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What is Ankle Replacement Surgery?

Ankle replacement surgery, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a modern procedure used to treat severe ankle arthritis. Similar to knee replacement, it involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components that restore mobility and reduce pain. This surgery is typically considered when arthritis causes significant discomfort and limits daily activities, especially after conservative treatments have failed.

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Is Ankle Replacement Right for Me?

Ankle replacement is typically recommended for patients suffering from advanced arthritis that significantly affects their daily life. Arthritis may develop gradually due to natural wear and tear or result from previous injuries, such as a broken or severely sprained ankle. Over time, this damage can lead to joint stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain that limits mobility.

At our Newport Beach practice, we use a comprehensive diagnostic approach—including physical exams, X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs—to assess the severity of joint damage. If conservative treatments no longer provide relief, ankle replacement surgery may be the best option to restore joint function, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.

Surgery Details

If non-surgical treatment options cannot relieve the ankle pain being caused by arthritis, surgery will most likely be needed.

In total ankle replacement surgery, the joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic. If appropriate, some patients can qualify for custom CT-guided implants. 

Recovery

After total ankle replacement surgery it’s normal to experience occasional swelling and numbness for a few months, which should continue to resolve. You will be unable to bear weight until the incision heals, which is typically around two weeks. After this, you will begin weight bearing in a protective boot, and you will also begin physical therapy. The goal is to have patients out of their protective boot and returning to regular shoe wear at six weeks. 

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Total Ankle Replacement in Newport Beach & Rancho Santa Margarita

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Long-Term Care & Maintenance

Ankle replacement surgery is a significant step toward regaining your mobility and quality of life. To ensure the longevity and success of your new artificial joint, long-term care and maintenance are essential. The lifespan of your new ankle joint is typically 10 to 20 years or more, but this can be greatly influenced by how you care for it.

After your recovery, it is crucial to continue a lifestyle that supports your new ankle. This includes maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joint and engaging in regular, low-impact exercise as recommended by your physical therapist. We will work with you to develop a long-term plan that includes periodic check-ups to monitor the health of your artificial joint and ensure it continues to provide you with a pain-free, active life.

Are There Non-Surgical Options?

Yes—there are both surgical and non-surgical alternatives to total ankle replacement (TAR), depending on your condition and goals. A common surgical option is ankle fusion, which involves fusing the bones to reduce pain by eliminating joint movement. While effective, fusion sacrifices ankle mobility. During your consultation, your surgeon will help you compare ankle replacement surgery and ankle fusion to determine the best fit for your needs.

If you're not ready for surgery, conservative treatments can provide relief. These include oral or topical anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, custom orthotics, and cortisone injections. Cortisone injections are frequently used for arthritis-related pain and may offer relief for several months. Though non-surgical methods won’t reverse arthritis, they can reduce discomfort and may delay the need for surgery.

Dr. Aziz is THE BEST! She is extremely caring, funny, friendly, and knowledgeable. I have been under her care for more than 6 years and she has performed 5 surgeries on my feet. Each time she worked with me and offered multiple treatments and alternatives to surgery, but was with me the entire time, once I decided to take the final step. I can not recommend her enough!

Summer M.

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Why Choose Us for Ankle Replacement Surgery?

Dr. Salma Aziz, Foot and Ankle Speciality Group Inc. is a professional and nurturing team of female surgeons with a focus on getting you back to your activities and life. We are happy to provide ankle replacement surgery at our modern, sophisticated, comfortable podiatry office in Rancho Santa Margarita and Newport Beach.

Founded by Dr. Salma Aziz, D.P.M, M.S. in 2001, our clinic has been built on time-tested practices. We spend plenty of time with each patient in order to fully understand their unique condition, and we follow up with care. Dr. Jessica Arneson has an extensive background in conducting ankle replacement surgery in Newport Beach, and our goal is to help you feel your best. 

ANKLE REPLACEMENT SURGERY FAQs

What type of anesthesia is used?

What is the recovery time after ankle replacement surgery?

Will I be able to walk after ankle replacement surgery?

How long will the artificial ankle joint last?

What type of anesthesia is used?

General anesthesia is most commonly used for ankle replacement surgery, but some cases may involve spinal or regional anesthesia.

What is the recovery time after ankle replacement surgery?

Recovery times vary, but patients can expect several weeks to several months of recovery and rehabilitation. Full recovery can take up to a year.

Will I be able to walk after ankle replacement surgery?

Yes, the goal of ankle replacement surgery is to improve mobility and reduce pain. Most patients can walk again after the appropriate healing and rehabilitation.

How long will the artificial ankle joint last?

The lifespan of an artificial ankle joint can vary but typically ranges from 10 to 20 years or more. It may need to be replaced eventually, especially if it wears out or loosens over time.

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