Rehabilitation After Ankle Fusion Surgery
After Care
After your ankle fusion surgery, your ankle will be wrapped in a padded plaster cast. This will be removed after two weeks and replaced with a short-leg cast. You will not be permitted to put weight down on your foot until it is certain the bones are fusing. This usually takes between eight and twelve weeks.
You should keep your leg elevated above the level of your heart for several days to avoid swelling and throbbing. Keep it propped up on a stack of pillows when sleeping or sitting up.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Your Ankle Joint Replacement Surgery
An ankle brace will replace the cast after eight to twelve weeks. Your surgeon will take X-rays frequently to see if the bones are fusing together. You will probably need to use crutches for most of the time you wear the cast. As the fusion grows stronger, you will begin to put more weight on your foot when walking. You may need the help of a physical therapist to learn to walk smoothly and without a limp.
Once the fusion has completely healed, you will be fitted with several special shoe modifications to make walking easier. An insert in the shoe called a “SACH foot” is sometimes useful to help you walk more normally. This heel cushion compresses as you put your weight on the foot and allows the foot to roll more normally as you step. Another useful modification of the shoe is a rocker sole. Unlike a typical flat shoe sole, the rocker sole is rounded, allowing your foot to roll as you move through a step.
While you won't be able to run normally after an ankle fusion, a successful operation should result in a nearly natural walking gait.
As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can determine whether an orthopaedic implant is an appropriate course of treatment. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. The performance of the new joint depends on weight, activity level, age and other factors. These need to be discussed with your doctor.
Last Updated: 10/16/2007
