Ankle, Wrist & Elbow Surgery

Your hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders are essential joints that allow you to work, play, and perform everyday activities. The hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders interact, and they depend upon the integrity and function of the related ligaments, tendons, muscles, joints, and bones. Problems with the normal functioning of your hands, wrists, and elbows can result from arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, a sports injury, an accident, a work-related injury, or a congenital disorder. The team at Artemis Health in Santa Monica, Corona del Mar, and Torrance, California, can help resolve these issues through a variety of solutions, including surgery, when necessary. To schedule an appointment, call the nearest office or request one online today. 

What types of ankle, wrist, and elbow surgery are available?

There are several types of ankle, wrist, and elbow surgeries available depending on the cause and severity of a patient’s condition. Common ankle procedures include ligament repair or reconstruction, fracture fixation, tendon repair, and ankle arthroscopy for cartilage or soft tissue injuries. In more advanced cases, ankle fusion or total ankle replacement may be recommended to alleviate chronic pain and instability.

For wrist concerns, surgery may involve carpal tunnel release, tendon or ligament repair, fracture stabilization, or arthroscopic procedures to treat arthritis or cartilage damage.

Elbow surgeries often include tendon repairs for conditions like tennis or golfer’s elbow, ulnar nerve decompression, fracture fixation, and elbow arthroscopy to remove loose bodies or inflamed tissue. Each procedure is carefully chosen to preserve joint integrity and restore natural movement.

What are the signs that I might need ankle, wrist, or elbow surgery?

Surgery may be considered when pain, stiffness, or weakness persists despite conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or injections. Common signs that surgery might be needed include chronic swelling, joint instability, limited range of motion, numbness or tingling, and recurring pain that interferes with work or daily activities.

Individuals with traumatic injuries—such as fractures or severe ligament tears—may require surgery to properly realign bones or stabilize soft tissues. Similarly, patients with arthritis or tendon degeneration who no longer respond to non-surgical treatments may benefit from surgical repair or reconstruction to improve function and reduce pain.

How are ankle, wrist, and elbow issues diagnosed?

Diagnosing joint problems begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your orthopedic specialists will assess your range of motion, strength, stability, and areas of tenderness. Advanced imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, is often used to evaluate bone alignment, ligament integrity, and cartilage health.

For complex or chronic cases, diagnostic arthroscopy may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera to view the inside of the joint, helping the surgeon confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan.

What is the recovery like after ankle, wrist, or elbow surgery?

Recovery depends on the specific procedure and the patient’s overall health. Minimally invasive surgeries often allow for faster healing, less scarring, and a quicker return to daily activities. Most patients can expect to participate in a structured rehabilitation program focusing on restoring strength, flexibility, and function.

Bracing, splinting, or physical therapy may be part of the recovery process to support proper healing. While recovery timelines vary, most patients notice significant improvements in pain relief and joint performance within a few weeks to months after surgery.

To schedule an appointment at Artemis Health, call the nearest office or request an appointment online today.