Screws Possibly Backing Out???? Please help! - Foot Problems Message Board

stepbystep89 · 03-13-2009, 08:31 PM

I had a subtalar fusion 12/1/08. I have 2 screws inserted through the bottom of my heel that go through the subtalar joint to the front of my ankle. I have been full weightbearing for about 6 weeks and weaning into a shoe for the past 2-3 weeks. Since last Friday I have had a growing pain - well 2 pains actually - one on the bottom of my heel that at times is excruciating and makes it impossible to walk after about 15 minutes (and it starts immediately when I put my foot on the ground). The other pain is in the front of my ankle where the screws come out - it is especially tender to the touch.

Therefore, when I walk in a shoe or barefoot - my heel kills me. When I wear the boot, the front of my ankle is so tender I can't hardly stand it.

I don't really know what could be causing this pain this late in the game. I mean, if it was closer to surgery, I may think it was infected or something.

Is it possible that the screws are working their way out?

I would love to hear from anyone who hasd experience with how that feels and what was done to correct the problem or anyone else who has thoughts to share.

Thanks!

Step

emmie54 · 03-14-2009, 10:53 AM

Step,

I know someone on another board who had a similar problem. They went in and re-screwed them. I would definitely call your doctor as you want to be sure. I would think with a fusion those screws need to be just right!

Let us know what happens. Take care.

stepbystep89 · 03-14-2009, 11:32 AM

Thanks Emmie! The strangest thing is this morning things feel pretty good. I'm able to walk anyway!

I called the dr's office Friday afternoon and left a message, so I suppose I will hear from them Monday. I'll keep you posted.

Step

stepbystep89 · 03-16-2009, 07:09 PM

I haven't heard back from my surgeon yet, and honestly I am getting very frustrated. I am now 14 weeks out from my fusion, and I still cannot really enjoy any amount of activity. I just want to be better! I want to be able to walk or to stand for more than 10 minutes without all of the pain. I can't believe how much it still hurts AND I am still on pain meds!

Thank you for listening to me complain!!

Step

shelleybutn · 03-17-2009, 08:38 AM

step, you are so early in your recovery i wouldn't freak out yet. if you just had it in december....you are only 4 months. i wasn't even out of boot yet! i didn't feel amazing until month 9 and am doing pretty well now. my surgery was last may. (triple arthrodesis, fusion)

the screws can irritate things, my 2 in my navicular bone are irritating the tissue and may need to be taken out...but not til a year.

i remember going thru lots of new pains in those early months. they will come and go and eventually will be gone. hang in there. it's probably just normal pains.

shelley