What is total ankle replacement?
Total ankle replacement is similar to hip and knee replacements – patients receive a new ankle joint made of precisely engineered metal and plastic parts that replace the old ankle joint.
Expected benefits from the surgery include improved ankle function and reduction or elimination of ankle pain. Patients should expect a period of limited weight-bearing initially, followed by a gradual return to daily activity as their ankle heals. Most patients will have physical therapy after the procedure to help regain mobility.
Is total ankle replacement right for you?
Total ankle replacement is an option for those patients with end stage ankle joint arthritis who wish to avoid an ankle fusion. It is effective in relieving arthritic pain associated with weight bearing activities as well as discomfort associated with rest.
Your physician will consider a few things before recommending surgery, such as age, activity level, severity of arthritis in your ankle and the potential for arthritis in other foot joints.
Before deciding on surgery, people should try treatments such as bracing, cortisone or steroid injections and changing to non-weight bearing or low-impact activities. If non-surgical approaches do not provide relief, total ankle replacement might be appropriate.
To discuss treatment options, schedule a consultation with a foot and ankle surgeon at Shore Orthopaedic University Associates by calling (609) 927-1991. Offices are located in Cape May Court House, Somers Point and Galloway. For more information, visit shoreorthodocs.com.
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