*2.4. Rehabilitation Protocol*

The protocol following TTCA and TTA was the same. The post-treatment scheme involved wearing an orthotic boot (e.g., VACOped™) for a total of 12 weeks and ambulating on the forearm or armpit crutches. For the first 6 weeks, patients were required to wear the boot for 24 h a day with merely sole contact; removal of the boot for personal hygiene and physiotherapy was permitted.

After an X-ray examination, the boot was worn for an additional 6 weeks, with a gradual increase in load. During this time, the boot could be removed at night. At 12 weeks after surgery, computed tomography was carried out, and the footwear was orthopedically adapted for everyday use.
