20 yrs old living with an ankle fusion.

[Leah-Vasconcelos]

So it’s been 4 years since my last post... I was 16 and I’m now 20 years old. And only at the age of 19 was I able to get an ankle fusion to help with the horrible pain of arthritis. More of a little update to be honest. If anyone who is around my age and worried about having this type of procedure I really recommend instead of an ankle replacement. At the age of 19 I could no longer cope with the pain and it lead me down a dark path. But due to having this operation it’s changed my life in more ways than one. I go the gym regularly, I go out with my friends constantly, not having to worry about how long we are going to be walking for. I’ve never been happier in all of my teenage years than I am now. Don’t give up, no matter how hard it is, it will get better.

[28maggie11]

What a wonderful encouraging post

[Iluvgardening]

So glad it has given your life back. Thank you for your encouraging post. 😊

[Krawlins]

Great to hear positive news from someone who’s had it done

[nanawilson]

Hi can I ask what fusion you had please great to hear it has worked for you x

[Leah-Vasconcelos in reply to nanawilson]

Hi! Thank you it’s still working wonders a 2 years later ☺️ I had an arthroscopic ankle fusion on my left ankle, it’s changed my life! It only ever becomes sore if I’ve done an 9 hour shift in work (as I work on my feet all day)

[nanawilson in reply to Leah-Vasconcelos]

Thanks for reply I’m waiting on subtular fusion it was cancelled in November so should be having date soon and I’m terrified 🙈 x

[saigon99]

Curious as to why you would recommend the ankle fusion over a replacement? after a few years, have you noticed the fusion putting additional stress on your other joints?

[Leah-Vasconcelos in reply to saigon99]

Honestly my doctor it fantastic and this was the best option being so young. In years to come I can get an ankle replacement If the pain becomes unbearable again. However if I had gotten the ankle replacement first there was a much higher risk of it failing and you don't have much options after that due to My current bones being very brittle and weak due to the accident that started this all. And no tbh I work 40 hrs a week as a dog groomer and I never feel any pain and my other joints are perfectly fine 🥰 no pain or signs of aching in the last 5 years of having this fusion 😊 x

[saigon99 in reply to Leah-Vasconcelos]

Thanks for the update. I'm glad that the fusion worked so well for you. My 20 yo daughter is getting ready to meet with her Ortho to decide how to move forward and fusion or replacement seem to be her options. i think she is a little intimidated about having the fusion done and losing the ability to move that joint. we'll know more after her next appt, but we are trying to do as much research as we can before the meeting.

[Leah-Vasconcelos in reply to saigon99]

Yeah the movement was my concern also but for me, the worst is that I cant wear anything above maybe 2 inch heel but I've never been a heels girl anyway haha. Doesn't stop me from driving but did stop me from getting my motorcycle licence as the gears is on the left side unfortunately. Listen to all the advise your doctor has for your daughter, it all depends on her lifestyle also, good luck to her xoxo

[willat]

That’s great news really pleased and hope it is positive outcome for years to come.