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Post ankle fusion...feeling very down and hopeless.

Posted , 3 users are following.

Morrismanc007
Morrismanc007

Any words of wisdom for me?

I’m now 26wks post op and feeling really down and hopeless, as I’m still struggling with pain. 

I think I can feeling a screw starting to work it’s way to the surface of my skin on my op side.

I have tendonitis on my right inner ankle because of the way I’ve been walking over the years to compensate for my left ankle.  

My scar is tight and uncomfortable, but feels so painful when I try and massage it. I even got some scar reducing dressings off a friend but they fall off! 

My knees and hips are also throbbing and hurt to flex them.

The fusion is my 7th op on my ankle and I’m well and truly at a loss of what to do. I still take my pain meds just as I was pre op and they do not work to control the pain anymore.

My work have been great but because of my job they aren’t happy for me to go back until I’ve seen my consultant on the 29th to find out if the screw/metalwork is causing a problem.

I’ve hardly had any Physio as the hospital didn’t refer me until 14wks post op! Had x2 hydrotherapy sessions, one was cancelled and the other my son was poorly...that is all I have had.

So all in all I’m pretty fed up, if it seems like ‘oh woe is me’ I’m sorry but I’m really struggling now with the pain! Please tell me it will get better. 

Claire. Xx

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • kbeen
    kbeen Morrismanc007

    Posted

    Hi there, I am 15 weeks post ORIF for a trimalleolar fracture of my right ankle. Not to mention the tendon damage in my foot too. I havent been suffering as long as you, but I know what it feels like to feel like you can't keep going. I have been walking with critches for 2 weeks, although only can do a few steps (I have a fitbit and am doing about 1500 steps a day). When everything ypu do is either painful or awkward because you cant carry anything or stand, it is overwhelming. 

    My advice is regular physiotherapy. My physio has done wonders in the last few weeks, And today after my session I walked with crutches and felt no pain for the first time in nearly four months. Ok, it was only a few steps, but Im calling it progress. In my experience over the years with back problems physiotherapists have been much more useful than doctors! I have 2 half hour sessions a week at the monent. I urge you to give them a chance. Another option is see a musculoskeletal specialist, and ask about cortisone injections. 

    hang in there! 

  • tessa98714
    tessa98714 Morrismanc007

    Posted

    Hi Claire, I’m so sorry to hear you’re still in pain.  I’m trying to remember where I was at at 26 wks.  At around 6 months I remember I was still walking with one crutch and having pain in the foot rolling through and in all those muscles around the ankle.  I didn’t startwalking without any crutch support till around 8 months. At which point I also got my orthotic insoles and some comfy trainers and there was a bit of a turning point.  Now 9 and a half months on I’m starting to have moments where I think it might have all been worth it! However I am having my screws out on 5 Jan as I do have discomfort still on the right side where they could be poking through a tiny bit. That year deadline is approaching and I’m hoping by then it’ll all be ok.   I’m sure things will get better for you too in time.  Re physio if it’s any consolation I wasn’t  referred till 8 months post op and still waiting for an appt! I’m

    a bit obsessed now with the pedometer and trying to build up my steps each day.  And thinking of starting Pilates to rebuild my strength.  Hang on in there Claire, it will get better!  8 months was a turning point for me so I think for 25 wks you’re doing ok.  Xx

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