Since your ankle joints are some of the most overworked joints in your body — they support your entire body weight — wear-and-tear and an increased risk of injuries are bound to happen. If you’re in need of an ankle replacement, the skilled practitioners at Texas Orthopaedic Associates can help. Book your ankle replacement evaluation at one of their locations in Dallas, Plano, Weatherford, Keller, or Fort Worth, Texas, today. Schedule online or over the phone.
ANKLE REPLACEMENT Q&A
What is an Ankle Replacement?
An ankle replacement procedure (ankle arthroplasty) involves removing damaged tissues and restructuring your ankle joint. After inserting metal rods into your tibia (shin bone) as well as your ankle bone, your orthopaedic surgeon implants medical-grade components, often plastic, to re-create the natural gliding motion of your ankle joint.
Your specific procedure depends on whether you need a partial or a total ankle replacement. A partial ankle replacement involves replacing one of the damaged areas of your bones, whereas a total ankle replacement means that you need the entire ankle joint replaced. Usually, the total ankle replacement surgery is the preferred alternative to ankle fusion surgery, a procedure that dramatically reduces joint motion and mobility.
Am I a Candidate For Ankle Replacement?
As with most types of orthopaedic surgery, an ankle replacement is the last resort. Your dedicated orthopaedic surgeon at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, would rather preserve natural bone and tissue if possible.
But conservative therapies for treating ankle ailments and injuries aren’t always effective — or they stop working. In these cases, an ankle replacement may be best. You may be a candidate for an ankle replacement if you have:
- Decreased ankle function
- Complex fractures
- Damage from arthritis
- Chronic or worsening pain
- Ankle stiffening
Modern ankle replacement surgeries are known for resolving almost all of your ankle issues and helping you return to your regular activities — including exercise.
What Is The Recovery Like After an Ankle Replacement?
You’re probably going to be in the hospital for a few days after an ankle replacement. It’s important to start performing gentle range-of-motion exercises (as recommended) several days after surgery to promote healing and lower your risk of blood clots.
But you likely won’t be able to bear weight on your new ankle joint for at least 2-3 weeks. During this time, your orthopaedic surgeon usually suggests walking around with a supportive device, such as crutches, or a cane or walker.
In most cases, you’re performing weight-bearing activities, including walking, within a few weeks. It’s common to need 2-4 weekly physical therapy sessions for at least 4-8 weeks after an ankle replacement surgery. The team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, supports you every step of the way to ensure you have a quick and successful recovery after an ankle replacement.
Schedule your ankle replacement consultation at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, by clicking on the online booking feature or by calling your nearest clinic location.
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