Subtalar Fusion Pain

[cwood]

Hello - Due to a bad fall 20 years ago, I have had several surgeries on my right ankle.  12 years ago my anke was fused, and over the years I began having severe pain and was determined to need a subtalar fusion.  I am now 13 weeks post surgery and just had my cast removed.  I now have no cast at all.  It is swelling a lot and still quite a bit of pain.  The doctor said I could return to normal activity as tolerated.  I guess I had forgotten how painful these things could be.  My question is that when I first stand up after sitting or riding for any amount of time, the pain is so intense that I have to stand for a couple of minutes before I can walk.  Why does it get better when I am on it a while?  How long can I expect this to be going on?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The pain and the discomfort are likely to be due to residual inflammation and muscle stiffness. This is likely to get better with time. I would suggest physiotherapy during the period, to assist gradual movement and weight bearing making it less uncomfortable. Hot-fomentation/ warm compresses and some NSAIDS may also be useful for a symptomatic relief. If things do not seem to get better in a few weeks, you may consider an evaluation by an orthopedician to rule our possible secondary complications.
Hope this helps.

Take care!

[Tuckamore]

Hi Cwood,

Welcome to the Pain Management Forum. Surgery, recovery and rehab can be very painful, especially when it involves a limb we depend upon for ambulation.

I hope you are receiving adequate pain control. Obviously that will provide you with greater comfort but it will also speed the healing process. Rest and a good nights sleep is important in the overall process.

I am glad that you posted on our forum and you are always welcome here. However I believe you will find more informed responses and personal experience information on our Orthopedic Forum. I am providing you with that link:  

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Orthopedics/show/60

My best friend (just a few yrs older then you) had ankle reconstructive surgery done about 15 months ago. Sorry I don't know the exact name of the procedure. Like you she had a traumatic and severe injury some years ago and suffered with pain and problems over the years. Due to the advancements that have been made she decided to have this latest surgery. I can attest to the fact that it took her close to a year before she had significant recovery. When it was hot or she walked any distance (a few blocks) or even sat too long (so the fluid was allowed to build up in her ankle) it would swell and become quite painful. Sometimes there didn't seem to be a reason for the increased swelling and pain. Her symptoms have eased but she has to be cautious and not overdo.  

I cannot tell you if her response was typical... and again do I know the exact name of the surgery or how it compares to your surgery. I do know that they removed an old metal plate and did some reconstruction.  Again I think you will obtain better info at the link I provided. But please let us know how you are doing. I'll look forward to your updates and wish you a speedy recovery. I know about the importance of pain management in the healing process so please don't be afraid to ask for medication to keep you comfortable.

Best of Luck,
~Tuck