When is Ankle Surgery Needed?

Have you been living with chronic pain or mobility issues due to an ankle injury or condition? Ankle surgery, offered by your Colorado Springs and Monument, CO, podiatrists, Drs. Matthew Hinderland and Jordan Cameron of Foot & Ankle Institute of Colorado, may improve your condition.

When should you consider ankle surgery?

In many cases, ankle pain and injuries can be successfully managed with conservative treatment methods, such as casts, walking boots, crutches and shockwave therapy. Surgery is usually only recommended if other treatment methods are unsuccessful.

Ankle surgery may also be needed if:

• Your life has changed due to ankle pain: Your Colorado Springs or Monument, CO, foot doctor may suggest ankle surgery if pain interferes with the quality of your life. Chronic or severe pain not only makes it difficult to do the things you need to do but can also lead to depression. If medication or other treatment options don't adequately control your pain, surgery may be the best option.
• Walking and standing are difficult: Arthritis, fractures, and severe sprains may make it challenging to walk or even stand easily. Surgery can stabilize your ankle and improve mobility.
• Your injury has affected your gait: If you change the way you walk due to an ankle condition, you may soon begin to experience pain in your legs, knees, hips or back. Restoring your usual gait will help ease these painful symptoms.

What conditions can be improved with ankle surgery?

Surgery may be recommended for:

• Severe Sprains: Although most sprains heal with conservative treatment, you may need surgery if your ankle becomes unstable.
• Achilles Tendon Tears: Tears in the thin tendon at the back of your ankle make it difficult to bend your foot or walk easily. During surgery, your podiatrist sutures the two ends of the tendon together and lengthens it in some cases.
• Fractures: Severe fractures may require surgery.
• Arthritis: Ankle arthroscopy, fusion, or replacement may be recommended if arthritis causes severe pain or interferes with normal joint function.

Would you like to find out if you're a good candidate for ankle surgery? Call your Colorado Springs and Monument, CO, podiatrists, Drs. Matthew Hinderland and Jordan Cameron of Foot & Ankle Institute of Colorado, at (719) 488-4664 to schedule an appointment.