I had an accident when I was 18, and sprained my right ankle badly. It has been progressively getting worse over the years. I am 66 now, and my ankle is swollen all the time and I have a lot of pain. I am scheduled for subtalar fusion on September 7th. I have heard a lot of negative feed back on the surgery. Has anyone my age had a good outcome? Is it worth being on crutches for 3 months? Do the screws they put in always have to be taken out eventually?

i broke my ankle...from tibia fibula right to the ankle bone at age 19...i'm 56...so perhaps similar surgery? i also am wondering about recovery...i know i'm in bed for 8 weeks...surgery on the 29th of august....i'll keep you informed...i have NO swelling now..but have had pain for quite some time..maybe 10 years...the last three awful...they say bone rubbing against bone. pain meds do nothing. :(

Hi there...

Surgical screws are not always removed, it all depends on many factors... some people have to have them removed because they cause pain (the head of the screw is not always flush with the bone and can 'pinch' or rub surrounding tissue) while others have no problem and keep those screws exactly where they are. If the screws do have to be removed it is a small proceedure and will not effect the outcome of your fusion in the least.

Also, while you see alot of 'horror' stories in the threads about proceedures gone wrong, there are just as many if not more with wonderful outcomes... the difference... those with the bad outcomes (myself included) tend to be much more vocal about it and are online often, where those with a great outcome usually post a time or two after their recovery then move on with their lives.

Being in your 50's does not mean that you will have bad outcomes... chances are very strong that the two of you will be a couple of the ones with wonderful outcomes who will post a few times after it is all over then be out golfing and dancing and enjoying life too much to spend much time posting anymore.

For right now, just relax as best you can, take long bubble baths and pamper yourselves. Stock up the freezer with foods that are easy to prepare for when you are getting better and take the time that you will be 'out of action' to do the things that a busy life never let you do. Paint... sketch... knit... read those books that have been waiting for the time and you will find that the time will pass quickly.

Good luck and please let us know how things go.

thank you so much!!!!! i will try to keep what you said in my mind rather than the fear i've been having! much appreciated!

I am 46 and just had a fusion due to arthritis. I can tell you that I am not experiencing the pain I had prior to surgery.!

that is encouraging. i'm doing it come he!! or high water, just concerned that pain could be worse afterwards. i don't have any swelling now...never have...just bone rubbing against bone.

Walkabout

I am happy for you that you aren't having the pain due to arthritis since your fusion. Take care.

Music47 :)

i haven't gotthe rating right...it's been very great. good

i broke my ankle...from tibia fibula right to the ankle bone at age 19...i'm 56...so perhaps similar surgery? i also am wondering about recovery...i know i'm in bed for 8 weeks...surgery on the 29th of august....i'll keep you informed...i have NO swelling now..but have had pain for quite some time..maybe 10 years...the last three awful...they say bone rubbing against bone. pain meds do nothing. :(

It sounds like we do have a similar problem. My surgery is coming up and I'm getting more nervous, as I read the messages on the board. I have arthritis in my thumbs and hope I will be able to get around on crutches all right. I got a lot of things to keep me busy, while off my feet. Thanks for answering.

It's been seven days since my subtalar fusion. The pain is not bad now, but I'm having a hard time hopping around on one foot with a walker. The soft cast is very heavy to hop around keeping it up. I go Monday for a new cast and I hope it weighs less.

oh yes, carol...your cast will be quite a bit lighter than your brace from surgery!

my doc wants me staying in bed, or keeping my ankle above my heart and not trying to get around other than to the bathroom. let me know how you are doing with your new cast.

i could pick colors...so i got a yellow cast. my grandaughter will love it!

good luck. p

Carol,
The casts are made of fiberglass, so definitely are lighter weight. You might want to ask about a cast cover for bathing purposes when you're in. My clinic had one and my insurance ended up paying for it ($15)...was called an Aquashield and worked wonderfully. Also, another thing you might consider is getting a Roll-A-Bout or Turning Leg Caddy knee scooter. It has a pad for your knee and shin and you propel it with your good foot/leg. It makes life a lot easier than hopping on one leg or having to use crutches--less stress on the body. I used one for 3 months and it helped keep me more independent (ie, I could go to Target and carry a basket, haul my work laptop and binder around with a rolling backpack...). One hand is free, sometimes two. So, just a thought. Good luck to you as you move forward!
Krista

Sunny77,
Thanks for the good news. I was feeling a little depressed, thinking about dragging this heavy thing around. My back and stomach are sore already. I am getting a shower cover, after I get the new cast Monday. That scooter thing sounds like something I could use too. Thanks for the info.....:)

HOOTYHOO,
You can get the new cast in colors? I have 8 grandchildren that would like to sign that. I'm so glad to hear it will be lighter.....Thanks Carol41

yes, carol...i didn't know about it til i had my cast put on last tuesday! i chose yellow, but there is pink, red, purple (very pretty) blue, orange, just to name a few. i think my grandaughter will pick purple next time...haaa.

we have to get our kicks in where we can, don't we! haaa:jester:

good luck and let me know what color you choose! p

I have been reading alot of posts about sub-talar fusion. I was told by my podiatrist that I need this surgery. I am almost 53 and can barely walk. My right ankle is so painful. I am getting a second opinion Friday by an ortho surgeon who specializes in foot/ankle surgery. Then I will make a decision.

I agree that many posts are frightening, but tend to agree, that those who post have the most problems. I also feel I have no choice but to do the surgery if I want my life back. I hope to read more positive posts about this surtery.

I had pink and purple stripes for one of my casts, very cute

wow...sounds like you had a creative caster. !!!

mine has gotten so big. i stay off it, keep it elevated...(husband makes me do it) and so the swelling goes down considerably. i only had it put on this past tuesday...but i'm calling them on monday because i can move my foot/leg in every direction.

however, by the time i get to the docs,,it will probably reswell!! oh well:confused:

Carol,
The casts are made of fiberglass, so definitely are lighter weight. You might want to ask about a cast cover for bathing purposes when you're in. My clinic had one and my insurance ended up paying for it ($15)...was called an Aquashield and worked wonderfully. Also, another thing you might consider is getting a Roll-A-Bout or Turning Leg Caddy knee scooter. It has a pad for your knee and shin and you propel it with your good foot/leg. It makes life a lot easier than hopping on one leg or having to use crutches--less stress on the body. I used one for 3 months and it helped keep me more independent (ie, I could go to Target and carry a basket, haul my work laptop and binder around with a rolling backpack...). One hand is free, sometimes two. So, just a thought. Good luck to you as you move forward!
Krista

Where do you get the rollabouts or caddies? Thanks in advance, Laura

I have been reading alot of posts about sub-talar fusion. I was told by my podiatrist that I need this surgery. I am almost 53 and can barely walk. My right ankle is so painful. I am getting a second opinion Friday by an ortho surgeon who specializes in foot/ankle surgery. Then I will make a decision.

