Mobilising post triple arthrodesis

Posted , 2 users are following.

I had an arthroscopic triple arthrodesis on 28 July 2017.

I was in a cast for 6 weeks, then moon boot for a further 6 weeks.

I used crutches/ wheelchair for longer distances.

At about 14 weeks I started walking without crutches. My ankle was fine with this, as long as I elevated it between short walks ( up to 400 meters).

My problem was, and still is lower back pain. I can only stand for approximately 2 minotes before I have to sit down to relieve severe bilateral muscular pain. Similarly if I'm cooking or emptying the dishwasher for example, I can only tolerate 2 minutes max.

As I am desperate to extend my exercise ( weight gain of 5 kgs since opening! !!) I have had to reintroduce walking with crutches, which is a big psychological blow.

Will my gait and mobility improve? Am I just being impatient?

What are other people's experiences at 4 and a half months post op?

Help!

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Posted

    Dear Lindy

    Sadly anything serious involving our ankles takes time and then some more as we have a lot of catching up to do as you have discovered!

    I think all you can do is to continue to use both crutches to train your body to a good no limping gait and practice, practice and continue to do any exercises you have been given. Yes your gait and mobility will improve with time but it does require persistence , Oh so B boring!

    For back pain I strongly recommend that you pay a good chiropractor a couple of visits. That's what I'm doing as there are days when I suffer from lower back pain when walking or washing up stuff in the kitchen sink which is most unwelcome.

    Cheers Richard

    • Posted

      Thanks for your reply!

      It's reassuring that I'm not the only one having back pain when standing. I haven't seen it mentioned anywhere else so thought I was doing something wrong!

      I'll keep going with the crutches, and will look into seeing a chiropractor.

      Many thanks. ?

    • Posted

      Dear Lindy

      Before moving I used to see a traditional chiropractor but on the island where I now live it seems that there are basically only the McTimoney qualified ones. This is my second visit so I must give them a chance.

      All the best, Richard

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