After Ankle Arthroscopy

After surgery, your joint may be swollen, painful, and stiff. Recovery times can vary. Your surgeon will tell you when to resume activity. If you had a loose body or bone spur removed, you may be able to bear weight when the pain is gone. You may need to wear a surgical boot or cast, limit weight-bearing, and use crutches for some time.

Foot with ghosted-in positions showing foot rotating.

At home

Follow your surgeon’s guidelines for healing:

  • Elevate and ice your ankle.

  • Limit weight-bearing as instructed.

  • Use a bandage to compress your ankle.

  • When you shower, cover your ankle with plastic to keep it dry.

  • Take pain medicine as directed.

  • Don't drive until your surgeon tells you it's OK to do so. 

 

The checklist below helps remind you what to do after arthroscopy:

? Schedule your first follow-up visit after surgery as instructed.

? Take care of your incision and bathe as directed.

? Complete your physical therapy program.

? You can do these activities right away:

 

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