When you have pain every time you are on your feet or during activity due to ankle arthritis, it may be time to consider an ankle replacement. Ankle arthritis hurts because of bone rubbing against bone, causing pain and inflammation.
Temporary relief from ankle pain can be achieved with medication and physical therapy, but when the problem is severe, it may require surgical intervention. An ankle replacement involves the replacement of the damaged joint with custom-made implants, so you can walk without pain again.
For the right candidate, an ankle replacement can be life changing. In this article, we are going to discuss what to expect from ankle replacement surgery and how it can relieve foot pain and restore quality of life.
Why Get an Ankle Replacement?
Arthritis is the most common foot problem that will make a podiatrist or foot and ankle surgeon recommend an ankle replacement. The type of arthritis may be osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, or post-traumatic arthritis, which develops due to a past injury on the ankle joint. Both types of arthritis can cause the cartilage protecting the joint surface to wear away.
What is Involved?
Ankle replacement surgery preserves joint motion by replacing damaged joint surfaces with prosthetic components made of metal and plastic. This approach aims to replicate the natural movement of the ankle joint, allowing for a more functional and pain-free gait.
- Patients typically receive general anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and feel no pain during the procedure.
- After cleaning the operation site, the podiatric surgeon makes incisions either from the front or side of the ankle.
- The surgeon cuts the bone and removes damaged portions of the surface of the shinbone and talus. Then, he inserts the new artificial joint surfaces around the lower end of the shinbone and fibula.
- Surgical screws are used to secure the metal surfaces. A plastic prosthesis may be inserted between the new joint spaces to facilitate smooth movement.
- Finally, the surgeon closes the incision.
What to Expect from Ankle Replacement Surgery
Before undergoing ankle replacement surgery, patients undergo a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and tests and imaging studies to determine whether or not they are a good candidate for the procedure. Patients should discuss the procedure and their expectations with the foot and ankle surgeon regarding benefits and recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Following ankle replacement surgery, patients are typically monitored in the facility before being discharged. A responsible adult needs to drive you home after the surgery, and you may need some assistance early in the recovery stage.
Pain management techniques, such as medication and ice therapy, are utilized to help manage post-operative discomfort. Patients are instructed to keep their foot elevated and avoid putting weight on the operated ankle initially. They also need to wear a cast or splint to immobilize the ankle.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle joint. Therapeutic exercises and gait training techniques are prescribed to improve balance and proprioception. Gradually, patients are encouraged to bear weight on the operated ankle and progress to walking with the assistance of crutches or a walker as tolerated.
Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor, so they can monitor your healing progress, and follow all post-operative instructions, as they are geared toward a successful outcome.
Benefits of Ankle Replacement Surgery
Ankle replacement surgery offers several advantages over other treatment methods, such as ankle fusion.
Some of the benefits patients can enjoy include:
- Significant reduction in pain
- Less joint stiffness
- An increased range of motion
- Improved gait mechanics
- Lower risk of falls and accidents
- Reduced risk of adjacent joint degeneration
Ankle replacement surgery is a long-term solution for chronic ankle pain. For your treatment, trust only an experienced foot and ankle surgeon.
Ankle Replacement Surgeon in Warwick or Middletown, Rhode Island, or Dartmouth, Massachusetts
For superior treatment for ankle pain, choose the board-certified podiatrists at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England. Custom-made implants for ankle replacement fit more precisely and feel more like your natural joint. If our doctors determine you are a good candidate for the procedure, we are more than happy to guide you every step of the way.
For any questions or to schedule a consultation for ankle replacement surgery, call our podiatry office near you. You can also use our online form to send an appointment request. We look forward to being your partner in foot care.
