When chronic ankle pain and limited mobility interfere with your quality of life, it might be time to consider a long-term solution beyond conservative treatments. At Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty, we are proud to offer total ankle replacement—a state-of-the-art surgical option designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help you return to an active lifestyle.
What Is Total Ankle Replacement?
Total Ankle Replacement (TAR), also known as ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged ankle joint with artificial components. This option is typically recommended for patients with advanced ankle arthritis who have exhausted nonsurgical methods such as medication, bracing, injections, or physical therapy.
Unlike ankle fusion—which eliminates joint motion—TAR aims to preserve ankle movement, making it an excellent option for maintaining a more natural gait and lifestyle.
Who Is a Candidate for Total Ankle Replacement?
Ideal candidates for TAR include individuals who:
- Suffer from end-stage ankle arthritis (often due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis)
- Have chronic pain and stiffness that severely limits their daily activities
- Have good bone quality and proper alignment of the ankle and surrounding joints
- Are not significantly overweight
- Have not had multiple previous ankle surgeries or severe deformities
At Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty, we conduct a thorough evaluation—including physical examination and imaging tests—to determine whether TAR is the right option for you.
Benefits of Total Ankle Replacement
- ✅ Pain Relief: Substantial reduction or elimination of arthritis-related pain
- ✅ Improved Mobility: Preserves natural joint motion compared to ankle fusion
- ✅ Faster Recovery: Often a quicker return to normal activities
- ✅ Better Gait Mechanics: Retaining ankle motion helps reduce strain on adjacent joints
- ✅ Improved Quality of Life: Return to hobbies, walking, and low-impact activities
What to Expect During the Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the ankle joint and replaces it with metal and plastic components designed to mimic the natural movement of the ankle.
Surgery takes approximately 2–3 hours, and patients may stay in the hospital for one to two days post-surgery. Recovery involves a combination of rest, non-weight bearing (usually with crutches or a walker), and physical therapy.
Recovery Timeline
While recovery times vary, here is a general guideline:
- Weeks 0–6: Non-weight bearing in a splint or cast
- Weeks 6–12: Transition to a walking boot; begin gentle physical therapy
- 3–6 months: Improved strength and flexibility
- 6–12 months: Return to most daily and recreational activities
Q&A: Total Ankle Replacement at Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty
Q: Is total ankle replacement safe?
A: Yes, when performed by an experienced foot and ankle specialist, TAR is a safe and effective procedure with high success rates and improved patient satisfaction.
Q: How long does a total ankle replacement last?
A: Modern implants can last 10–15 years or longer, especially with proper care and low-impact activity levels. Revision surgeries may be possible if needed.
Q: What activities can I do after ankle replacement?
A: Walking, swimming, biking, golf, and other low-impact activities are encouraged. High-impact sports like running or jumping are generally discouraged to prolong the life of the implant.
Q: Will I need physical therapy?
A: Yes, physical therapy is essential to regain strength, flexibility, and function. Your provider will guide you through a personalized rehabilitation plan.
Q: What’s the difference between ankle fusion and total ankle replacement?
A: Fusion eliminates joint motion by joining bones together, reducing pain but limiting flexibility. TAR preserves motion, resulting in a more natural movement pattern and less stress on surrounding joints.
Q: Is total ankle replacement covered by insurance?
A: In most cases, yes—especially if the procedure is medically necessary. Our office can help you verify insurance coverage and discuss payment options.
Q: Why choose Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty for this procedure?
A: Our board-certified specialists offer personalized care, cutting-edge technology, and extensive experience in advanced surgical procedures, including total ankle replacement. We guide patients through every stage—from diagnosis to recovery—ensuring the best possible outcome.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Living
If you’re suffering from chronic ankle pain and are curious whether total ankle replacement is right for you, the experts at Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty are here to help.
📍 Visit Us:
Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty
19-21 Fair Lawn Avenue, Suite 2A
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
📞 Call Today: (201) 773-6557
🌐 Website: www.cellafas.com
Restore your stride. Reclaim your life. Let us help you walk with confidence again.
