Returning Home After Total Ankle Replacement Surgery

It's very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions when you return home after surgery as they will provide specific information for your condition. While individual rehabilitation recommendations may vary, here are some additional ideas that may make life a little easier once home. Please discuss these with your surgeon before you’re discharged from the hospital.

• If using a walker or crutches to assist with walking, ask your doctor how much weight you can put on your recovering ankle/foot.
• You will probably be instructed to use both arms to get in and out of chairs.
• A shelf placed in the shower at chest height may help you avoid bending to retrieve items while in the shower. Ask your doctor about whether a bath or shower is appropriate and whether your incision site should be kept dry.
• A bathtub seat or bench allows you to sit while bathing for safety and comfort.
• Sweeping, mopping, and running the vacuum cleaner will most likely be temporarily prohibited. Long-handled feather dusters for dusting high and low items can be useful. Your doctor will tell you when it is okay to do these activities.
• You must follow your doctor's instructions for how to get in and out of the vehicle if you ride in a car. Your doctor will talk with you about when you can drive, typically within four to six weeks after surgery. If you have a car with manual transmission, talk with your doctor about driving limitations. Make sure you can use the brake without discomfort before you attempt to drive in traffic.

• Remember that you may tire more easily than usual. You may want to plan a rest period of 30 to 60 minutes mid-morning and mid-afternoon.
• Constipation is a common problem following surgery. This is usually due to limited activity and pain medications. Discuss your diet with your doctor. It may include fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as eight full glasses of liquid each day.

• Your doctor will likely give you a prescription. Please follow your doctor's instructions concerning these medications.

• You will probably experience some swelling around the incision. You'll find it more comfortable to wear loose clothing to avoid pressure on the incision. Ask your doctor or other qualified health professional about appropriate wound care, clothing, and shoes.

• Your doctor may recommend that you apply ice to your joint to help decrease pain. A two-pound bag of frozen peas or other small vegetables works surprisingly well as an ice pack. Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions about how long (and at what intervals) to use ice.
• Your doctor will likely give you a list of exercises to do once you're home. Be certain to follow your doctor's instructions.
• You will likely need to avoid sports and other activities after surgery. Discuss these restrictions with your surgeon.

As with many surgeries, ankle replacement surgery comes with some risks and possible complications. For more information, click here.