Ankle Replacement Surgery & Arthroplasty
Ankle replacement removes a diseased ankle joint and adds a prosthetic one.
The most common reason for ankle replacement surgery is arthritis. Arthritis can damage the cartilage that covers the ends of bones, causing pain and inflammation. Ankle replacement surgery can relieve pain and improve function.
During ankle replacement surgery, the damaged bones and cartilage are removed and replaced with the artificial joint. The artificial joint is attached to the bones with screws or cement.
What Life Is Like After an Ankle Replacement
After surgery, you will need to wear a splint or cast for about 6 weeks. You will also need to use crutches or a walker to keep your weight off your ankle as it heals. Physical therapy will help you regain strength and motion in your ankle.
Most people who have ankle replacement surgery experience a significant reduction in pain. They also have an improved range of motion and are able to walk without pain. Most people are able to return to their previous level of activity within a few months.
Treatment for Ankle Pain
Common Treatments
Sometimes ankle replacement is not the option you need. Some patients find when they lose weight, it reduces stress on their joints.
Ankle pain can be from osteoarthritis or an ankle injury. Oftentimes, physical therapy can help you strengthen your ankles without further surgery.
Therapeutic injections can alleviate pain caused by osteoarthritis or injury and are often coupled with physical therapy for a robust treatment plan.
When Ankle Surgery Is The Only Option
If you have arthritis of the ankle and conservative treatments such as medications, splints, or braces have not helped, you may be a candidate for ankle replacement surgery. If other treatments do not relieve your pain, you may need surgery to remove the damaged cartilage or fuse the bones in your ankle. Ankle replacement surgery is an option for some people. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you to help you decide if this procedure is right for you.