If you are suffering from weak, unstable ankles, it can make things difficult. Walking and standing can be a chore, leading to fear of being active. You may need a total ankle replacement. You definitely need to visit your podiatrist. The foot and ankle specialists at Potomac Podiatry Group provide comprehensive foot and ankle services, including total ankle replacement. They have several convenient office locations in Crofton, MD, and Woodbridge, Chantilly, and Sterling, VA.
What You Need to Know about Total Ankle Replacement
You may be a candidate for a total ankle replacement if:
- You have fractured your ankle in an accident
- You have damaged your ankle in an injury
- You have an infection in your ankle from an injury or medical condition
- Your ankle has degenerated from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Total ankle replacement may be performed while you are under general anesthesia, so you will sleep through the procedure. It can also be performed with just spinal anesthesia, so you stay awake, but you won’t feel anything below your waist.
During your ankle replacement surgery, your surgeon will remove damaged cartilage and bone in the ankle joint and replace it with a prosthetic ankle joint. During recovery, you will need to wear a splint or cast, and should elevate your ankle to decrease swelling. You should also avoid placing weight on your ankle for a short time, and use crutches to help you walk.
During your recovery, you will also see a physical therapist who will provide an exercise plan to increase strength in your ankle, and help you maintain flexibility and mobility. As your recovery continues, you will notice increased range-of-motion, a more stable ankle, increased flexibility, and better mobility.
Want to Know More?
To learn more about total ankle replacement and how it can help you, call the foot doctors at Potomac Podiatry Group. You can reach them in:
- Woodbridge, VA, by calling (703) 583-5959
- Chantilly, VA, by calling (703) 490-5599
- Sterling, VA, by calling (703) 444-9555
- Crofton, MD, by calling (410) 721-4505
Call today.