While athletes may be more prone to ankle injuries due to the physical demands of their activities, ankle replacement surgery can benefit individuals from all walks of life who have severe ankle arthritis or significant ankle joint damage.

Ankle replacement surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or bracing, have not provided sufficient relief, and the individual continues to experience chronic pain and disability.

We summarized five questions to use when meeting with an orthopedic surgeon and discussing your ankle replacement options:

  • Is ankle replacement surgery the most appropriate treatment option for my specific condition?
  • What are the potential risks and complications associated with ankle replacement surgery?
  • What type of ankle replacement implant do you recommend for my case, and what are its benefits and limitations?
  • What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the associated risks and side effects?
  • What are the expected outcomes and success rates for ankle replacement surgery in cases similar to mine?

Click here to learn more about ankle replacement surgery.