I agree that many posts are frightening, but tend to agree, that those who post have the most problems. I also feel I have no choice but to do the surgery if I want my life back. I hope to read more positive posts about this surtery.


my surgery was to fuse my ankle..from tibia thru talus,,but my ankle bone is porous,,,so they had to put extra screws into my heel bone. so...in my case, it hasn't worked out as expected.. .but as far as having the surgery... you will know when it is time,,,as i did. i was in pain for quite sometime, and intensely affecting my lifestyle for the past three. i am only 56, which they thought was young to have the proceedure...but if it works,,,and i pray it does,,,i'll be pain free in a year...

that sounds like a good thing to me...

my surgery was to fuse my ankle..from tibia thru talus,,but my ankle bone is porous,,,so they had to put extra screws into my heel bone. so...in my case, it hasn't worked out as expected..:( .but as far as having the surgery... you will know when it is time,,,as i did. i was in pain for quite sometime, and intensely affecting my lifestyle for the past three. i am only 56, which they thought was young to have the proceedure...but if it works,,,and i pray it does,,,i'll be pain free in a year...

that sounds like a good thing to me...:angel:

oops..duplicate,,sorry

your doc will have the information for them. he or she will write a script and order it. it should only take a few days to get it.

also, you can search online the name of the scooter, and it should come up. my doc would write a script for it, but he didn't want me to use it. he wants me in bed for two plus months,,,no cooking, only bed/bath...not fun...but i've made it thru two and a half weeks...

i also used an ortho surgeon. good luck! p

Are you managing ok, by being in bed? Do you use crutches to go to the bathroom? Also, do you have stairs in your house? Pain free sounds wonderful to me!

Are you managing ok, by being in bed? Do you use crutches to go to the bathroom? Also, do you have stairs in your house? Pain free sounds wonderful to me!


Not pain free yet,,but someday! I have to get a new cast tomorrow because the swelling has gone down so much. (and it's loose) I use a walker,,,my condo is not very big, and I'm staying on the first floor...so that works ok. no stairs in use! But when I tried crutches or walker in the hospital, i found the walker easier to get around, the little i was planning to get around.

Being in bed hurts my back sometimes...and gets boring...(i know every tv show on these days!) haa...take care, let me know how you are doing...p

any updates on this board? how is everyone doing with second opinions or getting around etc? i'm still in bed. but with snugger cast, it doesn't hurt as bad...just kind of fuzzy and a PIA. thats all.

It's been three weeks since my subtalar fusion, and I'm doing very well. The pain left after two weeks. I'm hopping around on crutches, which is a pain, but better than hopping with a walker. So far so good.Sorry it came up twice..................

:) It's been three weeks since my subtalar fusion, and I'm doing very well. The pain left after two weeks. I'm hopping around on crutches, which is a pain, but better than hopping with a walker. So far so good.

wow...i'm glad you are doing better. I am one month out from my fusion with issues...still in some pain...still in bed or on the couch. get a new cast on tuesday. can't wait because a snugger cast feels better. i'm 56, and i found the crutches to be not as easy as the walker...tho i don't know now..i just couldn't get myself pulled up with them! haaa:jester:

glad you are doing better....how long are you casted? p

When was your surgery? It must really be hard to stay in bed, and boring. I'm depressed, and I'm getting around with crutches. Hang in there. I'm 66, and the crutches are really building my shoulders up. The walker was tooslow and jarring on the body.

hi again....i get alot of computer work done in bed or on the couch! i had my surgery on august 29th..i had my ankle fused,,,but turned out the ankle bone was porous (yikes) and they had to put extra screws in thru the ankle into my heel. If all had gone as planned I'd be out of this cast and walking on my own on October 25...but that probably won't happen due to the complication of osteoporsis. no x ray was taken prior to my surgery for a year,,,so surgeon wasn't aware of it. had i known...i think i would have tried to suck the pain up,,,and build up the bone with osteoporosis treatments. (which now i can't do til this is completely healed)

even using my walker i feel like i'm building up my arms. plus i'm doing upper body weights every other day and some stretches. also on nutrasystem,,,so have lost a little weight too...(yippie)..

yes..i'm bored...reading..tv, knitting..doing xmas cards..spreading...:D

glad you are better than me. p

any updates on this board? how is everyone doing with second opinions or getting around etc? i'm still in bed. but with snugger cast, it doesn't hurt as bad...just kind of fuzzy and a PIA. thats all.
I had a second opinion about having a subtalar fusion. The first doc was a podiatrist. The second an ortho surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle. There is a good bit of arthritis in my subtalar joint. However, my pain comes when I push my toes down and it hurts in the back of my ankle near my achilles. I have an os trigronum, an extra bone in the back of my ankle. The ortho surgeon gave me two options. Option #1 was to release the FHL tendon (that goes from the big toe up to the achilles) take out the extra bone and clean out the joint. Option #2 was all of the above PLUS the ankle fusion. I decided on going for option #1 with the understanding that I may need the fusion down the line. Recovery from option 1 is much shorter and easier. I don't have pain when I rotate my ankle side to side. For those of you with subtalar fusions, where was your pain?
Thanks, Laura

hi...i was the ankle fusion...and quite frankly..it seems to be going on forever...but just another month..and if the extra screws he put into my heal have healed...(my ankle itself was porous,,so he had to put extra screws into my heal)...

anyway...crossing my fingers on my recovery....and hoping all goes well for you!!! p:angel:

I am 46 and just had a fusion due to arthritis. I can tell you that I am not experiencing the pain I had prior to surgery.!

Hi i see you have hada fusion was your ankle very swollen with fluid at the side and was your walking very limited,as i am sceduled for surgery 29th october and am very frightened as i canm wear shoes with a small heel and my walkings fine but flat shoes i walk with a limp,i am seeking a second opinion this week,iv had rheumtaoid arthritis for 11 years im just 50 and they are very weary about operating so young.As my mobility is bad.What are your thoughts now after the operation,they may deceide a fusion at the last minute.

this was a repeated message

I'm glad I had the fusion. I didn't have much side to side motion anyway. I had pain for two weeks and now no pain. It's been four weeks and a few days since my surgery. On the 12 of October, I should get the cast off and get a boot. I had a lot of pain and swelling all the time before the surgery. The Dr. says I will be able to walk and exercise without the pain and swelling. There will be no side to side motion, but you can still walk without that. I'm older than you 66. I'm getting around on crutches well. I sit when I'm tired. So far so good. I would do it again in a minute.

