ankle fusion recovery

walkabout

Unfortunately, alot of patience is what you will need. I had my ankle fused in April of last year and I am still trying to deal with some pain issues. I don't feel the pain I had before I had the fusion. My body is trying to compensate for the limitations I have with my ankle. I did go to Physical therapy and that helped stretch things out. Wow, I can't beleive you you are wearing you regular shoes! How nice! I need to be selective in the shoes I wear. Swelling will take some time. They say that it could take up to a year or more for healing time.

My best to you!

rose48

I had an ankle fusion on Dec. 6 and I am still is tremendous pain! I have been in PT for about 4 weeks. I was improving up until 2 days ago when the tremendous pain came back. I have to wear compression socks (for the swelling) up to the knee which helped up until today. I found out that the screw in my ankle cracked and it is now unscrewing! I am really upset and don't know which way to turn. I feel your pain.

cantwalk

Hi there.
I had my ankle fusion surgery with a calcaneal osteotomy on September 29th of last year. I am still having alot of pain when walking. Also have throbbing pain in my heel even at rest. I guess we're all not doing too well here. The thing is, the doctor doesn't understand why I am not bouncing around. He is trying different things but nothing is working.
But to answer your question, after I got in the walking boot, Doc had me go to phys therepy with instructions to "wean off the boot." That includes range of motion exercises as your foot won't be able to move as much as your other foot. so they stretch your foot and massage etc. So I think you should be having some sort of therapy. However, if you're already in your shoes, then I guess you're already good to go.
Did you have calcaneal osteotomy? Also, describe your pain with more detail. And please, please keep us updated with your doctor's appointments and what they tell you. We all would like to know how you're doing and also for our information as well.
Good luck!

music47

Tomjan

I had my ankle fusion in October 2004. I had fallen earlier in that year and broke and shattered three bones. I had four surgeries and my leg was crooked and I could barely walk. I went to a specialist in another state and he recommended an ankle fusion. The dr straightened my leg and fused my ankle. All of the old hardware was removed and the dr put two screws through my ankle. I was in a wheelchair for several months. I am in better shape than I was before the fusion but I am still in a lot of pain. Arthritis has formed in my ankle and foot. I can only wear hightop orthopedic shoes and I take Percocet every day for pain. I don't mean to discourage you. It varies from one person to the next. My prayers are with you. I hope that you are feeling better and pain free soon. Take care.

Nadine

stepbystep89

I had my ankle fused July 30, 2006. I still have pain, although most of the swelling is down. My dr said the swelling and pain could last 12-18 months. Not sure why mine still hurts 21 months later. I did have an extensive infection, including in the bone, so maybe my recovery is delayed.

I didn't do any physical therapy. I have been to a physiatrist for pain in my back and hip, and she was surprised I didn't have any PT. Even if it would have been for other areas of my body.

I wish you the best. Keep posting!

Step

maangier

I too have had an ankle fusion. I thought I was prepared for the surgery but not to this. I was on my back for 8 weeks. I have just started to move around. I am so depressed that I still can't do the things I would like to do, like walk. Has anyone had a problem with their leg turning purple from the knee down?

music47

Hi Maangier

I had an ankle fusion in October, 2004. I didn't have any problem with my leg turning purple. It would be a good idea to have your dr check it just to be sure.

I understand why you are depressed. In time you'll be up walking again. My prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask me. Take care.

Hugs Nadine