Recognizing the Need for Ankle Replacement Surgery

Identifying the symptoms that might indicate a need for total ankle replacement can lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes. Common symptoms include:

• Chronic Ankle Pain: Persistent pain that doesn’t respond to medication or other treatments.
• Swelling and Stiffness: Ongoing swelling and stiffness that restrict ankle movement.
• Difficulty Walking: Limited ability to walk or bear weight on the affected ankle.
• Joint Deformity: Visible deformities or abnormal joint alignment.
• If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consulting with a specialist at Eva Hospital can help determine if ankle replacement surgery is the right solution.

What Leads to the Need for Ankle Replacement?

Several factors can lead to severe ankle joint damage, eventually requiring ankle joint replacement. Some of the most common causes include:

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two major conditions that can wear down the ankle joint over time.
• Previous Injuries: Fractures or repeated sprains weaken the joint, making it more susceptible to degeneration.
• Infection: In rare cases, infections can damage the cartilage in the ankle, leading to joint deterioration.
• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of joint-related issues may increase the risk of needing an ankle replacement.

Our specialists at Eva Hospital will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of your ankle issues, which helps customize an effective treatment plan.

Potential Complications of Ankle Replacement Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, total ankle replacement surgery carries certain risks. While this surgery is highly successful, patients should be aware of potential complications, which may include:

• Infection: Although rare, infections can develop around the implant.
• Implant Wear and Loosening: The implant may wear down over time, requiring revision surgery.
• Blood Clots: There is a slight risk of blood clots forming post-surgery, especially in the lower legs.
• Nerve Damage: Although uncommon, some patients may experience numbness or tingling near the surgical site.

At Eva Hospital, patient safety is our top priority, and we take every precaution to minimize these risks through pre-operative evaluations, advanced surgical techniques, and post-operative care.

Reducing Your Risk of Ankle Issues

While some cases of joint damage are inevitable, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing severe ankle problems:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing body weight lessens stress on the ankle joint, slowing down degeneration.
• Stay Active with Low-Impact Exercises: Swimming and cycling can strengthen the muscles around the ankle without overloading the joint.
• Wear Supportive Footwear: Good shoes with adequate support help prevent injuries and reduce wear on the ankle.
• Regular Check-Ups: Routine consultations with healthcare providers can help identify early signs of joint problems, making it easier to manage symptoms before they worsen.