Just Had Fusion Surgery!

So, I had my tibia fused to the top of my talus on October 13th! I'm still in a cast, but hope to get it off November 14th and then wear the boot for a while. I know, no weight-bearing for 10-12 weeks, but I really hope I get this cast off so I can shave my leg!

Anyway, my question is...

Who's had this surgery, and what can you tell me about your recovery and range of motion now. I had my shin fused to the top of my talus, not a sub-talar fusion, so I hope to hear from folks with the same surgery.

I had a car accident 2 years ago, no insurance, so I got real bad care and think that has a little bit to do with why I'm having such problems now. I've had 4 surgeries in the past 2 years, and it's sucked big time.

Thanks,

E in Austin

The cast is driving me crazy! It's been since 10/13 that I had the surgery, so I'm hoping that on my Dr. visit on the 15th they'll take the cast off and put me in the boot. I still can't put any weight on my leg, but it'll be nice to sleep without the cast and shower without wrapping up in a leg condom ;-) I use a shower chair, and that make things very easy. I've been using a shower chair for 2 years now, I had the injury in August of '04. I'm only 33, 31 when I had the accident, and I'm pretty disappointed that I've had to go with a fusion so soon. I'm really anxious to hear from someone who's had this surgery, and hear about their quality of life. According to my Dr., I won't be able to run, but walking should be a breeze with little to no limp or change to my gate. We'll see... I really like trail walking, so I hope I'll at least be able to get "off road" a little when I go for a walk.

E