tweety711
10-24-2007, 02:25 PM
I barely know where to begin. My foot problems stem from arthritis in the large joint/big toe. I have undergone four surgeries in the space of two years: (1) reconstruction of the joint, (2) joint implant, (3) bone fusion with external fixater (I was on crutches/non weight bearing for six months), and (4) removal of the plates and screws a year after surgery. As far as I'm concerned the bone fusion surgery is a failure. I am in more pain now than I was to start with and would go back to the joint implant in a heart beat. The reason the joint implant failed was due to my development of fibrosis in the surgical area which resulted in pain because the joint was unable to move. These surgeries took place between 1999 and 2001. Throw in surgery for a ruptured disc/cervical and 3 months/24 hours a day in a hard collar, among other health issues, as well as the loss of both parents and a brother during that same time frame, and I suppose it's no wonder I'm suffering from depression. I have tried series of injections in an attempt to help with the nerve pain in my foot to no avail. I am currently taking Lyrica but can only take it at night because it makes me drowsy/dizzy. It is difficult to walk, my weight (what there is of it) is thrown to the outside of my foot which has resulted in a painful ankle, sore foot, painful spasms in my other toes, and the list goes on and on. Shoes?!? I would love to find a pair of shoes that aren't painful. I can't even wear sneakers. I am stuck wearing clogs which have recently started bothering me -- atrophy of the foot has progressed to the point where I can't keep an open shoe on my foot. I walk right out of it. And clogs are so chic -- try figuring out what to wear to a wedding, etc. when you can't wear shoes. I know that my problems are minimal compared to what some people go through in their life, but that thinking doesn't help me. It only makes me feel worse. I'm tired. I've been from doctor's office to doctor's office seeking help. And I suppose my question is, has anyone gone through what I have and is there any surgery that would improve my condition. Can I go back to a joint implant. I already know what the answer is. There is no help for me and I have to face the fact that I will live with this pain the rest of my life. Any suggestions to alleviate the pain?
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dbgoalie
10-24-2007, 04:41 PM
Tweety, I am really sorry to hear about your story. I am a little bit behind where you are; next week I have my great toe joint fused together with a bone graft off my hips. If you search by my name, you should be able to find the thread I started.
I can understand your depression, I would imagine that everyone here can identify with it. I don't have any advice for that, it does help to talk about it, and I have enjoyed posting on this site and reading the responses I get. There was a time after I had my implant put in where I stopped going to doctors, just because it got to where I wasn't getting any new answers, just the same old stuff, and you get tired of hearing it after a while.
Are you currently under anyone's care? If not, I can suggest the ortho doc where I am going, he seems to be pretty good.
I can understand your depression, I would imagine that everyone here can identify with it. I don't have any advice for that, it does help to talk about it, and I have enjoyed posting on this site and reading the responses I get. There was a time after I had my implant put in where I stopped going to doctors, just because it got to where I wasn't getting any new answers, just the same old stuff, and you get tired of hearing it after a while.
Are you currently under anyone's care? If not, I can suggest the ortho doc where I am going, he seems to be pretty good.
debbie g
10-24-2007, 05:06 PM
hi tweetie, depression is a normal way of living after foot surgeries you had. its so sad that is has to be this way, but there are other options to try i think. i also had toe fusion after 2 failed surgeries. we use our feet to get around. i hope you are seeing an ortho now and trying pain management. i wish i knew what your dr told you. plus, i dont know how long it has been for you. there is no going back after fusion, but something else has to be done and maybe its a new fusion. i would seek several opinions. this board is a wonderful place to vent. maybe there are other people in your area that you can talk to. i cant stand not to be able to wear cute shoes, but i am walking. that i am walking without pain in sneakers is wonderful, but sometimes i would like to burn them. if you didnt have the pain, you would see things differently. i hope there is a dr outhere who is listening now. keep posting. debbie g
lyndie19
10-26-2007, 12:12 AM
I had bone fusion of my right great toe 7 weeks ago and I'm still in a lot of pain. The doctor says everything looks great and alignment is correct. Wondering if anyone else has pain this long after surgery. I have quite a bit of redness and some swelling yet under all the toes and it burns quite a bit. Is this my foot rejecting the pin. I see the doctor this coming Tuesday and he will do an x-ray and says I might be able to start walking. How can I with so much pain?
dbgoalie
11-06-2007, 01:26 AM
Tweetie, are you still out there? Have you made any progress in the last two weeks? So far so good with me, I will be happy to recommend the place I am going if it would help you.
Lyndie, sorry to hear you are still in pain after 7 weeks. I am 1 week post-op; next week the stitches come out of my foot and I get a cast for a few weeks. Hopefully I am not in the kind of pain you are in after 7 weeks. We would like to hear from both of you, don't give up.
Lyndie, sorry to hear you are still in pain after 7 weeks. I am 1 week post-op; next week the stitches come out of my foot and I get a cast for a few weeks. Hopefully I am not in the kind of pain you are in after 7 weeks. We would like to hear from both of you, don't give up.
lyndie19
11-10-2007, 09:42 PM
Thanks for the reply dbgoalie. I went to the doctor back on October 30. He took an x-ray and said I am not quite healed all the way through, but that I could start walking if I don't roll my foot onto the toe. I asked him why I was swelling on the bottom of my foot at the base of the other toes. He didn't have an answer, said "I didn't do anything there."
He said everything looked great and couldn't explain why I had so much pain. I started walking with a walking boot and it actually made my foot feel better. I seem to be progressing each day now. I go back November 20th and hopefully the fusion will be healed. I think my pain is related to nerves healing. I get a lot of tingling and some burning when I am barefoot, less and less swelling. My foot actually feels pretty good in the walking boot. I put on a regular sock for the first time today. I do get a sensation like a rubber band being pulled tight around my big toe every so often, but not as often as before. Things are looking up! Can say at the moment I'm glad I went through this. Hope things go well for you.
Funny how different doctors do things. My doctor didn't take the stitches out until 3 1/2 weeks and I never had a cast.
He said everything looked great and couldn't explain why I had so much pain. I started walking with a walking boot and it actually made my foot feel better. I seem to be progressing each day now. I go back November 20th and hopefully the fusion will be healed. I think my pain is related to nerves healing. I get a lot of tingling and some burning when I am barefoot, less and less swelling. My foot actually feels pretty good in the walking boot. I put on a regular sock for the first time today. I do get a sensation like a rubber band being pulled tight around my big toe every so often, but not as often as before. Things are looking up! Can say at the moment I'm glad I went through this. Hope things go well for you.
Funny how different doctors do things. My doctor didn't take the stitches out until 3 1/2 weeks and I never had a cast.
dbgoalie
11-10-2007, 11:54 PM
Lynide, give me a little history of what you had done please. This is operation number three for me. Broke joint of big toe when I was 15, had it cleaned out and a pin inserted for a few weeks to straighten when I was 30, at 34 I had an implant put in the joint since the cartilege had died, and at 37 (2 weeks ago) had the implant taken out and the joint fused. Hardware is holding the toe and foot together across the joint to allow it to fuse; the hardware will stay if there is no issue with it.
Do you have a pin in your foot or do you have a plate there? Funny you mention having pain on the bottom of your foot, I had the same problem after the implant was put in and it never really went away; I always had swelling and tenderness for years that never went anywhere. My doc said the same thing, he did no work there and couldn't explain. We tried therapy and I would see mild improvement, but it wouldn't last. If the therapist worked out the swelling, it would return. Personally, I think the swelling in the area was a reaction to the hardware, but no one would ever agree to that. My feeling was the implant would rub against the foot and the base of the toe as I walked, and that would generate the swelling in the area. The plate that I have currently in my foot is stationary, there won't be anything moving back and forth on it, so I am hopeful there won't be any swelling once I am recovered from surgery.
Nice description of the rubber band being pulled tight around your big toe. Now I am only 2 weeks post-op, and I also get that sensation every once in a while, like a sharp shooting pain through my toe that doesn't last long but it gets my attention. I wonder if that is a nerve shooting off or if it is something related to the bones fusing together? But that's a good description of the sensation.
Do you have a pin in your foot or do you have a plate there? Funny you mention having pain on the bottom of your foot, I had the same problem after the implant was put in and it never really went away; I always had swelling and tenderness for years that never went anywhere. My doc said the same thing, he did no work there and couldn't explain. We tried therapy and I would see mild improvement, but it wouldn't last. If the therapist worked out the swelling, it would return. Personally, I think the swelling in the area was a reaction to the hardware, but no one would ever agree to that. My feeling was the implant would rub against the foot and the base of the toe as I walked, and that would generate the swelling in the area. The plate that I have currently in my foot is stationary, there won't be anything moving back and forth on it, so I am hopeful there won't be any swelling once I am recovered from surgery.
Nice description of the rubber band being pulled tight around your big toe. Now I am only 2 weeks post-op, and I also get that sensation every once in a while, like a sharp shooting pain through my toe that doesn't last long but it gets my attention. I wonder if that is a nerve shooting off or if it is something related to the bones fusing together? But that's a good description of the sensation.
lyndie19
11-15-2007, 09:16 PM
dbgoalie, I wonder about the hardware rejection issue, too. My history is not nearly as long as yours. My toe has been hurting off and on for about 2 years. The joint at the start of the year was pretty inflamed and swollen when I went in for my yearly checkup in March. My family MD said he thought I had gout, which I didn't really agree with and he didn't check any bloodwork to verify that guess. Anyway, it still hurt and on June 1. I went to a podiatrist to see what he thought. He took an xray and came in and said he had bad news, I had arthritis and in the top 10 worst cases he'd seen, mine was in the top five. He said I had no cartilage left. It was bone on bone and my toe was totally stiff, hallux rigidus. He suggested either a HemiCap or bone fusion. So I took a little time and got a second opinion from an orthopedist and he suggested with being active, swimming, walking, gardening, etc. that the bone fusion would be a better option for me and that I was already past the HemiCap. He said I would need a total joint replacement. I had discovered that my insurance wouldn't pay for the HemiCap (because it is considered experimental) and the ortho said the total joint probably wouldn't be covered either. So I opted for the bone fusion.
I blame my foot problem on going barefoot all the time. I know I have smashed my toe many times. But I told the ortho that when I step in water and then step on concrete, my footprint is only the front of my foot and the heel, there is no side of the foot in my footprint. He says that means my foot tips to the inside putting all the weight of foot on the big toe. That is probably the main cause. Anyway, I sure wasn't looking at having to have surgery, but I don't like putting off the inevitable and having the pain I had before surgery. Hopefully, this will help in the long run.
The procedure included cleaning up the joint. I had a few bone chips and a protrusion on the side of the joint. Then the joint was smoothed and I have a pin going diagonally, but no plate. The pin is supposed to stay in place unless there is a reaction. I thought I was getting a reaction, but doc says I'm fine.
The pain is getting better. Still have the same sensations but they are getting less strong. How you doing?
I blame my foot problem on going barefoot all the time. I know I have smashed my toe many times. But I told the ortho that when I step in water and then step on concrete, my footprint is only the front of my foot and the heel, there is no side of the foot in my footprint. He says that means my foot tips to the inside putting all the weight of foot on the big toe. That is probably the main cause. Anyway, I sure wasn't looking at having to have surgery, but I don't like putting off the inevitable and having the pain I had before surgery. Hopefully, this will help in the long run.
