Walk Away From Pain
Living with an arthritic ankle can make daily activities painful and challenging, causing chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, ankle replacement surgery offers a promising solution. The advanced procedure can restore function, reduce pain, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from severe ankle arthritis.
Joint rehab
Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles around the ankle, improving flexibility, and enhancing joint stability. Through targeted exercises and stretches, physical therapy helps reduce pain and increase the range of motion, making daily activities more manageable. Regular sessions with a physical therapist can also teach patients how to move correctly to avoid further joint damage.
Meds for better movement
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. NSAIDs help make daily activities more bearable by targeting inflammation directly. In some cases, doctors may prescribe corticosteroid injections for more severe pain and swelling. Corticosteroid injections provide rapid relief, though their use is limited due to potential side effects with long-term use.
Simple changes, big impact
Extra body weight places additional stress on the ankle joints, exacerbating pain and inflammation. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, help keep the joints flexible and strong without causing further damage. Avoiding high-impact activities, like running or jumping, can prevent worsening of the condition. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage symptoms.
Cushion your stride
Orthotic devices provide additional support, improve alignment, and reduce ankle joint stress, helping alleviate pain during movement. Custom orthotics are designed to fit the unique foot contours, offering personalized cushioning and support. Ankle braces can stabilize the joint, preventing excessive movement that can lead to further damage.
Strength in fusion
Ankle fusion, or ankle arthrodesis, treats severe arthritis by permanently joining ankle bones to reduce pain and improve stability. The procedure removes damaged cartilage and fuses bones with metal screws or plates until healed. Though the surgery limits motion, a fusion effectively reduces pain and strengthens the ankle for daily activities. An ankle fusion is for patients who don’t respond to other treatments and aren’t candidates for ankle replacement.
New joints, new life
Ankle replacement surgery, or total ankle arthroplasty, involves replacing a damaged ankle joint with a prosthetic implant. The surgery is recommended for severe arthritis cases that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments. The procedure replaces damaged bone and cartilage with metal and plastic components, restoring natural ankle movement. Ankle replacement significantly reduces pain and improves mobility, enhancing overall quality of life.
Getting back on your feet
Initially, patients stay in the hospital for a few days for pain management after ankle replacement surgery. Physical therapy starts soon to restore strength and flexibility. Crutches or a walker are needed for several weeks to avoid weight on the joint. Gradually, weight-bearing activities resume. Full recovery takes several months, with improved mobility and reduced pain. Regular follow-ups with the surgeon ensure proper healing and implant function.
Reclaim your active lifestyle
Ankle replacement surgery provides a path to reclaiming an active, pain-free lifestyle for individuals with severe arthritis. With advancements in medical technology, the procedure offers a durable and effective solution, allowing for natural joint movement and long-term relief. Consulting with an orthopedic specialist can help determine if this option is suitable, opening the door to improved mobility and enhanced daily life.
