Hey buddy, I’m glad you’re doing great. I had a bad traumatic accident a 9000 pound steel beam flip off a trailer crush my ankle. I’ve had four surgeries within nine months. The last option is an ankle fusion. I was a little concerned but after seeing your videos, and another UA-camr, I was very impressed with the results. I’ve ordered myself a pair of those MBT’s. Just want to say thank you so much for the videos.
@@nr24130 i’m five months since I had my ankle fusion and I still can’t walk without the crutches some days I have to have the boot on too because the swelling. My physiotherapist says I’m making a lot of progress. You know how it is. Do you want done ASAP? You want to feel better you wanna be able to do things that you haven’t done in a long time it sucks butI’m very optimistic. Crossing my fingers brother. Hope you’re doing OK as well.
I'm so thankful I found you. I had something very similar happen to my ankle playing soccer (I'm in the USA lol), but just to one ankle (my left). I'm only 25 and walking is very difficult and painful for me. I was recently told an ankle fusion is my likely best bet, but that I could also try cortisone shots and/or the scoping procedure done to see if they help (seems unlikely). I don't have high hopes at this point and wish I could just be a normal person in their 20s the way I used to be. It makes me so depressed and I've started losing hope, but seeing you gives me a little back. I still don't know what to do.
Thanks a lot for your videos. I am a relatively young guy in his early 30's and last year I suffered a really bad compound fracture of both the tibia and fibula and basically fractured my malleolus really badly. Luckily I didn't get an infection but I suffered really bad ankle instability. My ankle never fully recovered and I have been in debilitating pain ever since. I was a pretty active guy before this injury so it was really devastating. The pain and lack of mobility drove me into a really dark depression and I even contemplated suicide at some points. Thankfully I didn't do that. Thank you for giving me some hope that I can overcome this injury. It has been hard to get out of this dark mental place but your videos really helped me so much to give me hope that I can still have an active life. I will probably have my ankle fusion in a couple of months and I hope I can have a good outcome like you.
It's so awesome that you're sharing your story and tips with folks! When I had my first fusion 20 yrs ago, there weren't many resources for sharing knowledge. After 8 surgeries, I'm now in bilateral ExoSyms in my 40's and am slowly regaining the mobility I'd lost. I was delighted to stumble across one of your videos, and wish you the best in your adventures!
Your videos are soooo helpful! I had ankle fusion 2 yrs ago owing to the fact that I had completely eroded away cartilage from severe supination. 5 screws later, and 2 yrs in, I am pain-free and have just started taking a ballet class. Obviously, I will not be pointing my fused foot nor doing any high impact leaps, but I'm pleased to have sufficient mobility to do this. Thank you for putting this series together!
I have been walking on crutches for 2 years. At first it got better over time, but it has been getting worse for some time now. I also decided to have ankle fusion, I have surgery next week, keep your fingers crossed. although I hope that I will be able to run a little, at least jog ;) but above all, that I will be able to walk 20 km in the mountains
It is annoying always being in pain. I started to get used to it and had to stay on my crutches for 3 years! After the many operations that didn’t work. Very happy after fusion to be able to walk pain free. Good luck! Keep me update
Your videos are very uplifting and encouraging! I had ankle fusion 9 weeks ago! I had my navicular and talus replacement surgery after badly twisting my ankle …my navicular shattered after several non union healing….it just kept rebreaking…and because of lack of blood supply to my talus…the bone ended up dying! So I chose to have both bones replaced….it never allowed my to be pain free or my foot/leg swelled terribly! Eventually…the hardware fell apart…because of the torque it was causing walking on my fibula…I broke my fibula….a total disaster! I now am 9 weeks out of ankle fusion…I am fused to heel and a spacer with screws put in for lack of talus and navicular! My goal is to just walk without pain! Water walk and do water aerobics! I am 63 and hope to get back in shape! Thank you for allowing me to realize this is oossible! 6:18
Had a similar injury as yours in football am 35 was given options of either fusion or orif surgery chose the later am recovering but the more i learn the more i may need the 1st (hope not) but I need to prepare myself just in case. Its not easy if your no. 1 source of joy is exercise. You may find yourself prone to depression hasn't been easy been off my feet four months so far because initially I was mis diagnosed. I hope and wish for the best and no complications hope you are well too
Thanks for sharing, Bro. Nearly 3 weeks post-op arthrodesis. It's been very comforting watching your vids . I can not believe anyone but myself would be concerned with how to squats . I am pumped for a successful recovery. Thanks again.
Hey mate, glad I could help. There was nothing out there when I had the fusion so glad I just wanted to let people know that it is possible and you can adapt exercises to work around it. No excuses right 💪🏼
I just had surgery last week and I’m very competitive bbuilder and I was so scared thinking that my career is over till I saw this channel and somehow I feel much better about how it’ll play out for me thank you for this🏆🔥🔥🔥🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I train 3 or 4 times a week and am still able to build muscle (slowly now at this age). You have to adapt a few exercises but should be fine to carry on bbuilding. Your calf muscle on your fused ankle will atrophy and you won’t be able to train it directly but it will get some stimulation with squats (plates under heels). Good luck bro 💪🏼
@@anklefusionguy thank you very much bro please keep dropping videos on how to better work with fusions because we need them to be careful in the gym and we don’t want to make mistakes 👍🏽
@@thedbbee4956 yea one hundred percent you won’t do legs as you did before unfortunately but you will get a good workout…deadlifts I never tried them but I do elevated dbells deadlifts it’s actually about finding out what works best for you trial and error and eventually you’ll get it hope it goes good Ey❤️❤️❤️💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽
I had a hindfoot nail ankle fusion from shattering my talus bone in a bad car accident and I've been totally non-weight bearing for 2½ now. I'm having 1 more surgery in the next month. Watching your videos has given me confidence that I will get at least some normality back to my life. The only thing I worry about is work, I'm a millwright so I'm working 10-12 hour days in a very labor intensive job.