The procedure included cleaning up the joint. I had a few bone chips and a protrusion on the side of the joint. Then the joint was smoothed and I have a pin going diagonally, but no plate. The pin is supposed to stay in place unless there is a reaction. I thought I was getting a reaction, but doc says I'm fine.
The pain is getting better. Still have the same sensations but they are getting less strong. How you doing?
lyndie19
11-16-2007, 12:36 AM
Forgot to mention that there was a complication during the pin placement with the bone fusion. The guiding wire broke and they would have left it in there and used a different one but it popped up through the bone. In order to retrieve the bone, the ortho made in incision under the toe to pull the wire back out. I had a couple of stitches in the bottom of my big toe. Now I have a knot in that spot, probably just scar tissue.
debbie g
11-16-2007, 06:17 PM
hi lyndie, sounds like you are doing well. i cant believe you only have a pin.
lyndie19
11-16-2007, 09:26 PM
The pin is pretty long and goes diagonally and I swear it is causing most of the pain I have. I haven't had a cast at all. I am getting around in a walker boot now and I actually feel better with the boot is on or at least having my foot wrapped. It's like the blood gets down to the foot and doesn't know how to go back up. If I'm barefoot, I need to massage it to get the blood circulating again, but if it's wrapped it seems to circulate better. I'm still not driving, but went back to work at 10 days after surgery on crutches. I work at a hospital and our office is the closest to an entrance (everyone helped me out so I didn't have to do any walking--just to the restroom and back). Sure is better now that I don't need crutches!
debbie g
11-17-2007, 04:26 PM
when does the pin come out?
lyndie19
11-17-2007, 05:45 PM
Doc says it won't. Is that right? Do they usually come out?
debbie g
11-18-2007, 03:34 PM
if you feel the pin is causing pain then something has to be done. i would go to another dr. i have not heard of a long pin like that, but i would check it out.
dancingirl727
11-18-2007, 10:10 PM
Debbie,
Six months ago I had surgery on the MPJ where they cleaned out the joint, straightened the large toe and shaped the area where bunions usually exist, (I had no pain there but the doc felt it needed shaved). In addition to a screw in the large toe, a pin was put in, somewhat in the shape of a golf club or a wig pin in the shape of an L instead of a T. This pin was suppose to have been seated with the club edge towards the center of my foot. Evidently the pin popped out, rolled causing the club edge to push against the inside of the foot. (When I say club edge, the shape is not that of a golf club but normal pin size...it is just the short end of the pin) Since the area was delicate from the surgery and the pin was so close to the surface of the skin, it caused pain and discomfort when something pressed against it. In time the area toughened and pain was no longer evident....even in normal shoes.
Six months ago I had surgery on the MPJ where they cleaned out the joint, straightened the large toe and shaped the area where bunions usually exist, (I had no pain there but the doc felt it needed shaved). In addition to a screw in the large toe, a pin was put in, somewhat in the shape of a golf club or a wig pin in the shape of an L instead of a T. This pin was suppose to have been seated with the club edge towards the center of my foot. Evidently the pin popped out, rolled causing the club edge to push against the inside of the foot. (When I say club edge, the shape is not that of a golf club but normal pin size...it is just the short end of the pin) Since the area was delicate from the surgery and the pin was so close to the surface of the skin, it caused pain and discomfort when something pressed against it. In time the area toughened and pain was no longer evident....even in normal shoes.
debbie g
11-21-2007, 06:56 PM
Debbie,
Six months ago I had surgery on the MPJ where they cleaned out the joint, straightened the large toe and shaped the area where bunions usually exist, (I had no pain there but the doc felt it needed shaved). In addition to a screw in the large toe, a pin was put in, somewhat in the shape of a golf club or a wig pin in the shape of an L instead of a T. This pin was suppose to have been seated with the club edge towards the center of my foot. Evidently the pin popped out, rolled causing the club edge to push against the inside of the foot. (When I say club edge, the shape is not that of a golf club but normal pin size...it is just the short end of the pin) Since the area was delicate from the surgery and the pin was so close to the surface of the skin, it caused pain and discomfort when something pressed against it. In time the area toughened and pain was no longer evident....even in normal shoes. why did you have surgery again if you were not in pain?
Six months ago I had surgery on the MPJ where they cleaned out the joint, straightened the large toe and shaped the area where bunions usually exist, (I had no pain there but the doc felt it needed shaved). In addition to a screw in the large toe, a pin was put in, somewhat in the shape of a golf club or a wig pin in the shape of an L instead of a T. This pin was suppose to have been seated with the club edge towards the center of my foot. Evidently the pin popped out, rolled causing the club edge to push against the inside of the foot. (When I say club edge, the shape is not that of a golf club but normal pin size...it is just the short end of the pin) Since the area was delicate from the surgery and the pin was so close to the surface of the skin, it caused pain and discomfort when something pressed against it. In time the area toughened and pain was no longer evident....even in normal shoes. why did you have surgery again if you were not in pain?
dbgoalie
11-22-2007, 01:05 AM
Lyndie and Dancing Girl, I am surprised that the pin you both have is not going to be taken out. Look, I'm no doctor. I have been through a lot with my foot and I know a lot more about podiatry than I ever thought I would, but I'm just a patient with real experience, not a medical professional. Just because I never heard of it, I only know what I went through and what I have read on the internet, which you always have to take with a grain of salt. With that being said, it does sound unusual to me (and I think Debbie too) that you both got a pin put in that was not going to be taken out. From what I understand about pins, they are temporary, they allow the bone to heal straight, but eventually come out. I would think for a fusion, a pin would be an odd choice of hardware, I think a plate across the top of the bone is a better choice. The pin is inside the bone, which just seems strange, the bone should fuse up together without needing something internal to provide strength. The bone with a plate on top will be nice and solid, I would think with a pin in the middle of the bone, that just seems strange. Maybe ask your doc exactly what the point of the pin is, what's it's function, what is it providing, how much strength is gained with it in place, can it come out?
Tweety, are you still checking this board? How are you making out, how are things going?
Tweety, are you still checking this board? How are you making out, how are things going?
lyndie19
11-24-2007, 04:11 PM
Hi, I went to the doctor Tuesday. Asked him again if the pin comes out and he said no, that it is embedded in the bone and no need to come out. It took a guiding wire to ensure proper placement. That guiding wire is what originally broke and he would have left it in there too but it popped through the bone and had to be retrieved through the bottom of my toe. Then they used a new wire and placed the pin.
I think with my history of not wearing shoes and banging my toe and being pretty active, he might have thought this was my best bet. My toe is healed through now but he would like it to build up a bit more along the break line. He did say I could get rid of the walking boot. He suggested BMT shoes. So I went to the shoe store and couldn't get a shoe on. I ended up buying a pair of backless Clarks shoes in size 10, usually wear an 8, in order to get it on. Guess my foot is still pretty swollen. I walk pretty slow and my ankle seems kind of weak. Also wore my daughter's Uggs to work yesterday and I could walk a little faster but I don't think they were enough support. My foot hurt a lot last night. Any suggestions as far as shoes? We had our first snow last night and don't know what I can get on my foot.
I think with my history of not wearing shoes and banging my toe and being pretty active, he might have thought this was my best bet. My toe is healed through now but he would like it to build up a bit more along the break line. He did say I could get rid of the walking boot. He suggested BMT shoes. So I went to the shoe store and couldn't get a shoe on. I ended up buying a pair of backless Clarks shoes in size 10, usually wear an 8, in order to get it on. Guess my foot is still pretty swollen. I walk pretty slow and my ankle seems kind of weak. Also wore my daughter's Uggs to work yesterday and I could walk a little faster but I don't think they were enough support. My foot hurt a lot last night. Any suggestions as far as shoes? We had our first snow last night and don't know what I can get on my foot.
debbie g
11-24-2007, 06:29 PM
Hi, I went to the doctor Tuesday. Asked him again if the pin comes out and he said no, that it is embedded in the bone and no need to come out. It took a guiding wire to ensure proper placement. That guiding wire is what originally broke and he would have left it in there too but it popped through the bone and had to be retrieved through the bottom of my toe. Then they used a new wire and placed the pin.
I think with my history of not wearing shoes and banging my toe and being pretty active, he might have thought this was my best bet. My toe is healed through now but he would like it to build up a bit more along the break line. He did say I could get rid of the walking boot. He suggested BMT shoes. So I went to the shoe store and couldn't get a shoe on. I ended up buying a pair of backless Clarks shoes in size 10, usually wear an 8, in order to get it on. Guess my foot is still pretty swollen. I walk pretty slow and my ankle seems kind of weak. Also wore my daughter's Uggs to work yesterday and I could walk a little faster but I don't think they were enough support. My foot hurt a lot last night. Any suggestions as far as shoes? We had our first snow last night and don't know what I can get on my foot. what are bmt shoes? it sounds like you need alot of support.
I think with my history of not wearing shoes and banging my toe and being pretty active, he might have thought this was my best bet. My toe is healed through now but he would like it to build up a bit more along the break line. He did say I could get rid of the walking boot. He suggested BMT shoes. So I went to the shoe store and couldn't get a shoe on. I ended up buying a pair of backless Clarks shoes in size 10, usually wear an 8, in order to get it on. Guess my foot is still pretty swollen. I walk pretty slow and my ankle seems kind of weak. Also wore my daughter's Uggs to work yesterday and I could walk a little faster but I don't think they were enough support. My foot hurt a lot last night. Any suggestions as far as shoes? We had our first snow last night and don't know what I can get on my foot. what are bmt shoes? it sounds like you need alot of support.
lyndie19
12-07-2007, 08:34 AM
Like usual I turned the letter around. They are MBTshoes (Masai Barefoot Technology). They are designed to simulate walking in sand. Just I still can't get a pair on.
debbie g
12-07-2007, 07:47 PM
Like usual I turned the letter around. They are MBTshoes (Masai Barefoot Technology). They are designed to simulate walking in sand. Just I still can't get a pair on. i never heard of those. you have to try other shoes-you need support
Sabrina67
12-07-2007, 07:53 PM
I cant help with information...But my prayers and thoughts are with you :). Hope you find help for your pain.
