Post-tib transfer - Foot Problems Message Board

Zoey123 · 10-29-2007, 08:11 AM

It has been 9 weeks since I had my surgery. The transfered a tendon from the four small toes to the post-tibial area, moved my heel over and put a screw in it, lengthed my achilles tendon, and put two pins in the top of my foot to pick up my arch. Monday I go to the Dr. for more x-rays to see if I can start putting partial weight on my foot. I have been in a cam-walker for 3 weeks, non-weight bearing and going to PT for range of motion in my big toe. I know it is going to take months for recovery but would like to know what to expect once I start walking again. I have neuropathy in both of my feet and legs which doesn't help the pain situation. Any suggestions to make the best of a painful situation?
Thanks,
Zoey123

Abikat · 11-01-2007, 02:09 PM

I know it is going to take months for recovery but would like to know what to expect once I start walking again.

Zoey...

I'm 9 months post-op from about the same type of surgery that you had. It's a weird feeling once you start walking again. You almost have to do it in your mind before your foot thinks it can bear your weight. It'll feel strange because your weight will now be shifted to the outside of your foot. My foot felt numb and I felt very tippy and unbalanced for quite awhile. I was only able to walk a short distance, very slowly and only stand for a short time. I used one crutch on and off for support for about two months after I started full weight bearing. The good thing is that I've never had a lot of pain. when I've had achiness it kind of moves around to different areas of my foot on different days.

One of the hardest things I had to deal with was fitting my "new" foot into shoes. None of my old ones seemed big enough and there were only certain shoes that opened up enough for me to get my foot into to even try on. I've finally found a few pair that work, but I didn't want to buy too many too soon until my foot felt a little better.

Good luck. I'll gladly try to answer any specific questions, seeing that I'm a few months ahead of you in recuperation. Also, if you try to read back through old messages here, you'll find lots of helpful ideas.

Mary