Fusion

[Dale K]

Not sure where to post this one. But, recent fusion on big toe a week ago. Severe arthritis, every time I would go backpacking i would come home and I couldn’t walk. Surprised to find out it was a severe problem. Joint too shot for a replacement. Injections not possible because cartilage is gone, no space. I was able to complete El Camino full Portugal this year. Was not easy, but I made it, solo adventure. Tahoe rim trail next August, like Colorado trail following year. Not bad for turning 67 this year. Question is, anyone out there that has, or known of someone that had this done? How long did it take for them to start backpacking following this?

[Megan W]

Hello Dale,
I hope the fusion goes well for you.
This isn’t really an answer to your question- I don’t personally of a backpacker who has had a toe fusion. But I do know of walkers who have had ankle fusions and other foot surgery.
You may already know all of this – but, in case not, – shoe/boot selection can greatly improve comfort and return to hiking. Eg i send a lot of my clients (physio) to a podiatrist who has walking shoes and boots with ‘rocker’ soles. So the curve of the sole essentially does the movement your toe no longer can. The placement of the ‘rocker’ varies from shoe to shoe (some more towards the front of the shoe, some to the back), so you can choose what suits you best.
Might be useful?
Cheers

[Kelly G]

I don’t know anyone with a fusion either, but I can give you my other experience so far. Broke my ankle in May. Xrays showed further issues beyond the fracture: hammertoe, bunions, and big toe arthritis. None are bad yet, although I do get toe pain after longer hikes, from the reduced toe range of motion. The advice nurse advised Altra shoes because they are wider, easier on these conditions.  Doctor recommended Hokas, because of the stiff sole and rocker motion. He wears them himself. So I now have some Hokas. They are wide and take some getting used to, but definitely reduce toe bend. Will be looking for a pair for hiking in, next.

With the stiff sole and reduced bend at the toes, this may help since you no longer have any bend in the joint.

Hopefully your doctor can tell you if long distance hiking will be possible next year?

Kelly

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