I'm glad I had the fusion. I didn't have much side to side motion anyway. I had pain for two weeks and now no pain. It's been four weeks and a few days since my surgery. On the 12 of October, I should get the cast off and get a boot. I had a lot of pain and swelling all the time before the surgery. The Dr. says I will be able to walk and exercise without the pain and swelling. There will be no side to side motion, but you can still walk without that. I'm older than you 66. I'm getting around on crutches well. I sit when I'm tired. So far so good. I would do it again in a minute.
Carol, where was your pain located?

Wow, Carol,,,I still can't get over how lucky you are! I am finally mostly pain free, and I have three more weeks to go in hopes to have my cast removed and that big boot put on. I may be casted again for another month...due to the osteoporosis.

Sounds like yours was the way the surgery is supposed to go. I'm getting around ok,,,no swelling when the cast is changed,,,my scars look good,,,he says...yuckky to me..

but i never had any swelling prior to my surgery...at all. just pain. so i hope it's all gone after walking gets started. ;)

Hi i see you have hada fusion was your ankle very swollen with fluid at the side and was your walking very limited,as i am sceduled for surgery 29th october and am very frightened as i canm wear shoes with a small heel and my walkings fine but flat shoes i walk with a limp,i am seeking a second opinion this week,iv had rheumtaoid arthritis for 11 years im just 50 and they are very weary about operating so young.As my mobility is bad.What are your thoughts now after the operation,they may deceide a fusion at the last minute.

I hope it works out for you. Many people on this site have been fused and have had no problems. I had a porous ankle,,unbeknownst to my surgeon til he opened up my ankle.
when they first determined that my only option was surgery,,,i was 53 wore a boot for three years til i finally decided on the surgery. They said I was too young for it as well. But I think I should have done it back then regardless, cause I wouldn't be in pain! I had my surgery on August 29,,,and hopefully cast removal,,,and i'll have a boot after that.

My pain was in the right ankle mostly Energy mom

Hootyhoo, I wish you good luck and hope you walk pain free. It is such a long process, but hopefully we'll be better for doing it. Carol

I wish you Carol and Hooty, the best with your ankles. I have had my ankle fused almost 6 months ago in April and I am still in continuous pain. Mostly my heel and facia muscle. My foot is pretty swollen. I get frustrated at times, because I feel that maybe I traded 1 pain (arthritis) for other pain along with less mobility. I have had to add a little bit more sole on my right shoe, because my leg legnth is a little bit different after surgery.

I am 46 years old and I am very active. I am trying to go on with life and am trying to start back to work. My work is at a coffee shop, so I am on my feet the whole time, but I am trying out only 3 1/2 hours a day.

Is there anyone out there that is just plain ole not feeling any pain or swelling and leading a productive life such as working on their feet? The Doc told me that the swelling could take a year! I try not to take anything for pain(which in my case would be Ibroprofin 800) because it really don't seem to help much anyway. I guess I would just like to know...Is there really a light at the end of the tunnel? Will there ever be a time to enjoy the fusion as it is to be PAIN FREE? After all, this is what we all signed up for, right?

Any comments would be greatly appreciated!

Hooty, I know your at your early stage with a little set back. Please don't let my results discourage you. Everyone is different.

Thanks Carol and Walkabout. We are all different. I'm so sorry for you, WABout...because it's going on and on and on.. Did the docs say your pain would go away? 46 is so young! What will they do for you next? pain meds is not the answer, I'm sure. I never had any swelling prior to my surgery. my diagnosis needing fusion was traumatic arthritis from when i broke my ankle 35plus years ago. but i put it off as long as i could! it began to hurt way out of control and really took over my lifestyle,,which has always been very active..

And Carol...again...you are whooping thru this so fast...your surgery was after mine...you were given so much more leway that I was...as far as mobility. I still can't do much of anything...bed, bath, couch. And....I haven't had a shower in a month and a half..because he said that nothing would keep the cast dry...and would cause infections on the healing sites under the cast.

But...the good news for me, is October 25 is around the corner pretty much...so I'll be onto the 'next' page of my journal! thanks all for the good wishes. p;)

HootyHoo...I can take a shower twice a week. My husband puts a garbage bag around the cast and up the leg and puts masquing tape all around it. I sit in a chair in the shower and my cast never gets wet. I feel sorry that your doctor told you that. If you have someone to help you, try it. Tomorrow I go to the doctor and hopefully he will take the cast off and put me in a boot. I'll still be on crutches, but it will be nice togo to bed without the cast.Best of luck to you....Carol:)

You lucky dog!!!! My son had all sorts of health problems, and had a fistula for dialysis put in his chest. I read in some women's magazine that you could put 'press and seal' over it, and no water would leak in. He showered every day after that!!

so i know it can be done. how long will you still need crutches?

That is just until you relearn to walk,,right? I'm very jealous!!! p

HootyHoo..The doctor said I would have a boot and crutches for about 6 weeks after the cast comes off. I will be able to put a little weight on it. After that he said I would get some therapy.
I just had another shower, with garbage bag and no wet cast. It works very well, and makes you feel sooooo goooood. Carol:)

haaaaaaaaaaa,,,you are a brat!!!:D

When I had my cast on, I used a garbage bag too! Just be careful because even the smallest pin hole could spring a leak. I know, it happened to me :( . I ended in the Emergency (cause it was a weekend) to get the cast off. Fortunately for me :) I was able to keep the cast off because I only had another week to go before I got the boot. Maybe you could double up on the bags. I know it's a pain the *&^*, but it's worth it.

Best to you both!!

Well...I've been a month and a half now without a shower...so why start now!!:o

Two weeks and I hope and pray my cast comes off. wallkabout...were you able to walk in the boot or did you need crutches still? I think they want me off crutches asap...or I hope!

Well...I've been a month and a half now without a shower...so why start now!!:o

Two weeks and I hope and pray my cast comes off. wallkabout...were you able to walk in the boot or did you need crutches still? I think they want me off crutches asap...or I hope!


I was able to put 1/2 my weight with the boot for 2 weeks, then full weight after that. I never used crutches, I used a scooter that my knee would bend on and my foot would be elevated. Maybe you could ask your DOC about getting one. They are great for going to the store or even in the house. I was able to have my hands free to be able to finally make my family a meal or do laundry etc... I felt productive again :) .

When it was shower time, I was able to take my boot off and sit on a shower chair. I was also able to take my boot off at night in bed. It takes some getting used to considering your foot and leg has been so confined for so long. It seemed like the covers gave me a little pressure on my ankle and so I just made sure I took my meds.

I'm routin for you!!! I can just hear the shower calling out your name...
Hootyhoo!!! Hootyhoo!!!:D

:D I know it's calling me...that's for sure...(or 'showure') You know, it's funny...I was so bummed when I found out about my osteoporosis in all places but my ankle for goodness sake...and now I'm laughing every day!!!

