Ankle replacement is generally recommended only for men and women whose debilitating arthritis symptoms don’t respond to conservative pain relief solutions. The best candidates for ankle replacement are at or close to a healthy body weight and don’t have bone complications like osteoporosis.

Although having diabetes doesn’t necessarily exclude you from having an ankle replacement, it can delay your surgery if you have any type of diabetic foot complications like foot ulcers. Other foot problems, especially in your hindfoot, may prevent you from having ankle replacement surgery as well.

The best way to know whether an ankle replacement is the right solution for you is to schedule an evaluation at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute promptly. The expert podiatric care providers are highly experienced in ankle replacement surgery, and can determine whether this is the best path to pain relief for you.

Even if ankle replacement won’t work for you, the team can recommend other effective options for arthritis pain relief.

Your Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute providers give you specific recovery instructions after your procedure. You typically have a splint or cast after surgery, and you move around with an assistive device like a walker or crutches based on your surgeon’s recommendations.

You can’t bear weight on your ankle for about 4-6 weeks, and you need to keep your ankle elevated and apply ice frequently during your early recovery. It’s very important to keep your ankle bandages, boot, or cast very clean and dry to deter the chance of infection. Physical therapy slowly helps you regain strength and normal ankle function.

Recovery is different for every patient, and the Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute team is here to support you through all steps of ankle replacement surgery and recovery. Book your consultation by calling the office nearest you or by scheduling online now.