SOMA Living November 2024

FROM THE DOCTOR

ANKLE REPLACEMENT SURGERY

Many people with ankle injuries either undergo physical therapy or take medication for pain relief. In most cases, they improve, and the issue resolves. However, some individuals continue to experience persistent pain or injury. These patients often seek surgical options to address their problems. Severe arthritis usually qualifies patients for surgery, and ankle replacement surgery becomes a viable consideration. When patients visit the doctor, they typically struggle with walking and face significant pain and swelling in the ankle. The doctor examines the ankle to diagnose arthritis and often prescribes physical therapy to strengthen the joint. Research shows that pre-operative physical therapy improves patient outcomes by building strength. After completing PT, patients schedule their surgery date. Ankle replacement surgery proves successful for many, but it carries risks, including infection, nerve damage, bleeding, blood clots, improper bone fusion, misalignment, new arthritis in adjacent joints, loosening of artificial components, and wear of the components, which may necessitate follow up surgery. Individual lifestyles influence the level of risk. Post-surgery, patients engage in more physical therapy to restore range of motion. They experience pain and swelling and often remain non-weight bearing in a splint or boot. The surgeon advises when weight-bearing restrictions lift. Initially, PT aims to restore motion and control pain, while later goals focus on normalizing gait patterns. Patients should maintain open communication with their therapist regarding any symptom changes or unusual signs, such as drainage from the incision.

South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness We provide professional, individualized and effective physical therapy. Our health and wellness interventions promote healthy living and enhanced quality of life for all athletes and patients.

Specializing in: • Post Surgical Knee & Shoulder • Spinal Decompression for Herniated and Bulging Discs • Cold Laser to Increase Healing

SouthOrangeRehab.com (973) 761-0077 177 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079

LITTLE STAGES HAS EXPANDED, AND WE ARE ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT FOR ‘24 -’25

littlestages.com info@littlestages.com 973-762-2679 14 South Orange Ave. South Orange CONTACT US FOR A TOUR!

Dr. Daniel Roig South Orange Rehab Wellness SouthOrangeRehab.com 973-761-0077

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