5 Signs It’s Time to Consider a Total Ankle Replacement

Conservative treatments are enough for most people to subdue ankle pain – but what if it persists? Chronic ankle pain from severe arthritis may require total ankle replacement surgery to eliminate pain and preserve ankle mobility.

Dr. Jefferey E. McAlister and the Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute team offer various cutting-edge treatments, including total ankle replacements, for patients with chronic ankle discomfort.

Dr. McAlister is a board-certified foot and ankle specialist offering regenerative medicine, sports medicine, and arthritis treatments to alleviate foot and ankle conditions.

What does a total ankle replacement treat?

A total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure that treats severe arthritis. It's the last resort for people who've undergone conservative treatments without significant relief of their symptoms.

Ankle arthritis happens when the protective tissues in the ankle joint wear down. The result is ankle pain, swelling, and difficulty walking, which affects every aspect of life.

During an ankle replacement, Dr. McAlister removes the damaged cartilage and bone in the joint. He then replaces them with prosthetic devices that act like your natural joint. The prosthetics are strong and durable, providing years of pain-free activity after the procedure.

The goal of an ankle replacement is to preserve ankle mobility and function while eliminating pain and allowing you to enjoy everyday activities.

Signs it's time for an ankle replacement

A total ankle replacement is a significant procedure, so it may not be right for everyone. There are signs, though, that signal a vital problem within the ankle joint that could benefit from joint replacement surgery.

Most people with ankle arthritis have significant signs and symptoms that limit their activities and mobility. A few of the key signs that an ankle replacement is around the corner include:

1. Chronic ankle pain that doesn't let up

Ankle pain that continues despite your best efforts to relieve it is a major red flag for arthritis. The pain may be dull, constant, or intermittent but often interferes with the things you love.

If you've tried for months or years to alleviate chronic ankle pain and nothing seems to work, Dr. McAlister discusses a total ankle replacement so you can finally get relief.

2. Conservative treatments fail to help

Conservative therapies are the first line of treatment for ankle conditions like injuries and arthritis. These therapies often include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and joint injections.

However, these treatments don't always work, especially in cases of severe arthritis. People who've failed conservative treatments may be candidates for a total ankle replacement.

3. Loss of ankle mobility

Severe arthritis often affects how you walk and move. If you can't get around like you used to or are unable to move your ankle correctly, an ankle replacement may be the only treatment that gives you the desired results.

4. Persistent ankle stiffness

Ankle arthritis causes chronic inflammation in the joint, which often leads to joint stiffness. Some joint stiffness is so severe you can't get up a flight of stairs or walk for any distance without difficulty.

5. Instability in the ankle joints

As arthritis breaks down protective cartilage, the bones can rub together, causing joint damage. People with severe arthritis often have so much damage that the ankle feels unstable or like it could give out at any moment.

Ankle instability that doesn't resolve with conservative care could indicate severe joint damage that will only get better through ankle replacement surgery.

These symptoms warrant an appointment with Dr. McAlister to discuss treatment options. He reviews imaging studies and your symptoms to determine the next step in treatment.

Call Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute today to discuss a total ankle replacement with Dr. McAlister, or request a consultation on our website.