Presented by Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush

Ask The Docs | Ankle Arthritis

Patient Question:  

I have severe pain in my left ankle due to arthritis from an old injury.  I'm 46 and the pain has gotten worse as the years go on. Once I'm on the ankle, it is ok for a couple of hours but when I'm off of it for a little while it will freeze up and takes a long time to free movement in the joint. Am I a candidate for ankle replacement surgery?

Dr. Johnny Lin:

Arthritis in the ankle joint can exhibit a wide range of severity. The severity, type, and frequency of your symptoms will help determine what the best treatment is for your individual case. It would be important to know if you have received any of the following treatments: oral medications (anti-inflammatories), medication injections, bracing or surgical procedures including arthroscopic debridement, ankle fusion, and ankle arthroplasty.

Treatment: 

Ankle replacement is for the most severe symptoms that have failed to respond adequately to the aforementioned treatments. The success rate of total ankle replacement varies depending on the type of implant that is used. The modern implants have success rates from 85-95% over 5-10 years. The main goals of the procedure are to obtain pain relief and the ability to function during normal everyday activities.

Nonimpact sports (i.e., cycling, swimming, golf, water aerobics) are encouraged to prolong the lifespan of the ankle replacement. Those with multiple medical problems, history of infection, diabetes, poor blood flow, or are currently smokers are poor candidates for the procedure due to a higher incidence of complications. 

For more information about Dr. Johnny Lin and the Sports Medicine physicians of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, call 877 MD BONES or visit them online at www.rushortho.com

The information contained on this page is intended only for general public education, and is not intended to serve as a substitute for direct medical advice. This information should not replace necessary medical consultations with a qualified orthopaedic physician.

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