Total Ankle Replacement

Hi! I am new to this group.

I also am in the need of a total ankle replacement after treating symptoms for over 10 years.

I am in the process of meeting with surgeons to make a decision.

Wondering how you are all doing after ankle replacement surgery?
How is your recovery going?
I am very scared because the surgery I had on this ankle 12 years ago got infected and ate all the cartilage in joint. I have discussed these issues with surgeon.

I am a pretty active at 63 years old. Walk avg 10 miles/day, rails to trails bike riding, some hiking. Had to give up jogging (which included marathons) and other activities due to ankle pain. I am retired but now watch grandchildren, love to travel which includes a lot of walking. Currently having difficulty watching grandchildren, general housework, etc. Feel like I have lost my life and a useless person. Will I get any quality of life back?

I appreciate any feedback you may have to offer.

Thanks!!

Hi,

I replaced my ankle October 8th of 2024. We have some things in common, although everyone’s story is unique. I had a prior surgery on my old ankle to remove a bone chip (about 24 years ago). It became infected OR I had an allergy reaction (never really found out which) and the surgeon went in to flush out ankle ( emergency surgery). That surgery did well until 2022. Then pain became intolerable and I couldn’t do what I loved (swimming, walking my dogs). I had severe degenerative arthritis in joint and no cartilage. My heal joint still has some arthritis as I chose not to have it fused. Ankles are MUCH slower to recover from than knees. The joint is much smaller and carries more weight. You need to be faithful to your Physical Therapy exercises, one you can start. I had to be Toes above the Nose for 2 weeks. Only “hopping with Walker” I did was for bathroom. You will need someone to help you. Bottom line, I am glad I did it. Feel free to ask me any burning questions you have. I walked my dogs for the first time last week, individually. So excited. Share with your doctor in detail what happened when your ankle was infected. My records were no longer available, maybe yours are.