I have been battling with ankle pain for over 25 years and have finally made the decision to have the fusion following multiple operations and injections. I do t have a date yet but relieved to have made the decision and apprehensive of what’s to cone
Same, shattered right ankle in 1985 and put off fusion till 6 weeks ago. I'm so glad I found this channel channel I'm learning so much. I'm very relieved that maybe I will have part of my life back. I'm getting excited 😃😃😃
Hope your fusion is successful mine didn’t fuse after 4 surgeries but I’m not getting anymore. Got MRSA after first surgery ate my cartilage so ankle collapsed because they took out hardware due to infection said I didn’t need hardware then it collapsed so fusion was my only option because it hurt so bad. Make sure you have a good surgeon
Hi. I’m so glad to find your channel. In the last 7 years, after multiple surgeries I have both of my ankles fused. After two surgeries on my left, I’m fused but pain free. The right ankle is different story. After one fusion and two repairs, my ankle is non union. 2 surgeons have told me there is no way to fix it, so I walk on a basically a broken ankle. I’m in pain daily and have thought about amputation. If anyone has thoughts or advice please let me know. Thanks.
I don’t know so much about amputation but I realise that this might be one of my options in the future if the small joints around my fused ankle deteriorate. It sounds like it would be the right option for you because you are in pain everyday. My advice would be to try and speak to someone who has had an amputation. There’s a UA-cam channel called footless Jo. She has a fusion but then needed an amputation years down the line. I think she has some good advice. Good luck with everything
I would do some research and ask your doctors if an ankle replacement is still an option for your non union ankle Leanne. I am in a situation where I either need an ankle fusion or replacement and with the technology now I have heard replacements are really good now and could be an option for you before amputation maybe. Hopefully that helps a bit. Good luck!
Hi glad your on the mend, I had foot surgery 11 weeks ago and doing well. I was worried it was going to be traumatic but can honestly say. I had no pain at all, just mild discomfort and swelling. I am getting no pain so far.
Thank you so much. Your right. The pain after the operation is not that much. Hope I can be able to walk normally. How did it feel when you came out of the cast?
@@landydybala8503 hi, the first six weeks seemed the longest, after they you have a boot for six weeks and partial weight. It's been 5 months now and my foot is still swollen and the sole of my foot hasn't got all the feeling back yet. Its been a long haul and hopefully back to normal soon
Hi, this is really helpful, so glad I have found your channel. I am 61, pretty fit - lots of cycling. I have AVN of both Talus. I am considering a fusion. Question about cycling 1) is your pedal stroke still functioning and have you noticed a reduction in power 2) have you experienced much calf muscle deterioration. I assume the achilles is redundant after a fusion. 3) Is your view postpone fusion as long as you can - or get it done. i cant walk more than a mile, can't carry anything. But when I get on my bike I feel 25, off it I feel 85. I know you can't make a decision for others but any thoughts. Thank you for all you are doing - Great job.
Hi, I will do my best with your questions: 1) I wasn’t a very experienced cyclist before so I’m not sure but I think yes because I can’t now pedal with the ball of my foot on the pedal (this cause pain in the ankle). Instead I have to place my foot mid pedal to take away the pain but obviously this then loses power from the gastrocnemius (calf). Better than nothing though, I just adapted my cycling technique. 2) yes to calf reduction but I have very skinny calf’s genetically so there’s not much difference between the 2. I get some activation from walking and squats with raised heels. Hard to say how much size you would lose sorry. 3) I would postpone fusion yes, I am currently in that situation with my other ankle. It causes me pain towards the end of a working day. I am going to hold off going to see the doctor about it for as long as I can, I can manage the pain atm and take rests. I might have to eventually get fusion in that ankle also (I had 2 operations about 15 years ago to help damaged cartilage). Also if you haven’t done so please buy a pair of MBT Zee trainers. Without them I wouldn’t be able to walk. Even with comfortable running trainers of any brand I would be in pain after a couple of thousand steps.
If you can’t walk more than a mile that is concerning. Try the MBTs and see if that helps. If not I would probably go for fusion in your situation, you should then be able to walk without pain. good luck in your decision
I'm waiting for a fusion but wondering if I should try the cartilage replacement first, any recommendations? I am a former varsity soccer player with multiple surgeries, fractures, current osteotomy hardware in now and two ligament replacements and severe osteoarthritis and bone on bone currently in the joint.
Hello Sir! Greetings from India. I'm a 21 year old medical student who got involved in a terrible RTA and went through a degloving injury. After 6 months of extensive surgeries, my weight bearing XRays showed that i have developed Ankle Arthritis due to the damage to the cartilage. Few Questions. 1. What are the drawbacks of getting an ankle fusion? Some doctors say that it's a procedure that needs to be repeated after 6-8 years, again. 2. Is the post op really bad and long? How long does it take to start doing your day to day activities again? 3. Does standing on your feet for long hours cause pain too? Like running does? 4. Should we try and postpone ankle fusion for as long as possible? Thanks. PS. You are doing such a noble deed by operating this channel. You give hope and strength to so many people around the world. May God bless you.
