Ankle surgery

Ankle pain and instability can make everyday movement difficult, but effective treatment is available. Novant Health orthopedic specialists offer ankle surgery options tailored to your injury, from ankle arthroscopy to ankle reconstruction surgery, to help you regain strength and get back on your feet. From diagnosis to recovery, we build a treatment plan for your needs and goals.

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What is ankle surgery?

Ankle surgery refers to a range of procedures used to repair damaged bones, ligaments or tissue in the ankle joint. It's often recommended when an injury or condition affects how the ankle moves, bears weight or supports the rest of the leg.

Your orthopedic specialist may recommend ankle surgery if nonsurgical treatments, such as bracing, rest or physical therapy, haven't relieved your symptoms or if the injury is severe enough to require surgical repair. The right type of surgery depends on the cause of your ankle problem, its severity and your overall activity level.

Common reasons for ankle surgery

You may need ankle surgery if you're dealing with pain, instability or limited mobility that hasn't improved with other care. Common reasons include:

Ankle fractures that involve broken bones in the joint
Torn or stretched ligaments causing ankle instability
Chronic ankle sprains that keep recurring
Cartilage damage or arthritis in the ankle joint
Tendon injuries affecting movement or support
Ankle injuries that haven't responded to nonsurgical treatment

Your physician will evaluate your symptoms, imaging results and activity level to determine whether surgery is the right next step.

Treatment options

Treatment for ankle conditions varies based on the type and severity of the injury. Options include:

Ankle arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to diagnose and treat joint issues
Ankle ligament surgery: Repair or reconstruction of stretched or torn ligaments to restore stability
Ankle reconstruction surgery: Rebuilding damaged structures within the joint for patients with chronic instability or significant damage
Ankle fracture surgery: Realigning and stabilizing broken bones, often with plates, screws or pins

Your care team will recommend the option best suited to your diagnosis and long-term goals.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Ankle surgery recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and the extent of the injury. In general, recovery may include:

An initial period of immobilization using a cast, splint or walking boot
Gradual return to weight-bearing activity as directed by your surgeon
Physical therapy to rebuild strength, flexibility and balance
Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and adjust your plan as needed

Your care team will walk you through what to expect at each stage so you can approach recovery with confidence.

Risks and considerations

As with any surgery, ankle surgery carries some risks, which may include infection, stiffness, nerve irritation or issues with healing. Your care team will review your specific risks based on your health history and the type of procedure you need.

Before moving forward with treatment, your physician will discuss these considerations with you in detail and answer any questions, so you can feel informed and prepared.

Dr. William Corey in a suit talking about foot and ankle surgery during a health news segment.

Foot and ankle surgery options to get you moving again

An orthopedic specialist explains when foot and ankle surgery may be needed — and how the right treatment can relieve pain, restore function and keep you moving.

Videos in our patient education library are available to help you gain a general understanding of the condition or procedure. Read disclaimer.

Conditions we treat

Our expert team delivers expert care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.

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Why treatment is important

Untreated ankle injuries can lead to ongoing pain, instability and further joint damage over time. Addressing ankle problems early helps protect your mobility and supports a return to the activities you enjoy. Novant Health orthopedic specialists are here to guide you toward lasting relief and function.

Take the next step

Our board-certified specialists are here to help you heal. They can often diagnose the problem in one visit and get you started with a personalized treatment plan. We offer a wide variety of treatment options.