Ankle Replacement
Ankle replacement replaces a worn-out ankle joint with metal and plastic implants, treating end-stage ankle arthritis. Unlike fusion, it preserves ankle motion, which may reduce stress on nearby joints. Improvements in implant design have made it an increasingly common alternative to ankle fusion for suitable patients.
Procedure overview
What happens during Ankle Replacement?
- Performed under general anesthesia, often with a nerve block; surgery typically takes one to two hours.
- Usually a one-night hospital stay or outpatient, depending on the center.
- The ankle is protected in a splint or boot, with limited or no weight-bearing for roughly two to six weeks.
- Physical therapy focuses on motion, then strength and balance, over several months.
- Full recovery commonly takes six months to a year.
Recovery
What is recovery like after Ankle Replacement?
Ankle replacement recovery is a gradual, months-long process. Most people keep weight off the ankle in a splint, cast, or boot for several weeks while the bone and soft tissues heal, then progress to weight-bearing and physical therapy as the surgeon allows. Swelling is common and can last for months. Many return to comfortable daily walking over three to six months, with continued improvement in strength and stamina for up to a year. The goal is a comfortable, mobile ankle for everyday activity rather than high-impact sport. Report fever, spreading redness or drainage, increasing pain, or new numbness in the foot.
Top foot & ankle surgeons
Benjamin E. Stein
VerifiedGeorge K. Myo
VerifiedJames Kayvanfar
VerifiedJeffrey T. Junko
VerifiedJohn A. Nassar
VerifiedMark M. Casillas
VerifiedNatalie S. Mesnier
VerifiedNoah B. Chinitz
VerifiedPeter B. Salamon
VerifiedVenus R. Rivera
VerifiedYuhwan Hong
VerifiedAaron Brandt
VerifiedAaron K. Mates
VerifiedAashish V. Jog
VerifiedAbdi Raissi
VerifiedAdam Brodsky
VerifiedAdam C. Crawford
VerifiedAdam G. Miller
VerifiedAdam L. Halverson
VerifiedAdam M. Ferguson
VerifiedAdam M. Huff
VerifiedAdam M. Lukasiewicz
VerifiedAdam M. Miller
VerifiedAdam P. Baker
VerifiedCommon questions
Ankle replacement or ankle fusion, how do they differ?
Replacement preserves motion and may protect neighboring joints; fusion eliminates motion at the ankle but is durable and long-established. The better option depends on your age, activity, bone quality, and alignment, a foot and ankle surgeon can weigh these with you.
How long is recovery after ankle replacement?
Weight-bearing typically resumes within two to six weeks in a boot, with a gradual return to normal walking over a few months. Full recovery commonly takes six months to a year.
Who is a candidate?
Candidates typically have end-stage ankle arthritis with adequate bone quality and reasonably good alignment, and lower-impact activity goals. Severe deformity or certain prior infections may point toward fusion instead.
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This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.