Hello. I will do my best to answer your questions: 1) I was told that the joints in the foot and knee of the same leg might start to wear. I wasn’t told about another fusion later down the line. I play cricket with a man who has his ankle fused 12 years ago and he can still play sport and run a bit. 2) I honestly don’t remember it being so bad but then I had 5 operations previously to try and save the ankle and so I was used to the process. It takes several months to get back to normal walking. Don’t rush, take your time. Worth it in the long run. I will continue in the next message
3. I can stand for hours but it would have to be in my MBT trainers. After a long day on my feet it would be sore. After a good night slight the pain is gone and my ankle is ‘reset’ for the next day. Running is definitely possible. I can run a bit but it’s quite awkward. I know some people have more joy with running with an ankle fusion. 4) I would recommend postponing ankle fusion but if you are in pain everyday then ankle fusion is a good option to alleviate the pain. Thank you for your kind words. I am happy to be able to share my experience and help. Good luck with everything
Just one final thing. Does arthroscopy help in ankle Arthritis? The procedure that involves going in through cameras and instruments and removing the bone spurs, dead necrotic tissues and stuff? Some say it causes more damage, some say that increases the range. If you could guide a little about it.
I’m sorry but I can’t really say either way. I think arthroscopy does improve range of motion but there is a risk that pain will still be there. My arthroscopy wasn’t very successful but I know others that have been. If you’re able to continue walking without an operation I would avoid it but if pain persists probably at least try it before more extreme options like fusion. Good luck
Thank you so much for sharing this! I had a triple fracture and dislocation during a rock climbing accident 10 years ago (age of 24) and now I have post traumatic arthritis. I am in the same boat where my only option is a fusion (doctors will not do a replacement due to my age -34). I am getting ready to schedule it for this upcoming December. I am so excited to see your page. I was an avid hiker (I used to backpack but couldn't with the pain) but can't do that now either due to the chronic pain I experience. My question is twofold - first do you regret getting a fusion? I have been putting it off for over 2 years now because I am so scared of making the decision. And second - do you have pain in other joints such as your knees or hips because of the fusion? Thank you again and I subscribed to your channel so I can see all your videos!
We have very similar stories! Traumatic injury from a climbing accident in 2016 and now arthritis is so bad I can’t hike or backpack without significant pain 😞 I’d love to connect with you to talk about this all if you’re open. I’m also in process of deciding if fusion is the next best step… wondering if you’ve landed on a decision for yourself yet or not.
@@TheGabrielaGaiaI totally missed this! I actually just had an ankle replacement, they finally said I was old enough (35). What did you end up choosing?
Can you speak on how long it took you to walk fully without the crutches or boot. Also how was it transitioning from the cast to the boot? My foot is very stiff and I am worried about the transition to the boot, which I'll have to do Physical Therapy but still worried.
Hey, love this video, I’m going in for a Tripple ankle fusion next month and a bit nervous about the post surgery, does anyone have any tips on what to do that could ease the pain and getting sleep at night?
Thank you for your vdeos! I broke my ankle 8 years ago and my right ankle has collapsed (flat foot). My pain is not that bad but I am very limited as to how far I can walk ... Which I want to do more of. I have been told that It will continue to get worse. I am older almost 70 but my surgeon says too young for a replacement. I am told I will be non-weight bearing for 2 months. My biggest concern is how will I possibly be able to get through the non-weight bearing phase. I expect to have a knee cart, crutches and a wheelchair during this period. My left ankle is fine, but I had a partial left knee replacement that is fantastic. How did you get though it .... the non-weight bearing part??
Thank you so much for the story of your journey to fusion. I have a similar story and am looking for advice. It seems to me that I am ready for fusion, but I have doubts. I have a cartilage injury, stage 1-2 osteoarthritis and two arthroscopy done by orthopedists (microarcturing and debridement). I have constant pain, but I can walk and not limp. But pain causes me anxiety and lowers my quality of life. Therefore, I want fusion, although I doubt that it could be worse later. How confident were you to do the fusion, or was it the doctor's decision?
Hello. So it’s difficult to give specific advice because everyone’s situation is slightly different. For me by the time I had the 4th operation to try and save the ankle cartilage I could no longer walk without some of my body weight through crutches without severe pain in the ankle. There was really no other choice for me but to go for the fusion. It’s not perfect and I know that some fusions seem to have a better outcome than mine e.g. Steve Backshall (a Uk tv nature presenter) jokes up mountains with a fused ankle. I also know that for some people the fusion isn’t great and can still cause some pain. I am happy with my decision to go for fusion because I was unable to walk. Good luck with your decision. It looks like you will be getting fusion at some point
The doctor tried every possibility to save the ankle with synthetic cartilage graft and then cartilage from my knee. Unfortunately nothing worked so fusion was my final Option
Hey. I’m due to get bilateral ankle fusion on both ankles at the same time in 2 months. I’m pretty nervous about it and I’m completely clueless about what to expect during recovery and after recovery, what daily life looks like. Would love to be able to reach out to you for some guidance if possible. Thanks for the videos
You should be able to walk normally. I would advice getting trainers with rocker bottom soles, which will help you walk. Some people with fusion are able to run but it’s a bit awkward because you can’t push off your fused ankle. I run a bit when I play cricket. It’s better to do other forms of exercise for cardio e.g. cycling. Check out my other videos which might help answer some questions
Hello! I’m so happy I found you. We have almost identical stories but I had my ankle fusion at age 25 (I’m almost 32 now). I just recently started feeling pain again. How long do you expect for your fusion to last and what are the next steps after it- ankle replacement?
Hello. Have you tried walking in the MBT zee range trainers? You might get a few more years pain free. Tbh I’m not sure what I’ll do if I start getting more pain. I’ll go back to the surgeon and see what my options are
Thanks for sharing. I had hereditary flat feet with ankles carved in. I also grew up playing hockey which didn't help matter. I'm 34 and got external fixators/ankle fusion on both feet 10-12 years a go. I have also had 2 minor surgeries to try and alleviate pain left over in my right ankle but no prevail. I just manage the pain after 10,000 steps. Question for you, do you wear orthotic inserts in your MBTs?
