Tiger Woods Undergoes Subtalar Fusion Surgery

Yesterday, April 19, 2023, Tiger Woods made a significant announcement on social media. He had undergone a subtalar fusion performed by an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle surgeon in New York City. The surgery was deemed successful. A subtalar fusion is a procedure aimed at eliminating joint pain and arthritis in the subtalar joint, the articulation between the talus (ankle bone) and calcaneus (heel bone).

Woods disclosed that he sustained a talus fracture, among other leg and foot injuries, in a car accident in February 2021. He previously withdrew from the Hero World Challenge last November due to his plantar fasciitis, and during The Masters a few weeks ago, he was noticeably limping and had to withdraw during his third round.

A fusion surgery involves combining two bones into one, providing effective relief from pain. However, it also results in the permanent loss of motion in the fused joint. The procedure involves placing two to three large screws from the heel into the talus to “fuse” the two bones together.

Subtalar Fusion Screws

According to Dr. Thomas H. Sanders at The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center, although Woods will lose motion, he should gain considerable pain relief. The typical recovery time for this type of procedure involves six weeks in a cast without bearing weight, followed by six weeks in a boot with physical therapy. Tiger Woods should be able to resume playing golf in about four months, with full recovery anticipated in six months.

If you're experiencing any pain in your foot or ankle, The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center is the place to go. With our team of expert orthopaedic surgeons, we offer the highest quality care for foot and ankle injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and talus fractures. Don't let foot or ankle pain slow you down, schedule an appointment with The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center today.

Announcement Posted on Tiger Woods' Twitter Account