Ankle Surgery in Bayonne

Ankle Anatomy

Think of your ankle like a sturdy hinge on a well-used door. It connects the leg to the foot, allowing smooth up-and-down movement while bearing the full weight of your body. To keep this “hinge” stable, a strong network of collagen ligaments acts like supportive cables, holding the joint together and absorbing the pressure of everyday motion—such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.

Due to the constant stress placed on it, the ankle is particularly vulnerable to problems when overworked or injured. Common causes of damage include:

• Sudden trauma, such as twists, falls, or sports injuries
• Repetitive stress from years of daily movement and impact
• Degeneration over time that weakens ligaments, cartilage, or bone

When these issues develop, they can lead to:

• Persistent pain
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Instability that affects balance and mobility

Signs You May Have a Serious Ankle Injury

While mild sprains or strains often improve with rest, ice, and elevation, more significant ankle injuries require professional evaluation and care. Ignoring them can lead to complications or long-term instability.

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Inability to put weight on the injured ankle
• Persistent swelling that lasts beyond three days after the injury
• An injury caused by a fall, crushing impact, or blow that breaks the skin around the ankle

A simple sprain may heal within several weeks to two months, but more severe trauma—such as from a heavy object or significant fall—can permanently damage the ligaments. Without proper treatment and adequate recovery time, these injuries can lead to chronic ankle weakness or persistent instability. Whether you’re highly active or more sedentary, your ankle health depends on proper evaluation and, when needed, expert surgical repair.