Procedure
Subtalar Arthrodesis
For Subtalar Arthritis
What It Involves
A subtalar arthrodesis permanently fuses the subtalar joint — the joint between the heel bone (calcaneus) and the ankle bone (talus). The joint surfaces are prepared by removing the remaining damaged cartilage, and the bones are compressed together and held in position with screws while they fuse. Once the bones have grown solidly together — typically over 10–12 weeks — the painful joint surfaces are permanently eliminated.
The subtalar joint contributes to hindfoot tilting but very little to forward propulsion, so most patients are surprised by how natural their gait feels after full recovery. The procedure is performed under general or regional anaesthesia through an incision on the outer side of the hindfoot, typically taking 60–90 minutes.
Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different rate — this timeline is a guide.
Weeks 1–2
Non-weight-bearing in a cast or boot, with strict elevation. The wound is checked and sutures removed at 2 weeks.
Weeks 2–6
Continued non-weight-bearing with elevation, ahead of the 6-week X-ray. Sedentary work is possible from 2 weeks if the foot can be elevated.
Weeks 6–12
If the X-ray is satisfactory, graduated weight-bearing in the boot commences, with physiotherapy for gait rehabilitation. Roles requiring standing or walking typically need 10–14 weeks off.
3 months
Transition into supportive footwear from 12 weeks once fusion is confirmed on X-ray. Most daily activities resume by this point.
3–6 months
Fuller return to activity, with a final review and discharge once fusion is confirmed. A wide, stable stability jogger is recommended long-term to support the fused hindfoot.