Okay, so about a year ago, my ankle started acting up. It wasn’t like a sudden injury, more like a gradual increase in pain. At first, I just iced it and took it easy, figuring it was just overuse from, you know, life. I’m on my feet a lot. But it kept getting worse, especially after long walks or standing for a while.
So, I finally went to see a doctor. After some poking and prodding, and of course, X-rays, he told me I had a bone spur in my ankle. Apparently, it’s like this extra bit of bone that grows, and in my case, it was rubbing against stuff it shouldn’t, causing all the pain.
The doc gave me some options. We tried the non-surgical route first: physical therapy, some stronger anti-inflammatory meds, even a fancy brace. The PT helped a little, I guess, strengthening the muscles around the ankle, but the pain from the spur itself? Still there.
The Surgery Decision
After a few months of this, the doctor and I had a serious chat. He said surgery was really the only way to get rid of the spur for good. I was hesitant. Surgery is, well, surgery. But the thought of living with this constant ache… I was over it.
So, I went for it. The surgery itself wasn’t too bad. They put me under, and when I woke up, my ankle was all bandaged up. The doctor said he’d successfully removed the spur. The first few days were rough – lots of pain, had to keep my foot elevated, and I was on crutches. Super annoying.
- Week 1: Mostly just lying around, icing, and taking pain meds. Couldn’t put any weight on it.
- Weeks 2-6: Started physical therapy again. This time, it was all about regaining range of motion and getting used to walking without the crutches. Lots of stretches and exercises.
- Weeks 6-12: Gradually increased activity. Started with short walks, then longer ones. Still some stiffness and occasional pain, but nothing like before.
It’s been about six months since the surgery now. And honestly? It’s been a game-changer. I can walk without that constant nagging pain. I can stand for longer periods. I’m even back to doing some light jogging, which I thought I’d never do again.
The recovery wasn’t a walk in the park (pun intended!), but it was absolutely worth it. If you’re dealing with a bone spur and nothing else is working, don’t rule out surgery. Talk to your doctor, weigh the pros and cons, and make the best decision for you. I am very glad that I finally made up my mind to do this surgery!
