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I need an ankle replacement

Posted , 10 users are following.

debi37231
debi37231

I had a serious head on collision Feb 2011. I've had 4 surgeries since then. My ankle was shattered and my leg broken. This changed my life in an instant. Here it is over 5 years now and I'm in more pain than I originally had after the accident. My ankle is so swollen I haven't been able to even wear my shoes for years I wear open back shoes year round. I had to move because I can't do steps. I can't walk without pain. I limp and have arthritis now all over my foot. I'm in constant pain and my mobility is awful I can't believe I can still drive. I can't do anything I use to do it has changed my quality of life. My doctor said there is nothing else to do my ankle replacement. I'm really scared I don't know what to do. I'm 60 and I'd like to get my life back but I fear it's too late or it could be worse after the surgery. Has anyone been through something similar relating to an shattered ankle and then a replacement years later? I would appreciate some input. Thanks

1 like, 27 replies

27 Replies

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  • mary4013
    mary4013 debi37231

    Posted

    I was hit by a drunk driver 20 years ago. Ankle was shattered. Had played and screws and out of work 5 months. My ankle did settle down for many years before the arthritis got so bad recently. I just haf total ankle. It was a very smooth surgery. I'm not in alot of pain right now. I can't attest to walking yet, I'm still Non weigh baring for 5 weeks. But I hope this changes my life for the better. I'm 55 years old and for the last year I have been miserable with pain.it would have to get better for you..I would consider it.

    • debi37231
      debi37231 mary4013

      Posted

      So sorry I know how awful it is. I honestly don't know how I walk or drive. It hurts so bad. I never thought I'd feel worse 5 years later. The doctor who did my first three surgeries said I would be fine in 4 months no one would know I had an injury. He was so WRONG!!!! I know I need to do something I can't go on like this it just gets worse. Thanks for talking to me

  • beckyann
    beckyann debi37231

    Posted

    Debi, my heart goes out to you. I sprain my ankle back in the 70's and ended up with severe Arthritis, it was bone on bone, everytime I took a step I felt the most horrible pain. It got where I couldn't do ANYTHING, NOTHING I went into deep depression. I was scared to have ankle replacement because I was 61 but I eventually did. May 6th was my surgery date...and feel great, I should have done it sooner. I can do everything I did before. I am having no problems what so ever. It was an easy surgery. I was walking in less then 4 weeks. The key to success is to have a good doctor.

    • debi37231
      debi37231 beckyann

      Posted

      This really encourages me that you feel good again and lost the weight again. Thank you
  • LLP2112
    LLP2112 debi37231

    Posted

    I had a total ankle replacement 7 weeks ago and am happy with the result so far. It sounds like a great option for you. The most important piece of the puzzle is the surgeon - I found one who had done a lot of replacements and has a particular interest and extensive training in ankle replacement. Do your research first to find the best ankle surgeon. 
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