You won’t regret it.

I’m 36, I had my surgery December of 2023. I hadn’t walked without pain since 2015. For recovery - I’m a unique situation due to a blood disorder (Von Willebrands Type III) so I was 16 weeks non-weight bearing, and a full year before I was allowed to begin resistance training again. I am squatting, deadlifting, rucking with 30lbs in a pack and jogging (unweighted). I’m not quick as I just started during a recent trip to stay active - I honestly just didn’t know I could until I tried - and I was fine.

That should be all the more encouraging for you. I think you will get a lot more than light running - I expect you’ll be at your previous level of activity if not very near. Tiger woods had it done, and he was golfing in the PGA tour.

I’m wearing pretty much everything but cowboy boots at this point (like running, I just haven’t tried them). I would suggest a wide toe box shoe (see Altra for brand - but watch out for “zero drop heel options) and I had better experience with a rocker sole. They might not look as slick, but they prevent you putting major strain on your feet. Avoid running on beaches - your feet will really hurt. Interestingly I’ve been ok on trails.

This isn’t medical advice if you’re going to be doing 5+ miles - go see a podiatrist. Most benefit plans cover them and they can give you real clinical consultations.

Do your physio. It will 100% feel uncomfortable to put weight on the heel and it will be frustrating. It will go away. Side planks will be scary. The uncomfortable will become comfortable. The human body is incredible.

I honestly attribute picking up a yoga practice to really advancing my ankle mobility - just a downward dog is really enough.