Subtalar Arthrodesis in Miami & Doral, Florida
Expert Foot & Ankle Care with Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD
Subtalar arthrodesis is a surgical procedure that fuses the bones of the subtalar joint, the joint located just below the ankle, to relieve chronic pain and restore stability. When the subtalar joint becomes damaged by arthritis, flatfoot deformity, trauma, or other degenerative conditions, fusion can provide durable pain relief and improved function.
At the practice of Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD, board-certified orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon, patients in Miami and Doral, Florida, receive personalized care that focuses on long-term comfort, alignment, and mobility.
What Is Subtalar Arthrodesis?
Subtalar arthrodesis, also known as subtalar fusion, permanently joins the talus (ankle bone) and the calcaneus (heel bone) by eliminating the joint between them. This fusion reduces painful motion within the joint and stabilizes the hindfoot.
The subtalar joint plays a critical role in side-to-side foot motion and balance. When this joint becomes severely arthritic or unstable, fusion can offer effective pain relief and structural support.
Conditions Treated with Subtalar Arthrodesis
This procedure may be recommended for patients with:
- Severe arthritis of the subtalar joint unresponsive to conservative care
- Post-traumatic joint degeneration or instability
- Flatfoot or hindfoot deformity
- Painful motion from previous injury or fracture
- Inflammatory joint disease affecting the hindfoot
By eliminating abnormal motion in the subtalar joint, fusion helps reduce pain and improve overall foot stability.
Benefits of Subtalar Arthrodesis
Subtalar arthrodesis offers several potential benefits:
- Reliable chronic pain relief by eliminating motion in the damaged joint
- Improved hindfoot stability for walking on uneven surfaces
- Enhanced structural alignment of the foot
- Reduced risk of further joint damage in cases of advanced arthritis
This procedure can significantly improve quality of life when conservative treatments have failed.
Your Subtalar Arthrodesis Journey
Before Surgery
Your care begins with a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Alejandro Pino. This includes reviewing your symptoms, examining your foot and ankle, and assessing imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI. Dr. Pino will explain your diagnosis, discuss whether subtalar arthrodesis is appropriate, and outline what to expect during recovery.
During the Procedure
Subtalar arthrodesis may be performed using traditional open techniques or minimally invasive methods when feasible. Dr. Pino removes damaged cartilage, prepares the bone surfaces for fusion, and stabilizes the joint using screws or other fixation devices. Bone grafts may be used in cases of significant bone loss.
These steps help the talus and calcaneus heal together as a single, stable bone unit, reducing pain and improving function.
After Surgery
After subtalar arthrodesis, you'll typically wear a cast, boot, or splint and avoid putting weight on the foot for several weeks. Your care plan may include:
- Non-weight-bearing period followed by progressive loading
- Elevation and icing to control swelling
- Physical therapy to restore strength and adaptability
- Regular follow-up imaging to ensure proper fusion
Healing times vary, but most patients experience gradual improvement in comfort and stability over the months following surgery.
Am I a Candidate for Subtalar Arthrodesis?
You may be a candidate if:
- You have persistent subtalar joint pain that limits walking or daily activities
- Conservative treatments (medication, bracing, injections) have not provided lasting relief
- Your imaging shows joint degeneration, deformity, or instability
- You seek a long-term solution for hindfoot pain and dysfunction
Dr. Pino will tailor your treatment plan based on your goals, exam findings, and imaging results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery take?
Recovery from subtalar arthrodesis varies, but most patients need several weeks of limited weight-bearing followed by gradual activity increases. Full recovery and return to higher-impact activities may take several months.
Will I be able to walk normally?
While the fused joint no longer moves, adjacent joints often compensate, allowing many patients to walk with increased comfort and stability once healing is complete.
Is fusion painful?
Some postoperative discomfort is expected. Pain is usually managed with medication, elevation, and proper care. Many patients notice steady improvement as healing progresses.
What are the risks and complications of subtalar arthrodesis?
As with all surgeries, risks include infection, nonunion (failure to fuse), nerve irritation, hardware irritation, and swelling. Dr. Pino will review all risks and benefits before your procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Alejandro Pino?
Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD is a board-certified orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon trusted by patients across Miami and Doral, Florida for advanced reconstructive and fusion procedures. His approach combines precise surgical planning with compassionate care to help patients achieve lasting relief and improved function.
Subtalar arthrodesis with Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD offers surgical fusion of the subtalar joint to relieve chronic pain, improve foot stability, and enhance overall mobility for patients in Miami and Doral, Florida.
Call (305) 596-2828 (305) 596-2828 to book your appointment today.
