Do You Need Ankle Surgery? Signs It Might Be Time To Talk To A Specialist

Persistent ankle pain, swelling, or instability can make even the simplest movements—like walking across the room—feel like a challenge. For many people, rest, bracing, or physical therapy can provide relief. But in some cases, these conservative treatments aren’t enough, and surgery may be the next step.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, NC, we provide a state-of-the-art outpatient setting for certain ankle procedures, performed only after referral from your physician. If your ankle keeps you from moving comfortably, it may be time to ask a specialist whether surgery could be the answer.

Common Conditions That May Require Ankle Surgery

While not every ankle injury requires surgery, some conditions are unlikely to heal properly without it. A few of the most common include:

• Severe arthritis that causes joint damage and chronic pain
• Repeated ankle sprains that weaken the ligaments and lead to instability
• Complex fractures that cannot heal on their own
• Torn ligaments or tendons that don’t respond to therapy or bracing
• Cartilage injuries that limit smooth joint movement and flexibility

In these cases, surgery may help restore function, relieve pain, and prevent long-term joint damage.

Learn more about ankle surgery and common conditions that may require it from the Cleveland Clinic.

Signs It Might Be Time to Consider Surgery

How do you know when conservative care isn’t enough? Signs that you may need to talk to a foot and ankle specialist include:

• Pain that doesn’t improve after months of nonsurgical treatment
• Persistent swelling or stiffness that limits your mobility
• Ankle instability, where the joint “gives way” during walking or standing
• Visible deformity or misalignment following an injury

If these symptoms interfere with your daily life, surgery may provide the best chance at lasting relief.

Explore the foot and ankle procedures available in our outpatient surgical suites.

Benefits of Outpatient Ankle Surgery at Prime

Many ankle surgeries can be performed safely in an outpatient setting, meaning patients return home the same day. Choosing Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls offers unique benefits, including:

• Same-day discharge, reducing the stress of overnight hospital stays
• Lower infection risk compared to inpatient hospital care
• Personalized anesthesia and pain management plans tailored to your needs
• Modern surgical technology in a private, comfortable facility

Outpatient care often means less disruption to your routine and a recovery process focused on your individual needs.

Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights how outpatient orthopedic surgery can provide faster recovery and lower costs.

Recovery Expectations After Ankle Surgery

Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure, but most patients can expect:

• Initial healing that requires keeping weight off the ankle with crutches, a walker, or a scooter
• Physical therapy to restore motion, strength, and balance once the joint is stable
• Gradual return to daily activities over several weeks or months, depending on progress
• Individualized timelines, since recovery depends on overall health, age, and the complexity of surgery

With the right support and rehabilitation, most patients return to regular routines and even athletic activities.

See how our Granite Falls facility supports patients before, during, and after surgery.

FAQs: Ankle Surgery at Prime Surgical Suites

Q: Can I walk right after ankle surgery?

Most patients will need to avoid putting weight on the ankle initially. Crutches or other supports are usually recommended until cleared by the surgeon.

Q: How long before I can return to sports?

It depends on the specific procedure. Some athletes may return in a few months, while others may need longer rehabilitation. Your surgeon will provide a personalized plan.

Q: Do I need a referral to have surgery at Prime?

Yes. All procedures at Prime Surgical Suites require a referral from your physician to ensure you are a safe candidate for outpatient care.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Living with chronic ankle pain can affect your mobility, independence, and quality of life. When conservative care no longer provides relief, ankle surgery in NC may be the next step.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, our team provides a private, advanced outpatient setting for foot and ankle procedures.

Ask your physician if a referral to Prime Surgical Suites for an ankle surgery consultation is right for you.