Ankle Replacement Failure & Now Facing Ankle Fusion

Hello @nancyjegart, I'd like to invite a few members you have already met in other discussions to your new discussion dedicated to ankle fusion after replacement failure: @loll, @crebecca, @pfreeman61, @flachon3.

In addition to these members, I have also had an ankle fusion. I had end-stage arthritis from injuries. Because of my age and activity level, I was not really ever a candidate for replacement because I was told I'd be more functional and active if I fused the joint.

The recovery process was difficult for me both physically and mentally. It is a long, tedious recovery with no real rehab initially as you wait for the bones to "heal" to form the fusion. Pain management is critical and staying "ahead" of the pain is the most important part of management. Once you can start weight-bearing, it is a slow build to feel comfortable on your foot bones again as well as walking (your cadence will be a bit different).

In the end, it was the right decision. I am able to walk great distances with absolutely no pain. It was certainly worth it. I hike, bike, walk and wade in rivers to catch trout without any issues. It just took a long time and patience to get there.

@nancyjegart, what questions or concerns do you have about the fusion you are likely preparing for?