Question
Not to long ago I tripped and fell on top of my ankle causing an ankle sprain. This ankle sprain is not like many, it has kept me off from work for 5 months now and the doctor is talking about SURGERY. I am very skeptical, however he is convinced is for the best. I am concerned of permanent damage, the doctor says I can have a 10% to 30% loss. I think that there must be more side effects to this surgery than what I am being told. I have made research in the internet and some people complain of pain, severe at times after 3 or 4 months after the surgery. The recuperation process also worries me it can take from 6 to 9 months according to my doctor. My question is what other symptoms may I experience after the surgery along the recovery process and how long will it last? Most importantly what permanent damage might I experience and how long will my recovery be?

Answer
Hi Jonathan,

I cannot answer your question directly becuase I do not know what was damaged in your ankle and what surgery is being proposed.

Typically there will be a long recovery with ankle surgery and likely physical therapy.  

All surgeries have the risk of infection, weakness, swelling, joint stiffness, nerve damage and chronic pain.  That is only a short list.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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