Your ankle joint endures forces up to 13 times your body weight during activities like running, making it prone to injury. While many ankle issues respond to conservative treatments, some require surgical intervention. Here are the key indicators for ankle reconstruction surgery.
Chronic Ankle Instability: When Conservative Treatments Fail
One of the most common reasons for ankle reconstruction is chronic ankle instability. This occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are repeatedly stretched or torn, usually from a series of sprains. Symptoms include constant ankle swelling, difficulty walking, and a feeling that the ankle is “giving way” during normal activities. If physical therapy and bracing fail to alleviate these symptoms, surgical reconstruction may be necessary to repair the damaged ligaments and stabilize the joint.
Severe Ankle Arthritis: When Joint Wear Becomes Unmanageable
Severe ankle arthritis, often caused by previous injuries, wear and tear, or genetic factors, can lead to significant joint damage. This condition causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion, making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult. In advanced cases, ankle fusion or replacement may be recommended to alleviate pain and restore function. Surgery can help to resurface the bones, improving joint function and decreasing pain.
Non-Healing Ankle Fractures: Addressing Complex Breaks
Ankle fractures that don’t heal properly can lead to long-term pain, instability, and reduced mobility. This may occur if the bone is displaced or fractured in multiple places, or if there is significant ligament or tendon damage. If the fracture does not heal with the use of a cast or brace, or if complications such as infection arise, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair both the bone and surrounding tissues, ensuring proper healing.
Ankle Deformities: Correcting Structural Issues for Better Function
Some individuals are born with ankle deformities or develop them due to injury or disease. These structural abnormalities can cause pain, limited mobility, and difficulty walking. Ankle reconstruction can help correct these deformities, realigning bones, tendons, and ligaments to restore the alignment and function.
Ankle reconstruction is a significant step, typically taken when conservative treatments are no longer effective. If you’re experiencing chronic instability, severe arthritis, a non-healing fracture, or deformities, book an appointment with Dr. Dean to discuss your options. With the right approach, ankle reconstruction can significantly improve your mobility and quality of life.
AUTHOR: Dr. Daniel Dean is a board-certified and fellowship-trained foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon. He treats all musculoskeletal pathologies of the foot and ankle in adolescent and adult patients. He has specialized training in total ankle arthroplasty, sports injuries, flatfoot, complex fractures, and minimally invasive techniques in bunion correction.
