Between 1983 and 1995, we used subtalar arthrodesis to treat 16 consecutive patients for continued pain after an intra-articular calcaneal fracture. Average time to union was 3 months (2 to 4 months).

Two patients had persistent ankle nonunions, one asymptomatic, and one with symptomatic subtalar arthritis. Two had successful arthrodesis but persistent pain from reflex sympathetic dystrophy.