Ankle issues can impact your quality of life. Pain, inflammation, and weakness in your ankles can lead to even more issues if left untreated. There are several warning signs that indicate ankle trouble. Below you will find the top signs you need ankle replacement.
Signs You Need Ankle Replacement
An ankle replacement can help reduce unwanted symptoms and improve your range of motion. Consider the following signs you may need ankle replacement surgery.
Chronic Ankle Pain:
Chronic ankle pain can occur for a variety of reasons. Whether you had an accident, sports injury, or have had multiple ankle issues, a replacement may be necessary. Chronic pain can vary, but it is most often understood as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks even with medication or treatment. Because your ankle is integral to your overall gate, it’s important to address chronic pain so you can effectively treat the issue.
Advanced Arthritis:
Advanced arthritis can impact your ankle joint and your ability to move. This is because osteoarthritis causes swelling and inflammation which results in stiffness and pain as the cartilage in your ankle deteriorates. Severe osteoarthritis can cause serious issues, including your ability to move around. Rheumatoid arthritis is another issue that can impact your ankle. This type of arthritis can erode the bone in your ankle joint. This can cause deformities and immobility, which results in the need for an ankle replacement.
Ankle Instability:
Some people experience multiple sprains throughout their lifetime. This often happens during childhood. The result of multiple ankle injuries is ankle instability. Instability creates more opportunities for injury and further damage. In addition to your ankle bones, the ligaments can also be damaged, which can further weaken your ankle structure. Avoid further damage by consulting with a professional skilled in podiatry in Santa Barbara. They can help provide you with a treatment plan to effectively address your instability.
Ankle Fracture:
A severe fracture that didn’t heal properly can impact the range of motion in your ankle. If you don’t have full range of motion in your ankle, it can impact your overall gate. This is because issues with your ankle can impact your knees, hips, and back if left untreated. Ankle replacement surgery is often necessary to restore your ankle.
Ankle Weakness:
Extreme weakness and instability in your ankle is a sign of bone deterioration. In addition, limited mobility that impacts your ankle’s range of motion can result in the need for an ankle replacement. To regain mobility in your ankle, a replacement may be necessary.
Ankle Replacement Surgery
Ankle replacement surgery is necessary in cases when conservative treatments are ineffective. The procedure can not only restore the physical function in your ankle, but it can also help improve your mood. The freedom to move around without pain can be major for those who have walked around with ankle pain and a limited range of motion.
The procedure begins with a consultation with a skilled podiatrist to determine which course of action is right for you. Once you are cleared for ankle replacement surgery, the procedure itself involves the removal of the problematic portions of your ankle. These portions are then replaced with smooth metal surfaces and high-density polyethylene spacers to help improve the range of motion in your ankle joint.
Recovering from Ankle Replacement Surgery
The recovery process can take some time and patience, so it’s important to be prepared in advance. The first few days post-surgery require that you focus solely on recovery. This will help you heal swiftly and ensure the best results. Each patient recovers at a different pace so it’s crucial to work closely with your podiatrist to ensure you are progressing as expected. This is because there is a significant period where you have to avoid putting any weight on your ankle. The process requires patients but the end result is worth the wait.
