Hi.
I have been dealing with foot and ankle issues for awhile, especially my right ankle where there is a 17 x 10 millimeter divot (hole, deep dish). The MRI that I had in June revealed the divot and my podiatrist who I saw on Friday mentioned surgery to fill the divot/plug it to prevent me from developing arthritis. His colleague, the chief ankle and foot surgeon at a renowned orthopaedic institute which is part of a top-notch hospital will be the surgeon performing the surgery.
I had been debating getting surgery for awhile because I am in constant pain amongst other symptoms and I have tried so many other modalities to attempt to resolve the pain, cortisone shots, braces, physical therapy, etc. This is my last resort but I have made my decision that this is what I need to do to not only prevent arthritis but make it easier for me to live with the pain and other symptoms.
My family and I have been talking about the optimal time for me to get the surgery and I left a message for this doctor asking if I could get the surgery in January. I would ideally like to do it sooner but I will be on crutches for awhile after the operation and I travel a lot around Thanksgiving and Christmas. It would be very challenging for me to travel with a suitcase and crutches.
Last night I was up late because I was nervous about getting the surgery but I realize that this is in my best interest and something I should do to help myself.
I am nervous about the surgery and also the recovery such as possibly needing home care, physical therapy, etc. I think that my insurance will cover what I need as far as the surgery and aftercare, I have checked with them. It is still a bit of a shock that this is really going to happen and I know it is for the best, but it still nerve-wracks me a bit.
Does anyone have experience with a situation or condition similar to this? I'd appreciate any advice related to what I have posted here.
Thank you.