Foot Joint Fusion: Surgery for Arthritis Relief
A foot joint fusion is a surgical procedure that involves the fusion of two or more bones in the foot to stabilize the joint and alleviate pain. This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have severe arthritis, deformities, or fractures that have not responded to conservative treatments. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the joint and then use screws, plates, or other devices to hold the bones together while they heal. The recovery time for a foot joint fusion can vary depending on the extent of the surgery, but patients can typically expect to be non-weight bearing for several weeks and may need to use crutches or a walker during this time. Physical therapy is often recommended to help patients regain strength and mobility in the foot after the surgery.