Hey. So I used to wear orthotics years ago (because of the opposite reason to you, I have very high arches) but I found it caused my ankles pain. Without the orthotics the MBTs are much more comfortable. I worried at first that this was the wrong thing to do but listening to my body made sense in the end. No orthotics for me but it might be beneficial for others. Hope that helps
I've been living with a complex injury for 8 years and just about 9 months. I have an ankle fusion surgery on the horizon to start addressing my particular issue. I've seen all the videos you've posted and they have really helped the depression I was beginning to feel. I still have one main question about muscle atrophy of the calf and what that difference really looks like. Is it something that is terribly noticable?
Hey sorry for the late reply! Tbh I have naturally very skinny calf muscles, so it’s not that noticeable on me. Both are super skinny! I don’t know the difference in size but there is definite atrophy that takes place. My squats and another lower body work outs have helped to gain back some of the calf muscle but obviously it can’t be worked directly due to lack of movement. I think in the grand scheme of things it’s not that big of a deal. Good luck with your Potential fusion 👍🏼
Hello there just watching your post, can you please tell me, Which Surgeon Did Your Ankle Fusion Surgery?? I had Ankle Fusion Surgery two years ago but the Operation hasn’t worked, be great if you could let me know who your Surgeon is/was many thanks.
Hello, could you continue the story of how your life after the surgery looks like after a few months, is it better or worse? I am only 6 weeks after the operation, soon to have a checkup and I am curious what it looks like in your case,
Apologises for the late reply, I was on holiday. I’m actually about 5 years post op now so these videos were made after the fact. Life is a lot better for me due to the fact that I was not able to walk without putting some body weight through crutches for 3 years. No pain inside the ankle joint anymore. It’s not perfect and I am unable to walk very far bare foot without pain. Fit flops and MBT trainers are my saviour. I will be doing a video soon about my 11km hike in Sri Lanka, very proud I managed to complete it
Hey man, do you think I could grab and e-mail or contact you directly about your ankle fusion? I’m on the waiting list for it I just needed to ask more questions if that’s ok! Thank you.
I had my subtalar ankle fusion 3 months ago, I m walk with afo boot still limping , my question is after fusion howmany months u walk without afo and without limping ?? And after fusion starting walk I feel little stiff and I walk 15 min my ankle was swelling, is it normal?? Kindly reply back plz
Sorry my memory is not very good but I think it was about 6 months in total before I was walking without a boot, without a limp and pain free. I know that some people get a swollen ankle after fusion, that didn’t really happen for me. My acute ankle pain is gone but if I walk more than 12k steps a day it starts to hurt around the joint. Then I rest it
Thanks mate for your videos . I have quite the same story had eight surgeries and my "adventure" was about 15 years before the fusion end of august this year. We´re nearly the same age. So how long did it take for you to be relativly mobile after surgery and when did you start with walking, cycling and workout? i had my surgery 4 month ago and since 2 weeks i am walking without crutches and try to recover. Feels like it takes longer than expectetd even i have been relatively sportive before the surgery. Its still painful and some really noisy cracking around the ankle area. but x ray after three month was perfect and showed fully fusion. So whats your experience? Greetings from Germany and merry christmas.
Hey, sorry late reply! so I honestly don’t remember the full recovery time. I think I was 6 weeks non weight bearing. Then a mother 6 weeks gradually putting weight on the ankle. Then maybe 4 weeks trying to just walk without crutches again. Slowly building in body weight exercises and some cycling. I didn’t have cracking and was fortunate enough to not have pain. Although after a couple of years of fusion I had to change my foot wear to MBTs for comfort (check out my footwear video)
I would defo encourage squats and other leg strengthening exercises. One of my videos talks about how to squat and stay fit. I continue to try and get my whole body stronger through resistance training. Obviously no running but I can swim and cycle. Good luck with your recovery 👍🏼
Hey man, do you think I could grab and e-mail or contact you directly about your ankle fusion? I’m on the waiting list for it I just needed to ask more questions if that’s ok! Thank you.
Hey buddy, I’m glad you’re doing great. I had a bad traumatic accident a 9000 pound steel beam flip off a trailer crush my ankle. I’ve had four surgeries within nine months. The last option is an ankle fusion. I was a little concerned but after seeing your videos, and another UA-camr, I was very impressed with the results. I’ve ordered myself a pair of those MBT’s. Just want to say thank you so much for the videos.
Hey Mark, Im really sorry to hear about your accident. How are you getting on now?
@@nr24130 i’m five months since I had my ankle fusion and I still can’t walk without the crutches some days I have to have the boot on too because the swelling. My physiotherapist says I’m making a lot of progress. You know how it is. Do you want done ASAP? You want to feel better you wanna be able to do things that you haven’t done in a long time it sucks butI’m very optimistic. Crossing my fingers brother. Hope you’re doing OK as well.
I'm so thankful I found you. I had something very similar happen to my ankle playing soccer (I'm in the USA lol), but just to one ankle (my left). I'm only 25 and walking is very difficult and painful for me. I was recently told an ankle fusion is my likely best bet, but that I could also try cortisone shots and/or the scoping procedure done to see if they help (seems unlikely). I don't have high hopes at this point and wish I could just be a normal person in their 20s the way I used to be. It makes me so depressed and I've started losing hope, but seeing you gives me a little back. I still don't know what to do.
This is exactly me, I’m in the same predicament.
