Sport and activity restrictions following total ankle replacement: A survey of orthopaedic foot and ankle specialists.

Background: Despite an increasing utilization of total ankle replacement, surgeons have little guidance with regards to physical activity and sport participation recommendations following the procedure.

Methods: Orthopaedic foot and ankle specialists were surveyed as to the activity and sports restrictions they place on their patients following ankle replacement. Fifty sports and activities were included and the results were used to derive a set of consensus recommendations. Of the 1063 surgeons that were sent the survey, 173 responded, yielding a response rate of 16.3%.

Results: In general, surgeons were comfortable with aerobic or low impact sports and activities. Boot immobilized sports represented a grey area with the determination of whether or not to allow them based largely on the prior experience of the patient. High impact, cutting and jumping sports and activities were largely discouraged. Young age, high BMI and poor bone quality led surgeons to be more restrictive.

Conclusions: These consensus recommendations serve as a useful guideline for surgeons and help patients set appropriate expectations for the procedure.