Ankle Pain Specialist

What conditions cause ankle pain?

The ankle is a complex joint that’s responsible for absorbing a great deal of stress from activities like walking, running, and climbing stairs. This can make your ankles prone to injury.

At COSMO, the team treats a number of issues that could be responsible for ankle pain, including:

• Ankle instability
• Ankle sprains
• Ankle strains
• Ankle fractures
• Severe arthritis

You might also benefit from ankle surgery if you experience an Achilles tendon rupture.

How is ankle pain treated?

Ankle pain is treated based on its underlying cause. The team at COSMO offers several types of ankle surgery, including:

Fusion surgery

If you experience an ankle fracture or develop a severe case of ankle arthritis, your provider might recommend fusion surgery. During this type of ankle surgery, your provider uses metal plates and screws to join the bones in your ankle together. 

Fusion surgery is especially beneficial for younger athletes or weekend warriors. Compared to ankle replacement, fusion surgery allows for enhanced mobility and requires fewer restrictions.

Ankle replacement surgery

If you’re over the age of 60, your provider might recommend ankle replacement surgery. During this type of ankle surgery, your provider removes the damaged portions of your ankle joint and replaces them with prostheses. 

What type of surgery will relieve my ankle pain?

To determine the most beneficial type of ankle surgery, your COSMO provider conducts a physical exam and reviews your medical history. Afterward, they ask about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities, like exercise, make them worse.

If an exam doesn’t provide enough information, they might also order X-rays or an MRI to get a closer look at the hard and soft tissues in your ankle joint. After pinpointing the source of your discomfort, your provider designs a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

What is recovery like following ankle surgery?

Recovery following ankle surgery takes several months. To speed up the process, carefully follow your provider’s instructions. Take your medication(s) as prescribed, attend each checkup, and give physical therapy your all.

To learn more about the benefits of ankle surgery, make an appointment at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics by calling the office or booking online today.