Been having tendonitis problems in the ankle for the past year and half (peroneal, PTT, achilles, etc.). Finally, ankle blew up with inflammation and wasn't able to bear any weight. I went in for a MRI and a subsequent CT. Basically, have a subtalar coalition and some marked arthritis in the joint. Ortho is currently suggesting beginning with a cortisone shot in joint space, but that fusion of the subtalar joint will most likely be inevitable. Resection of the coalition isn't promising because the joint shows a fair amount of arthritic changes.

1) Is it possible that steroid injections and good shoes/orthotics could get me back to running again? And if not,

2) How much would the fusion hinder me from swimming and biking again? If I can run afterwards without difficulties, that'd be gravy.

If there are any other athletes on here that have had an ankle fusion, I'd love to hear about your experiences.