After Being Forced to Spend More than $40,000 at 47, Tiger Woods’ Return and Recovery Time Explained

Tiger Woods‘ run in the 2023 Masters ended on a disappointing note after the golfer withdrew due to his aggravated injury. Amidst speculations from fans, the 15-time major winner has now undergone an ankle procedure. On Wednesday, the golfer took to Twitter to share that his subtalar fusion surgery was a success. Woods, who made a record-tying 23rd cut at the 2023 Masters, went through the procedure to address his post-traumatic arthritis from an earlier talus fracture.

However, the latest update about the golfer has raised many questions about the procedure and the time it will take for him to return to action.

What is a subtalar fusion surgery?

Since his disheartening withdrawal from Augusta, fans were waiting for an update regarding the golfer’s health. A new revelation finally came through on Wednesday after Woods shared an insight into his successful subtalar fusion surgery on the bird app.

Ever since Woods suffered injuries in a car crash in 2021, he has visibly struggled to return to form. Fans will hope that the latest surgery will give the golfer, who was visibly struggling in Augusta earlier this month, some much-needed respite.

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The subtalar fusion procedure is for the subtalar joint that sits right below the ankle joint. This joint allows the foot to move in circular rotations and side-to-side. The well-being of this part of the body is essential to ensure efficient movement on uneven surfaces, like golf courses.

The surgery, which takes around 90 minutes, locks the bones together, helping the patient move more effectively. During the procedure, a metal plate is inserted to keep the bones in place while they heal. A prolonged recovery process eventually follows the subtalar fusion surgery. It is also a relatively expensive process, with Healthline revealing that the average cost of an ankle fusion procedure is $41,756.

What is the recovery time for Tiger Woods?

On Twitter, the golfer revealed that his surgery was a success, and he was looking forward to rehabilitation. However, it may take more time for Woods to resume playing. This also casts a shadow over his appearance in the upcoming majors.

Per Cleveland Clinic, it may take 6 to 12 weeks until the golfer can put weight on his ankle. Next, he can start walking in a boot, following which rehabilitation will start. According to the FootCareMD website, the boot or cast usually stays in place for around 8 to 12 weeks, sometimes even longer. The lengthy recovery process implies that Woods is unlikely to appear at the PGA Championship set to happen in May. His chances of appearing in June’s U.S. Open and July’s Open Championship are also doubtful.

However, Woods’ age is unlikely to affect his recovery process. Foot and ankle surgeon and consultant Nima Heidari, who has two decades of experience in the field, revealed to GolfMonthly that the 5-time Masters winner can resume play pain free once he has healed. He affirmed that the surgery will have positive results and only prolong the 47-year-old golfer’s career.

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Do you think the golfer will recover in time to return to action soon? Let us know in the comments below!