You are a true inspiration. Thank you for making these videos for all of us. You have a true gift !
Thanks a lot for your videos. I am a relatively young guy in his early 30's and last year I suffered a really bad compound fracture of both the tibia and fibula and basically fractured my malleolus really badly. Luckily I didn't get an infection but I suffered really bad ankle instability. My ankle never fully recovered and I have been in debilitating pain ever since. I was a pretty active guy before this injury so it was really devastating. The pain and lack of mobility drove me into a really dark depression and I even contemplated suicide at some points. Thankfully I didn't do that. Thank you for giving me some hope that I can overcome this injury. It has been hard to get out of this dark mental place but your videos really helped me so much to give me hope that I can still have an active life. I will probably have my ankle fusion in a couple of months and I hope I can have a good outcome like you.
Good luck bro
Hey brother, I'm sorry to hear about your injury and the associated depression. Just wondering how you are doing now?
It's so awesome that you're sharing your story and tips with folks! When I had my first fusion 20 yrs ago, there weren't many resources for sharing knowledge. After 8 surgeries, I'm now in bilateral ExoSyms in my 40's and am slowly regaining the mobility I'd lost. I was delighted to stumble across one of your videos, and wish you the best in your adventures!
Your videos are soooo helpful! I had ankle fusion 2 yrs ago owing to the fact that I had completely eroded away cartilage from severe supination. 5 screws later, and 2 yrs in, I am pain-free and have just started taking a ballet class. Obviously, I will not be pointing my fused foot nor doing any high impact leaps, but I'm pleased to have sufficient mobility to do this. Thank you for putting this series together!
I have been walking on crutches for 2 years. At first it got better over time, but it has been getting worse for some time now. I also decided to have ankle fusion, I have surgery next week, keep your fingers crossed.
although I hope that I will be able to run a little, at least jog ;) but above all, that I will be able to walk 20 km in the mountains
Thank youuuu! Yeah, great idea with the mental health impact. I'm waiting for my op and starting to feel so down from the constant pain!
It is annoying always being in pain. I started to get used to it and had to stay on my crutches for 3 years! After the many operations that didn’t work. Very happy after fusion to be able to walk pain free. Good luck! Keep me update
@@anklefusionguy had really bad news at the hospital yesterday 😢
@@doodydoesitddi5717 I hope everything is alright
Your videos are very uplifting and encouraging! I had ankle fusion 9 weeks ago! I had my navicular and talus replacement surgery after badly twisting my ankle …my navicular shattered after several non union
healing….it just kept rebreaking…and because of lack of blood supply to my talus…the bone ended up dying! So I chose to have both bones replaced….it never allowed my to be pain free or my foot/leg swelled terribly! Eventually…the hardware fell apart…because of the torque it was causing walking on my fibula…I broke my fibula….a total disaster!
I now am 9 weeks out of ankle fusion…I am fused to heel and a spacer with screws put in for lack of talus and navicular! My goal is to just walk without pain! Water walk and do water aerobics! I am 63
and hope to get back in shape! Thank you for allowing me to realize this is oossible! 6:18
Had a similar injury as yours in football am 35 was given options of either fusion or orif surgery chose the later am recovering but the more i learn the more i may need the 1st (hope not) but I need to prepare myself just in case. Its not easy if your no. 1 source of joy is exercise. You may find yourself prone to depression hasn't been easy been off my feet four months so far because initially I was mis diagnosed. I hope and wish for the best and no complications hope you are well too
Thanks for sharing, Bro. Nearly 3 weeks post-op arthrodesis. It's been very comforting watching your vids .
I can not believe anyone but myself would be concerned with how to squats . I am pumped for a successful recovery.
Thanks again.
Hey mate, glad I could help. There was nothing out there when I had the fusion so glad I just wanted to let people know that it is possible and you can adapt exercises to work around it. No excuses right 💪🏼
so how is it now
Hey Peter, just wondering how long after your surgery were you able to start walking without pain?
I just had surgery last week and I’m very competitive bbuilder and I was so scared thinking that my career is over till I saw this channel and somehow I feel much better about how it’ll play out for me thank you for this🏆🔥🔥🔥🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I train 3 or 4 times a week and am still able to build muscle (slowly now at this age). You have to adapt a few exercises but should be fine to carry on bbuilding. Your calf muscle on your fused ankle will atrophy and you won’t be able to train it directly but it will get some stimulation with squats (plates under heels). Good luck bro 💪🏼
@@anklefusionguy thank you very much bro please keep dropping videos on how to better work with fusions because we need them to be careful in the gym and we don’t want to make mistakes 👍🏽
How’s the squats and deadlifts after the fusion? I’m 53 and preparing for surgery. I hate to think I’ll not be able to do legs the same as before.
@@thedbbee4956 yea one hundred percent you won’t do legs as you did before unfortunately but you will get a good workout…deadlifts I never tried them but I do elevated dbells deadlifts it’s actually about finding out what works best for you trial and error and eventually you’ll get it hope it goes good Ey❤️❤️❤️💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽
I had a hindfoot nail ankle fusion from shattering my talus bone in a bad car accident and I've been totally non-weight bearing for 2½ now. I'm having 1 more surgery in the next month. Watching your videos has given me confidence that I will get at least some normality back to my life.
The only thing I worry about is work, I'm a millwright so I'm working 10-12 hour days in a very labor intensive job.