I think I was meant to learn a little 'patience' during this time...I definately have done that! But as far as cooking goes,,,I don't think I've eaten at home this much in 10 years! My kitchen has all been rearranged to my husband's liking. That will change, no doubt!

Those little roller walkers are pretty neat. The doc said I could get one,,not a problem...but he still did NOT want me out at all..or even in the kitchen and I didn't even have to PAY him to say that! :jester:

Patience is the name of the game. I got my cast off yesterday, at 5 weeks, but he put me in a high boot to wear when I'm up and around. I can take it off when I shower or lay in bed or couch. The first thing I did was wash the leg with the 1/4 inch hair growing on it and quickly shaved the leg. I slept well last night, without all that weight on my leg. I still have another week with no weight on it. I can begin to but 20% weight on it after that. I start therapy on the 22nd of Oct.
I don'tgo back to the doctor til Nov. 16th. It's sill a little swollen and sore, but no real pain like before yet. Go for that shower Hooty....Good luck:)

happy for you, carol! nope...not going to do the shower...not til after all is said and done. i've gone this way and some gals came over last week..and only one asked if i can shower....so...guess i don't stink that much!!!

shaving will be about my first priority too. less than two weeks...whooohoooo....p

Hootyhoo, Good thing we have the computer to talk to others in the same boat. It's such a long time to be layed up. I think it's hard on the husbands,doing all the things their not used to doing. My husband hates laundry. I went downstairs on my butt, and did it myself today. He's a little overwhelmed. Is your husband a good cook? Mine gets take out a lot. Hope the time flies by for you......:)

My husband was terrific for the first month. But it's gone down hill rapidly since then. He has to go to Detroit overnight last week. I hobbled in and did laundry too. It is all on one floor here. But he dries clothes that should be hung...He does bring everything to me to fold tho...

As far as food, he has NEVER cooked other than to grille salmon outdoors, so this is pretty interesting. Of course, it helps that I joined nutrasystem prior to surgery to make it easier for him..plus I've lost 10lbs...

but yesterday he took me out to a little grille room for lunch and a 'driving miss daisy' foliage tour!

I can't wait til this comes off. Not sure what will all take place with it,,but I have my fingers crossed!

I enjoy hearing from you and a few others on this board. peg;)

HootyHoo, My husband layed all the clothes I ironed while in the basement on the bed after he brought them up, and they got wrinkled again. So much for them helping. You really can't compain too much since there's no one else to do it. My husband has been a lot better than I thought he would be. Every so often he has a melt down, but gets over it quickly.
At least I know I can count on him, if I need him.
My daughter takes me out shopping. She goes in the store and comes out with one of those riding carts and gets me in. That really helps me, when I'm down. She is a gem. Hope the time flies for you and you'll be out of that cast soon..:)

my husband draws the line on taking me to the grocery store..and my daughter n law is MIA...tho she promised me she would be around to help. oh well. a week from today is supposed to be the day the cast is removed and i walk.

of course,,,that most likely won't happen,,,maybe a new cast...maybe the walking boot like you have...and my walker for a couple of weeks? i'm getting anxious and not looking forward to the pain i should expect.

what about you, carol? you are probably putting some weight on your ankle..how does it feel so far? (walking)

i am anxious to drive too! peg

Peg, I can start to put weight on it a little bit tomorrow. Now I walk with the boot and just put it down with no weight. When I take the boot off to go to bed or rest on the couch, I put it down without the boot, it feels funny where the screws are, but no pain. I'm kind if worried to put any weight on it. It is still a little swollen. I can walk steadier with the boot cause I rest it down when I walk. I will let you know how it feels after tomorrow.
It's too bad someone can't take you out shopping. It makes the time go by and makes you feel good. Maybe you could ask your daughter-in-law, if she could take you.
I don't think they'll give you another cast. The boot is probably next, and you can sleep with nothing on it. Talk soon....Carol:)

penybobeny, I feel much better about the screws now. It's been a little over six weeks from surgery, and I start therapy tomorrow. When I put the bare foot down, I can feel the screws. It doesn't hurt, but feels funny. If they have to come out eventually, how long is the recovery from that? Will try to think positively about it. Thanks for the uplifting message.

I thought I would report some good news for a change. At eight weeks I started walking with the boot with full weight on it and no crutch. This past Tuesday I can walk with sock feet and no crutch. The foot is still swollen, but I got a little bigger tennis shoe and I can walk with tennis shoes on. The pain is gone. It just aches a little, when I've been on it too long. If I had it to do all over again I would get the fusion.:):)

whoohoo...congratulations carol!!! i couldn't find our area on the message board to contact..i have been wondering how you are doing. i had my cast removed on the 25th of october..and they put me in the aircast like yours and said...walk on! which i have...i go back november 29th,,,to xray and schedule surgery to remove the extra pins. my doc was pleased at how i've healed....who knows tho really. but he said xrays looked good.

i'm not on crutches..walker,,anything...so all seems good. we took a quick vacation to AZ for a couple of weeks...no golf til february...he sez.

i'm glad you are doing well...i have finally SHOWERED!!!!!:D and seem to be ok there..tho still sort of frightened in the shower that i may slip. so far so good.

keep intouch my friend. you have helped me alot. p

Congratulations Hootyhoo and Carol! It has been 6 months since my fusion surgery and I go see the Doc tomorrow. I just started back to work 2-3 days a week for 4 hours each day. I work at a floral shop and I am on my feet the whole time. My ankle still swells a bit and my heel seems to have some pain, but overall I am upright. I must say that I find that other parts of my body is trying to compinsate for the fusion and I can get sore from muscle ache.

My best to the both of you!:)

those muscles will build up. i keep telling myself that, because i want to be able to wear a skirt once in awhile!! six months,,,that's what they say for ankle fusion...that's when it starts really getting pain free. i sure hope that's the case. this aircast is huge...i walk like i have a ski boot on one leg only...:jester:

glad you are back to work...and hope your doc appointment went well. p

Carol,
Good to see you are back at work and getting some real progress!! I'm sure it won't take long for you to get back to work and life full time from here! Isn't it great to be pain free!

