1. Community
  2. Bones, joints and muscles
  3. Ankle Problems

Desperately need help and advice, Ankle Fusion or Replacement?

Posted , 6 users are following.

cindy28362
cindy28362

Hi, I desperately need some advice and from people who have had either an ankle replacement or ankle fusion.  Specialists have recommended fusion as I’m only 46...and I really don’t know what to do. Have read lots of research on both and seems I either damage adjacent bones due to them becoming arthritic with a fusion,

Or choose to have complicated surgery later when the ankle replacement fails (don’t know if could be 2 yrs, 5 yrs, 10 yrs). 😔 

Really looking for insight(s) from people who have had either operation and their experiences?  I would be very, very grateful for any help anyone can provide as it seems the fusion op doesn’t stop the pain? Plus how have ppl coped with recovery.

Thank you so much.

0 likes, 19 replies

19 Replies

Prev
  • penny04107
    penny04107 cindy28362

    Posted

    I had a triple fusion just under a year ago and it was a long job, the recovery, but I did what I was told, for once, and really now it does seem to have been a success. Even though there is still a lot of metalwork in the joints, `I have virtually no pain and plenty of movement - `I can wiggle the joint perfectly well!  In contrast the other foot/ankle is painful and weak and I am look forward to getting it done this summer.  It's amazing, actually, how much better it is to have one good foot than two bad ones!  I am 77 so if I can get my strength back at that age, anyone can!  I didn't really have any physiotherapy but just starting doing the normal things round the farm as much as I could.  I did obviously have a very good Specialist surgeon , at the John Radcliffe in Oxford - Mr Bob Sharp is quite a character but he knows his job....

    • gigi06729
      gigi06729 penny04107

      Posted

      Hi Penny!

      I am thrilled to hear you had a good outcome at age 77. I need to hear these type of stories, just in case I have to do this again in 15 years. I'm hoping not too, but one never knows. 

      Best wishes for a speedy recovery with the other foot. 

    • cindy28362
      cindy28362 penny04107

      Posted

      Hi Penny, that’s great news. Really good hear it’s worked well for you and it was a good outcome, and I very much appreciate the update on how the fusion has worked worked. 

      Many thanks and good luck on the other foot.

Back to top
Prev

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.