Sabrina
Sabrina
lyndie19
12-09-2007, 08:37 PM
Hi! I'm still hobbling around. I have found a couple pairs of firm backless slip on shoes and they seem to work fairly well. My foot is still larger than the other foot and I have strange sensations through the toe and under the other toes on the bottom of my foot, but not a lot of pain any more. It actually feels better with weight on my foot. I haven't had to take anything for pain lately. I feels better than before my surgery when I try to sleep at night and feels great when I first wake up. Guess there is hope. i am banking on the doc being right when he said in 6 months I will be walking like normal. It was 3 months the other day. I had my surgery on September 7.
dbgoalie
12-12-2007, 06:09 PM
Lyndie, that is great news. Think about it, you are only 12 weeks removed from bone surgery and look how well you are doing. I would expect that in another 3 months, you will 2x as good as you are now. Keep taking it easy and slow, things sound like they are going well for you. What's next for you; do you see the doc anytime soon or have some PT scheduled?
lyndie19
12-24-2007, 07:02 PM
Hi, dbgoalie. Thanks for the encouragement. I have started doing a little more walking at work--hurts pretty much but seems a little better. I saw the doctor last Monday, 12/17. Doc thought I should actually be healing a little better than I am. He thought that maybe circulation to that toe isn't the best and that slows healing. I told him I did have some frostbite in high school and that circulation isn't great in my toes. He is going to see me again 1/7 and do another x-ray. The other day I tried on one of regular shoes and got it on. It wasn't comfortable at all so I took off but that was a good day. Fighting snow and ice now. It makes it difficult when you cannot wear a shoe that has a back. I just stay inside as much as possible. How are you doing? Are things improving on schedule?
debbie g
12-30-2007, 10:33 PM
hi, it sounds so much better than before so stay optomistic.
lyndie19
01-02-2008, 10:13 PM
Thanks for the encouragement. I have good days and bad days. I had a good day today. My limp seemed a little less. Yesterday my whole foot seemed so "out of shape." Had to exercise my ankle and flex my foot because the underside arch was feeling so tight or something. Do circles with my foot. Do you know what I mean? I so wanted to go for a walk but know I can't yet. Maybe by spring. I was pretty depressed yesterday. Monday is my next doctor's appointment and x-ray.
debbie g
01-03-2008, 06:51 PM
you will get there!
dbgoalie
01-07-2008, 02:36 AM
You see the doc today, right? I am hoping you get some good news, good luck. Let us know.
lyndie19
01-10-2008, 12:12 AM
Really feeling bummed lately! My foot and toe have been hurting a little more lately. Saw the doc Monday. He looked at the x-ray and said it is hard to tell if the foot has a problem or isn't healing like it should be. He had me get a CT today. Now he is going to be gone the rest of this week so I won't know what it shows until sometime early next week. He thought there may be a chance he will have to go back in a second time. He hopes the CT will show that there are just spots that haven't completely healed yet. It could just be that circulation isn't the best in the joint itself so healing is slow. I'm sure not wanting to go back on crutches and having all the pain and swelling from surgery again. But it does seem to have taken a turn for the worse. Has anyone else had this problem after 4 months?
debbie g
01-11-2008, 09:53 PM
all i can say is the ct scan should show everything and you will have your answers. trust me, i know how frustrating this is. i would like to pull my hair out right now.
dbgoalie
01-11-2008, 11:35 PM
Lyndie, has the doctor mentioned a bone stimulator? I am currently using one, and some people feel that it can help accelerate recovery, and other people feel that your body would heal up anyway, so this machine does little. But I suppose it's worth a shot.
Sorry to hear that you aren't doing as well as you want. Remember, you are only a few months removed. It will take time, try to be patient. It could be a year or more before you are recovered. You can do it, just try to stay positive and be patient. I hope that doesn't come across as annoying, sometimes you just don't want to hear that kind of crap from people. But at least I'm not someone in perfect foot health telling you to suck it up, I know what you are going through. Hang in there.
Sorry to hear that you aren't doing as well as you want. Remember, you are only a few months removed. It will take time, try to be patient. It could be a year or more before you are recovered. You can do it, just try to stay positive and be patient. I hope that doesn't come across as annoying, sometimes you just don't want to hear that kind of crap from people. But at least I'm not someone in perfect foot health telling you to suck it up, I know what you are going through. Hang in there.
JeffH
01-13-2008, 12:41 AM
I too am, using a bone growth stimulator after my fusion. It seems to be working well for me. Just make sure your insurance will cover it. They cost from 3,500.00 to 5,000.00, and they are for "single patient use only," as dictated by the FDA. This means that you can't rent one, it must be purchased by and for you only. Not sure why, but that is the regulation on these.
dbgoalie
01-13-2008, 09:41 AM
Good point Jeff. Fortunately my insurance did cover my bone stimulator, otherwise, I think I probably would have waited a few weeks to see how my fusion did healing on it's own. My doc recommended it, but in the end, I would be the one to part with a few thousand dollars, and I doubt I could have done it on my own. But anyway, they paid for it, I'm using it, and Jeff is also correct that it is to be single use only. Anyone have any idea what to do with it when I'm done? I can't sell it by law, since it's used and I'm not an FDA approved seller of medical devices. Do I give it back to the doctors office? Anyone else think it's kind of silly to have a device that costs thousands of dollars and has to be purchased individually each and every time? Can't these machines be rented and or refurbished for use?
JeffH
01-13-2008, 11:21 AM
The doctors office can't take it back, because it is a "single patient use" item. You could try and sell it on E Bay at a very discounted price. I see they are selling there for about 75.00 when I last looked. However, that too really isn't legal. Perhaps you could donate it to a charity like, I believe, "Doctors Without Boundaries." These groups privide heath care items to third world countries and such.
Also to answer your question, no they can't be rented, returned and refurbished, again because of the FDA guidelines of "single patient use" items.
Lastly you could keep it without guilt as it is legally a "one patient use" item. That way if in a year or two you'd fracture or hurt your implant, you'd have the unit to help heal.
Also to answer your question, no they can't be rented, returned and refurbished, again because of the FDA guidelines of "single patient use" items.
Lastly you could keep it without guilt as it is legally a "one patient use" item. That way if in a year or two you'd fracture or hurt your implant, you'd have the unit to help heal.
stepbystep89
01-13-2008, 01:20 PM
Wow! I had no idea they were so expensive. I have one also.
debbie g
01-13-2008, 02:51 PM
mine was 5 thusand and insurance paid most of it. i didnt know what to do with i so i gave it back to my dr. maybe that was a mistake.
lyndie19
01-14-2008, 06:05 PM
Still haven't heard back from the doctor on my CT from 1/9/08. He was going out of town until today. Hope to hear tomorrow. If I don't, I will be calling him. He didn't mention a bone stimulator, but thanks for the heads up on insurance maybe not paying for it. I will sure check on that if a bone stimulator is an option in my case.
Thanks for the support. I keep telling myself the same thing you guys keep telling me. That I am probably doing fine. In fact, in the hall today at work someone told me I wasn't limping as bad. So maybe it's better. The doctor originally told me I would be walking normally in 6 months and that is about two months out yet and if I look back at 2 months ago, I have come a long way.
I do have a little swelling of the big toe yet and a knot on the bottom of the toe from scar tissue where the doctor went in to retrieve the guidewire that broke out and went through the bone. I will let you know what I hear from my CT report. Thanks again everyone.
Thanks for the support. I keep telling myself the same thing you guys keep telling me. That I am probably doing fine. In fact, in the hall today at work someone told me I wasn't limping as bad. So maybe it's better. The doctor originally told me I would be walking normally in 6 months and that is about two months out yet and if I look back at 2 months ago, I have come a long way.
I do have a little swelling of the big toe yet and a knot on the bottom of the toe from scar tissue where the doctor went in to retrieve the guidewire that broke out and went through the bone. I will let you know what I hear from my CT report. Thanks again everyone.
nan64
02-03-2008, 08:56 PM
Hi
I do hope this post is still active after a few months. Isnt the internet a wonderful thing as I was surfing about hallux rigidus and came to this site. I had the fusion in the UK on the 17th December and its strange reading this site as to how different this is treated 'across the waters'.
I wasnt put on crutches and was in plaster for 6 weeks, Had the plaster off on Wednesday and it was - yuch! my toe looks so much shorter and my foot looks so - 'not like my old foot' any more.
I am now discharged from the hospital - but am not walking well, its the balance that feels strange. My hubby keeps saying stop limping!! - But that's how it is at the moment for me. The orthopaedic guy said take it easy for a month after which time -" well it could be 6 months before it returns to normal." I am disturbed that I cant use that big toe any more.
I tried to drive the car yesterday - but it was painful pressing down on that clutch as I have a manual, and am seriously thinking of an automatic.
I have early stages of hallux rigidus in my other foot and am definite that I wont go to surgery at this point in time as I didnt realise what this op entailed.
If anyone out there in cyber space reads this - well thank you and it
was good to put my feelings in writing.
Thanks and God Bless
Nan
I do hope this post is still active after a few months. Isnt the internet a wonderful thing as I was surfing about hallux rigidus and came to this site. I had the fusion in the UK on the 17th December and its strange reading this site as to how different this is treated 'across the waters'.
I wasnt put on crutches and was in plaster for 6 weeks, Had the plaster off on Wednesday and it was - yuch! my toe looks so much shorter and my foot looks so - 'not like my old foot' any more.
I am now discharged from the hospital - but am not walking well, its the balance that feels strange. My hubby keeps saying stop limping!! - But that's how it is at the moment for me. The orthopaedic guy said take it easy for a month after which time -" well it could be 6 months before it returns to normal." I am disturbed that I cant use that big toe any more.
I tried to drive the car yesterday - but it was painful pressing down on that clutch as I have a manual, and am seriously thinking of an automatic.
I have early stages of hallux rigidus in my other foot and am definite that I wont go to surgery at this point in time as I didnt realise what this op entailed.
If anyone out there in cyber space reads this - well thank you and it
was good to put my feelings in writing.
Thanks and God Bless
Nan
JeffH
02-03-2008, 11:12 PM
You need to give it time. Everything got weak while you were in the cast and on crutches. Don't rush it. Things will improve, little by little, week by week.
debbie g
02-04-2008, 04:16 PM
maybe you should get an automatic. healing takes such a long time and especially the foot. try to hang in there.
kelly20
09-30-2008, 08:48 PM
I haven't seen a posting since february...i am seeing a dr. about bone fusion - 29 years ago i had an ball joint implant put in and it is deteriorating - choice, live with it or bone fusion (they do not want to do a replacement implat)
okay - i thought one week pain, another week heavy discomfort and then i would be getting better. am i completely naive? i was told i couldn't drive for 4 - 6 weeks, but it sounds like i have a much longer recovery period than i imagined.
would you all do it again? wait until the last possible moment? I could wait but wanted to do it under my terms rather than wait until the pain was too much?
any words to the wise? any questions you wished you had asked the doc? did you go to podiatrist (board certified) or ortho?
thx for any input you have
kelly
okay - i thought one week pain, another week heavy discomfort and then i would be getting better. am i completely naive? i was told i couldn't drive for 4 - 6 weeks, but it sounds like i have a much longer recovery period than i imagined.
would you all do it again? wait until the last possible moment? I could wait but wanted to do it under my terms rather than wait until the pain was too much?
any words to the wise? any questions you wished you had asked the doc? did you go to podiatrist (board certified) or ortho?
thx for any input you have
kelly
jmlm4245
10-08-2008, 10:42 PM
I had fusion done in May, 2008. In September the POD let me out of the boot. One week later my foot was twice the size. The fusion broke and I had to go back in the boot. I've been using a bone stimulator for the last month with 2 more weeks to go before my next POD appointment. Has anyone out there experienced a similar problem? I feel like I'm going to be in this boot forever. I know others have experienced much worse but I would like to play a round of golf with my husband just once.
