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 2-3 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 
 
          
        
       
              
            