After Ankle Arthroscopy
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.
At home
Follow your surgeon’s guidelines for healing:
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Elevate and ice your ankle.
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Limit weight-bearing as instructed.
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Use a bandage to compress your ankle.
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When you shower, cover your ankle with a plastic bag to keep it dry.
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Take pain medicine as directed.
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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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Updated:
April 25, 2020
Sources:
Ishikawa, SN, Campbell's Core Orthopedic Procedure (2016); Technique 33, pp. 129-132
Reviewed By:
Thomas N Joseph MD,Raymond Turley Jr PA-C,L Renee Watson MSN RN