I also had the second toe done at the same time, which is now floppy. It was pinned for 6 weeks. I now have a tingling pain in that toe. Is that normal also? The POD says to wait before we do anything about the tingling pain. I fear if the fusion doesn't take this time I'll need more surgery. Please give me your feedback.
I also had the second toe done at the same time, which is now floppy. It was pinned for 6 weeks. I now have a tingling pain in that toe. Is that normal also? The POD says to wait before we do anything about the tingling pain. I fear if the fusion doesn't take this time I'll need more surgery. Please give me your feedback.
kelly20
10-09-2008, 09:03 AM
jmlm: sorry to hear about the "re-do". also good info on the 2nd toe, because I asked aobut that (it is now uncomfortably longer than big toe (i end up turning on the in my follow through - so the better the golf swing, the more it hurts:(. did they use artificial bone? cadaver bone or did they harvest from you? if so, where? i go to a second doc today (an ortho) and will see what he says. i stillhold out hope that a titanium replacement jpoint can be used. i'll let you know. hope it heals and no additional surgery is needed. kell20
jmlm4245
10-10-2008, 01:32 AM
Thank you for your interest.
I go to the POD next week. Six weeks from when I started the bone stimulator ordeal. I hope the outcome is better than I expect. I don't think the bone fused. Just one of those feelings. I walk on my heel sometimes in the house. I know better to put any weight on the toe. That in itself makes me feel the bone stimulator didn't work. I would never leave the house without the "boot".
I have tickets to Tina Turner on the 26th in Dallas. I'll be damned if I'll let this foot keep me from seeing one of the greatest Icons of my life.
Let's keep in touch.
Linda
I go to the POD next week. Six weeks from when I started the bone stimulator ordeal. I hope the outcome is better than I expect. I don't think the bone fused. Just one of those feelings. I walk on my heel sometimes in the house. I know better to put any weight on the toe. That in itself makes me feel the bone stimulator didn't work. I would never leave the house without the "boot".
I have tickets to Tina Turner on the 26th in Dallas. I'll be damned if I'll let this foot keep me from seeing one of the greatest Icons of my life.
Let's keep in touch.
Linda
jmlm4245
10-10-2008, 01:41 AM
I'm sorry I didn't answer all your questions. I didn't have any bone grafts or cadaver grafts, just my own pinned and immobilized toes. I can't bend either my big toe or my second toe. My husband sometimes calls me "clubfoot" because of the swelling I often endure. I know he means to make light, but the fact is I will never feel comfortable barefoot or in sandals again. I just want to play one round of golf.
kelly20
10-12-2008, 06:45 PM
linda - i sure hope you can make the tina turner concert - i am sure it will be awesome.
i had my last round of golf for the season yesterday - i sure hope i can play next year. i think i may be a little optomistic about my recovery - hearing aobut your troubles (my goodness it has already been 5 months! ) and the others from the thread. I can't imagine that - nor can my boss i am sure...i am in marketing and drive every day for my job...and it is my right foot...well, i'll just keep them posted - it will be what it will be.
the next time your husband calls you clubfoot - hit him with crutch:) I know he is trying to be funny to cheer you up, but tell him, he has to pick up food from you favorite restaurant any time he calls you that in the future:)
my surgery is scheduled for the 22nd, so i'll keep you posted. kelly
i had my last round of golf for the season yesterday - i sure hope i can play next year. i think i may be a little optomistic about my recovery - hearing aobut your troubles (my goodness it has already been 5 months! ) and the others from the thread. I can't imagine that - nor can my boss i am sure...i am in marketing and drive every day for my job...and it is my right foot...well, i'll just keep them posted - it will be what it will be.
the next time your husband calls you clubfoot - hit him with crutch:) I know he is trying to be funny to cheer you up, but tell him, he has to pick up food from you favorite restaurant any time he calls you that in the future:)
my surgery is scheduled for the 22nd, so i'll keep you posted. kelly
JeffH
10-12-2008, 09:13 PM
Kelly, you should be just fine to golf next spring. I had a fusion last Oct 15 2007, left big toe. In April of 08 I started riding bikes again. Not everyone goes through a bad surgical experiance.
Good luck
Good luck
kelly20
10-13-2008, 08:18 AM
jeff, so happy to hear this! the two forums I found were posts from folks who had had bad experiences - but how great they could share and get ideas of how best to figure out some of the next steps...the only question is will my game improve:) thx again. Linda, take heart - maybe after the 26th things will improve.
kelly
kelly
jmlm4245
10-13-2008, 03:32 PM
Thanks for the encouragement. I feel I will eventually be ok, and I not a depressed person usually, but I started wearing a boot in January of this year. The pain before the surgery was pretty overwhelming as well. I have known that I was going to have to have this surgery since 2007. In order to have the surgery on May 9th though, I had to have knee surgery to repair a torn cartilage. My POD would not do the surgery unless I had one good leg. That was done the 29th of March. By the time I had the foot surgery on May 9th, I was pretty much bummed out. Oh, and I built and moved into a new home the 26th of April. No wonder I'm a basket case.
I promise to keep you updated as I progress. I will also keep you in my thoughts and prayers as well as you prepare for your surgery. I'm not saying you can't, but it's going to be hard to drive with surgery on a right foot.
Are you having big toe and 2nd toe done?
Linda
I promise to keep you updated as I progress. I will also keep you in my thoughts and prayers as well as you prepare for your surgery. I'm not saying you can't, but it's going to be hard to drive with surgery on a right foot.
Are you having big toe and 2nd toe done?
Linda
jmlm4245
10-13-2008, 03:37 PM
Jeff,
This is my first really bad experience with surgery. I really don't blame anyone. I think I was physically out of it when I had the surgery. Read my thread to Kelly. I should have maybe started taking lots of calcium and calcium related foods before the surgery. Was your second toe done at the same time?
This is my first really bad experience with surgery. I really don't blame anyone. I think I was physically out of it when I had the surgery. Read my thread to Kelly. I should have maybe started taking lots of calcium and calcium related foods before the surgery. Was your second toe done at the same time?
kelly20
10-14-2008, 09:40 AM
linda, actually I beleive they are doing tos one (big) two and three. the deterioration of the joint has casued the big toe to force the other two out of position, causing two to hammer - whatever...i beleive flip flops will be tough but i hope to wear sandals...i have been in earth shoes (found a nice platform (small) sandal, and bought in black, pewter and brown. too bad they didn't have red:) this kept the weight off the toe joint which made it more comfortable. OMG to have to do both knee and foot surgery - what a horror. i bet you can't wait until this year is over. i won't even add in the building of a house bit...i sure hope you get good news on the 26th.
i am glad i decided to have the surgery done now, before the pain was too bad and when i could schedule it on my terms as opposed to having to do...liek i said, i hope to be in fine fettle come spring and summer '09
till later, and thanks for your well wishes and prayers...you ar ein mine also
kelly
i am glad i decided to have the surgery done now, before the pain was too bad and when i could schedule it on my terms as opposed to having to do...liek i said, i hope to be in fine fettle come spring and summer '09
till later, and thanks for your well wishes and prayers...you ar ein mine also
kelly
jmlm4245
10-14-2008, 11:22 AM
Three toes?? Bless your heart. I laughingly described my second toe as lazy and hitching a ride on top of the big toe. I had a pair of wedgie sneakers that are about the same height as the boot. I strongly suggest that you try to find something similar. Otherwise you will limp and create knee and hip problems. My POD actually told me the recuperation would be about a year. I think he's going to be right on that one.
Here are some things I would have done differently if I had known ahead of time and things I should have known to expect.
1. My POD thought I might like to wear a 1 or 2 inch heel in the future. Therefore he angled the big toe, which of course will never move again, to accommodate said heels. I wish he would have asked me before he did that. I would have told him comfort was far more superior than wearing heels. My toe now will never touch the floor.
2. Be prepared for the two toes that are hammering to be floppy. That was a shock to me. The pins hold them very straight but when they are removed, the toes will appear less than stable.
3. Finally, be patient. I'm an impatient patient. Also take your pain pills. I didn't, and regretted it. It's only temporary, so go to La La land and sleep.
Your surgery is next week. I probably won't hear from you for a few weeks after the surgery. If not good luck.
Here are some things I would have done differently if I had known ahead of time and things I should have known to expect.
1. My POD thought I might like to wear a 1 or 2 inch heel in the future. Therefore he angled the big toe, which of course will never move again, to accommodate said heels. I wish he would have asked me before he did that. I would have told him comfort was far more superior than wearing heels. My toe now will never touch the floor.
2. Be prepared for the two toes that are hammering to be floppy. That was a shock to me. The pins hold them very straight but when they are removed, the toes will appear less than stable.
3. Finally, be patient. I'm an impatient patient. Also take your pain pills. I didn't, and regretted it. It's only temporary, so go to La La land and sleep.
Your surgery is next week. I probably won't hear from you for a few weeks after the surgery. If not good luck.
kelly20
10-17-2008, 10:01 AM
linda, they did tell me that with toe 2 and 3 i may have trouble keeping flip flops on because those toes that gives me 3 toes that can't grab - but since doctors hate flip flops (are causing the increase in plantr facsiaitis (sp?) they don't think this is a bad thing.
I am getting more nervous as the date gets closer. though i was thinking day surgery, they are thinking because of the hip graft probably over night in the hospital. since i have stairs to get into the house, i will have to be able to maneuver those.
this is my weekend to get work cleaned up, the house cleaned up and my books lined up (and I just added to my Netflix queue)
hope you ar esurprised by your visit on the 26th.
take care - kelly
I am getting more nervous as the date gets closer. though i was thinking day surgery, they are thinking because of the hip graft probably over night in the hospital. since i have stairs to get into the house, i will have to be able to maneuver those.
this is my weekend to get work cleaned up, the house cleaned up and my books lined up (and I just added to my Netflix queue)
hope you ar esurprised by your visit on the 26th.
take care - kelly
JeffH
10-18-2008, 12:47 AM
Jeff,
This is my first really bad experience with surgery. I really don't blame anyone. I think I was physically out of it when I had the surgery. Read my thread to Kelly. I should have maybe started taking lots of calcium and calcium related foods before the surgery. Was your second toe done at the same time?
Yes, my second toe was done at the same time. Healing for that toe is much quicker.
Not only did I start biking, but I've just joined our local health club, riding the indoor bikes and using all of the resistance machines. The fusion has worked for me, unlike the original surgery, which as an implant. That was a major bummer. I struggled with that for three years, before having the fusion.
Oh, and by the way, I'm 60 years old and about 50 pounds too heavy. If a fusion can work for me, it can work for anyone. Just don't rush the healing process.
This is my first really bad experience with surgery. I really don't blame anyone. I think I was physically out of it when I had the surgery. Read my thread to Kelly. I should have maybe started taking lots of calcium and calcium related foods before the surgery. Was your second toe done at the same time?
Yes, my second toe was done at the same time. Healing for that toe is much quicker.
Not only did I start biking, but I've just joined our local health club, riding the indoor bikes and using all of the resistance machines. The fusion has worked for me, unlike the original surgery, which as an implant. That was a major bummer. I struggled with that for three years, before having the fusion.
