Getting ready for a Triple Arthrodesis on March 19, 2017. Recommendations for forearm crutches?

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Hi everyone, first time I've been on a forum.  Hoping someone can help!  I'm preparing for my ankle surgery and quite honestly, am a little nervous.  I think I have everything I need with the exception of crutches.  I would really like forearm crutches, but there are so many kinds out there, that I just don't know where to start. Any recommendations?  

Thanks!!cheesygrin

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3 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Suze,

    Don't be nervous.  I had my ankle fusion back in August and it was the best thing Iever did.  It is painful for a couple of weeks after so make sure you have adequate pain meds - I had to back to my GP to get stronger meds.

    As for crutches, forearm crutches are just fine but I'd recommend you look at the "Iwalk" which is a pegleg knee crutch.  I bought one and it was fantastic because I could walk around and have my hands free.  You can't use it immediately until your backslab plaster is replaced with a full cast (about 2 weeks) but you need to keep your leg elevated during that time anyway.

    Check them out online.

    Good luck with  the op.

    Andy

    • Posted

      Thank you so much Andy for the response!  I have see the iwalk and wondered if it worked well.  I will try that!  I'm very happy to hear you are pleased that you had it done. As much as this may sound crazy, but I'm looking forward to having it done, just to be out of the constant pain of everyday walking. (And to be able to wear different shoes instead of tennis shoes all the time!)  Thanks again!!

      Sue

  • Posted

    I had a subtalar fusion back in January, so I am coming up on 9 weeks.  I fully recommend a knee scooter is you are able.  Crutches are nice for getting into tighter spaces, but for around the house and once you are up for it, going out of the house, the scooter made all of the difference.  I was able to use mine like a leg by setting the brake and leaning on it a lot to ease onto a toilet, onto a couch, and into the bath. 

    Good luck to you.  Recovery can seem rather slow, but youll start noticing drastic improvements every day starting around day 3 post surgery! 

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