All the best
Kira
P.S. my replacement is going really well too, cycling from Bangkok to Phnom Penh at christmas with friends (but there is a support car so I'll just do whatever I can do and not push it at all) but still very excited

wow...even if i didn't have my fusion on my ankle,,,i don't think i could bike for that long!!! you go girl!

carol...how are you getting on walking? all going well? how about the pins...still irritating you? p

HootHoo, When you take a shower, put a washcloth down and put your foot on it. It keeps me from slipping in the shower. Thanks for responding, I didn't hear how you were doing and am glad to hear you're going well.
I even got in the bath tub, and that was great.
I go to therapy three times a week, and I walk around there with tennis shoes, but at home I walk with small steps in sock feet. The boot is worn, when I leave the house. My doctor appointment is this Friday the 16th, so I hope he'll say no more boot. It will be ten weeks that day. The pain is gone, just a little achy, when I'm on it too much.
The screws don't bother me. The heel must be healing. I really am glad I did it. I am retired, but am quite active, so I'm very happy. We can travel and I'll be able to walk.....Thanks for all of the messages.......Carol

Walkabout,
Being on your feet will probably cause your foot to swell, but in time it will get better. Thanks for your good wishes. Im retired, so don't have to be on my foot as much. It's hard when you have to be on your feet at work. Best of luck to you.....Carol

good luck to you. keep me posted. my doc appointment to xray and remove some pins is november 29th. enjoy the holidays. and keep traveling!!!

I saw a leading London orthopedic surgeon on Friday who was highly recommended by my doctor as being the best in the business. I had already had a failed cortisone injection on my left foot which has arthritis in the subtalar joint. He told me I should have the subtalar fused, remove a small loose bone and lengthen the achilles tendon. He said that I would need three weeks in a cast followed by five weeks in a boot. Reading people's accounts, they seem to have spent far longer in casts than this, so I'm a little confused.

this is pretty much my routine from my ankle fusion...which i assume is the same as a subtalar fusion..tho not sure, really.

You need to elevate your foot above your left shoulder constantly for the first 72 hours and then frequently the first 10-14 days.
The bone graft site will be tender and sore for 2-3 weeks, this area may bleed and bruise; this is normal. Massaging this will help with sensitivity.
You will be in a splint for the first two weeks following surgery. You are then seen in the clinic for x-rays and suture removal. At that time you are placed in a non-weight bearing cast until your next appointment, eight weeks from surgery. At that time x-rays are repeated and a walking cast is applied.
You will be non-weight bearing for the first eight weeks following surgery and then weeks 9-12 you are allowed to increase 25% of your weight per week so that at week 12 you are allowed full weight bearing as pain allows. So you will need to obtain crutches or a rollabout prior to surgery. A list of suppliers is attached.
In order to minimize pain after surgery, we generally use regional anesthesia, called a popliteal block, you will have no pain for 6-18 hours after surgery. During this time your foot and ankle will be numb and will not support you. In addition, it is important that you begin your pain medication before this block wears off so as to get the medication in your system and working. Generally we recommend you start the pills the evening of surgery and then set your alarm clock to awake during the first night to take the pills to help control the pain. Then you may take them as needed for pain.


that is from another site...but i was inbed for two months,...bed to bath...new cast every two weeks...and now i am wearing an aircast walking boot...until the end of november...when it will be x rayed and schedule surgery to remove the pins. we'll see. he thinks i'll be able to walk out of the hospital after that...and hopefully painfree.

i am not pain free now...no more or less than prior to my surgery. good luck...

Walkabout,
Being on your feet will probably cause your foot to swell, but in time it will get better. Thanks for your good wishes. Im retired, so don't have to be on my foot as much. It's hard when you have to be on your feet at work. Best of luck to you.....Carol

Hi Carol!
I don't have to work, I choose to work. I can't sit still ;). Besides, a girl has to have a little pocket money now and then :D. I even have an option at my job to either sit at a desk and answer phones or work out in retail which is what I like to do. I feel that being more mobile with a little swelling is better than being stiff sitting in one place for a legnthy amount of time. I had enough laying around for a few months after surgery. I seen the Doc for my 6 month check up and he said that everything looked great. I told him that my heel had some pain to it and he advised me to stretch my toes toward me to pull the facia muscle at the arch of my foot. It feels really good when I do that. It looks as though I am done with future appointments unless I feel the need.

Glad to hear your doing good! Take care.

Walkabout, I can't sit still either. It is much better to keep mobile than to sit. I plan to go back to the health club, as soon as the doctor says it's O. K. I gained about 8 pounds while I've been sitting around with this foot. I've got to get rid of the weight. Sounds like you're recovering very well.....Take care of yourself.....Carol

I was informed I would be haveing this subtalar fusion surgery in Jan. I would like to know what is to be expeted. My Dr. told me this would be a 8 week project. I am 39 years old and I am a Mail Man. He said 2-3 days in the hospital and then I would come back about a week later and he would perform another surgery to clean out the old damage, couldn't do it all in one pop due to the fact of while clean out prior injury damage there would be to much swelling to close the skin.

The doctor told me it. would be 12 weeks 6 weeks no weight on crutches and 6 weeks with a little weight and crutches. It has been 11 weeks and I am driving and walking with tennis shoes. I can't fit into all my shoes yet, cause I have some swelling, but the swelling is going down day by day. I was six weeks with no weight, but at eight weeks I was putting weight with a boot. At 10 weeks I got to walk in tennis shoes with nothing else. I think I'm doing well and I have none of the bad pain I had before.
You really have to find someone that knows what their doing. It's a difficult surgery, and you have to find the best person to do the job. Good luck, whatever you decide to do. I'm not as young as you, 66, so you have youth on your side.

I was informed I would be haveing this subtalar fusion surgery in Jan. I would like to know what is to be expeted. My Dr. told me this would be a 8 week project. I am 39 years old and I am a Mail Man. He said 2-3 days in the hospital and then I would come back about a week later and he would perform another surgery to clean out the old damage, couldn't do it all in one pop due to the fact of while clean out prior injury damage there would be to much swelling to close the skin.

I would do alot of online research besides this message board. I found out alot of information that my doctor never told me until after the fact. I had my ankle fused 6 months ago and it really is a long process. I know that everyone is different. My surgery was due to arthritis. Is yours an injury?

It's really due to both. What other advise do you have and what resources did you find helpful. Who was your Dr. Do you live is the metro area?

It's really due to both. What other advise do you have and what resources did you find helpful. Who was your Dr. Do you live is the metro area?
Get another opinion. Get a good orthopedic doctor.

And mine was fused with complication of my ankle being porous,,,so he had to put in extra screws. I am walking with a boot, still have pain, mostly on the inside of my ankle, but see the surgeon on friday for an xray and when the screws can be removed. but i do have pain..it is not gone by a longshot..

so i don't know what else will take place. carol you are very lucky. and walkabout..mine was a break, but it was degenerative arthritis that caused bone rubbing bone..so i had my ankle fused..same as yours...i think.

and yes,,get a second opinion. it never hurts..but most docs are not surgery crazy, and won't do the surgery unless it is totally necessary, and they leave that pretty much up to you...as far as handling the pain, and all.

good luck

Mine was a bad sprain, not broken. They took bone from my knee and fused it between the two foot bones. My cut is on the outside of the ankle and I have two screws. Mine was so painful, because it was bone on bone, also.
I think you really have to shop around for the right surgeon.
Mine is getting better each day. If I'm on it for a long time, it aches, but the bad pain is gone.

