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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

pain after foot fusion

by Bonnie
(Indiana)

I fell 12-25-07 and broke over 20 bones in my rt foot. I had one fusion

done. This did not take. I then went in on June 17 08 to have a revision
done. This did take however I then had to have another surgery done
because the screws were backing out. How long should I have pain and
swelling from this? I can't even do my adls without severe pain. I would
appreciate any help. I have tried rest ice elevation to no avail. Please help me.
Bonnie in Indiana

Hi Bonnie,
I would think that six months down the road you should be feeling better. If you are not quite where you want to be but are noticing slow improvement then you are probably alright. Have you had physical therapy? If not speak to you doctor about that.
If, however, you are still in as much pain as you were say two weeks following surgery then there may be an issue. I would make an appointment with your doctor and discuss your concerns, if he or she seems uninterested, then I would seek another opinion.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for pain after foot fusion

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Apr 19, 2017
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Foot Fusion Pain
by: Mychelle

I'm not sure if anyone even reviews this anymore, but I must say I thought I was the only one suffering from this kind of condition. I had 9 surgeries on my left foot. Last surgery was to remove the hardware from my foot fusion because after 4 months of unbearable pain they said I was allergic to the hardware, plate and screws. I'm still suffering over a year later. Constant swelling/pain..it feels like if you had a rubber band around the toe. The pain is now going up my leg (below the knee). I don't like taking pain meds, but it's the only thing that helps my Quality of Life. It's sad because you have these idiots who abuse their medication and it makes it difficult for Dr's to prescribe those who truly need it. It amazes me because they are not putting a restriction on alcohol. I don't wish pain on anyone, but it is nice to know that I'm not the only one out there who suffers from this type of condition.

Feb 11, 2012
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arthrititis pain after breaking foot
by: Bonnie

I just am curious if the pain I am having could be arthritis. I feel like I have been cut to the bone and can almost feel where the hardware was at. Is this arthritis or just part of the problem which can occur after a trauma like this??

Sep 07, 2010
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healing time after removal of hardware
by: Bonnie

Just was wondering how long does it take for healing to take place after hardware has been removed?? I guess that is what is going to have to happen after all of this time and pain. I hope this helps and takes care of most of the trouble!!
Bonnie

Sep 06, 2010
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pain after fusion
by: Bonnie

I just wanted to say that I still have trouble
after 2 and a half years! I just found out that
there are more screws than I thought was put in.
I am now looking at having all of the hardware removed because of the swelling and pain as well as the nerves and tendons being caught in the hardware. My point is if you have any trouble after this type of surgery to be sure to follow up with another Dr if the first will not adress your issues. By the way I am back on pain medicine
and have lost my private insurance !! Bonnie

Jan 22, 2009
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foot pain after fusion
by: Bonnie

I have just found out that one of the fusions did
not take. I have extreme swelling in my right foot. I hhave tried ice elevation and had to go back on narcotic pain medicine to back the pain down.My Dr said that he does not want to do another surgery just yet but I wonder what my other choices are since the fusion has not took.
Bonnie from Indianapolis still hurting

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PAIN AFTER FOOT FUSION

by BONNIE
(INDIANAPOLIS)

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE AFTER A FUSION FOR THE PAIN TO GO AWAY I HAVE HAD ENOUGH DADGUM PAIN TO LAST ME A LIFETIME. I HAD THE ONE FUSION DONE IT DID NOT TAKE,SO I
HAD A REVISION DONE AND 2 OF 3 TOOK,THEN THE HARDWARE BACKED OUT AND SO I HAD 2 SCREWS TAKEN OUT , NOW THE MIDDLE FUSION STILL HAS NOT TOOK AND I HAVE TO USE A BONE STIMULATOR , AND STILLHAVE TO TAKE PAIN MEDICINE TO KEEP THE PAIN BACKED OFF!!
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE THE BONE STIMULATOR TO WORK IF IT IS GOING TO AND WHAT THE HECK TO DO ABOUT STIFFNESS AND NERVE DAMAGE??? I WALK WITH A LIMP NOW AND GET
THROWED OFF BALANCE SO EASY THAT I AM SCARED TO DEATH ABOUT FALLING!! I HAVE HAD
PT AND COULD NOT DO MUCH BECAUSE OF A NON-UNION AND THE DR SAID HE WOULD HAVE TO SCRATCH HIS HEAD TO FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO TO TRY TO FIX MY RT FOOT!! IF I HAVE TO GO BACK TO SURGERY WILL THEY HAVE TO UNDO THE 2 FUSIONS THAT TOOK AND WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT A BONE GRAFT?? I JUST WANT TO BE ABLE TO GET RID OF THE PAIN AND OFF
NARCOTIC PAIN MEDICINE. HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE ARTHRITIS IN IT AND WHAT KIND IT IS
AND HOW DO I DEAL WITH THAT??BONNIE IN INDIANAPOLIS

Hi Bonnie,
Without examining you I have no idea what you can expect, all I know is your foot problems have been filled with complications and each subsequent surgery is only going to set you back in terms of healing.
If your surgeon is scratching his head, I think it is time to get another opinion.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Mar 07, 2020
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2nd Mid Foot Fusion Surgery
by: Christina

