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Ankle Replacement

Ankle Replacement in Jacksonville, Florida

For patients with advanced ankle arthritis, the biggest issue is not just pain, it is losing the ability to move through daily life the way they want. When bracing, medication, injections, and activity changes no longer help, ankle replacement may make sense.

 

At Rizk Orthopedics, Dr. Vikram Bala helps patients across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida understand whether ankle replacement makes sense, whether another procedure may be better, and how to choose the treatment that best fits long-term goals.

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When is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement (also called ankle arthroplasty) is a surgical procedureery to treat advanced ankle arthritis by replacing the worn joint surfaces with an implant (metal and plastic components). The goal is to:

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  • Reduce arthritis pain

  • Improve function for daily activity

  • Preserve ankle motion (when appropriate)

 

It’s not “one-size-fits-all.” The best results come from choosing the right patient, the right implant strategy, and the right recovery plan.

Close-up of pictures of a male orthopedic doctor or orthopedic doctor Wear a medical mask

When is Ankle Arthroscopy Considered?

Most ankle arthritis is treated successfully without surgery. Total ankle replacement is typically considered when:
 

  • Pain is persistent and limiting daily life

  • You’ve already tried appropriate non-surgical options (often including PT, bracing/orthotics, medication strategies, and/or injections)

  • Imaging confirms significant ankle joint arthritis

  • Your ankle and foot alignment, stability, and bone quality support the procedure
     

During your visit, Dr. Bala will talk through whether ankle replacement makes sense for you.

Ankle Replacement vs Ankle Fusion: What’s the Difference?

Two common surgical paths for severe ankle arthritis are ankle replacement and ankle fusion (arthrodesis).
 

Total ankle replacement

  • Designed to preserve motion at the ankle joint

  • May feel more “natural” for certain walking patterns

  • Requires careful candidate selection and follow-up


Ankle fusion

  • Eliminates motion at the arthritic ankle joint to reduce pain

  • Can be very reliable for the right pattern of arthritis

  • May shift stress to nearby joints over time in some patients

What Happens During Total Ankle Replacement?

While each case is personalized, ankle replacement surgery often includes:

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  • An incision to access the ankle joint

  • Removal of damaged cartilage and worn joint surfaces

  • Preparation of bone to fit the implant

  • Placement of the prosthetic components

  • Range-of-motion and stability checks

  • Closure and placement into a splint/cast/boot plan

 

Anesthesia options vary, but surgery is commonly performed with anesthesia plus pain-control strategies to improve comfort after the procedure.

Total Ankle Replacement Recovery

Recovery isn’t instant—but it’s pretty structured. Most patients move through phases, and your exact timeline depends on your procedure details and your healing.

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Common recovery milestones (varies by patient):

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  • Weeks 0–2: splint/cast, elevation, incision care, limited activity

  • Weeks 4–6: many patients are still protecting the ankle and gradually transitioning per surgeon guidance

  • After early healing: transition to a boot and begin guided physical therapy

  • Around 3 months (often) progress toward regular shoes and light activity (when cleared)

  • 6–12 months ongoing strengthening, balance, endurance, and function gains (some people feel improvement for up to a year)

ANKLE REPLACEMENT YOU CAN TRUST 

Call Rizk Orthopedics Today

If ankle pain is limiting your life and you want clear answers—not guesswork—schedule an evaluation. Call Rizk Orthopedics to see Dr. Vikram Bala: 904-731-3131

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Patients throughout Jacksonville, Florida and beyond, are welcome to call (904) 731-3131 and schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Your Ankle Replacement Questions, Answered.

  • Arthritis pain is often worse with standing/walking, can come with stiffness and swelling, and may progress over time. Imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and severity.

  • Some patients go home the same day, while others stay overnight. It depends on medical history, support at home, and surgical factors.

  • Many patients have a protected phase where weight-bearing is limited at first. Dr. Bala will give you a timeline based on your specific case.

  • Implants can last many years, but they’re not “lifetime guaranteed.” Age, activity level, alignment, and overall health all matter.

  • In most cases, yes—PT is a key part of regaining strength, balance, and confidence.

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