5 Most Common Recovery Questions

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Ankle replacement surgery is a common procedure to relieve pain and restore function in the ankle joint. If you are one of the many people who have recently undergone ankle replacement surgery, you may be wondering what to expect during your recovery. After ankle replacement surgery, several questions come to mind. How long will it take to recover? What are the steps I need to take for a speedy recovery? What are the potential risks and complications associated with ankle replacement surgery?

This blog post will provide you with answers to some of the most common questions people ask after ankle replacement surgery. We will also provide you with some tips for a speedy recovery.

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat ankle arthritis. During the procedure, damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the ankle joint and replaced with an ankle implant. The ankle implant is then secured in position, allowing the ankle to move normally again. Total ankle replacement has been found to be a safe and effective alternative to ankle fusion for the treatment of ankle arthritis.

If you suffer from arthritis or any other degenerative ailments, ankle replacement surgery is here to provide relief. This operation allows us to replace a damaged ankle joint with an artificial implant so that the shinbone can rest against the talus of your foot comfortably and painlessly. Cartilage typically deteriorates over time, leading to swelling, inflammation, and soreness; however, replacing the faulty piece offers an effective solution for those dealing with these adverse symptoms.

Ankle replacement surgery is a way to fix worn-out joints and thus eliminate pain and swelling. It usually takes place under general anaesthesia. 

Your surgeon will perform an incision in your ankle to operate on the affected joint.

Your surgeon will remove the damaged parts of your tibia and talus bones.

Your ankle replacement surgeon will attach plastic spacers to the remaining bone surfaces and then attach artificial metal joints with screws.

After your surgery, ask your healthcare provider what you can expect in terms of post-operative care. Your medical team will be there each step of the way to help ensure a safe and successful recovery. When you wake up from surgery, your leg and body will likely need some time for rest – with an immobilized leg held elevated if necessary – before slowly transitioning back into more normal activities at home, such as eating whatever is on the menu!

Additionally, follow-up X-rays may be required too so that any potential issues or complications caused by the procedure are properly managed. However, most patients require only about two days’ stay at the hospital following their operation for optimal health outcomes.

Following your surgery, you may experience excruciating pain. But fortunately, powerful medications will alleviate the discomfort and help reduce it in a few days – to a level lower than before the procedure was perform.

5 Common Recovery Questions you should know after your Total Ankle Replacement Surgery

Patients who have undergone ankle replacement surgery often have questions about their recovery and the risks associated with ankle replacements. The five most common questions to ask after surgery are:

How long will recovery take?
What activities can I do after ankle replacement surgery?
What physical therapy should I undertake as part of my recovery process?
What are the potential risks and complications associated with ankle replacement surgery?
How can I reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation after ankle replacement surgery?

Steps to follow for Speedy Recovery After Total Ankle Replacement Surgery

To facilitate a speedy recovery after a total ankle replacement surgery, there are certain steps you should take to ensure your success. These include:

Follow your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care, including any physical therapy or medications prescribed.

Rest and let the ankle recover by avoiding activities that could cause pain or further injury until you have been clear by your physician to resume normal activities.

Use crutches or a walker to help you stay mobile and reduce ankle strain.

Elevate your ankle periodically throughout the day to reduce swelling.

Use ice packs or cold compresses to reduce ankle pain and discomfort.

Wear a compression stocking on the ankle following surgery, as directed by your doctor, to reduce swelling and support the ankle.

Perform ankle exercises as prescribed by your physician to increase ankle strength and range of motion.

Eat a healthy diet high in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support ankle recovery.

Avoid putting too much weight on the ankle for at least six weeks following ankle replacement surgery or until cleared by your doctor.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid ankle recovery.

Final thought

Following these steps will help ensure a successful ankle replacement experience and a speedy recovery process. You must talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns related to ankle replacement surgery, as they will be able to provide the best advice and guidance regarding your ankle recovery.

Remember, ankle replacement surgery is an effective procedure for treating ankle arthritis and other ankle conditions, so you should be confident in knowing that you are taking the right steps to restore a healthy ankle joint. Call us today at 941.378.5100 to book an appointment with one of our surgeons right away. For further information on recovery, meet Sforzo, Dillingham, and Stewart Orthopedic + Sports Medicine for your treatment. Our expertise and experience make us the perfect choice for your surgical needs.