From hesitant steps to confident strides: Life after ankle fusion surgery

Roger’s story

As an active, retired ex military serviceman with a passion for trekking and keeping fit, Roger found that chronic pain caused by ankle arthritis made it increasingly difficult to continue with the hobbies he loved.

“For a period of about three to four years, there was a gradual deterioration, which really nosedived last year. That’s when I knew something had to be done about my severe ankle arthritis pain,” Roger explained.

After undergoing a thorough examination and diagnostic testing by his GP, Roger was referred to Nuffield Health North Staffordshire Hospital under the care of Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Goyal who confirmed that an ankle fusion would be the best course of action to get him back to his old self.

The treatment

“My consultant, Mr Goyal, was wonderful. He explained the surgery in great detail, which immediately put me at ease, and I had no hesitation in having the operation,” Roger recalls.

“On the day of my procedure, I was admitted early in the morning and throughout the admission and preparation process I met many members of Mr Goyal’s team. Everyone was incredibly helpful and made sure I fully understood each stage.

I also saw Mr Goyal again, he came to see me both before and after the operation and I truly couldn’t have asked for better care.”

Ankle fusion, also known as ankle arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve chronic pain and instability caused by severe end-stage ankle arthritis or trauma.

Damaged or diseased cartilage is removed from the joint and then the main ankle bones - the tibia (shin bone) and the talus - are permanently joined together with screws and plates.

Back to doing what he loves

Ten months after surgery, Roger was delighted to share his progress: “I can now walk up to 10 miles with a 10kg rucksack across varied terrain, both uphill and downhill, with no pain or swelling in my ankle. I’m also back to my usual gym activities and playing badminton, completely pain free.”

“I’m absolutely amazed by the results; I never thought I’d feel this good again.”

Book a consultation

To book a consultation with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Achal Goyal, please call us on 017824 32227 (option 2) or book online.

Last updated Thursday 9 July 2026

First published on Thursday 9 July 2026