Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Ankle Replacement
An ankle replacement is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or damaged joint is replaced with specially designed metal and plastic components. The goal is to reduce pain and improve mobility of the ankle. The talocrural (ankle) joint is composed of: Tibia (shin bone) Fibula (small leg bone) Talus (wedge-shaped bone at the top of the foot) There are several reasons why an ankle replacement may be recommended, including:
- Severe arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis causing significant pain and stiffness.
- Chronic ankle pain: Pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, or injections.
- Reduced mobility and function: Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities.
- Failed previous ankle surgery: When prior procedures have not successfully relieved symptoms.
- Deformity or malalignment: Abnormal positioning of the ankle joint affecting gait and function.
However, the primary reason for an ankle replacement is osteoarthritis. Arthritis of the ankle is most commonly caused by “wear and tear” over time, although it can also result from: Previous joint injuries: Such as fractures or sprains that have damaged the cartilage. Chronic joint instability: Repeated ankle instability over many years leading to degeneration. Osteoarthritis and other causes can lead to several changes within the ankle joint, including:
- Cartilage loss: The smooth cartilage covering the bones wears away, causing pain and stiffness.
- Bone changes: Formation of bone spurs (osteophytes) and thickening of the bone.
- Joint narrowing: Reduced space between the bones of the ankle.
- Pain and swelling: Discomfort during movement or weight-bearing activities.
- Reduced mobility and deformity: Difficulty walking or performing daily activities due to limited joint movement and malalignment.
Less commonly, ankle replacement may be required due to severe inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Before deciding on an ankle replacement, several treatment options are typically considered, including:
- Conservative management: Exercise, physiotherapy, activity modification, and weight management.
- Medications: Pain relief, anti-inflammatories, or disease-modifying drugs for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Orthotics or braces: Supportive footwear or ankle braces to improve stability and reduce discomfort.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Alternative surgeries: Procedures such as ankle fusion or arthroscopic debridement depending on the condition and joint damage.
If conservative treatments and alternative procedures do not provide adequate pain relief or improved function, ankle replacement surgery may be recommended. The procedure involves replacing the worn joint surfaces with specially designed metal and plastic components, effectively resurfacing the joint. This aims to restore a pain-free range of movement and improve overall ankle mobility. Physiotherapy before and after surgery at acephysiosports.com is strongly recommended to ensure the best possible surgical outcomes and to support a safe and effective recovery.
Physiotherapy prior to ankle replacement
Before your ankle replacement surgery, it is important to maintain strength in the muscles of your lower leg and foot, as well as mobility at the joint. At acephysiosports.com , experienced physiotherapists will create a personalised pre-operative programme focusing on a variety of treatments, including:
- Targeted strengthening exercises: Maintaining calf, ankle, and foot muscle strength.
- Range of motion exercises: Preserving flexibility in the ankle and surrounding joints.
- Balance and proprioception training: Preparing the joint for safe post-surgical movement.
- Low-impact cardiovascular exercises: Supporting overall fitness without stressing the ankle.
- Education and guidance: Advice on safe movement techniques and what to expect during recovery.
Symptoms following ankle replacement
During the first 24 hours after surgery, the primary focus will be on controlling pain, which will be managed with oral or intravenous analgesia. Other symptoms that may be experienced following ankle replacement surgery include:
- Swelling and bruising around the ankle and foot.
- Mild to moderate discomfort at the surgical site.
- Stiffness in the ankle and surrounding joints.
- Changes in sensation, such as numbness or tingling near the incision.
- Temporary limitations in movement, requiring assistance with mobility.
Physiotherapy following ankle replacement
Following ankle replacement surgery, your ankle will be placed in a lightweight cast or splint, which will be changed after approximately two weeks. Physiotherapy at acephysiosports.com can begin after the first 24 hours to support recovery. However, for the first 4–6 weeks, walking will be non-weight-bearing, and you will need to use two crutches to protect the healing joint.
Weeks 1-6
During the first 4–6 weeks after ankle replacement surgery, physiotherapy at acephysiosports.com will focus on non-weight-bearing activities, including:
- Range of motion exercises for toes, knee, and hip to maintain flexibility.
- Isometric strengthening exercises for the calf, thigh, and gluteal muscles.
- Circulation and swelling management: Elevation, gentle ankle pumps, and compression techniques.
- Balance and coordination exercises using the non-operated leg.
- Education and guidance on safe mobility, crutch use, and protection of the healing joint.
Weeks 6-12
After 4–6 weeks, your cast will be removed, and you will no longer need to use crutches. You will now be able to begin a more active rehabilitation programme with acephysiosports.com , which will focus on the following treatments:
- Gradual weight-bearing exercises: Safely increasing load on the ankle to rebuild strength.
- Range of motion exercises: Restoring flexibility in the ankle joint and surrounding structures.
- Strengthening exercises: Targeting the calf, ankle, foot, and supporting leg muscles.
- Balance and proprioception training: Improving stability and coordination during daily activities.
- Gait retraining: Re-establishing normal walking patterns and confidence in mobility.
- Functional and activity-specific exercises: Preparing for work, sport, or other daily activities.
Weeks 12 onwards
After approximately three months, you will generally be able to return to driving. Your physiotherapist at acephysiosports.com will continue to progress all previous exercises and work towards returning you to your pre-operative level of function.
Summary
An ankle replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with specially designed metal and plastic components. The procedure has a very high success rate, reducing pain and improving the mobility and function of the ankle joint. Ankle replacement is most commonly performed for severe arthritis, but may also be recommended in cases of severe fractures, infection, or deformities. For the best possible recovery, it is essential to follow a personalised rehabilitation programme designed by the physiotherapists at acephysiosports.com . Adhering to your programme will also help minimise post-operative complications and optimise functional outcomes. To book a physiotherapy appointment, call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com today.
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