I have been battling with ankle pain for over 25 years and have finally made the decision to have the fusion following multiple operations and injections. I do t have a date yet but relieved to have made the decision and apprehensive of what’s to cone
Same, shattered right ankle in 1985 and put off fusion till 6 weeks ago. I'm so glad I found this channel channel I'm learning so much. I'm very relieved that maybe I will have part of my life back. I'm getting excited 😃😃😃
Hope your fusion is successful mine didn’t fuse after 4 surgeries but I’m not getting anymore. Got MRSA after first surgery ate my cartilage so ankle collapsed because they took out hardware due to infection said I didn’t need hardware then it collapsed so fusion was my only option because it hurt so bad. Make sure you have a good surgeon
Thank you for posting
I had 5 surgeries as well. Im walking again. It's painful/sore, but Im slowly walking again. Its been 5 months now.
Hi. I’m so glad to find your channel. In the last 7 years, after multiple surgeries I have both of my ankles fused. After two surgeries on my left, I’m fused but pain free. The right ankle is different story. After one fusion and two repairs, my ankle is non union. 2 surgeons have told me there is no way to fix it, so I walk on a basically a broken ankle. I’m in pain daily and have thought about amputation. If anyone has thoughts or advice please let me know. Thanks.
I don’t know so much about amputation but I realise that this might be one of my options in the future if the small joints around my fused ankle deteriorate. It sounds like it would be the right option for you because you are in pain everyday. My advice would be to try and speak to someone who has had an amputation. There’s a UA-cam channel called footless Jo. She has a fusion but then needed an amputation years down the line. I think she has some good advice. Good luck with everything
I would do some research and ask your doctors if an ankle replacement is still an option for your non union ankle Leanne. I am in a situation where I either need an ankle fusion or replacement and with the technology now I have heard replacements are really good now and could be an option for you before amputation maybe. Hopefully that helps a bit. Good luck!
Hi glad your on the mend, I had foot surgery 11 weeks ago and doing well. I was worried it was going to be traumatic but can honestly say. I had no pain at all, just mild discomfort and swelling. I am getting no pain so far.
May you have a healthy recovery ! How are you now ? I have mine in 2 days
Did you have ankle fusion ?
@@landydybala8503 yes I did
Thank you so much. Your right. The pain after the operation is not that much. Hope I can be able to walk normally. How did it feel when you came out of the cast?
@@landydybala8503 hi, the first six weeks seemed the longest, after they you have a boot for six weeks and partial weight. It's been 5 months now and my foot is still swollen and the sole of my foot hasn't got all the feeling back yet. Its been a long haul and hopefully back to normal soon
Hi, this is really helpful, so glad I have found your channel.
I am 61, pretty fit - lots of cycling. I have AVN of both Talus. I am considering a fusion. Question about cycling
1) is your pedal stroke still functioning and have you noticed a reduction in power
2) have you experienced much calf muscle deterioration. I assume the achilles is redundant after a fusion.
3) Is your view postpone fusion as long as you can - or get it done. i cant walk more than a mile, can't carry anything. But when I get on my bike I feel 25, off it I feel 85. I know you can't make a decision for others but any thoughts.
Thank you for all you are doing - Great job.
Hi, I will do my best with your questions:
1) I wasn’t a very experienced cyclist before so I’m not sure but I think yes because I can’t now pedal with the ball of my foot on the pedal (this cause pain in the ankle). Instead I have to place my foot mid pedal to take away the pain but obviously this then loses power from the gastrocnemius (calf). Better than nothing though, I just adapted my cycling technique.
2) yes to calf reduction but I have very skinny calf’s genetically so there’s not much difference between the 2. I get some activation from walking and squats with raised heels. Hard to say how much size you would lose sorry.
3) I would postpone fusion yes, I am currently in that situation with my other ankle. It causes me pain towards the end of a working day. I am going to hold off going to see the doctor about it for as long as I can, I can manage the pain atm and take rests. I might have to eventually get fusion in that ankle also (I had 2 operations about 15 years ago to help damaged cartilage). Also if you haven’t done so please buy a pair of MBT Zee trainers. Without them I wouldn’t be able to walk. Even with comfortable running trainers of any brand I would be in pain after a couple of thousand steps.
If you can’t walk more than a mile that is concerning. Try the MBTs and see if that helps. If not I would probably go for fusion in your situation, you should then be able to walk without pain. good luck in your decision
I'm waiting for a fusion but wondering if I should try the cartilage replacement first, any recommendations? I am a former varsity soccer player with multiple surgeries, fractures, current osteotomy hardware in now and two ligament replacements and severe osteoarthritis and bone on bone currently in the joint.
Hello Sir!
Greetings from India.
I'm a 21 year old medical student who got involved in a terrible RTA and went through a degloving injury. After 6 months of extensive surgeries, my weight bearing XRays showed that i have developed Ankle Arthritis due to the damage to the cartilage.
Few Questions.
1. What are the drawbacks of getting an ankle fusion? Some doctors say that it's a procedure that needs to be repeated after 6-8 years, again.
2. Is the post op really bad and long? How long does it take to start doing your day to day activities again?
3. Does standing on your feet for long hours cause pain too? Like running does?
4. Should we try and postpone ankle fusion for as long as possible?
Thanks.
PS. You are doing such a noble deed by operating this channel. You give hope and strength to so many people around the world. May God bless you.
Hello. I will do my best to answer your questions:
1) I was told that the joints in the foot and knee of the same leg might start to wear. I wasn’t told about another fusion later down the line. I play cricket with a man who has his ankle fused 12 years ago and he can still play sport and run a bit.
2) I honestly don’t remember it being so bad but then I had 5 operations previously to try and save the ankle and so I was used to the process. It takes several months to get back to normal walking. Don’t rush, take your time. Worth it in the long run.
