Can ankle surgery go wrong?

All surgeries come with possible complications, including the risks associated with anesthesia, infection, damage to nerves and blood vessels, and bleeding or blood clots. Potential long-term problems after ankle fracture surgery include ankle joint stiffness, weakness, and arthritis.

How long does it take to walk normal after ankle surgery?

It takes around 6- 10 weeks to recover from a broken ankle. During this time, you will probably need to wear a cast or boot. Most people are able to walk normally again and resume their everyday activities by around three months – endurance improves over time and as your strength improves.

Is your ankle ever the same after surgery?

If it’s a low-to-medium grade ligament injury or a stable bone fracture, then it’s highly likely that the ankle will be similar to before. With more severe ligaments and unstable fractures, there is always some difference in flexibility and appearance.

How long does it take for feeling to come back after ankle surgery?

For most foot and ankle operations, tenderness and swelling can take 3-4 months to resolve, while for more complicated procedures, the recovery may take a full year (or more). On your first return visit, your cast or bandage will be removed for the first time.

What can go wrong with an ankle replacement?

What are the risks of ankle replacement surgery?

• Infection.
• Damage to nearby nerves.
• Bleeding.
• Blood clot.
• The bones not joining together properly.
• Misalignment of the bones.
• New arthritis in neighboring joints.
• Loosening of the artificial components, which might eventually need a follow-up surgery.

Should I wiggle my toes after ankle surgery?

Unless you have had toe surgery we suggest that you wiggle your toes for 15 seconds and rest for 15 seconds. Do this for four minutes. This should be done approximately 4 times per day, separated by at least four-hour intervals.

Is it OK to wiggle toes after ankle surgery?

After 72 hours Unless you have had toe surgery we suggest that you wiggle your toes for 15 seconds and rest for 15 seconds. Do this for four minutes. This should be done approximately 4 times per day, separated by at least four-hour intervals.

How long does it take for nerves to heal after ankle surgery?

Based on axonal regeneration, sensory nerves may be expected to follow a corresponding regeneration law. However, clinical follow-up observations have confirmed that recovery after cutaneous nerve injury in the ankle usually starts at 4–6 weeks, and complete recovery usually requires 6 months or longer.

Can you feel screws in ankle?

In some cases, you may be able to feel a plate or screw if there is very little muscle or soft tissue covering them — for instance, along the outside of your ankle or the top of your hand.

How good are ankle replacements now?

Over the last 10 years, ankle arthroplasty has been growing in popularity as the implants available for replacement have improved. Current studies indicate about a 90 percent patient satisfaction rate in the first four years after surgery.

Can you walk with a fused ankle?

Ankle fusion surgery impacts ankle mobility and will probably limit activities like running and jumping. Walking after ankle fusion surgery becomes pain free, and most people eventually walk without a limp. Ankle fusion surgery is irreversible.

How old was my ankle when I had surgery?

I (34 yrs old) am now 9 days post-ORIF surgery on my left ankle (plate/screws for spiral fracture and repair of torn ligaments) for a Weber C fracture/dislocation (surgery was one week post-injury).

What should you know about life after foot and ankle surgery?

5. Sleeping is glorious- if the pain lets you do it. Sleep as often as you can- both for healing purposes and even more for your mental well-being. It passes the time, and Lord knows the days and nights are long. 6. As you slowly surrender to all control, remind yourself that somehow the other people in your house will manage.

When did I Break my ankle in 2019?

May 16 th, 2019 started off as a day full of promise… and yard work. It ended up being the day I went from being independent and strong to (temporarily) losing every and any ounce of independence I had.

Why was I so nervous before ankle surgery?

The morning of surgery I was so, so nervous and scared. It was partially the surgery and being intubated I was worried about, but it was also about what my life would be like after. The only thing I wanted was to be “normal” again and have my life back.

5. Sleeping is glorious- if the pain lets you do it. Sleep as often as you can- both for healing purposes and even more for your mental well-being. It passes the time, and Lord knows the days and nights are long. 6. As you slowly surrender to all control, remind yourself that somehow the other people in your house will manage.

What kind of surgery do you need for a broken ankle?

Your doctor will probably want to operate as soon as possible but if you have a lot of swelling, they may decide to put your leg in a splint for a few days and wait for this to subside. The most common surgery for a broken ankle is open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), which uses metal rods, plates and screws to realign your bone.

When did I get numbness in my foot after ankle surgery?

I’m 13 days post ankle surgery. Had primary ATFL ligament repair after a bad sprain to R ankle. Never had any numbness in foot prior to surgery or after injury. Injury was August 08 and surgery was late December 08 after conservative treatment failed.

When to start weight bearing after broken ankle?

So one of my biggest pieces of advice for anyone with broken bones is to expect your energy to take a (nother) dip for the first few weeks after you start returning to weight-bearing (or return to normal activity outside your cast).