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:
-
Elevate and ice your ankle.
-
Limit weight-bearing as directed.
-
Use a bandage to compress your ankle.
-
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 directed.
☐ Take care of your incision (cut) and bathe as directed.
☐ Complete your physical therapy program.
☐ You can do these activities right away:
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
Bone and Joint Care
Find expert care for joint pain, injuries, and conditions that affect how you move at the HPH Bone & Joint Centers.
Learn MoreRelated Articles
After Knee Arthroscopy
Learn what to expect after knee arthroscopy.
At Risk for Compartment Syndrome
You're at risk for compartment syndrome after an injury. Learn what symptoms to watch out for and when to call your health care provider.
Anatomy of a Normal Spine
Learn about the spine with these helpful detailed illustrations.
Using Crutches on Stairs
These images show how to safely walk up and down stairs when you have crutches.