I will continue in the next message
3. I can stand for hours but it would have to be in my MBT trainers. After a long day on my feet it would be sore. After a good night slight the pain is gone and my ankle is ‘reset’ for the next day. Running is definitely possible. I can run a bit but it’s quite awkward. I know some people have more joy with running with an ankle fusion.
4) I would recommend postponing ankle fusion but if you are in pain everyday then ankle fusion is a good option to alleviate the pain.
Thank you for your kind words. I am happy to be able to share my experience and help. Good luck with everything
Thankyou so much Sir!
Just one final thing.
Does arthroscopy help in ankle Arthritis? The procedure that involves going in through cameras and instruments and removing the bone spurs, dead necrotic tissues and stuff? Some say it causes more damage, some say that increases the range. If you could guide a little about it.
I’m sorry but I can’t really say either way. I think arthroscopy does improve range of motion but there is a risk that pain will still be there. My arthroscopy wasn’t very successful but I know others that have been. If you’re able to continue walking without an operation I would avoid it but if pain persists probably at least try it before more extreme options like fusion. Good luck
Thank you so much for sharing this! I had a triple fracture and dislocation during a rock climbing accident 10 years ago (age of 24) and now I have post traumatic arthritis. I am in the same boat where my only option is a fusion (doctors will not do a replacement due to my age -34). I am getting ready to schedule it for this upcoming December. I am so excited to see your page. I was an avid hiker (I used to backpack but couldn't with the pain) but can't do that now either due to the chronic pain I experience. My question is twofold - first do you regret getting a fusion? I have been putting it off for over 2 years now because I am so scared of making the decision. And second - do you have pain in other joints such as your knees or hips because of the fusion? Thank you again and I subscribed to your channel so I can see all your videos!
We have very similar stories! Traumatic injury from a climbing accident in 2016 and now arthritis is so bad I can’t hike or backpack without significant pain 😞
I’d love to connect with you to talk about this all if you’re open. I’m also in process of deciding if fusion is the next best step… wondering if you’ve landed on a decision for yourself yet or not.
@@TheGabrielaGaiaI totally missed this! I actually just had an ankle replacement, they finally said I was old enough (35). What did you end up choosing?
Can you speak on how long it took you to walk fully without the crutches or boot. Also how was it transitioning from the cast to the boot? My foot is very stiff and I am worried about the transition to the boot, which I'll have to do Physical Therapy but still worried.
maybe it's a silly question. but I want to know if you can dance with ankle fusión?
Ur videos are great. You have inspired me to do my own. Do you have any concerns over developing arthritis in adjacent joints ?
Where have you disappeared? We love you so much. You should post videos. Thank you
What other topics would you like me to discuss? I’m quite busy with work atm, also I think I’ve covered everything I wanted to
Hey, love this video, I’m going in for a Tripple ankle fusion next month and a bit nervous about the post surgery, does anyone have any tips on what to do that could ease the pain and getting sleep at night?
I had this surgery 7 months ago the first couple of weeks the pain is intense and then eases up
Thank you for your vdeos! I broke my ankle 8 years ago and my right ankle has collapsed (flat foot). My pain is not that bad but I am very limited as to how far I can walk ... Which I want to do more of. I have been told that It will continue to get worse. I am older almost 70 but my surgeon says too young for a replacement. I am told I will be non-weight bearing for 2 months. My biggest concern is how will I possibly be able to get through the non-weight bearing phase. I expect to have a knee cart, crutches and a wheelchair during this period. My left ankle is fine, but I had a partial left knee replacement that is fantastic. How did you get though it .... the non-weight bearing part??
Thank you so much for the story of your journey to fusion.
I have a similar story and am looking for advice. It seems to me that I am ready for fusion, but I have doubts.
I have a cartilage injury, stage 1-2 osteoarthritis and two arthroscopy done by orthopedists (microarcturing and debridement).
I have constant pain, but I can walk and not limp.
But pain causes me anxiety and lowers my quality of life.
Therefore, I want fusion, although I doubt that it could be worse later.
How confident were you to do the fusion, or was it the doctor's decision?
Hello. So it’s difficult to give specific advice because everyone’s situation is slightly different. For me by the time I had the 4th operation to try and save the ankle cartilage I could no longer walk without some of my body weight through crutches without severe pain in the ankle. There was really no other choice for me but to go for the fusion. It’s not perfect and I know that some fusions seem to have a better outcome than mine e.g. Steve Backshall (a Uk tv nature presenter) jokes up mountains with a fused ankle. I also know that for some people the fusion isn’t great and can still cause some pain. I am happy with my decision to go for fusion because I was unable to walk. Good luck with your decision. It looks like you will be getting fusion at some point
The doctor tried every possibility to save the ankle with synthetic cartilage graft and then cartilage from my knee. Unfortunately nothing worked so fusion was my final
Option
Hey. I’m due to get bilateral ankle fusion on both ankles at the same time in 2 months. I’m pretty nervous about it and I’m completely clueless about what to expect during recovery and after recovery, what daily life looks like. Would love to be able to reach out to you for some guidance if possible. Thanks for the videos
Message me on insta if you like: jamblack_85
I am worried about fusion sir I’m worried about post ankle fusion abilities whether I can walk normally run and do the stuff like everyone else…
You should be able to walk normally. I would advice getting trainers with rocker bottom soles, which will help you walk. Some people with fusion are able to run but it’s a bit awkward because you can’t push off your fused ankle. I run a bit when I play cricket. It’s better to do other forms of exercise for cardio e.g. cycling.
Check out my other videos which might help answer some questions
Hello! I’m so happy I found you. We have almost identical stories but I had my ankle fusion at age 25 (I’m almost 32 now). I just recently started feeling pain again. How long do you expect for your fusion to last and what are the next steps after it- ankle replacement?
