Ankle replacement recovery and risks

Recovery takes months, and full recovery can take up to a year. The usual order is:

1. Protect the ankle. A splint or cast, the leg raised, the incision watched, and no weight on the foot.
2. Start to stand. A walking boot, and weight on the foot only when your surgeon confirms it has healed enough.
3. Rebuild. Physical therapy for motion, strength, balance, and walking.
4. Keep improving. Most people notice progress over many months.

Your timing depends on your surgery, how the wound heals, and your health, so your surgeon will give you your own plan.

Risks to know about

Like any operation, a replacement can bring complications: problems with anesthesia, infection, slow wound healing, a broken bone, nerve, blood vessel or tendon injury, blood clots, stiffness, and pain that continues. Over time the parts can wear or loosen, and some people need another operation, including replacing parts or converting to a fusion. Talk these through with your surgeon before you decide.

Sources: AOFAS FootCareMD; Cleveland Clinic.