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Back pain after foot surgery

Posted , 3 users are following.

Baileyhorne
Baileyhorne

Hi, I’m 3 weeks out from metatarsal foot fusion. First 2 weeks were non weight bearing. Than had stitches removed and given a equalizer boot to wear for the next 4 week until I see the doctor again. My question is, does anybody else’s back hurts when walking? I can only walk a few minutes than I have e to sit. I did not have back problems before surgery. Feeling helpless.    Yvette 

1 like, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • Readybluedragon
    Readybluedragon Baileyhorne

    Posted

    I have had 3 metatarsal surgeries within 21 months and it is quite normal as the CAM walker throws your back out due to its height and the way you walk. I was surprised you could do any weight bearing after 3 weeks as the norm is 6-8 weeks. Anyway, I recommend going to a good physiotherapist and/or massage. Swimming in a hydro pool helps too. I had my third MT surgery in November was was non weight bearing until last month and still am in CAM walker and crutches. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
  • cheryl80200
    cheryl80200 Baileyhorne

    Posted

    I am following as have my first metatarsal mid foot fusion this Friday. I would be greatful for any advice
    • Readybluedragon
      Readybluedragon cheryl80200

      Posted

      I highly recommend a knee scooter as non weight bearing is tiresome and frustrating. Follow your surgeon's advice with respect to how long non weight bearing. It just isn't worth setbacks if you weight bear before fusion has knitted. Swelling is normal, as is pain. They usually give you a nerve block which helps with pain mgt the first few days. Try to avoid opiod pain relief, which is the norm, as they can be addictive as well as cause severe constipation. Good luck with surgery. Just remember to be patient with the healing process. It will be months before your foot resembles normal. Get a good pair of walking shoes that support you with laces as the swelling will be an issue for several months 😊

    • cheryl80200
      cheryl80200 Readybluedragon

      Posted

      Thank your so much for your advice. I am looking to hire a knee walker as soon as I can. Having bought various aids to help me. I am nervous about the OP, but after 4+ years of increasingly pain in my foot, which has stopped me walking any distance or no more than 20 mins,  that was only recently diagnosed as OA I will be happy if this OP enables me to walk in time. 😀

      My specialist has advised non weight bearing for 2 week s in a cast, then he will assess and change to air walker boot and a further 6 weeks non weight bearing...or more....so I am prepared as much as I can be. I have noted what you have said about Opiods...they sound scary. I am not sure what they will give me yet. I can ask on Friday 

    • Readybluedragon
      Readybluedragon cheryl80200

      Posted

      The knee scooter will make your life easier. I bought one first time I had surgery and made everything so much bearable. Also, when you get into the CAM walker and you sleep with it on (plaster with benefits!) put a pillowcase over it to stop the velcro grabbing your bedsheets, etc. Good luck and let me know how you go. Patience is a virtue.
    • cheryl80200
      cheryl80200 Readybluedragon

      Posted

      Thanks for the tips very good idea I think I will use an old pillowcase over the air walker boot in bed, as it’s so hot here. (I’m a Brit in Singapore).

      hubby is going to Get me a knee walker at the weekend, whilst I’m in hospital, it sounds a good idea. Will save my arms as trying to use the Zimmer frame is so tiring. At nearly 60 years young I’m not as fit as I used to be lol. Ok big day tomorrow I’ll let you know how I get on...thanks again 

    • cheryl80200
      cheryl80200 Readybluedragon

      Posted

      Update, OP completed, first 2 days extreme pain. One plate 8 screws over 4th and 5th met. Home adjusting to limited movement. Pain much less now. Foot elevated most of the time, ice pack inserted into air walker. Eases swelling which actually not to bad. Using wheelchair at home is ok and frame in bathroom. Just got knee walker will try it out soon. Seeing Dr on Thursday. 
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