Chronic ankle pain and stiffness can make walking, standing, and daily activities extremely difficult. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, ankle replacement surgery—also known as total ankle arthroplasty—may be an effective option to reduce pain while preserving ankle motion. This advanced procedure is designed to restore mobility, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life.
Our practice offers expert ankle replacement surgery performed by board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons with specialized experience in complex ankle conditions.
What Is Ankle Replacement Surgery?
Ankle replacement surgery involves removing the damaged portions of the ankle joint and replacing them with a durable prosthetic implant. Unlike ankle fusion, which eliminates joint motion, ankle replacement is designed to maintain natural ankle movement while relieving pain caused by arthritis or joint degeneration.
Ankle replacement may be recommended for patients with:
- End-stage ankle arthritis
- Post-traumatic ankle arthritis
- Rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis
- Chronic ankle pain and stiffness that limits mobility
- Failure of non-surgical treatments such as bracing, injections, or therapy
Signs You May Be a Candidate for Ankle Replacement
Patients who benefit from ankle replacement surgery often experience:
- Persistent ankle pain during walking or standing
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Swelling that does not improve with rest
- Difficulty navigating uneven surfaces
- Limited relief from medications, injections, or bracing
A comprehensive evaluation is essential to determine whether ankle replacement or another treatment option is best for you.
Ankle Replacement vs. Ankle Fusion
Ankle replacement is often chosen for patients who wish to preserve motion in the ankle joint. Compared to fusion, ankle replacement may offer:
- Improved ankle mobility
- More natural walking mechanics
- Reduced stress on surrounding joints
- Long-term pain relief
Your surgeon will discuss all available options and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
Benefits of Ankle Replacement Surgery
- Significant reduction in ankle pain
- Preserved joint motion and flexibility
- Improved walking ability and balance
- Enhanced quality of life
- Return to daily activities with less discomfort
Ankle replacement continues to advance with modern implant designs and surgical techniques, offering excellent outcomes for properly selected patients.
Recovery After Ankle Replacement
Recovery timelines vary, but most patients can expect:
- A period of immobilization and limited weight-bearing
- Gradual return to walking with guidance
- Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
- Continued improvement over several months
Our team provides comprehensive postoperative care to support safe healing and long-term success.
Expert Ankle Replacement Surgeons
Our ankle replacement procedures are performed by highly skilled surgeons with specialized foot and ankle training:
- Dr. Chris Sakowski
Serving Dallas & Plano - Dr. William Crawford
Serving Fort Worth
Both surgeons are board-certified and fellowship trained, with extensive experience in advanced ankle reconstruction and replacement surgery.
Ankle Replacement Surgery in Dallas–Fort Worth
We proudly provide ankle replacement surgery at convenient locations across North Texas, including:
- Dallas
- Plano
- Fort Worth
Patients receive the same high level of personalized, expert care regardless of location.
Schedule an Ankle Replacement Consultation
If chronic ankle pain or arthritis is limiting your mobility and affecting your quality of life, advanced surgical care may help you move comfortably again.
Call our office today to schedule an ankle replacement consultation.
ANKLE REPLACEMENT Q&A
What is an Ankle Replacement?
An ankle replacement procedure (ankle arthroplasty) involves removing damaged tissues and restructuring your ankle joint. After inserting metal rods into your tibia (shin bone) as well as your ankle bone, your orthopaedic surgeon implants medical-grade components, often plastic, to re-create the natural gliding motion of your ankle joint.
Your specific procedure depends on whether you need a partial or a total ankle replacement. A partial ankle replacement involves replacing one of the damaged areas of your bones, whereas a total ankle replacement means that you need the entire ankle joint replaced. Usually, the total ankle replacement surgery is the preferred alternative to ankle fusion surgery, a procedure that dramatically reduces joint motion and mobility.
Am I A Candidate For Ankle Replacement Surgery?
As with most types of orthopaedic surgery, an ankle replacement is the last resort. Your dedicated orthopaedic surgeon at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, would rather preserve natural bone and tissue if possible.
But conservative therapies for treating ankle ailments and injuries aren’t always effective — or they stop working. In these cases, an ankle replacement may be best. You may be a candidate for an ankle replacement if you have:
- Decreased ankle function
- Complex fractures
- Damage from arthritis
- Chronic or worsening pain
- Ankle stiffening
Modern ankle replacement surgeries are known for resolving almost all of your ankle issues and helping you return to your regular activities — including exercise.
What Is The Recovery Like After an Ankle Replacement?
You’re probably going to be in the hospital for a few days after an ankle replacement. It’s important to start performing gentle range-of-motion exercises (as recommended) several days after surgery to promote healing and lower your risk of blood clots.
But you likely won’t be able to bear weight on your new ankle joint for at least 2-3 weeks. During this time, your orthopaedic surgeon usually suggests walking around with a supportive device, such as crutches, or a cane or walker.
In most cases, you’re performing weight-bearing activities, including walking, within a few weeks. It’s common to need 2-4 weekly physical therapy sessions for at least 4-8 weeks after an ankle replacement surgery. The team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, supports you every step of the way to ensure you have a quick and successful recovery after an ankle replacement.
Schedule your ankle replacement consultation at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, by clicking on the online booking feature or by calling your nearest clinic location.
Patient Resource: www.footcaremd.org