I'm considering having my ankle joint fused

[Prisoner_Number_Six]

My legs and feet are already messed up, and I have one fake knee, but it now seems like just about every third step I take causes a nice jolt of pain in my ankle. I've worn various ankle braces for quite a while- everything from an elastic slip-on one that makes my entire foot go numb to a full-on steel brace that had to be fitted into my shoe. Although that one helps more than the others, at the end of the day it weighs a ton, and it's expensive to keep replacing the shoe.

There's a point where further struggle seems to be useless. I doubt very much that fusing my ankle will be a major hassle- I've walked funny for many years, and the limp I've added over time is minor. The mobility deficit will probably be minimally noticeable to me once it heals.

Anyone here know someone who has had this done, and what the consequences were? Just curious to see if the procedure is actually worth it or not.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. My dear Prisoner_Number_Six....

I have never had such a thing done.......

But I am here to say...talk seriously to several surgeons, who would know about this!

It does sound, at least from your description, that it would be worthwhile!

Good luck, sweetie!

:hug:

[SeattleGirl]

2. I've not personally had this done, but have had clients who have.

I'm a vocational rehab counselor (dealing with people hurt on the job). I've had a number of clients who have had fusions, and overall, they have been successful. The primary problem I have seen is that once in awhile, there is a problem with the bones not fusing. When that happens, they will sometimes use a bone stimulator, which helps the process along.

Best thing I could tell you is to ask a lot of questions when you go to the doc, regarding the procedure itself, the pros, cons, potential problems, benefits, etc. Make sure you are as well-informed as you can be before proceeding. Also, keep in mind that there is usually no 100% guarantee of a successful outcome. Not trying to scare or worry you or anything; it's just that I've seen too many people go into surgery thinking everything will be 100% when they are done; that's why I suggest getting as much info as possible before going ahead.

And if you do go ahead with it, I wish you the best! :hi:

[Prisoner_Number_Six]

3. I've had my knee split open and replaced twice now

I know just a little bit about going through major surgery. Also, most of my toes have already fused naturally because of arthritis. They cause me no pain.

I've talked to the doctors about it before, and in fact they have recommended it. I have an upcoming appointment with my arthritis doctor, and I plan on bringing it up with him. Hopefully he'll send me on to the ortho surgeons and it'll be done rather quickly if they agree.

OT- Over the past year I've begun doing work with some local vocational rehab clients- I registered with the local office because of my computer repair company, and I've found working with challenged clients to be very rewarding. I went through the program once myself, so it's kinda like giving back to the system for me.

[SeattleGirl]

4. Good for you, PNS!

My favorite clients to work with are those with head injuries. They are challenging, but it's a challenge I enjoy.