When is Ankle Surgery Necessary?

The ankle is an intricate structure composed of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones, and thus, prone to injury. Sprains and fractures are common, especially among athletes, sometimes requiring surgical repair. Often this may happen after the repeated injury as ligaments, and the structures in the ankle are damaged and weaken over time. 

The other leading contributing factor for ankle surgery is arthritis. Weakened cartilage and bone against bone can cause significant pain and swelling. Surgery can be performed to provide relief and correct some of the damage caused by the disease. 

It can be challenging to know if you are a candidate for surgery without proper evaluation at our Cary Orthopedic Surgery Center. This article will discuss some signs and symptoms of the necessity of ankle surgery, its benefits, and outcomes. 

Why You May Need Ankle Surgery

If you engage in athletic activities with repeated jumping or running, then the outer ankle may have become loose or stretched. As a result, the ankle may be unstable and prone to injury, such as sprains. 

Once you have experienced an ankle sprain, you are more likely to have repeated sprains in the future. With each ankle sprain, the ligaments weaken significantly. So how do you know if your ankle requires surgery after repeated sprains? There are a few signs to discuss with your physician if noted:

• Chronic pain in the ankle
• Pain with movement 
• Bunions: Enlargement of the tissue around the joint in the big toe
• Bone Spur: An overgrowth of the bone as a result of the pressure
• Prone to blisters or corns
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the joint
• Warmth or redness in the joint
• Difficulty with walking or limping

Does Arthritis Contribute to the Need for Ankle Surgery?

Some patients with arthritis are candidates for ankle surgery. Three types of arthritis contribute to an ankle injury: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis is not usually seen until middle age. Eventually, the cartilage wears, and bone begins to wear on the bone. Pain and stiffness occur as arthritis progresses. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints causing them to swell. The joints can become very swollen and painful. Often infection or environmental triggers can activate the immune response. 

Post-traumatic arthritis usually does not present until several years after the injury. It is often the result of a dislocation or fracture and, like other forms of arthritis, contributes to the wear or cartilage. 

What are the Benefits of Ankle Surgery? 

Usually, ankle surgery is performed arthroscopically. The outcome is the alleviation of pain, but there are several other benefits: 

• Correction of any deformity
• Improved quality of life
• Stability of the ankle
• Return to mobility and movement
• A return to athletic activities

Are You Considering Ankle Surgery and Ready to Speak With a Physician? 

If you are ready to discuss if you are a candidate for surgery, come prepared with information regarding symptoms, medical history, and a list of medications. 

Our Board Certified doctors and fellowship-trained surgeons are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment for a wide variety of orthopedic procedures, including ankle surgery.

If you would like more information about our orthopedic surgery center in the triangle, do not hesitate to contact us.  

We look forward to meeting your needs.