 Calling All People With Ankle Problems!
OK I could really use some advice. I have read through old posts and have seen that there are some veterans here when it comes to ankle problems.
I have had 7 ankle surgeries since Jan '01. It all started with a tri-malleolar ankle fracture, and lets just say 3 doctors, several arthroscopies, debridements, calcaneal osteotomy, and hardware removals later I am in worse pain than I was the day of the original injury! I now have tendon, ligament, and nerve problems, the hardware in my heel feel like metal spikes everytime I walk, plus pretty severe arthritis. I don't remember what it's like to sleep a full night or take a step without excrutiating pain.
Beside the obvious problems, I just turned 20 yesterday which pretty much blows my chances of having a total ankle replacement. My doctor has recommended fusion. He hasn't been specific which kind it will be but told me that's my ONLY option.
So here are my questions:
1.) Are there other options besides fusion for younger patients like me?
2.) Can fusion make you worse?
3.) What happens if fusion fails?
4.) Are there any guidelines my doctor should be following for treating my pain? Or is it acceptable to be tortured daily by my ankle?
5.) Has anyone had fusion and loved/regretted it?
6.) Anyone have any suggestions for pain control?
7.) What braces have worked well for you?
Sharon
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Good luck.