It's really due to both. What other advise do you have and what resources did you find helpful. Who was your Dr. Do you live is the metro area?

I ca'nt give you a specific web site, but just type in "Ankle Fusion" and it will show you the detailed surgery along with Q & A's. I have 4 screws in my ankle and I do not get them removed. I don't feel them. I must tell you that your calf muscle will no longer be in use and you will lose that. Shoes are another thing to think about. Of course you are a male so, that probably won't be such of a concern. I have a rocker type sole that is installed by an Orthapedic shoe specialist. I just bring in my right shoe(fused ankle side) and it does cost about $30 to have it done. Fortunately I have a medical reimbursement bank to get the money back.
My Surgery was done in Grand Rapids by an Orthapedic specialist. I never had to stay in the Hospital. I went home the same day and a nurse came to my home every day to check on me. I had a moraphine drip for a couple of days for pain. I also recomend asking your doctor about a spinal tap pain med. I am so glad I did, because I was able to rest easier. I hope this information helps. Feel free to ask any questions.

My best to you!

I must not have known at my last post, but discovered this weekend,,,while feeling my ankle,,that at least one, possibly two of the screws are coming out!! I can actually feel them...yuuuuuuck....I do believe they are the extra screws he put in because of my porous talus,,,and he did say they would have to be removed....the originally planned three will stay in there,,just like yours walkabout.

i called today, and they said they wouldn't/or shouldn't pop thru the skin
before thrusday...and i should do whatever makes me comfortable and take pain meds...and they would schedule surgery asap,,,(after my appointment on friday)...she also indicated that it is a sign of my ankle healing. I hope to heck!!

now...this is probably for another board but the porous ankle is a dillema. Had bone density test done today,,,,results show very minimal osteopenia in hip,,and nothing in spine. hmmmm....she said if my ankle was porous like a sponge, it should have shown up more significantly since my last one.

I feel like a detective,,,searching for clues to whatever is the problem!!!:confused:

Hootyhoo, I know exactly what you mean by feeling that you are some sort of a detective. It seems as though Doctors are so vague. If you don't ask the questions, they are not offering answers or enough information. I hate that. This is your body and you have every right to know and be concerned. I'm sorry to hear about your screws. I actually had my hips replaced as well and years ago when I had it done, a screw was actually coming through my jeans YYYUUUKKKK! I know, I don't want to scare you, but it does happen. Lets just hope you can get this next proceedure done and you can work on getting this behind you. Best of luck and keep us posted :).

I had an ankle fusion 4 months ago - no pain in ankle at all now - just in the foot where the surgeon reconstructed the metatarsal to straighten the foot. (The fusion was for severe post traumatic arthritis - no cartilage - collapsed ankle etc - I had quite severe pain) I am still learning to walk properly. Physio therapist said no need to get arthritis in the foot bones if exercise those muscles well. Should be able to walk properly by 6 months - if I walk very slowly I can walk with very little limp. Need a small heal lift in my shoe. The foot is still painful but is improving every week. I'm working on strengthening my knees which are a little sore too. I'd say the operation was worth it - and should be able to walk properly in a few months - will keep you posted - I'm 57. I'd like to hear some success stories from this operation if anyone has any.

I had an ankle fusion 4 months ago - no pain in ankle at all now - just in the foot where the surgeon reconstructed the metatarsal to straighten the foot. (The fusion was for severe post traumatic arthritis - no cartilage - collapsed ankle etc - I had quite severe pain) I am still learning to walk properly. Physio therapist said no need to get arthritis in the foot bones if exercise those muscles well. Should be able to walk properly by 6 months - if I walk very slowly I can walk with very little limp. Need a small heal lift in my shoe. The foot is still painful but is improving every week. I'm working on strengthening my knees which are a little sore too. I'd say the operation was worth it - and should be able to walk properly in a few months - will keep you posted - I'm 57. I'd like to hear some success stories from this operation if anyone has any.

Good for you Amcee:)!! Excersise is very important because you may notice that other parts of your body will compinsate for the fusion. Do you take anything for the pain?

i'll have to let you know how successful my fusion is, amcee, maybe after thursday's doc appointment and x ray. we'll see. i'm mostly concerned about the osteoporosis of my ankle and how it will affect my other bones. the screws coming loose sure hurt tho..but the doc said to keep walking with my boot...so that i'm doing...glad you are doing well tho..*smile*

I didn't know your screws were loose. That has to be painful. Did you know 40% of all fusion patients get the screws out for one reason or another. The doctor says it doesn't effect the fusion. Once it's fused, they can take them out. Not easy to smile when you're in pain.

true as far as smiling goes...but if you recall that when he went to fuse my ankle, he discovered it was porous,,so he put in two extra screws,,,into my heel, and not sure where the other is. but he did tell me they would have to come out regardless...and the other three from the original fusing would only come out if they caused a problem. so i think these are the ones extra,,but really not sure. it hurts all the time...but i go on thursday for the x ray etc..and hopefully to schedule removing them...which i guess is easy to do,,,only a 20 minute surgery..(i hope)..

i try to ignore it most of the time. i only discovered the screws over thanksgiving weekend...when i called on monday about it,,,the ***'t said that it pretty much is a sign of healing. i hope again!! i'll keep intouch. p

Alright folks, i'm going in Jan. 10th for the operation, what should I expect. Will i be able to make my son's hockey pratice that sunday with the help of my wife? I have been trying to cram as much as possable with my kids just in case. Tell me the pro's and con's. Will I be able to head back to work for half days after 5 weeks. I am a supervisor for the postal service, and I will be able to go when and if I'm able. Give me something to look forward to. I have two surgerys scheduled, fusion and cleaning of the ankle, two different dates all with in two weeks. Any help?

so you arehaving your ankle fused? i had to stay in bed with cast bed to bathroom for two months. am now wearing an ankle boot,,aircast til the end of december...then hopefully will be able to walk on my own. my original surgery was august 29. they discoverd i had a porous ankle...and was like a sponge,,so the screws wouldn't work..and they had to add others. so that's why i am wearing this boot...and having the extra screws removed in a couple of weeks. i'm anxious and PRAY for no pain when it's all said and done.


based on what your surgeon says..do it. don't get up unless for bathroom... and unfortunately you may not be able to go out..but in the long run...it's worth it if you are pain free. good luck,,,keep intouch. p

Alright folks, i'm going in Jan. 10th for the operation, what should I expect. Will i be able to make my son's hockey pratice that sunday with the help of my wife? I have been trying to cram as much as possable with my kids just in case. Tell me the pro's and con's. Will I be able to head back to work for half days after 5 weeks. I am a supervisor for the postal service, and I will be able to go when and if I'm able. Give me something to look forward to. I have two surgerys scheduled, fusion and cleaning of the ankle, two different dates all with in two weeks. Any help?

