr Andrews to be limited in his movement for some time.
“I would expect him to find it uncomfortable for him to stand for long periods for at least another six weeks, he might be able to get back to his desk quite quickly though.”
“A CT scan has revealed several broken ribs and vertebrae damage, and subsequent medical advice has recommended I remain in intensive care for the next few days,” Mr Andrews said in a statement.
“Cath, the kids and I are extremely grateful to the Ambulance Victoria paramedics who showed such care and kindness to our family this morning, as we are to the clinicians who have taken care of me today.
“Our warm and sincere thanks go to the many family members, friends, colleagues and Victorians who have sent messages of love and support throughout the day.”
The premier has been overwhelmed with messages of support, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison among those to send him a get well text message.
“I haven’t heard back from Dan but I imagine he’s been a bit busy, but I wish him all the best I hope he’s very well,” Mr Morrison said today.
“You know Dan and I get along very well.”
Victorian Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien wished the premier a “speedy recovery” on Twitter, adding he hoped the premier’s injuries were “not serious”.
Health Minister Martin Foley said everyone had “accidents at home”.
“We wish the premier a speedy recovery and I’m sure it’s not that serious,” Mr Foley said.
Deputy Premier James Merlino will serve as acting premier while Mr Andrews recovers.
Mr Merlino yesterday said the premier was “fine” and undergoing X-rays.
“No head injuries, he’s fine and he will be back on his feet shortly.”
Mr Andrews asked for his privacy to be respected.
He will provide an update on his injuries later this week.
This content first appear on 9news