Ankle pain, swelling, and stiffness can result from injuries, arthritis, or cartilage damage. When non-surgical treatments such as medication or physiotherapy do not provide relief, ankle arthroscopy offers a minimally invasive solution.

Mr. Turab Syed, a specialist in foot and ankle surgery, performs ankle arthroscopy to both diagnose and treat joint issues. Using small incisions and specialised instruments, he can remove loose tissue, repair cartilage, or assess joint damage accurately. This guide explains the procedure, recovery, risks, and why patients in Stirling and Hamilton trust Mr. Syed for their care.

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What is Ankle Arthroscopy?

Ankle arthroscopy is a keyhole surgical procedure that allows direct visualisation of the ankle joint using a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments. Benefits include:

• Minimal scarring and less soft tissue disruption
• Faster recovery compared to open surgery
• Accurate diagnosis and treatment of joint issues

Common conditions treated include:

• Osteochondral lesions (cartilage injuries)
• Loose bodies in the joint
• Impingement syndromes
• Early arthritis or synovitis

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Who Can Benefit from Ankle Arthroscopy?

Ideal candidates include those experiencing:

• Persistent ankle pain or swelling.
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion.
• Limited mobility after an ankle injury.

Mr. Syed conducts a thorough assessment using clinical examination, X-rays, or MRI scans to ensure ankle arthroscopy is suitable.

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Ankle Arthroscopy in Stirling and Hamilton

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Pre-operative Preparation

Before surgery, Mr. Syed and his team will:

• Conduct a detailed consultation and review imaging
• Advise on fasting and any medications to pause
• Explain the procedure, recovery timeline, and expected outcomes
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The Surgery Itself

Ankle arthroscopy is performed under general or local anaesthesia, and typically includes:

• Two to three small incisions around the ankle
• Insertion of an arthroscope to visualise the joint
• Removal or repair of damaged tissue, cartilage, or loose bodies
• The operation usually lasts 45–90 minutes

Mr. Syed performs the procedure at:

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling – equipped with modern theatres and dedicated post-op support.
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton – providing high-quality private orthopaedic care.

Both hospitals are conveniently accessible for patients across Stirling, Lanarkshire, and surrounding areas.
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Duration and Post-operative Care

After surgery, most patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Immediate care includes:

• Elevation of the ankle and ice to reduce swelling
• Pain management with prescribed medication
• Instructions for gentle mobilisation and wound care

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Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery is generally faster than open surgery, with typical timelines:

• 1–2 weeks: Limited weight-bearing with crutches or supportive boot.
• 2–6 weeks: Gradual return to normal walking and light activities.
• 6–12 weeks: Full function regained with ongoing physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy is essential to restore strength, balance, and range of motion.

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Risks and Complications

Ankle arthroscopy is generally safe, but risks may include:

• Infection
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Persistent stiffness or swelling

Mr. Syed uses precise techniques and close post-op follow-up to minimise these risks.

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Why Choose Mr. Turab Syed for Ankle Arthroscopy?

• Specialist in foot and ankle surgery with extensive fellowship training.
• Minimally invasive expertise for faster recovery and less scarring.
• Personalised care, guiding patients through every step of their treatment.
• Accessible locations at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton.
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FAQs

Is ankle arthroscopy painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort post-op, which is controlled with pain medication.

How long does recovery take?
Full recovery usually occurs within 6–12 weeks, depending on the procedure performed.

Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.

Can I walk normally after surgery?
Yes, patients can usually resume normal walking gradually after initial recovery, under Mr. Syed’s guidance.

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Book Your Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent ankle pain or mobility issues, ankle arthroscopy could provide effective relief. Speak to Mr. Turab Syed to explore your treatment options. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.