Oh, and by the way, I'm 60 years old and about 50 pounds too heavy. If a fusion can work for me, it can work for anyone. Just don't rush the healing process.
kelly20
10-19-2008, 01:37 PM
jeff, thanks for the optomistice words. i plan on being the recovery poster child...doing as much as they say but not doing more...i'd rather go slow than rush it and have problems...i'll keep y'all posted on how it goes. (had my wireless hooked up last week so i can work from bed)
s
s
JeffH
10-19-2008, 02:22 PM
I'm sure it will go well for you. As I said I started biking in April. Slowly and not far, but by August I was able to do 15 miles without a problem.
Just be patient. Recovery will go slowly but surely.
Just be patient. Recovery will go slowly but surely.
jmlm4245
10-28-2008, 08:38 PM
Kelly,
Are you doing ok? The pain should be better by now.
Are you doing ok? The pain should be better by now.
corkeysue57
10-30-2008, 03:15 PM
I am scheduled to have my big toe fused soon because joint replacement has failed. Has anyone had this done?
kelly20
11-05-2008, 06:00 PM
linda/jeff - finally back at computer. corkysue i just had a ball joint implant replacement is that the implant you are replacing?
spent 2 nites/3 days in hospital and i was happy for it. i think the graft was a little larger than they expected.
thank goodness my sister came to help me out...living alone would have been impossible. it is still a struggle. i am supposed to be using the walker or crutches. hopefully on nextvisit the doc will let me walk with just the boot - then you can actually hold things etc.
linda, how was the 26th - good news, I hope?
i am very glad i found a sports medicine/orthopaedic clinic...rather the the pod i had been going to....
more to all later
kelly
spent 2 nites/3 days in hospital and i was happy for it. i think the graft was a little larger than they expected.
thank goodness my sister came to help me out...living alone would have been impossible. it is still a struggle. i am supposed to be using the walker or crutches. hopefully on nextvisit the doc will let me walk with just the boot - then you can actually hold things etc.
linda, how was the 26th - good news, I hope?
i am very glad i found a sports medicine/orthopaedic clinic...rather the the pod i had been going to....
more to all later
kelly
corkeysue57
11-06-2008, 08:32 AM
Kelly-you are so positive and if I had to do it over I would have stayed in for 3 nights as well rather than day surgery, the 2nd and 3rd being quite bad. Yes, that is the joint I had replaced with a titanium joint replacement. Mine was not successful but that was just me. I do not know the others in the study so I cannot comment on their outcomes. I am self employed so had to return to work after 4 days and that was difficult. I am now wearing MBT sandles which are a God send. They take all the pressure off the joint.The MBT sneakers are not as good because, of course ,they are not adjustable but the shoe repair store is going to stretch all my shoes and boots. Also, I found a computer chair is the best means to scoot around.Best of luck.
kelly20
11-07-2008, 09:39 AM
c/s- don't know how you managed back at work in 4 days:) luckily I am on short term disability. doing e-mail now, will be in office next week. still can't drive for about 3 - 4 weeks...did you try Earth shoes? the sandal wasn't adjustable but with the heel lower than the toe, they kept the pressure off the toe/joint area when you walk. I found a sandal that I thought was a little less casual and ordered them in the 3 available colors.
jmlm4245
11-08-2008, 12:35 PM
Kelly,
Glad to see your at least at the computer. Hope your not in too much pain. I used a wheel chair the first 3 weeks. I could never use the walker or crutches, so went right into the boot.
The news was so-so on the 26th. The bone stimulator seems to be working, but I still have to wear the boot for another 6 weeks since the bone has still not fused. I don't know if the DR is just stalling for time to think of something else to do or What?
Glad to see your at least at the computer. Hope your not in too much pain. I used a wheel chair the first 3 weeks. I could never use the walker or crutches, so went right into the boot.
The news was so-so on the 26th. The bone stimulator seems to be working, but I still have to wear the boot for another 6 weeks since the bone has still not fused. I don't know if the DR is just stalling for time to think of something else to do or What?
jmlm4245
11-08-2008, 12:41 PM
Corky,
I'm not sure I had the same procedure you did. Did your toe break again after the fusion failed? Mine did, along with all the nickel plates. I supposed after my bone fuses, they will have to go in and remove the broken plates. The broken plates may be what is causing the extra pain.
I'm not sure I had the same procedure you did. Did your toe break again after the fusion failed? Mine did, along with all the nickel plates. I supposed after my bone fuses, they will have to go in and remove the broken plates. The broken plates may be what is causing the extra pain.
kelly20
11-09-2008, 02:25 PM
Linda, sorry about the news...that has to be so frustrating. I will ocntinue to operate under the presumption that I am the world' best patient; I am doing everyhting I should be and my bone will fuse correctly and in a timely manner...if that is not the case I'll worry about that then. My implant was pretty serviceable for a long time (I had it in for 29 years - and only started giving me various troubles that last few years) I just cannot fathom the frustration - I hope you have found some fun, relaxing hobbies to keep you from going stir crazy. Like I said, I am blessed with the most amazing siister. she has had nemerous health issues, and besides being a very caring individual I think she just knows what the patient would want and she gives it to you before you even have to ask. I will soorely miss her when she leaves on Wednesday - I tear up every time I think of it.
I will be doing some work this week - my boss seems to be losing his patience...Wwhen is the concert - I sure hope you can go. take care - kelly
I will be doing some work this week - my boss seems to be losing his patience...Wwhen is the concert - I sure hope you can go. take care - kelly
corkeysue57
11-09-2008, 03:41 PM
JMLM
You must be discouraged to have had that happen. This is not my problem. I had a titanium joint replacement in the big toe 14 months ago but the operation was not a success and I have decided to have it removed and go for a fusion. Not feeling as positive or brave second time around but have to get a sneaker or shoe back on with winter here. My surgeon doesn't know why this failed. From the XRay it looks fine, but said he has others like me. I am awaiting a call for a fusion any time now. Of course, he cannot guarantee it will relieve the pain and swelling. How long is recovery if all goes well? Is it possible to take only a couple of days off or is this perhaps why your broke. WHAT TO DO
You must be discouraged to have had that happen. This is not my problem. I had a titanium joint replacement in the big toe 14 months ago but the operation was not a success and I have decided to have it removed and go for a fusion. Not feeling as positive or brave second time around but have to get a sneaker or shoe back on with winter here. My surgeon doesn't know why this failed. From the XRay it looks fine, but said he has others like me. I am awaiting a call for a fusion any time now. Of course, he cannot guarantee it will relieve the pain and swelling. How long is recovery if all goes well? Is it possible to take only a couple of days off or is this perhaps why your broke. WHAT TO DO
jmlm4245
11-10-2008, 09:57 AM
JMLM
You must be discouraged to have had that happen. This is not my problem. I had a titanium joint replacement in the big toe 14 months ago but the operation was not a success and I have decided to have it removed and go for a fusion. Not feeling as positive or brave second time around but have to get a sneaker or shoe back on with winter here. My surgeon doesn't know why this failed. From the XRay it looks fine, but said he has others like me. I am awaiting a call for a fusion any time now. Of course, he cannot guarantee it will relieve the pain and swelling. How long is recovery if all goes well? Is it possible to take only a couple of days off or is this perhaps why your broke. WHAT TO DO
Corkysue,
I had my surgery in May. I was in a wheelechair the first month. The big toe and second toe were done at the same time. In August POD told me the toes were healed and said I could walk gently. The big toe fusion broke and it was determined I had a non-union. I have been doing a bone stimulator for the past two months with, I fear, little success. The POD has ordered 6 more weeks of bone stimulator which will put me sometime in December still in the boot. I wish I could be positive for you, but I'm so ready to get out of this boot. The foot still swells everyday and can be quite painful. I will tell you that the risk of this happening is very low. Less than 2% I'm told. I just happened to be one of the unlucky ones. You sound like me though, not many choices left. I would give myself more than 4 days before work though. I'm retired so didn't have that issue. I am a very active retiree, so it's been tough not being able to do much. Good luck.
You must be discouraged to have had that happen. This is not my problem. I had a titanium joint replacement in the big toe 14 months ago but the operation was not a success and I have decided to have it removed and go for a fusion. Not feeling as positive or brave second time around but have to get a sneaker or shoe back on with winter here. My surgeon doesn't know why this failed. From the XRay it looks fine, but said he has others like me. I am awaiting a call for a fusion any time now. Of course, he cannot guarantee it will relieve the pain and swelling. How long is recovery if all goes well? Is it possible to take only a couple of days off or is this perhaps why your broke. WHAT TO DO
Corkysue,
I had my surgery in May. I was in a wheelechair the first month. The big toe and second toe were done at the same time. In August POD told me the toes were healed and said I could walk gently. The big toe fusion broke and it was determined I had a non-union. I have been doing a bone stimulator for the past two months with, I fear, little success. The POD has ordered 6 more weeks of bone stimulator which will put me sometime in December still in the boot. I wish I could be positive for you, but I'm so ready to get out of this boot. The foot still swells everyday and can be quite painful. I will tell you that the risk of this happening is very low. Less than 2% I'm told. I just happened to be one of the unlucky ones. You sound like me though, not many choices left. I would give myself more than 4 days before work though. I'm retired so didn't have that issue. I am a very active retiree, so it's been tough not being able to do much. Good luck.
jmlm4245
11-10-2008, 05:18 PM
Kelly and CorkeySue,
I had a setback today when more than the usual swelling had me back at the Dr. The X-rays revealed a worsening of the fusion union, so he recommended more surgery as soon as possible. This procedure will be much like the first, but only on the big toe. He's also going to extract a small amount of bone marrow from my heel and inject it into the fusion. I hope it works this time.
Kelly,
I did see Tina Turner and was blown away!! A bright spot in all this mess.
Linda
I had a setback today when more than the usual swelling had me back at the Dr. The X-rays revealed a worsening of the fusion union, so he recommended more surgery as soon as possible. This procedure will be much like the first, but only on the big toe. He's also going to extract a small amount of bone marrow from my heel and inject it into the fusion. I hope it works this time.
Kelly,
I did see Tina Turner and was blown away!! A bright spot in all this mess.
Linda
kelly20
11-10-2008, 06:28 PM
linda, so sorry about this...boy have you been through alot with this. hopefully, this time it will take. my suggestion is stay at least 1 night in hospital; I stayed 2 and am happy I did. When the block wears off it wears off fast...I went to double morphine (IV) and double Narco (pill). Even my dermatologist said to take the medicine and you need to take it before the pain gets real bad; you want to keep ahead of it. she said, and I quote, "bones hurt". I'll put you at the head of my prayer list. I am glad you got to the doc with the swelling so quickly, so they can take care of it sooner rather than later. Hopefully your husband can be around and take care of you as well as my sister took care of me...or at least as well as a man is able:)
jmlm4245
11-11-2008, 03:46 PM
linda, so sorry about this...boy have you been through alot with this. hopefully, this time it will take. my suggestion is stay at least 1 night in hospital; I stayed 2 and am happy I did. When the block wears off it wears off fast...I went to double morphine (IV) and double Narco (pill). Even my dermatologist said to take the medicine and you need to take it before the pain gets real bad; you want to keep ahead of it. she said, and I quote, "bones hurt". I'll put you at the head of my prayer list. I am glad you got to the doc with the swelling so quickly, so they can take care of it sooner rather than later. Hopefully your husband can be around and take care of you as well as my sister took care of me...or at least as well as a man is able:)
Kelly
Thank you for your concern and prayers.
