Overview
Ankle fusion eliminates painful motion by fusing the joint.

Indications
End-stage ankle arthritis with severe pain.

How it is done
Cartilage is removed and bones are fixed to fuse together.

Risks and considerations
Nonunion and increased stress on adjacent joints.

Recovery timeline
Non-weight bearing initially; fusion may take 3 to 6 months.

When to seek care
Increasing pain or swelling needs evaluation.