I would'nt plan on whole lot of activity for a while. It's quite a process and takes time to go through different phases of healing. First a cast, then a boot, then PT. Months!!!

I would'nt plan on whole lot of activity for a while. It's quite a process and takes time to go through different phases of healing. First a cast, then a boot, then PT. Months!!!



that's for sure!!!!;)

Don't plan on that hockey practice. For at least the first two weeks, you need to have that foot elevated and iced. I am more than 4 weeks post-op and still "hear" the ankle telling me to put the ice on. I definitely elevate it more than 50% of the time. The first two weeks were almost totally spent in bed. My pain has been minimal; but I have been a very compliant patient and have a spouse and friends who have waited on my, hand and foot. You can't rush a fusion. I am hopeful that I'll move to a walking cast, with eggshell weight bearing, in two more weeks. Two weeks after that, it should be partial weight bearing. Finally, full weight bearing, two weeks thereafter.
Investigate a knee roller scooter or RollerAid - an alternative to crutches that will give you much more mobility and balance. Anyone who has tried one will tell you what a gift they are.
Best of luck. Set aside a few books you want to read, some good movies, etc. But, if your body lets you, sleep most of the time, with your "toes above your nose" and an ice pack (even on top of the cast).

The screws don't pain me, but I know their there. It's more annoying than hurtful. When I walk barefoot, it doesn't feel that good. My doctor says I can have them out, but I'll have to be in a boot and crutches for 3 weeks. I can put weight on, but another three weeks with crutches? I'll have to think about that...My doctor also did a hammer toe fix for me, at the same time I had the fusion. The toe is giving me more trouble, than the fusion. He actually fused the toe, and it won't bend at all. It is very stiff and it hurts to try to go up on my toes. I wonder if that's how they fix a hammer toe, or did he mess up.

I had Subtalar Fusion on Sept. 7th, and I'm doing well. All my shoes don't fit, especially the dress shoes. I mostly wear tennis shoes right now. The pain and swelling in the ankle is much better. The doctor says he can remove the screws in the heel, if I want, but I will have to use crutches for three weeks and a little weight on it. I'm just trying to figure out if I want to be on crutches for another three weeks. The screws don't really hurt, but I know their there.......

i go on thursday the 31st for hopefully my LAST xray and cut loose from my aircast. he could have cut me loose on dec 31st but felt better if i wore it for one more month. i am wearing a bone stimulator for 10 hours a day...(mostly) and while in arizona went to hyperbaric oxygen chamber 5 times. i had surgery to remove the screws in my heel, carol but he could only remove one..the other he put a washer on and put it back in. it will need to come out, he says.

not sure when that will be. my original three fusions screws will stay in there forever. again, i really haven't had any swelling the whole time...so i've been fortunate..but i was down way more than anyone else. (bed,,etc, etc..you know)

glad you are doing well. i've tried on shoes,,and i think they will fit..but sneakers will probably be my shoe of choice, no doubt, as they have been with my ankle brace, prior to the surgery for the past three years!

do you have any pain, carol? i am praying..but still don't really know yet. happy it is going to be over,,but also a bit apprehensive...p

Hi ladies!! It has been 9 months now for my ankle fusion and it takes time. I am doing alot of stretches in the mourning, cause if I don't everything tightens up. I am in other shoes now, like fashionable boots with a rocker bottom and slip on and tie shoes. I found a great shoemaker!!!
Hang in ther!!!

After I've been on it for a while, like shopping, the bottom of the heel hurts a little. The side of the ankle, where they put the bone in, hurts a little, but nothing like before. They had to put a washer back on your screw? What was that for? Will we ever be done?

congrats walkabout!!! what is a rocker shoe..one that has the negative heel?? interesting.

carol..i know it is wierd, but when he went to remove the two screws..he could only take out one..*shrug*...hope to heck it just dissolves!!! wouldn't that be nice. p

Actually Hootyhoo the rocker is done at the ball of your foot on the sole of the shoe. A shoemaker can create this on just about any shoe you have and match the sole where you can't even tell it's there. What it does, is helps you to push off with your foot because the ankle can no longer do the task.

I know how discouraging this has to be for you Carol:(. It feels like it will never end. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and I'm sure it is just around the corner. Patients and prayers! I wish you well!!!

Thanks Walkabout, we all have our own problems, but sometimes you think, will it ever be done. That's why it's nice to talk to others with the same things going on.

Hooty Hoo, You have a lot of patience. You've been suffering for a long time. You're my hero......

i am at a loss...i went to have the aircast removed on jan 31st...doc's x ray was broken again...snow storm..i expressed my concerns that i'd been doing the bone stimulator..hyperbaric oxygen..etc etc..to really see if there was any big healing from the last month. the doc went off on me..telling me i broke my ankle..and he has taken it as far as it will go..that it wasn't his fault..and on and on...he said i was yelling at him...which i wasn't. husband was there to vouch. he just blew up at me!

so, he sent me to the hospital for an xray...they didn't have the order to do a full weight baring..i had to stand on a table and hold the ceiling..very arcaic and rediculous. my husband called him back and it said it 'had healed up some'...and i could walk without my boot.

i'm swollen,,,and never was before during the surgery or after for five months..it feels like i'm walking on a wooden hollow tree, and just hurts.!!!

i don't know what to do. i'm scared and nervous...i did everything this doc asked me to do..stayed in bed..NO SHOWERS>.....(aggh) and now i feel like i can't even call him or what do do next.

i am so depressed..i can't hardly get out of bed. that's bad. thanks..:(

Hi Hooty, it's me again....I'm worried and I'm only 2 months into this...I think if I were you, I'd be looking for a second opinion! Good luck, prayers and thoughts are with you....

ps. I feel your pain!