I had my first mid foot fusion surgery Jan 2019. No pain while in cast and then in boot. Once I began weight bearing without boot the pain began. Had hardware removed June 2019. Helped a little. Had second foot fusion Jan 2020 because one bone never fused and doctor said this was causing the pain. I’m three months out from second fusion and it worse pain than first fusion. I can’t sleep at night from intense pain and I walk like a cripple. Completely at a loss. I’m 51.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Without xrays and MRI and complete history, I am of little value to you. My only suggestion would be to get a second opinion to confirm that your surgeon properly addressed your issues.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Jun 18, 2012
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Club foot/ankle replacemnt/infection/fushion
by: Anonymous

I was born with a club foot. I was having a little swlling. But was on no pain meds. My primary care sent me for a evalutation. They said
I had bone to bone and needed a ankle replacement.
Next thing I knew I was givrn the salto talris. Then after 8 months of complaining. They gave me a test. And then saif I had a infection. Took it out I had a antibiotic spacer for 8 weeks. Also had a bad reaction to the vancomyicin IV meds. Now 6/4 had ankle fushion. And my toes dont hardly
move the big one doesnt move at all. And I cant stand anything to touch my toes. I always feel like electricity is going through my whole foot.
And I have like shock waves. What have they done to me now. Kimla

Mar 08, 2011
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Bonnie
by: jandpbarber@bigpond.com.au

IT SEEMS TO TAKE FOREVERE, I HAVE 4 PINS IN MY FOOT,NON REMOVABLE,I AM CONSTANTLY IN PAIN,BUT BEARABLE? MY TOES HAVE NOW TURNED ARTHRITIC.THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR NEARLY 18 MONTHS,MY DOCTOR AT THE TIME COULD NOT PICK ANYTHING UP FROM THE FIRST E-RAY,HENCE WHY SHE SENT ME OFF TO PHYSIO,,NOW RESULTING THAT I HAD TO HAVE MY FOOT SLICED OPEN 4 METAL SCREWS PUT IN AND NOW HAVE BEEN TOLD I HAVE A PERMANENT DISABILITY.I DON'T TAKE MEDICATION,I HAVE A GREAT SURGEON AND PODIADRIST IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THEIR CONTACTS???Good Luck

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pain after foot fusion

by Bonnie
(Indianapolis)

My problem is I still am having foot pain after a fusion and a revision
and having some hardware took out. My Dr said that I still have a non-union and we are trying a bone stimulator. I have used the stimulator for about 2 months and the
x-rays still show the non-union.How long will it take to work if it is going to?
Do these stimulators always work? I have had this for over 15 months now. I just want to be done with this. The pain is very severe at times and none on some days.
Please help me !! Bonnie in Indianapolis

Hi Bonnie,
Bone stimulators do work, but not on everyone. I would give it at least four months to see if it will close the non-union, because your other option is probably less enticing, which would be a bone graft requiring further surgery.
VERY IMPORTANT: Make sure you are compliant in the use of the stimulator, do not get lazy about it, otherwise I can almost guarantee you the fracture will not heal.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Apr 15, 2009
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alternate treatment of non-union
by: Bonnie

Hi. I was just wondering if you have any suggestions for alternate treatment of the non-union fracture in my rt foot. I've had 3 surgeries
and have been doing the bone stimulator faithfully
but it does not seem to help. Was curious if you had any other ideals except for surgery? Bonnie

Hi Bonnie,
There are different types of non-unions but the one thing they all have in common is that there is scar tissue between the two ends of bone, this scar tissue is not as strong as bone and therefore there is constant pain.
Unfortunately I have not heard of any alternative means to "bridging the gap" between the two bones, but just because I have not heard of any does not mean they do not exist. If someone does suggest some alternative form of treatment be very cautious before you consent to any of these treatments; there are a lot of snake oil salesmen out there.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center

MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS(items I prescribe in the office)

Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain best buy in a pre-made orthotic click link below

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes click link below

HONESTe Online Member Seal
Click to verify - Before you buy!

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NY

I am really, really impressed with your plain-speak explanations for the various conditions.

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NJ

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Jack

Fla

A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

Jean

Ontario, Canada

I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.

Thank you for a quick response. I think your site is the best information site on foot pain and I have viewed many.

Judy

(location unknown)

I came to your website, footspecialist.net via www.foot-pain explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind.

L.W.

New York

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Yvette

Memphis, TN

Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

Anna

Scotland

Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school……..

J. Simmons

(location unknown)

Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee

Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA

Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)

First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)

First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)

Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama

Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX

Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

Dawn

West lafayette, IN

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Tampa, Florida 33624

Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas

Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

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South Africa

You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT

First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

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Placentia, California

First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

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Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA

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All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous

Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous

Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette

Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

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Arizona

I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida

1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland

Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina

Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location

...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA

Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA

Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown

Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown

I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous

Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland

Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown

Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey

Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown

Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown

Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

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Evansville, IA

Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown

Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown

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Jackie

San Diego, CA

Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY

Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS

thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado

Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown

Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown

Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin

Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown

Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina

Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida

Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown

Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey

Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown

I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC

Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA

I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

pain after foot fusion

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PAIN AFTER FOOT FUSION

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pain after foot fusion

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