Question
My sister has severe pain in her ankle post fracture over ten years ago.  She is on Voltaren (6 years now), increased pain in ankle and has been recommended to have a triple arthrodesis. She is trying to avoid the surgery.  
She is presently trying a ankle foot orthotic for possible fusion but it does not seem to be working.  I imagine she has severe DJD in ankle.  Is there a pain management protocol other than the Voltaren?
Is there a surgeon that you recommend for a triple arthrodesis in Chicago?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Sharon,

First I would make sure that your sister is checked regularly by her physician while on Voltaren or other long-term anti-inflammatory.  These can lead to kidney problems.  Taking pain medication on a regular basis is also not a good idea.  So I would not suggest pain management as a treatment unless it is short term.  

I have had patient with severe foot pain and have used foot cryosurgery, however this pain condition seems beyond that.

You could contact Weil institute in Chicago.  Also consider Dr. John Grady.  At least see several drs and get some other opinions on treatment.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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