Arthrodesis - Ankle fusing
- Thread starter BobCatMax
- Start date
Student Bob
Old School Hero
Hmmm... not had one done personally, but I've seen a couple. I'm going to go with.... very limiting. Your ankle is bolted together and becomes completely solid, so you lose the flexibility you need for cycling. That said, you'll still be physically capable of cycling, down to the shops and whatnot but yer more advanced stuff will be tricky..... If it helps visualise it, then walking is a bit funny afterwards too, they give you special spongy inserts for your heels to try and make it as natural as possible, but you've still got to rock over your foot if you get me.
Arthrodesis should always be a last resort, specifically for these reasons, is a TAR - total ankle replacement not an option?
Arthrodesis should always be a last resort, specifically for these reasons, is a TAR - total ankle replacement not an option?
I have seen the same process on the Knee following a failed knee replacement op. (I design Medical devices for a living, 2 of my previous roles have been in orthopedics). As stated you lose the movement of the joint, But should still be able to cycle. It is usually very much a last option in terms of repair.
I cant comment in too much detail on the ankle as I am a Hip & Knees man, but I imagine the procedure and its results will be similar to the knee arthrodesis.
Obviously for more information it is worth checking with a doctor/surgeon.
I cant comment in too much detail on the ankle as I am a Hip & Knees man, but I imagine the procedure and its results will be similar to the knee arthrodesis.
Obviously for more information it is worth checking with a doctor/surgeon.
A Pal of mine was told he needed it after a climbing accident 20 years ago. He refused and has since managed to get 95% back, although wearing a heavy boot most of the time. He's also since trekked in Greenland, climbed in the Himalayas several times, plus the Eiger etc etc.
Don't take the first opinion as the last.
Don't take the first opinion as the last.
One of my closest mates has recently told me he may have to have it done, and i've told him a little bit of what you guys have said, last resort, please don't do it, want to keep riding with you etc.
may gently push him in this direction and show him what you've said.
thanks for the help guys
keep it coming if there's any more though, ta!
may gently push him in this direction and show him what you've said.
thanks for the help guys
keep it coming if there's any more though, ta!
I may have to have this done some time in my future..
My consultant reckoned that, after the healing period, I would be largely unaffected by the fusion - sounded promising..
However.. an ex-friend knew someone who had one done and they reckoned it was the worst thing they'd ever done with regards to restricted mobility and pain and regretted it deeply...
Sadly I didn't get to talk to the person first-hand but the info was relayed to me from a reliable source..
I'm putting mine off for as long as possible.
My consultant reckoned that, after the healing period, I would be largely unaffected by the fusion - sounded promising..
However.. an ex-friend knew someone who had one done and they reckoned it was the worst thing they'd ever done with regards to restricted mobility and pain and regretted it deeply...
Sadly I didn't get to talk to the person first-hand but the info was relayed to me from a reliable source..
I'm putting mine off for as long as possible.