I remember when I had the first fusion. I cried like a baby. It was payback time for me. I guess My kids would come in with a hurt when they were little and I would ask "Is it bleeding?" I have always had a real high threshold to pain so I guess I needed to see some blood . I was too ashamed of my tough reaction to their pain to let them know my pain, although their dad was quick to reveal my pain to them.
Trust me, I'm going to get my prescription filled before I go to the hospital. I don't think this surgery is done in a hospital. Just an out-patient facility.
How are you doing?
Kelly
Thank you for your concern and prayers.
I remember when I had the first fusion. I cried like a baby. It was payback time for me. I guess My kids would come in with a hurt when they were little and I would ask "Is it bleeding?" I have always had a real high threshold to pain so I guess I needed to see some blood . I was too ashamed of my tough reaction to their pain to let them know my pain, although their dad was quick to reveal my pain to them.
Trust me, I'm going to get my prescription filled before I go to the hospital. I don't think this surgery is done in a hospital. Just an out-patient facility.
How are you doing?
jmlm4245
11-11-2008, 05:58 PM
linda, so sorry about this...boy have you been through alot with this. hopefully, this time it will take. my suggestion is stay at least 1 night in hospital; I stayed 2 and am happy I did. When the block wears off it wears off fast...I went to double morphine (IV) and double Narco (pill). Even my dermatologist said to take the medicine and you need to take it before the pain gets real bad; you want to keep ahead of it. she said, and I quote, "bones hurt". I'll put you at the head of my prayer list. I am glad you got to the doc with the swelling so quickly, so they can take care of it sooner rather than later. Hopefully your husband can be around and take care of you as well as my sister took care of me...or at least as well as a man is able:)
Kelly
Thank you for your concern and prayers.
I remember when I had the first fusion. I cried like a baby. It was payback time for me I guess. When they were little my kids would come in with a hurt and I would ask "Is it bleeding?" I have always had a real high threshold to pain so I guess I needed to see some blood . I was too ashamed of my tough reaction to their pain to let them know my surgery pain, although their dad was quick to reveal how painful the surgery was.
Trust me, I'm going to get my prescription filled before I go to the hospital. I don't think this surgery is done in a hospital. Just an out-patient facility.
How are you doing?
Kelly
Thank you for your concern and prayers.
I remember when I had the first fusion. I cried like a baby. It was payback time for me I guess. When they were little my kids would come in with a hurt and I would ask "Is it bleeding?" I have always had a real high threshold to pain so I guess I needed to see some blood . I was too ashamed of my tough reaction to their pain to let them know my surgery pain, although their dad was quick to reveal how painful the surgery was.
Trust me, I'm going to get my prescription filled before I go to the hospital. I don't think this surgery is done in a hospital. Just an out-patient facility.
How are you doing?
corkeysue57
11-12-2008, 09:23 AM
Linda,
I am so sorry as well. You are right about getting proper pain relief meds Kelly. That is something I forgot to ask for and tylenol just doesn't touch it. Linda, when my block wore off I remember thinking no child or senior should ever have to endure this and here you are going through it again. I hope it helps you to know that you have people from all over thinking about you. Take Care Linda and Kelly.
Corkey
I am so sorry as well. You are right about getting proper pain relief meds Kelly. That is something I forgot to ask for and tylenol just doesn't touch it. Linda, when my block wore off I remember thinking no child or senior should ever have to endure this and here you are going through it again. I hope it helps you to know that you have people from all over thinking about you. Take Care Linda and Kelly.
Corkey
kelly20
11-12-2008, 07:32 PM
linda/corkey - I must say I believe I am doing well. I see the doc again next week and we'll see what the x-rays revela. linda you have me behaving very well. I would not be able to endure what you have since May and now going forward 6 weeks or so (have they scheduled surgery yet?) speaking of which, corky has your surgery been scheduled? did I miss it in a post?
my sister left today - i am sad and blue, but have been functioning okay. the liquids are in screw top bottles, the food in tupperware and it is all put in my tote and carried to where ever I am going to eat - someplace with my foot elevated:)
well i have been downstairs since about 6:30, so I think I'll trundle upstairs and ice my foot...and call it a day. best to both
kelly
my sister left today - i am sad and blue, but have been functioning okay. the liquids are in screw top bottles, the food in tupperware and it is all put in my tote and carried to where ever I am going to eat - someplace with my foot elevated:)
well i have been downstairs since about 6:30, so I think I'll trundle upstairs and ice my foot...and call it a day. best to both
kelly
jmlm4245
11-13-2008, 12:47 PM
I just talked to my POD. He says that I will need to have a bone graft from my hip to extend the toe since he will have to cut away some bone, thus making the toe much shorter. I will also have an external fixator. Has anyone had this done? I'm scared silly!
Linda
Linda
kelly20
11-14-2008, 10:14 AM
linda- yes i had a graft from my hip (they actually had to take more than they initially thought because of the amounts of damaged area they had to remove). the hip was sore and awkward to move, but healed fine. I think they will be more conservative on healing - don't move foot; keep boot on; use crutches/walker, etc. because they are very concerned that the blood start flowing between the real bone and the grafted bone. Obviously the larger the graft, the more time it will take. because of the size of grafted bone, the Doc almost casted the foot...I am not sure why he decided against it, but he did. he was very happy with the healing (I saw him at the 10 day mark -they took x-rays and removed stitches) I also am not really doing any PT at this time - they do not want me to bend the foot. I do some leg lifts and some ankle rotations but that is about it.
It was because of the bone graft the the doc wanted me to spend one night in the hospital (and when he came to my room that first morning, i told him i thought i needed one more night - and this is from someone who was determined to have it on a day surgery basis. IV morphine in addtion to the Narco pills, helped over the period of time when the foot block wore off and straight pills could not take care of the pain. I used a commode for the first day and half or so, then could make it to the bathroom with the walker. I had 3 PT sessions while in hospital - how to use walker, do steps with handrails/crutch and how to butt scoot when no handrails (I have an old, not-always-to-code 2-story home). I had to bail on the first session due to extremely low blood pressure, but the next two were fine.
I know you thought you were having day surgery, but I would ask if you could be admitted since there is now a hip bone graft in play...
I do not have an external fixator (though the first doc I went to mentioned this) but I do have a pin that sticks out of toe 2 (which they had to fix because of hammering, etc. the big toe had caused). It has a lovely turquoise bead on it...tooo bad it is not summer and I can leave the toe open:)
Question - how did you keep the boot from smelling - I sit in the shower every day, but i will admit it is hard to clean the bottom of that foor. I also have talced and fabreezed the boot...I still think I am a little ripe. I guess it is good I live alone.
Good luck. Post when you are nervous and know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
kelly
It was because of the bone graft the the doc wanted me to spend one night in the hospital (and when he came to my room that first morning, i told him i thought i needed one more night - and this is from someone who was determined to have it on a day surgery basis. IV morphine in addtion to the Narco pills, helped over the period of time when the foot block wore off and straight pills could not take care of the pain. I used a commode for the first day and half or so, then could make it to the bathroom with the walker. I had 3 PT sessions while in hospital - how to use walker, do steps with handrails/crutch and how to butt scoot when no handrails (I have an old, not-always-to-code 2-story home). I had to bail on the first session due to extremely low blood pressure, but the next two were fine.
I know you thought you were having day surgery, but I would ask if you could be admitted since there is now a hip bone graft in play...
I do not have an external fixator (though the first doc I went to mentioned this) but I do have a pin that sticks out of toe 2 (which they had to fix because of hammering, etc. the big toe had caused). It has a lovely turquoise bead on it...tooo bad it is not summer and I can leave the toe open:)
Question - how did you keep the boot from smelling - I sit in the shower every day, but i will admit it is hard to clean the bottom of that foor. I also have talced and fabreezed the boot...I still think I am a little ripe. I guess it is good I live alone.
Good luck. Post when you are nervous and know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
kelly
jmlm4245
11-15-2008, 10:26 AM
linda- yes i had a graft from my hip (they actually had to take more than they initially thought because of the amounts of damaged area they had to remove). the hip was sore and awkward to move, but healed fine. I think they will be more conservative on healing - don't move foot; keep boot on; use crutches/walker, etc. because they are very concerned that the blood start flowing between the real bone and the grafted bone. Obviously the larger the graft, the more time it will take. because of the size of grafted bone, the Doc almost casted the foot...I am not sure why he decided against it, but he did. he was very happy with the healing (I saw him at the 10 day mark -they took x-rays and removed stitches) I also am not really doing any PT at this time - they do not want me to bend the foot. I do some leg lifts and some ankle rotations but that is about it.
It was because of the bone graft the the doc wanted me to spend one night in the hospital (and when he came to my room that first morning, i told him i thought i needed one more night - and this is from someone who was determined to have it on a day surgery basis. IV morphine in addtion to the Narco pills, helped over the period of time when the foot block wore off and straight pills could not take care of the pain. I used a commode for the first day and half or so, then could make it to the bathroom with the walker. I had 3 PT sessions while in hospital - how to use walker, do steps with handrails/crutch and how to butt scoot when no handrails (I have an old, not-always-to-code 2-story home). I had to bail on the first session due to extremely low blood pressure, but the next two were fine.
I know you thought you were having day surgery, but I would ask if you could be admitted since there is now a hip bone graft in play...
I do not have an external fixator (though the first doc I went to mentioned this) but I do have a pin that sticks out of toe 2 (which they had to fix because of hammering, etc. the big toe had caused). It has a lovely turquoise bead on it...tooo bad it is not summer and I can leave the toe open:)
Question - how did you keep the boot from smelling - I sit in the shower every day, but i will admit it is hard to clean the bottom of that foor. I also have talced and fabreezed the boot...I still think I am a little ripe. I guess it is good I live alone.
Good luck. Post when you are nervous and know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
kelly
Hi Kelly,
POD has told me I would be staying at least one night. I'll see if they will let me stay another. I went to my Ortho yesterday to let him see the X-rays and he concurred with the POD. He even offered to assist with the graft.
I'm a "young" 63. I have never been a couch potato so the last year has been the most depressing year of my life. I was in a different boot for 2 months before the surgery. Because the big toe had dislocated the second toe, walking was impossible. The smaller boot kept my foot elevated enough to make walking bearable.
I tried the walker, but was unable to use it. I felt like I was going to fall all the time. I rented a wheelchair. My house may be better equipped, since we just built it. I then went into the boot.
Speaking of the boot. Did you get the "aircast" brand? If so, you can just take the foam out and throw it in the washer. I must have washed mine 10 times or more. In fact, when he said the union didn't take, I told him I needed a new boot. Be sure the velcro is fastened so it won't stick to other things.
