Ankle reconstruction involves the restoration of your ankle and foot ligament. Many people suffer from bad ankles. Walking is extra challenging for them. This is a procedure for improving the health of your foot and ankle ligaments. If you want to know how an ankle reconstruction procedure can improve ligament damage, here are the details.
The reason for having ankle reconstruction
A podiatrist will recommend ankle reconstruction to treat instability and pain in the ankle. The ligaments in the ankle and foot are the CFL (calcaneofibular ligament) and the ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament). These ligaments are important in keeping feet and ankles steady and strong while running or walking. A sprain can occur if ligaments overstretch and tear. Most ankle sprains do not need surgery at all. The following will qualify anyone for ankle reconstruction:
- An ankle giving way when exercising, walking, or running
- Chronic pain in the ankle and foot pain
- Repeated sprains in the ankle
Significance of tendons and ligaments
Tendons and ligaments hold the foot and ankle together. The LCL (lateral collateral ligaments) attach the outside part of the ankle to the bones. The network of MCLs (medial collateral ligaments) supports the ankle. These ligaments help control the motions in the ankle joint. Any injury to these ligaments will weaken them. Untreated sprains result in ankle instability.
How ankle reconstruction helps
The podiatrist will decide if the instability or ligament tears are bad enough for surgical treatment. For decision-making, arthroscopy will happen first. This is a semi-intrusive surgical procedure. It enables doctors to see inside the patient’s joint.
A small incision will serve as the opening for the tiny tube camera. This will help the podiatrist view the extent of the ankle’s damage. The injury of the ligaments will determine the type of surgery. Some doctors can straighten and tighten the ligaments. These ligaments will attach to the bone with a small anchor.
Ankle reconstruction can also involve reconstructing the ligament. The doctor will need to reconstruct the ligament if it is too deteriorated or weak. Harvesting a tendon from the outside of the foot will happen first. Then, the doctor will replace the damaged ligament with the tendon. The doctor will pass through the ankle bones. This will strengthen and support the ankle.
After the surgery
Ankle reconstruction will enable the patient to regain the full use of the ankle and foot. Most of the patients can go home the same day after the procedure. The podiatrist will place a plaster cast below the patient’s knee. The foot will not be able to bear weight for about 10-14 days. The doctor will then replace the cast with a walker boot.
Ankle reconstruction can bring back your mobility
Injury or overuse can leave your ankle and foot ligaments painful and unstable. The podiatrist will check if your case qualifies for surgery. You will regain the complete function of your foot and ankles after the surgery. Physical therapy will help you get used to the results of your ankle reconstruction.
Get more information about Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pocatello at https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com.
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