Hootyyoo, you need to find another Orthopedic Specialist A.S.A.P.! I think that your physician that you have now is totally out of conduct. You need answers now and he is not giving them to you. Probably because he does'nt have a clue! I feel your frustration and fear. Be strong and pick up the phone today. I will pray for you. Please let us know if you have found someone with good credability.

thank you, walkabout. i am really depressed over this. not a good time. plus, scared.

i will call his office today and express my concerns. and i am seeing a chiropractor..who is doing some manual stimulation on my tendons on either side of my leg,,ankle to knee. it feels better, but hurts again. i feel left in the lurch.

i'll see if i can get out of my own way to take care of this. thanks...sorry i'm such a woos!!! p

walkabout...i have a list of questions to ask my surgeon on monday...one of them is regarding walking on my wooden leg. he didn't want me to do orthotics yet..tho not sure why not.

i've been looking into the rocker heel/sole shoe i think you mentioned? is that the same as the negative heel? i tried on a pair of MTB's (?) and tho very ugly,,i felt like i could roll my heel to toe to walk...plus they were about 250 bucks which i thought was pricey. didn't buy yet, but will if i can't move my foot thru my walk.

let me know what brand you are using. i do think it will help in a big way..thanks. *smile*

walkabout...i have a list of questions to ask my surgeon on monday...one of them is regarding walking on my wooden leg. he didn't want me to do orthotics yet..tho not sure why not.

i've been looking into the rocker heel/sole shoe i think you mentioned? is that the same as the negative heel? i tried on a pair of MTB's (?) and tho very ugly,,i felt like i could roll my heel to toe to walk...plus they were about 250 bucks which i thought was pricey. didn't buy yet, but will if i can't move my foot thru my walk.

let me know what brand you are using. i do think it will help in a big way..thanks. *smile*

I don't use those orthodic type shoes!! Yuck!!! Yes, they are very pricey. I have found a shoemaker near my home that actually specializes in orthodics. What i do is try to find a shoe in any store that does'nt have much of a heal yet a thick enough sole like a running shoe. I have bought tie shoes that are in style, slip on mule (clog), ankle boots that have a zipper on the side to slip in easier etc... I am a girlie girl who loves shoes. I was so depressed not being able to wear my shoes that I once loved. When I found this Shoemaker, I explained to him my feelings and needs and he had no problem working with me. He would build the rocker on the sole with me right there, so I could keep trying it on until I was comfortable walking with it. He was able to coach me on how I looked walking in the shoe. If there were any tweeks to fix, he was able to do that right then and there. Look in your yellow pages and see if you can find someone. You may also want to check with your insurance to see if they pay for that.

Please let me know how your progress goes! I feel your frustration, because I have had my fair share of downers.

once again,,thank you for your information. i too am into shoes..and have worn so many sneakers over the past years with my brace,,i have them in about every color. so i'd like to branch out somewhat...i don't care about heels...so your idea about a shoemaker makes sense. i'll see what i can come up with.

well...i did finally call and get some answers from my doc. i am 100% healed and fused...i can do whatever i want that i was able to do prior to the fusion. it may take up to 6 months to work out the 'kinks' and pain mostly..but it will happen...(he says) he has decided that i can go to PT to get my gait back...(but one leg is slightly shorter than the other)...and as far as orthotics go, we wont' even go there til after april sometime at my next appointment. he said to wear a sturdy shoe..sneaker..etc. i've been wearing ECCO's which are comfortable for me, inspite of my 'wooden' leg.

so...i feel sort of encouraged,,,,with the exception that he did NOT acknowlege how rude he was to me at my last appointment...altho his nurse did say she told him. he is very arrogant..and i can get thru that..but not ignorant acting because his x ray machine was down!

so..i'll keep intouch..thanks for getting back to me. p:D

Get another opinion... or several other opinions. I had a doctor start treating me like I was some sort of a basket case when in reality he had me up and about waaaaaaaaaaaay before he should have and my surgery failed. When he started getting defensive is when I got out of there.... and I'm soooo glad I did. I'm not saying you have a bad doctor but when you can't talk to him without him getting defensive, it's time to start considering your options. Good luck with your progress.

I have a question for you guys. I am having my subtalar joint fused soon and am curious on how long you were off work. I haven't had my preop appoinment yet so I have no clue how long I will be off work.



Thanks
Bearsnumber1

Hi! I didn't have a subtalar joint fused, so I'm not entirely sure. I had reconstruction from a failed PTTD surgery... osteotomy and bone graft in my foot, tarsal metatarsal joint fused, heel bone repositioned -- all being held together with seven screws and pins. I lost my job, which was very physical, caring for an ailing Alzheimer's patient who had started taking some falls. Last year when I had this same surgery (which failed), I was cleared to go back to work after about twelve weeks... but remember that I had a job with hands-on care for a frail patient. That may or may not help...????

I just want to up date everyone on screw removal, after subtalar fusion. I had my subtalar fusion on September 7th 2007. This past Monday, April 28th 2008, I had the screws removed. I had some car trouble back in Feburary, and the screws got very cold, and painful, while I was walking to a phone, that I knew they would have to come out.
The doctor did a great job. It's been four days, and I'm walking on it with a velcro shoe and ace bandage on it. In two weeks I get the stitches out and that's it. Anyone wanting to get them removed, don't hesitate to do it. They pinched a little when I walked, but otherwise didn't bother me til I had the car trouble.

thanks for the info...now an update on me...:( i went back to the surgeon for a check up...have been out of state for 2 months..enjoying warm weather and walking. but it was KILLING my tendons..and my right hip too...ouch.

well..got to the doc,,i've been walking incorrectly,,and set myself back four weeks. dern. so back to the drawing board...plus got an orthotic,,which thank goodness makes the pain in my hip gone...evidently my left leg was quite a bit shorter than my right. so good news on fixing that.

keep up the good work. don't know when i'll ever be ready to have screws removed! haaaa

thanks for the info...now an update on me...:( i went back to the surgeon for a check up...have been out of state for 2 months..enjoying warm weather and walking. but it was KILLING my tendons..and my right hip too...ouch.

well..got to the doc,,i've been walking incorrectly,,and set myself back four weeks. dern. so back to the drawing board...plus got an orthotic,,which thank goodness makes the pain in my hip gone...evidently my left leg was quite a bit shorter than my right. so good news on fixing that.

keep up the good work. don't know when i'll ever be ready to have screws removed! haaaa

Well at least you've been where it was warm for two months. Sorry you're still having problems. The hip problem sounds like it's better. How were you walking wrong? I thought you could only walk one way.
Keep getting better and we'll talk again soon.......

haaaa:jester:..yup...i thought i could only walk one way too...but evidently not.....i was just going as fast as i could...really just striking my heel and then the right foot.

i should have been making almost an exadurated heal to toe movement...which i wasn't!

and i really was/and am amazed at what a difference that did to my hip and the soreness of my tendons.

and yes...the warmth was great. what an awful winter so far, eh? glad to hear from you. p

When I had the screws out, the doctor did some more surgery on my hammer toe. The hammer toe was supposed to be fixed, when I had the fusion. While I was healing from the fusion, I felt a ball under the second toe, so when he did the surgery to take out the screws, he had to fix two tendons that were joined together. The toe became fused too, so he had to release it. Now I have six stitches in the ball of my foot, three where he took the screws out and six on the top of the toe. The heel feels good, but the ball and top of my foot hurts like......? I should have just let him take care of the fusion, cause that feels good.
My doctor is excellent on fusions, but not to good on hammer toes. I wish I wouldn't have let him do both at the same time. Oh well, live and learn. Take care and talk again........C41