My surgery is Dec 5th. He has said I will have a fixator and probably be in a smaller boot than the one I have now. I too had the pin in the second toe with the first OP. That pin is 4 inches into your foot, but there was no pain at all when he removed it. My tip was yellow. That toe is fine except it won't bend and there is still nerve pain. I think I'll have him remove the nerve in that toe when he fixes the big toe.
Since I live in Central Texas, we have pretty mild winters, so I'll not worry about cold feet. Let's keep in touch.
Linda
It was because of the bone graft the the doc wanted me to spend one night in the hospital (and when he came to my room that first morning, i told him i thought i needed one more night - and this is from someone who was determined to have it on a day surgery basis. IV morphine in addtion to the Narco pills, helped over the period of time when the foot block wore off and straight pills could not take care of the pain. I used a commode for the first day and half or so, then could make it to the bathroom with the walker. I had 3 PT sessions while in hospital - how to use walker, do steps with handrails/crutch and how to butt scoot when no handrails (I have an old, not-always-to-code 2-story home). I had to bail on the first session due to extremely low blood pressure, but the next two were fine.
I know you thought you were having day surgery, but I would ask if you could be admitted since there is now a hip bone graft in play...
I do not have an external fixator (though the first doc I went to mentioned this) but I do have a pin that sticks out of toe 2 (which they had to fix because of hammering, etc. the big toe had caused). It has a lovely turquoise bead on it...tooo bad it is not summer and I can leave the toe open:)
Question - how did you keep the boot from smelling - I sit in the shower every day, but i will admit it is hard to clean the bottom of that foor. I also have talced and fabreezed the boot...I still think I am a little ripe. I guess it is good I live alone.
Good luck. Post when you are nervous and know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
kelly
Hi Kelly,
POD has told me I would be staying at least one night. I'll see if they will let me stay another. I went to my Ortho yesterday to let him see the X-rays and he concurred with the POD. He even offered to assist with the graft.
I'm a "young" 63. I have never been a couch potato so the last year has been the most depressing year of my life. I was in a different boot for 2 months before the surgery. Because the big toe had dislocated the second toe, walking was impossible. The smaller boot kept my foot elevated enough to make walking bearable.
I tried the walker, but was unable to use it. I felt like I was going to fall all the time. I rented a wheelchair. My house may be better equipped, since we just built it. I then went into the boot.
Speaking of the boot. Did you get the "aircast" brand? If so, you can just take the foam out and throw it in the washer. I must have washed mine 10 times or more. In fact, when he said the union didn't take, I told him I needed a new boot. Be sure the velcro is fastened so it won't stick to other things.
My surgery is Dec 5th. He has said I will have a fixator and probably be in a smaller boot than the one I have now. I too had the pin in the second toe with the first OP. That pin is 4 inches into your foot, but there was no pain at all when he removed it. My tip was yellow. That toe is fine except it won't bend and there is still nerve pain. I think I'll have him remove the nerve in that toe when he fixes the big toe.
Since I live in Central Texas, we have pretty mild winters, so I'll not worry about cold feet. Let's keep in touch.
Linda
kelly20
12-17-2008, 06:37 PM
jmlm/linda - are you out there? I seemed to have been dropped from the thread? i hope you are doing well? did you have the suregery? hip graft? healing well? fill me in.
kelly
kelly
my sore feet
01-11-2009, 07:11 PM
Someone please give me some positive feedback on 1st met fusion with a graft from the hip procedure. My ortho surgeon said he does some special gel packing in the hip to alleviate pain. I will be having surgery on my right foot as soon as i heal from a cheilectomy done on my left foot last wed. Jan 7. The fusion w/hip graft is what i'll be having. All i want is no more pain, but am still very apprehensive about the whole thing. Words of encouragement anyone?
Brenda
Brenda
jmlm4245
01-12-2009, 04:35 PM
jmlm/linda - are you out there? I seemed to have been dropped from the thread? i hope you are doing well? did you have the suregery? hip graft? healing well? fill me in.
kelly
Kelly, I sorry I haven't gotten back to you. The truth is, I just didn't want to keep complaining about my foot anymore. It's not doing to well. I have a stress fracture on the 3rd and 4th metatarsal caused from trying to not put any weight on the non fusion big toe (fear of more separation in the joint). That puts me back in the boot for 2 weeks or more. The second toe has nerve damage and sometimes brings me out of my chair from the pain. My POD is going to inject it 3 times over the next 6 weeks with a special alcohol solution that will render the toe numb. I would rather have it numb than suffer the pain.
I'm afraid the ultimate solution is the hip to toe fusion that I'm not looking forward to. The POD says it will fix everything. I got the script today for my 3rd 6 month handicap sticker. I don't use it unless the walk is so far I can't make it. I also tool around pretty good in the little "Amigo's" in various grocery stores and big box stores. However, I have been left countless times in the middle of the stores without power.
Enough complaining from me. How are you doing?
Linda
kelly
Kelly, I sorry I haven't gotten back to you. The truth is, I just didn't want to keep complaining about my foot anymore. It's not doing to well. I have a stress fracture on the 3rd and 4th metatarsal caused from trying to not put any weight on the non fusion big toe (fear of more separation in the joint). That puts me back in the boot for 2 weeks or more. The second toe has nerve damage and sometimes brings me out of my chair from the pain. My POD is going to inject it 3 times over the next 6 weeks with a special alcohol solution that will render the toe numb. I would rather have it numb than suffer the pain.
I'm afraid the ultimate solution is the hip to toe fusion that I'm not looking forward to. The POD says it will fix everything. I got the script today for my 3rd 6 month handicap sticker. I don't use it unless the walk is so far I can't make it. I also tool around pretty good in the little "Amigo's" in various grocery stores and big box stores. However, I have been left countless times in the middle of the stores without power.
Enough complaining from me. How are you doing?
Linda
kelly20
01-13-2009, 09:10 AM
Linda and mysorefoot;
I had the bone fusion with a graft from the hip bone. Actually when they went into the foot they found that they needed to do a more extensive graft thant they expected. On the whole the healing has gone pretty well, though longer than expected (due to extent of graft). Surgery was 10/22 and I was only released to drive 1/5. I am still in the post op shoe, thank god I don't need the boot unless it is sore, or I have a long way to walk - obviously when I won't be driving. I have been very conservative in the healing. I was icing it twice a day religiously, I didn't "rush" anything the doc said. One setback was an infection I picked up about 6 weeks out (I think at the doctor's visit, but who knows) but we caught it right away and it was okay within a few days. I do have swelling now - I think that is due to the fact that I am using it much more. I was extemely lucky and was able to do office work only until last week. I am in marketing so usually I am in/out of car all day. since I work out of the home, there was minimal walking, ice was right there if I needed to ice it, etc. I could elevate it if needed. I do think spending the 2 nights in the hospital was good - when the blocks wore off, there was a lot of pain, but they could double the morphine (IV) and double the narco (oral). When I went home, I kept on double Narco for a few days, then a few days more at night. I had been advised by another doc, that bones HURT and stay ahead of the pain.
The doc says i can golf the middle of february - but i can't imagine it yet. i still waddle (the old Yeti, left-to right wobble walk:)) I haven't been able to get back to exercising. If I am on the floor I cannot leverage myself to get up very well - and the right foot has to be 'flat" so that is still a problem. (NOTE to MYSOREFOOT: do as much as you can to develop strength in the other side before surgery - sorry Linda, probably too late for us:))
BTW, the hips is very sore at first. Another nice thing about the hospital is they put up one of the contraptions so a I had handle over the middle of the bed - that allowed me to pull myself up to turn, and then I could put my leg over the bed to get out. I did use the commode for the first day and a half, which was easier than trying to get to the bathroom.
Best news, my sister came to visit for 3 weeks. since I live alone, the first week especially would have been very hard without help.
All in all, it seems my stars came together to have this done - great doc, sister came to town, insurance let me spend some time in the hospital, my job was such that i could do the office work portion (and it ended up being the absolute best time to be restricted to office work).
the above was mostly for m/s/f - a little of what to expect.
Linda, I am so sorry your horror continues. Having just been laid up for 2 1/2 months,I cannot imagine what you are going through. firsdt the pain, then the "my-god-will-this-never-end". I know you are not a complainer or whiner by nature - and that makes it harder - how long can you be expected to grin and bear it. do you think you should see if there is some one in your insurance plan to get a 2nd opinion from? I don't mean to be rude, but my friends "nicely coerced" me into getting a second. I am very glad I did. I did end up with the second guy, but even if you stay with the first, it might give you comfort in what you choose to do. Again, I apologize if this was too rude - but honestly, I ended up with the first joint replacement in 1979 without getting a 2nd opinion - obviosuly it lasted for almost 30 years, so that was good, but every doc since (just a friend or my doc) could not beleive I did something so major without a 2nd opinion...that said, I may have only gone for the 2nd in this case because "something just didin't feel right"... who knows - enough of my preaching. I am just being your Dutch aunt from afar. You are back at the top of my prayer list - so I do fervantly hope the pain, discomfort, etc. is over in the near future.
please keep in touch - and actually, I am the perfect persop to complain to - I understand the frustration (a little bit) - and I am far away:)
best to both
kelly
I had the bone fusion with a graft from the hip bone. Actually when they went into the foot they found that they needed to do a more extensive graft thant they expected. On the whole the healing has gone pretty well, though longer than expected (due to extent of graft). Surgery was 10/22 and I was only released to drive 1/5. I am still in the post op shoe, thank god I don't need the boot unless it is sore, or I have a long way to walk - obviously when I won't be driving. I have been very conservative in the healing. I was icing it twice a day religiously, I didn't "rush" anything the doc said. One setback was an infection I picked up about 6 weeks out (I think at the doctor's visit, but who knows) but we caught it right away and it was okay within a few days. I do have swelling now - I think that is due to the fact that I am using it much more. I was extemely lucky and was able to do office work only until last week. I am in marketing so usually I am in/out of car all day. since I work out of the home, there was minimal walking, ice was right there if I needed to ice it, etc. I could elevate it if needed. I do think spending the 2 nights in the hospital was good - when the blocks wore off, there was a lot of pain, but they could double the morphine (IV) and double the narco (oral). When I went home, I kept on double Narco for a few days, then a few days more at night. I had been advised by another doc, that bones HURT and stay ahead of the pain.
The doc says i can golf the middle of february - but i can't imagine it yet. i still waddle (the old Yeti, left-to right wobble walk:)) I haven't been able to get back to exercising. If I am on the floor I cannot leverage myself to get up very well - and the right foot has to be 'flat" so that is still a problem. (NOTE to MYSOREFOOT: do as much as you can to develop strength in the other side before surgery - sorry Linda, probably too late for us:))
BTW, the hips is very sore at first. Another nice thing about the hospital is they put up one of the contraptions so a I had handle over the middle of the bed - that allowed me to pull myself up to turn, and then I could put my leg over the bed to get out. I did use the commode for the first day and a half, which was easier than trying to get to the bathroom.
Best news, my sister came to visit for 3 weeks. since I live alone, the first week especially would have been very hard without help.
All in all, it seems my stars came together to have this done - great doc, sister came to town, insurance let me spend some time in the hospital, my job was such that i could do the office work portion (and it ended up being the absolute best time to be restricted to office work).
the above was mostly for m/s/f - a little of what to expect.
