After a lifetime of foot/ankle pain and limitation due to a congenital defect (tarsal coalition), I spent two years carefully researching the
alternatives available for my severely deteriorated ankle joints. Because of the severe malalignment, it was my understanding that the other ankle replacement
models may not work. Until I learned of the INBONE® ankle model, I was preparing for double amputation in hopes that I would have less pain
and be more mobile with those prostheses.
I was unable to walk even a block without excruciating pain and used a mobility scooter to get around inside the house. I used motorized carts in
grocery stores and a wheelchair in public facilities like airports, hotels, museums, galleries, etc. Severe pain (8-9 of 10) was constant in my increasingly
limited daily activities. I took prescription anti-inflammatories and Vicodin just to get around the house, and Neurontin when the pain was worse at
night. While these medications helped, the chronic pain had a very negative effect on my mental and emotional well-being, in addition to severely limiting my
physical movement and activities.
At my first consultation in May 2006 it was determined that the INBONE® ankle was a good match for my ankle problems, and we scheduled
the first surgery for July 2006. Because my insurance company considered ankle replacement to be “investigational”, I had to go through the entire appeal process
before it was approved. Finally, in February 2007 I received my first INBONE® ankle and was weight-bearing at 8 weeks. I’ve had no pain, swelling,
or other problems during the recovery period. In fact, with only one good ankle, I enjoyed the most active and pain-free period in the last 20 years. For example,
I was able to pick blueberries on rough ground, walk for an hour through the Saturday Market, and do my grocery shopping standing up.
In October 2007 I received the second INBONE® ankle and the early part of the recovery has been exceptionally smooth and pain free. Next week
I’ll be out of the cast and learning to walk on my own two new feet! I’m looking forward to a full and active life with functional ankles for the first time ever!
Jeanne St. John, Ph.D, Newport, OR
These results are specific to this individual only. Individual results and activity levels after surgery vary and depend on many
factors including age, weight and prior activity level. There are risks and recovery times associated with surgery and there are certain individuals who
should not undergo surgery.
Only a physician can tell you if this product and associated procedure are right for you and your unique circumstances. Please
consult with a physician for complete information regarding benefits, risks and possible outcomes.