Hello. Have you tried walking in the MBT zee range trainers? You might get a few more years pain free.
Tbh I’m not sure what I’ll do if I start getting more pain. I’ll go back to the surgeon and see what my options are
I don’t think you can get an ankle replacement once you’ve had an ankle fusion
Thanks for sharing. I had hereditary flat feet with ankles carved in. I also grew up playing hockey which didn't help matter. I'm 34 and got external fixators/ankle fusion on both feet 10-12 years a go. I have also had 2 minor surgeries to try and alleviate pain left over in my right ankle but no prevail. I just manage the pain after 10,000 steps. Question for you, do you wear orthotic inserts in your MBTs?
Hey. So I used to wear orthotics years ago (because of the opposite reason to you, I have very high arches) but I found it caused my ankles pain. Without the orthotics the MBTs are much more comfortable. I worried at first that this was the wrong thing to do but listening to my body made sense in the end. No orthotics for me but it might be beneficial for others. Hope that helps
I've been living with a complex injury for 8 years and just about 9 months. I have an ankle fusion surgery on the horizon to start addressing my particular issue. I've seen all the videos you've posted and they have really helped the depression I was beginning to feel. I still have one main question about muscle atrophy of the calf and what that difference really looks like. Is it something that is terribly noticable?
Hey sorry for the late reply! Tbh I have naturally very skinny calf muscles, so it’s not that noticeable on me. Both are super skinny! I don’t know the difference in size but there is definite atrophy that takes place. My squats and another lower body work outs have helped to gain back some of the calf muscle but obviously it can’t be worked directly due to lack of movement. I think in the grand scheme of things it’s not that big of a deal. Good luck with your Potential fusion 👍🏼
Hello there just watching your post, can you please tell me, Which Surgeon Did Your Ankle Fusion Surgery?? I had Ankle Fusion Surgery two years ago but the Operation hasn’t worked, be great if you could let me know who your Surgeon is/was many thanks.
I went through Chelsea and Westminster hospital. The surgeon was called Mr Andrew Roche. He was very good
@@anklefusionguy Thanks for replying, looks like I’m going to have my surgery all over again .
@@stevebowness9435 good luck
Hello, could you continue the story of how your life after the surgery looks like after a few months, is it better or worse? I am only 6 weeks after the operation, soon to have a checkup and I am curious what it looks like in your case,
Apologises for the late reply, I was on holiday. I’m actually about 5 years post op now so these videos were made after the fact. Life is a lot better for me due to the fact that I was not able to walk without putting some body weight through crutches for 3 years. No pain inside the ankle joint anymore. It’s not perfect and I am unable to walk very far bare foot without pain. Fit flops and MBT trainers are my saviour. I will be doing a video soon about my 11km hike in Sri Lanka, very proud I managed to complete it
good luck with your recovery
Hey man, do you think I could grab and e-mail or contact you directly about your ankle fusion? I’m on the waiting list for it I just needed to ask more questions if that’s ok! Thank you.
I had my subtalar ankle fusion 3 months ago, I m walk with afo boot still limping , my question is after fusion howmany months u walk without afo and without limping ?? And after fusion starting walk I feel little stiff and I walk 15 min my ankle was swelling, is it normal?? Kindly reply back plz
Sorry my memory is not very good but I think it was about 6 months in total before I was walking without a boot, without a limp and pain free. I know that some people get a swollen ankle after fusion, that didn’t really happen for me. My acute ankle pain is gone but if I walk more than 12k steps a day it starts to hurt around the joint. Then I rest it
Where did you go, we want to follow your video
No more videos for now. If I think of anything else I will do a video. Any questions let me know
What is the role of afo in post ankle fusion surgery?
Sorry I don’t know what afo means?
Thanks mate for your videos . I have quite the same story had eight surgeries and my "adventure" was about 15 years before the fusion end of august this year. We´re nearly the same age. So how long did it take for you to be relativly mobile after surgery and when did you start with walking, cycling and workout? i had my surgery 4 month ago and since 2 weeks i am walking without crutches and try to recover. Feels like it takes longer than expectetd even i have been relatively sportive before the surgery. Its still painful and some really noisy cracking around the ankle area. but x ray after three month was perfect and showed fully fusion. So whats your experience? Greetings from Germany and merry christmas.
Hey, sorry late reply! so I honestly don’t remember the full recovery time. I think I was 6 weeks non weight bearing. Then a mother 6 weeks gradually putting weight on the ankle. Then maybe 4 weeks trying to just walk without crutches again. Slowly building in body weight exercises and some cycling. I didn’t have cracking and was fortunate enough to not have pain. Although after a couple of years of fusion I had to change my foot wear to MBTs for comfort (check out my footwear video)
I would defo encourage squats and other leg strengthening exercises. One of my videos talks about how to squat and stay fit. I continue to try and get my whole body stronger through resistance training. Obviously no running but I can swim and cycle. Good luck with your recovery 👍🏼
@@anklefusionguy Thank you very much for responding and telling me your experience. I wish you all the best for the new year
Sorry meant to say foot fusion surgery
Hey man, do you think I could grab and e-mail or contact you directly about your ankle fusion? I’m on the waiting list for it I just needed to ask more questions if that’s ok! Thank you.
Yeah sure: jamblack85@hotmail.go.uk
It’s Jamie
@@anklefusionguy hey man, I’ve mailed you. Sorry it’s taken so long!
I just realised I wrote the wrong email it should be jamblack85@hotmail.co.uk
@@anklefusionguy Hey man, I did email you did you manage to see that?
No I haven’t seen it sorry. Please resend: jamblack85@hotmail.co.uk