Linda, I am so sorry your horror continues. Having just been laid up for 2 1/2 months,I cannot imagine what you are going through. firsdt the pain, then the "my-god-will-this-never-end". I know you are not a complainer or whiner by nature - and that makes it harder - how long can you be expected to grin and bear it. do you think you should see if there is some one in your insurance plan to get a 2nd opinion from? I don't mean to be rude, but my friends "nicely coerced" me into getting a second. I am very glad I did. I did end up with the second guy, but even if you stay with the first, it might give you comfort in what you choose to do. Again, I apologize if this was too rude - but honestly, I ended up with the first joint replacement in 1979 without getting a 2nd opinion - obviosuly it lasted for almost 30 years, so that was good, but every doc since (just a friend or my doc) could not beleive I did something so major without a 2nd opinion...that said, I may have only gone for the 2nd in this case because "something just didin't feel right"... who knows - enough of my preaching. I am just being your Dutch aunt from afar. You are back at the top of my prayer list - so I do fervantly hope the pain, discomfort, etc. is over in the near future.
please keep in touch - and actually, I am the perfect persop to complain to - I understand the frustration (a little bit) - and I am far away:)
best to both
kelly
my sore feet
01-13-2009, 03:11 PM
Thanks kelly for all your good info. i'm not sure if it's good to be on these boards or not, i'm getting so syced up it's rediculous. i guess one can't have too much info. you're right about getting used to using one leg and practicing ahead of time. i thought the toilet would be a good place to start. it's tougher than it seems to get up using only one leg! i'm a very determined person and hate defeat so i plan to be as prepared as humanly possible for this. i'm just dreading that recovery where there's that burning stinging pain then the nerves all decide to come back to life....ouch. after an osteotomy two years ago i went thru that and i'm assuming it was on a much lesser scale than what's to come. thx again for your info, keep those encouraging words coming. take care.
brenda
brenda
jmlm4245
01-13-2009, 05:53 PM
Someone please give me some positive feedback on 1st met fusion with a graft from the hip procedure. My ortho surgeon said he does some special gel packing in the hip to alleviate pain. I will be having surgery on my right foot as soon as i heal from a cheilectomy done on my left foot last wed. Jan 7. The fusion w/hip graft is what i'll be having. All i want is no more pain, but am still very apprehensive about the whole thing. Words of encouragement anyone?
Brenda
Brenda
Kelly can give you more details since she's had the fusion done and seems to be doing fine. I was scheduled to have it done in December but backed out because of fear of failure. My original 1st met fusion was done without hip graft and the fusion failed. I now have a non-union but still walk with no pain on the big toe, I'm just not able to get the toe to touch the floor, so I roll to the side of my foot and have managed to fracture the 3rd and 4th met in doing so. I'm now back in the boot and trying to determine if I should go ahead with the graft surgery. I don't mind telling you I'm scared of it not working the 2nd time also. I can take the pain, and there will be plenty, but I don't think I could take another failed surgery.
I wish you the best and will keep you in my thoughts and Prayers.
Linda
Brenda
Brenda
Kelly can give you more details since she's had the fusion done and seems to be doing fine. I was scheduled to have it done in December but backed out because of fear of failure. My original 1st met fusion was done without hip graft and the fusion failed. I now have a non-union but still walk with no pain on the big toe, I'm just not able to get the toe to touch the floor, so I roll to the side of my foot and have managed to fracture the 3rd and 4th met in doing so. I'm now back in the boot and trying to determine if I should go ahead with the graft surgery. I don't mind telling you I'm scared of it not working the 2nd time also. I can take the pain, and there will be plenty, but I don't think I could take another failed surgery.
I wish you the best and will keep you in my thoughts and Prayers.
Linda
my sore feet
01-13-2009, 06:29 PM
hi linda - do you have an orthopedic surgeon or pod? because of my history with the pod, i'm pretty convinced they have no business messing with bones. they should be set aside for the lesser invasive procedures. i think my orthopedic guy know his stuff. so with that said, are you sure you're visiting the right dr. also, i recently read somewhere and i wish i could remember where, but it was regarding better chances of a union if hip graft WAS used and not just trying to fuse the joint only. i'm going to ask my ortho next week when in go in if he knows anything about that. if it's true, that might be something for you to consider. on the other hand, if you're not having any pain right now, why rock the boat. i really feel your pain, i can't imagine how you felt when you find out about non-union, that is a total nightmare. take care, if i learn anything that could help you i'll right back.
brenda
brenda
jmlm4245
01-14-2009, 07:47 PM
hi linda - do you have an orthopedic surgeon or pod? because of my history with the pod, i'm pretty convinced they have no business messing with bones. they should be set aside for the lesser invasive procedures. i think my orthopedic guy know his stuff. so with that said, are you sure you're visiting the right dr. also, i recently read somewhere and i wish i could remember where, but it was regarding better chances of a union if hip graft WAS used and not just trying to fuse the joint only. i'm going to ask my ortho next week when in go in if he knows anything about that. if it's true, that might be something for you to consider. on the other hand, if you're not having any pain right now, why rock the boat. i really feel your pain, i can't imagine how you felt when you find out about non-union, that is a total nightmare. take care, if i learn anything that could help you i'll right back.
brenda
Brenda,
I have both doctors. My ortho doesn't do feet so he referred me to the POD. He's well respected in the community, and quite frankly it was an Ortho who started it all back in the 90's. I had double bunionectomy by an ortho and she shaved too much bone off which led to the problems I'm having now. I knew within two weeks she'd screwed up when I tried to walk and stumbled to the left. When I mentioned to her that the left foot seemed unstable she promptly gave me my x-rays and told me to seek another doctor. I should have sued her for malpractice although I'm sure it would have been called an unfortunate mishap by her. I've had trouble with that foot ever since with the fusion culminating the years of problems. My second toe was lying on top of the big toe by the time I had the fusion. I've been in constant pain trying countless contraptions, various styles of shoes (all very ugly) trying to straighten out that toe. That toe is perfectly straight now. I just had to sacrifice the big toe for it.
Good luck with your procedure
I'll keep thinking about you. It sounds like you have a good doctor.
Linda
brenda
Brenda,
I have both doctors. My ortho doesn't do feet so he referred me to the POD. He's well respected in the community, and quite frankly it was an Ortho who started it all back in the 90's. I had double bunionectomy by an ortho and she shaved too much bone off which led to the problems I'm having now. I knew within two weeks she'd screwed up when I tried to walk and stumbled to the left. When I mentioned to her that the left foot seemed unstable she promptly gave me my x-rays and told me to seek another doctor. I should have sued her for malpractice although I'm sure it would have been called an unfortunate mishap by her. I've had trouble with that foot ever since with the fusion culminating the years of problems. My second toe was lying on top of the big toe by the time I had the fusion. I've been in constant pain trying countless contraptions, various styles of shoes (all very ugly) trying to straighten out that toe. That toe is perfectly straight now. I just had to sacrifice the big toe for it.
Good luck with your procedure
I'll keep thinking about you. It sounds like you have a good doctor.
Linda
jmlm4245
01-14-2009, 07:55 PM
Kelly, I'm going to seek a second opinion. I failed to ask my POD if he had done many of these procedures. I probably should have asked how many, and how's your success rate? My problem now is the fractured 3rd and 4th metatarsal. I'll wear the boot until it heals. In the meantime, I'm going to find another doctor and get another opinion. Does your big toe touch the ground? POD says I need to work on getting that toe to bend. He says the non union shouldn't matter if there's no pain. The problem is...I can't, no matter how hard I try get that toe to touch the ground!
It sounds like your slowly healing. I hope you can play golf in February. I played about three weeks ago. My first drive was right down the middle about 185 yds. I was so pumped. I wasn't able to play but nine but I enjoyed it so much. I wore my footJoys the first time with no pain but screwed up and wore a different pair the second time I tried to play. It was a disaster that may be when I fractured the 3rd and 4th met. I will probably have to give away 6 or seven pairs of golf shoes. What size are you?
Linda
It sounds like your slowly healing. I hope you can play golf in February. I played about three weeks ago. My first drive was right down the middle about 185 yds. I was so pumped. I wasn't able to play but nine but I enjoyed it so much. I wore my footJoys the first time with no pain but screwed up and wore a different pair the second time I tried to play. It was a disaster that may be when I fractured the 3rd and 4th met. I will probably have to give away 6 or seven pairs of golf shoes. What size are you?
Linda
kelly20
01-17-2009, 01:22 PM
Linda, I will probably be limited to my footjoys - the ones that are 'stiff'. I am sure sure the more 'athletic' ones will not give enough support to the foot, at least for a while. At least that means I only have to not wear one (albeit the new snazzy ones I bought at the end of last season:() The issue in February will probably which shoe my foot will fit into - there is still some swelling (but I do have the FJ adjustable sandal that could work). That and none of MY drives will be 185 down the middle - awesome.
How are toes 3 and 4 - seemed to be healing, I hope. You have to be absolutely crazed with the amount of time and pain, that seems to be for nothing. hopefully whatever is next willl get this all behind you. My toe was set pretty straight, so it does/can touch the ground - though I can't really curl/bend it. i see the doc next in about 10 days. i'll see if i am released for everything - do more rolling/barefoot walking, etc. at that time i may ask for some PT - i haven't had any yet, but that should help with a more natural walk. i am still walking a little more on the right side of the foot - proabably fear and habit, as opposed to a pain issue now. really no pain - unless some nerves come back to life:). it hasn't been the best time of year - the snow, ice and cold make getting around a little trickier. i drive for my job so i have to watch were i park, find non-icy slopes/steps, etc. but i am on the whole doing very well - i wish that for you. now i just want spring to come - boy are we having a rough winter and there are still over 2 months left - bah humbug...but if i am only complaining about the weather that means my life is good. i wish the best in the next stage of your foot saga; keep me posted. maybe by the summer we can compare our golf games and see who is busting whose butt:) have a happy and healthy weekend.
kelly
How are toes 3 and 4 - seemed to be healing, I hope. You have to be absolutely crazed with the amount of time and pain, that seems to be for nothing. hopefully whatever is next willl get this all behind you. My toe was set pretty straight, so it does/can touch the ground - though I can't really curl/bend it. i see the doc next in about 10 days. i'll see if i am released for everything - do more rolling/barefoot walking, etc. at that time i may ask for some PT - i haven't had any yet, but that should help with a more natural walk. i am still walking a little more on the right side of the foot - proabably fear and habit, as opposed to a pain issue now. really no pain - unless some nerves come back to life:). it hasn't been the best time of year - the snow, ice and cold make getting around a little trickier. i drive for my job so i have to watch were i park, find non-icy slopes/steps, etc. but i am on the whole doing very well - i wish that for you. now i just want spring to come - boy are we having a rough winter and there are still over 2 months left - bah humbug...but if i am only complaining about the weather that means my life is good. i wish the best in the next stage of your foot saga; keep me posted. maybe by the summer we can compare our golf games and see who is busting whose butt:) have a happy and healthy weekend.
kelly