Total Ankle Replacement and Tendonitis?

Posted by badbones11 @badbones11, Aug 5 8:02pm

I had my ankle replacement 4 months ago and have been going to PT for the last 2 months and doing exercises as prescribed.

How much swelling and tendonitis is normal?
I started trying to go for walks along with PT and pain and swelling has gotten worse. I am trying to strengthen it to get a life back.
Very fearful and depressed.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

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Phoenix | @kudzu | Aug 6 8:20am

What does your PT say about this? Or your dr?
My first thought is that with any new exercise program, it gets worse before it gets better. Your body has to adapt to the new demands.
That said, I have no experience with joint replacement so please ask.

dmoreci | @dmoreci | Aug 6 4:35pm

Hi, I replaced my ankle October 8th, 2024. I started wearing a compression sock to help with swelling at about 3 or 4 months. My physical therapist recommended that and elevating my foot for a couple of hours each day. That helped. At 6 months, swelling started to get better. At 9 months I noticed a significant improvement. Its pretty small amount even when I am active. I had tendonitis pain before the operation and still have that some. The exercises the physical therapist gave me to stretch out the back of the leg help a lot with that. My doctor said to expect swelling for a year. I am making progress, so am happy. Talk to your physical therapist and doctor.

P.s. I only wear one compression sock as wearing on both legs made me nauseous. Physical therapist and doctor were surprised. Everyone is different, but thought I'd mention it.