Subtalar Fusion

Post Operative Instructions

Cast:

  • You will have a plaster cast on your ankle for 2 weeks following surgery

  • A walking boot will be worn from 2 to 6 weeks

  • At 6 weeks, you will wean off the boot and begin walking in a regular shoe

Wound:

  • The surgical incision has been closed with sutures

  • Do not get the cast or wound wet for the first two weeks. When showering place a bag over the cast and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet

  • Stitches will be removed at your 2 week appointment

  • After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days

  • Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool) for 4 weeks

  • Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks

Weight Bearing:

  • You will be non-weight bearing for the first 6 weeks while in a walking boot. You will be given crutches after surgery (or you may bring your own)

  • After 6 weeks you may begin fully walking on the foot

Medications:

  • You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)

  • Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol

  • Aspirin should be taken for 14 days (unless you have an allergy to aspirin)

Driving:

  • For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive until you have completely weaned off the boot

  • For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive

  • Driving is not permitted while on narcotics

Work:

  • Two weeks off work is recommended for initial recovery

  • If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery. This is assuming you are not taking narcotic pain mediation.

  • From 2-8 weeks sedentary duties is recommended

  • By 8 weeks you can gradually return to full duties

  • If your job is physically demanding, return to full duties is usually possible around 12 weeks post operatively

Follow Up:

  • You will have your first appointment 2 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic

  • Your next appointments will be at 6 weeks, 3 months then 6 months post operatively

  • You will have x-rays taken at these appointments

Recovery:

  • It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery

  • Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain

  • You will get back to most of your activities by 3-6 months

  • Swelling often remains for 6-12 months

  • You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 9-12 months

Physiotherapy:

  • Two weeks after surgery you will be referred for physiotherapy