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

Healthy ankles allow you to walk, run, jump, and stay balanced on your feet. When you have a condition that harms the joint, such as osteoarthritis or a sprained ankle, you can develop a range of symptoms that greatly affect your mobility, stability, and well-being.

Total ankle replacement surgery swaps out your severely damaged or diseased ankle joint for an artificial prosthesis to alleviate difficult-to-treat symptoms. As with any medical treatment, however, it’s not ideal for everyone who’s suffering from ankle-related issues.

At Babak Kosari, DPM, in Northridge and Santa Clarita, California, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Babak Kosari, DPM, FACFAS, has provided total ankle replacement surgery for years. Here, he explores four signs it may be time for you to consider the procedure.

1. You have chronic ankle pain

Most everyone experiences ankle pain at some point. In mild cases, the pain may diminish on its own fairly quickly. Total ankle replacement surgery could be your best option if your pain has become chronic, meaning it persists for three months or longer. Your ankle pain may occur around-the-clock, or frequently flare over that time.

2. Your ankle symptoms are debilitating

Ankle pain, stiffness, and instability can make it difficult to go about your life as usual. If these symptoms aren’t merely bothersome but disruptive, you may be a candidate for a total ankle replacement.

Up to 70% of people who suffer a severe ankle sprain develop chronic ankle instability. That instability can lead to additional injuries, more pain, and even permanent disability without effective treatment.

3. Conservative treatments aren’t enough

Chronic or severe ankle symptoms don’t necessarily make you a candidate for joint replacement surgery. Treatment usually starts with conservative care, such as rest, activity modification, a walking boot, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain medication.

If conservative treatment doesn’t suffice, our team may recommend a total ankle replacement. It all depends on the severity of your ongoing symptoms and the impact on your quality of life.

4. Your symptoms carry on during rest

In many cases, appropriate rest reduces ankle pain and swelling. If conservative care helps to a degree, yet you continue to experience symptoms even when you’re not using the joint, it may be reasonable to consider a total ankle replacement. 

You may find that the procedure allows you to sleep better, making way for additional benefits. Without enough restful sleep, your ankle pain and inflammation will likely only worsen.

Are you a candidate for ankle replacement surgery?

Wondering if you’re a candidate for total ankle replacement surgery? Call your nearest Babak Kosari, DPM, office in Northridge or Santa Clarita, California, today, or use our online scheduler to book an appointment at your convenience.