Podiatrists servicing the Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale and Phoenix, AZ areas
Arizona Foot Health
Podiatrists located in Phoenix, AZ
If you have arthritis in your ankle, ankle replacement surgery is an option to restore function and reduce pain. Ryan Golub, DPM, and Zachary Flynn, DPM, FACFAS, at Arizona Foot Health in Phoenix, Arizona, are one of the few providers in the area who offer ankle replacement as an alternative to ankle fusion, which severely limits your range of motion in the joint. Call or book an appointment online to find out if you’re a candidate for ankle replacement surgery.
Ankle Replacement Q&A
Who is a candidate for ankle replacement surgery?
Patients who chose ankle replacement surgery usually have advanced arthritis that severely limits their daily activity. This may be osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or arthritis that developed due to a past injury.
Arthritis causes the cartilage between your bones to degenerate so they painfully rub together. Arthritis also greatly limits your overall range of motion and can interfere with simple activities such as standing and walking.
If your ankle pain can’t be managed effectively with minimally invasive interventions like reduced activity, bracing, or over-the-counter pain medications, call Arizona Foot Health to find if surgical intervention is right for you.
What should I expect during ankle replacement surgery?
Ankle replacement is less common than hip and knee replacement surgery, despite being available for approximately 25 years. This is because the ankle is less affected by arthritis than other joints.
Before ankle replacement surgery, your provider reviews your medical history and makes sure any chronic medical conditions are well-managed.
During surgery, you’re placed under general anesthesia so you feel no sensation. The doctor makes an incision on the front of your ankle, as well as smaller incisions on the sides. They then remove any damaged parts of your shin bone and talus bone (a bone in your foot).
Your provider replaces these bones with a smooth metal and plastic implant. After the incisions are closed, they place a dressing on the site that has a hard back and soft front to support your foot and ankle during healing. This allows room for any post-surgical swelling. The entire procedure takes about two to three hours.
What is recovery like following ankle replacement surgery?
Following ankle replacement surgery, expect to spend two to three nights in the hospital until your pain is regulated and you can safely move around on crutches or a walker. Once discharged, it takes at least six months to get back to regular activities like driving, daily chores, and work.
If you have ankle pain or arthritis and would like to explore ankle replacement surgery, call Arizona Foot Health or book an appointment online today.
Podiatric
Speciality Areas
Achilles Tendonitis
When Achilles tendinitis strikes, it can seem like it will never end and your life can be limited in significant ways.
Heel Pain
Heel pain interfere with your normal activities, particularly exercise. Reach out to us if you’re experiencing unresolved heel pain.
Ankle Fracture
It can be hard to distinguish if the ankle is broken or sprained, as symptoms can be similar. Reach out for support.
Hammer Toe
A hammertoe is a result of an imbalance in the soft tissue surrounding your toe, including your tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
Ankle Replacement
Patients who chose ankle replacement surgery usually have advanced arthritis that severely limits their daily activity. Learn more.
Orthotics
When structural irregularities are the culprit, orthotics can help restore balance to your feet.
Bunion & Bunion Surgery
The Bunionplasty® 360 Bunion Repair™ procedure is changing the game when it comes to eliminating bunions with faster recovery. You can even walk the day of surgery.
Plantar Fasciitis
This band of tissue, which runs from the base of your toes to your heel, can cause a lot of pain.
Charcot Foot
Charcot of the foot and ankle is a very serious condition as it may lead to severe deformity, disability, or even worse, amputation.
Sprained Ankle
A sprained ankle will come with pain, swelling and tenderness. If pain has been ongoing, it may be time for help.
Flat Foot Reconstruction
People who have flat feet have little or no arch. In serious cases, flat foot reconstruction may be needed.
Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail may seem small but can cause inflammation and tenderness. We can help alleviate your pain.