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Ankle fusion - 16 months post op.

Posted , 4 users are following.

maria29975
maria29975

Okay so, as the title pretty much explains, I had my ankle fused almost a year and a half ago. The metal work was removed 7 months post op.

However, I’m still experiencing moderate to severe pain whenever I walk for a while. Anything over 30-45 minutes typically sets it off. I had physiotherapy, and the bones fused correctly so that’s all good. 

Is this normal at all? I know it’s a lot of physical trauma to go through but I’d hoped it would be completely pain free now and that I’d be able to be very active again.  sad 

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Jude1959
    Jude1959 maria29975

    Posted

    Why has the metal work been removed? I thought it stayed in? I am 3 months post ankle fusion and bone graft. Just out of air cast boot and mobilising building up weight bearing as able. All seems ok at the moment. Keep us up to date. I really thought the pins stayed in.
    • maria29975
      maria29975 Jude1959

      Posted

      They do stay in provided that they aren’t causing any discomfort. 

      Heal up fast! smile 

  • GreenThumbz
    GreenThumbz maria29975

    Posted

    It sounds like yours went well since the bones completely healed. I believe my doctor said that without any complications it can take 12-18 months to be completely pain free. Maybe having the metal removed caused the time frame to start over again? Make sure you are wearing good shoes and don't overdo it. Remember, the foot is the slowest area of the body to heal and you definitely don't want to cause any more trauma. 

    I had a bone fusion in October 2017 and mine still hasn't healed and is extremely painful. My doctor has not mentioned anything about removing any of the hardware he put in. I am going to have another surgery to remove a fibroma that has attached to the plantar fascia tendon, the doctor said I am only the second patient he has ever seen develop this after my type of surgery, and he may have to do the fusion over if it hasn't healed by October. I have had every complication you can imagine after my first surgery in January 2017. 

    Hope it continues to get better and keep us informed on your progress. 

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