Total Ankle Replacement

Total Ankle Replacement focuses on relieving chronic pain and restoring movement for patients with severe ankle or foot joint damage. Using advanced surgical techniques, damaged joints are replaced with durable implants designed to improve stability, mobility, and quality of life. This specialty is often recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief.

What Is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total Ankle Replacement (TAR), or ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged joint surfaces of the ankle with engineered implants. The goal is to relieve chronic arthritis pain while preserving natural ankle movement—allowing patients to walk with improved comfort and maintain a more natural gait. Unlike ankle fusion, which eliminates motion by joining bones together, ankle replacement is designed to help maintain mobility in the joint.

About This Specialty

Total Ankle Replacement is a specialized surgical option for individuals experiencing chronic pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility due to advanced arthritis, injury, or joint degeneration in the ankle. When non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or bracing are no longer effective, joint replacement may offer lasting relief and improved function.

This specialty focuses on replacing damaged ankle or foot joints with carefully selected implants designed to restore natural movement and provide long-term stability. Surgeons use precise imaging, advanced techniques, and personalized treatment planning to help ensure optimal alignment and balance, allowing patients to return to daily activities with greater comfort and confidence.

Total ankle and foot replacement can help reduce pain, improve walking ability, and preserve joint motion compared to traditional fusion procedures. Each patient’s care plan is tailored to their condition, lifestyle, and goals, with a strong emphasis on safety, recovery, and long-term outcomes.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for Total Ankle Replacement if you have:

Severe ankle arthritis caused by injury, wear-and-tear, or autoimmune conditions
Persistent ankle pain that limits walking, work, or daily activities
Restricted motion, stiffness, or swelling
Lack of relief from bracing, injections, common medications, or physical therapy
Stable bone structure and alignment that supports proper implant positioning

Candidacy is evaluated individually to ensure the best outcome for each patient.

Benefits of Total Ankle Replacement

✔ Pain Relief
Removing the arthritic joint surfaces significantly reduces chronic pain.
✔ Preservation of Natural Motion
Helps maintain ankle flexibility and mobility for smoother walking and improved function.
✔ Improved Balance and Gait Mechanics
Because joint motion is preserved, surrounding joints experience less stress compared to ankle fusion.
✔ Faster Return to Daily Activities
Many patients notice improved walking comfort and mobility within weeks of surgery.

The Procedure

A combination of advanced imaging, precise surgical techniques, and modern implant
systems are used to create a stable, functional ankle joint and provide pain relief.

1. Preoperative Planning

Comprehensive clinical evaluation
X-rays and CT imaging
Customized surgical planning to correct alignment and optimize implant fit
Discussion of goals, expectations, and long-term recovery

2. Surgical Process

Performed under anesthesia
Removal of damaged bone and cartilage
Placement of metal and polyethylene implant components designed to restore smooth motion
Real-time imaging to verify alignment and stability

3. Immediate Postoperative Care

Immobilization to protect the ankle
Strict non-weight-bearing during early healing
Swelling management through elevation and home care guidance

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery is tailored to each patient, but a typical timeline includes:

Weeks 0–3:

Non-weight-bearing in a splint or cast
Focus on protecting the ankle and reducing swelling

Weeks 3–8:

Begin protected weight-bearing in a boot
Start physical therapy to restore mobility and strength

Weeks 8–12:

Continued improvement in walking, balance, and daily function
Increased comfort and confidence in movement

3–6 Months:

Ongoing strengthening and mobility gains
Return to most low-impact daily activities

12 Months:

Full healing and maximum function

Why Choose Dr. Crafton as Your Surgeon?

As a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon specializing in advanced reconstructive
procedures such as Total Ankle Replacement, Dr. Crafton oﬀers a comprehensive, patient-
centered approach:



Expert, Personalized Evaluation

Every patient receives a detailed examination, review of imaging, and a tailored treatment plan. Dr. Crafton takes time to understand your lifestyle, goals, and expectations to help ensure the best possible outcome.



Precise Surgical Technique

Dr. Crafton uses accurate, modern surgical methods combined with advanced imaging guidance to achieve optimal alignment, implant stability, and predictable results.



Advanced Implant Technology

He utilizes modern, reliable implant systems designed to replicate natural ankle movement, improve comfort, and preserve long-term joint function.



Consistent, Attentive Care

From your first visit to your final follow-up, Dr. Crafton provides direct, involved care at every stage. He prioritizes communication, education, and support throughout your recovery.

Dr. Crafton’s Goal is Simple:

“

To help you walk with confidence, relieve your pain, and restore the mobility that supports your lifestyle.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic ankle pain is aﬀecting your mobility or quality of life, you may be a candidate for Total Ankle Replacement.
Contact our oﬃce today to schedule a personalized evaluation and explore your options for long-lasting relief.

FAQ's

What is total ankle replacement?

Total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged ankle with artificial implants. It is designed to relieve chronic pain, restore joint movement, and improve mobility for patients with severe joint damage or arthritis.

What conditions can total ankle replacement treat?

This procedure is commonly used to treat advanced arthritis, joint degeneration, deformities, or injuries affecting the ankle. It may be recommended when pain, stiffness, or limited movement continues despite non-surgical treatments such as medication, bracing, or physical therapy.

How long does the surgery take?

Surgery time varies based on the complexity of the joint replacement, but most procedures take, on average, about two hours. Your surgeon will review what to expect prior to surgery.

What is the recovery timeline?

Recovery timelines differ for each patient. Initial healing may take several weeks, followed by physical therapy and a gradual return to weight-bearing activities. Full recovery can take several months, depending on the procedure and individual healing. See above for a more detailed timeline.

Do I need a referral to be evaluated?

Yes. A referral from your primary care provider may be required, but not in all cases, to schedule a surgical evaluation. Your provider can help determine if total ankle replacement is an appropriate option for you.

What happens during a consultation?

During your consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, discuss symptoms, and evaluate imaging such as X-rays or scans. Together, you will review treatment options and determine whether joint replacement is recommended.

Is the procedure painful?

Pain is managed carefully before, during, and after surgery. Some discomfort during recovery is expected, but pain management strategies and rehabilitation are used to support healing and comfort.

Is total ankle replacement covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans provide coverage for medically necessary joint replacement procedures. Coverage varies, and our team can help review benefits and answer insurance-related questions prior to surgery.