/assets/images/provider/photos/2844501.jpeg)
Ankle Arthroscopy Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Ankle injuries are common, especially among athletes. If you have an ankle injury and ongoing or extreme pain, ankle arthroscopy can pinpoint the cause of your discomfort or treat it using a thin, lighted scope (as part of a minimally invasive procedure).
To find out what your individualized recovery plan looks like, visit our dual board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon, Jason Armstrong, DPM, in Shenandoah or Humble, Texas, to complete an evaluation. Below, we provide details on ankle arthroscopy and its general recovery timeline.
Ankle arthroscopy 101
Ankle arthroscopy is a minor procedure in which Dr. Armstrong makes a tiny incision and inserts a small medical tool (scope) into your ankle to diagnose a problem or repair an injury. The arthroscope contains a light and camera that allow Dr. Armstrong to see inside your ankle to determine what’s going on and how to repair the problem.
Conditions that may warrant ankle arthroscopy
You might be a candidate for ankle arthroscopy if you experience one or more of the following:
- Ankle pain
- Poor mobility
- Weakness in your ankle joint
- Swelling
- Instability
- Torn ligaments
- Impingement
- Stiffness
- Cartilage damage
- Loose fragments in your joint
- Early arthritis
Dr. Armstrong may suggest you undergo ankle arthroscopy if you have severe or ongoing discomfort and conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and injections, haven’t worked to ease your pain or mobility concerns.
Ankle arthroscopy recovery timeline
An ankle arthroscopy could last about an hour. Afterward, you can usually go home the same day after some time in the recovery area. It’s important to follow your post-care instructions.
Here’s a timeline of what to expect:
Days 1-3
Dr. Armstrong might suggest you elevate your ankle for 2-3 days to minimize discomfort and swelling after ankle arthroscopy. You can also ice your ankle and take any prescribed medications. You may wear a splint and use crutches to avoid bearing weight on your ankle.
Week 1
Week one is often your first post-op visit with Dr. Armstrong. He evaluates your ankle and may give you the OK to begin gentle range-of-motion exercises. You might be able to return to work or school within 1-2 weeks if you’re able to elevate your ankle while there.
Weeks 2-4
You can often begin transitioning from a splint to a walking boot, begin physical therapy, and partially bear weight on your ankle after about 2-4 weeks. You might be able to drive if you’ve had surgery on your left ankle. You may complete light labor and/or standing at 3-4 weeks post-op or as directed by Dr. Armstrong.
Weeks 4-6
During weeks 4-6, you can often bear weight on your ankle wearing a boot, followed by a comfortable athletic shoe if it feels comfortable.
Months 2-3
After about 2-3 months, you can typically resume light job duties requiring movement, driving with the affected foot, and low-impact sports.
Months 3-6
At about 3-6 months post-arthroscopy, you can often return to playing sports and heavy labor. However, the time it takes for complete healing varies from person to person.
Find out if ankle arthroscopy is right for you by visiting with Jason Armstrong, DPM. Contact us in Shenandoah or Humble, Texas, by phone or request an appointment online today.