Triple Arthrodesis Physiotherapy Brisbane Southside

Rehabilitating After Triple Arthrodesis: How Physiotherapy Can Help
Triple arthrodesis, a surgical procedure to fuse three joints in the foot (the subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints), is performed to address severe arthritis, deformities, or instability. At our Brisbane southside physiotherapy clinic, we provide comprehensive rehabilitation tailored to your unique needs. Our expert physiotherapists and Clinical Pilates programs aim to restore mobility, strength, and function, ensuring a smooth recovery.

Why is Physiotherapy Important After Triple Arthrodesis?
Physiotherapy is essential to maximise recovery after triple arthrodesis:

• Restore mobility: Maintain flexibility in non-fused joints to optimise foot function.
• Build strength: Strengthen surrounding muscles to support the foot and ankle.
• Improve gait mechanics: Correct walking patterns to accommodate changes in foot movement.
• Prevent complications: Reduce swelling, pain, and risks of re-injury or overuse.

What Happens During the Initial Recovery Phase?
In the early post-operative phase, the focus is on protecting the surgical site and managing symptoms:

• Immobilisation: A cast or boot is worn to stabilise the foot, with strict non-weight-bearing protocols.
• Swelling control: Use elevation, compression, and cryotherapy to manage inflammation.
• Gentle movement exercises: Range-of-motion exercises for adjacent joints (toes, knee, and hip) to maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.

What Therapies Support Recovery?
Our physiotherapy treatments are tailored to each phase of recovery, incorporating:
Manual Therapy

• Soft tissue release: Reduces tension and improves circulation in surrounding muscles.
• Joint mobilisations: Enhances flexibility in adjacent joints like the ankle and toes.

Strength and Balance Training

• Muscle strengthening: Focus on the calf, ankle, and intrinsic foot muscles to improve stability.
• Proprioceptive exercises: Enhance balance and coordination as you progress to weight-bearing.

Swelling and Pain Management

• Cryotherapy: Reduces swelling and post-operative discomfort.
• Compression therapy: Minimises edema in the foot and ankle.

Education and Advice

• Weight-bearing progression: Clear guidance on transitioning from non-weight-bearing to partial and full weight-bearing.
• Activity modification: Tailored advice on resuming daily activities and avoiding high-impact movements.
• Footwear recommendations: Guidance on supportive shoes or orthotics for long-term comfort.

What Precautions Should Be Taken After Triple Arthrodesis?

• Follow weight-bearing instructions: Adhere to your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s recommendations.
• Avoid high-impact activities: Prevent unnecessary strain on the fused joints.
• Protect the foot: Use prescribed orthotics or braces to provide additional support.
• Monitor for complications: Watch for signs of infection, unusual pain, or swelling.

What is the Typical Recovery Timeline?
Recovery from triple arthrodesis is gradual, with specific milestones:

• 0–6 weeks: Non-weight-bearing with focus on swelling control and maintaining adjacent joint mobility.
• 6–12 weeks: Transition to partial weight-bearing as advised by your surgeon.
• 3–6 months: Full weight-bearing with strengthening and balance exercises.
• 6–12 months: Return to low-impact activities; high-impact activities may be restricted indefinitely.

What Muscles Should Be Strengthened After Triple Arthrodesis?
Rehabilitation focuses on strengthening:

• Intrinsic foot muscles: Maintain stability and support for the fused foot.
• Calf muscles: Aid in walking and balance.
• Anterior tibialis: Supports foot movements during gait.
• Gluteal muscles: Promote overall lower-limb stability.

What Exercises Are Part of Rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation exercises progress in line with your recovery stage:

• Early stages: Toe wiggles, ankle pumps (if allowed), and seated foot stretches.
• Mid-stages: Resistance band exercises, seated heel raises, and non-weight-bearing leg strengthening.
• Later stages: Balance exercises, step-ups, and Clinical Pilates for dynamic movement control.

How Does Clinical Pilates Support Recovery?
Clinical Pilates enhances recovery by offering:

• Low-impact strengthening: Builds stability without overloading fused joints.
• Core activation: Improves overall alignment and gait mechanics.
• Dynamic balance training: Helps adapt to altered foot mechanics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Triple Arthrodesis Recovery
How long after triple arthrodesis can I walk?
Walking typically begins with partial weight-bearing at 6–8 weeks, transitioning to full weight-bearing around 12 weeks or as guided by your surgeon.

Is triple arthrodesis recovery painful?
Pain is manageable with prescribed medications and physiotherapy, though discomfort is expected, especially during the initial phases.

When can I return to normal footwear?
You may transition to supportive footwear around 12 weeks, with orthotics recommended for long-term support.

Can I exercise after triple arthrodesis?
Yes, but exercises should be low-impact and tailored to your recovery stage, focusing on flexibility, strength, and balance.

When can I stop elevating my foot?
Elevation is recommended for the first 4–6 weeks or until swelling significantly decreases.

Start Your Recovery Journey with Us
Our experienced physiotherapists are here to guide your recovery after triple arthrodesis. Contact us today to book your appointment and begin your path to improved mobility and function.

Have questions or want to make a booking? Call our friendly reception team 07 3706 3407 to book in to see one of our Tarragindi Physiotherapists or email us at [email protected]

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Who to book in with

Bethany Kippen
Physiotherapist.

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Mauricio Bara
Physiotherapist & Exercise Physiologist.

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