Returning to Tennis After a Total Ankle Replacement

I had a total ankle replacement about six months ago and am eager to get back to playing tennis. Are there any specific guidelines I should follow?

It’s important to consult your orthopedic surgeon about this, as they can provide personalized advice based on the type of implant and surgery you had.

Research on patients who were active before and after total ankle replacement (TAR) suggests a few general guidelines, although more studies are needed in this area. Here are some key recommendations:

• Increased physical activity can lead to greater wear of the polyethylene components, which may cause the implant to loosen over time.
• A full rehabilitation program is essential before returning to sports.
• X-rays should show strong bone health and no signs of implant loosening.
• Your orthopedic surgeon must approve your activity level and the type of sport you want to play; a support brace may be recommended.
• Avoid activities that require quick stops or high-impact movements.
• Listen to your body—any pain or discomfort should be reported to your surgeon immediately.

Reference: Valderrabano, V., et al. “Sports and Recreation Activity of Ankle Arthritis Patients Before and After Total Ankle Replacement.” The American Journal of Sports Medicine, June 2006, Vol. 34, No. 6, pp. 993-999.