Using a new artificial joint known as 'the mobility ankle replacement' consultant surgeon, Simon Palmer, has successfully carried out around eight operations on patients with a range of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, post traumatic arthritis and sports injuries.

Mr Palmer said: "Historically, ankle replacement operations have had quite a low-rate of success because of the complexity of the joint and the high level of forces transmitted through it.

"Although there were alternatives, such as ankle fusion which relieve pain very well, the reduced range of motion is not deemed acceptable by some patients.

"This new technique seems to have resolved many of the problems associated with ankle replacements in the past.

"Mobility of the ankle is retained and the patient's pain is greatly improved.

"Ankle replacement operations are usually performed on individuals who have chronic and debilitating ankle paint caused by degenerative conditions such as "wear and tear" osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Janet Molloy from Worthing had her ankle replacement operation last year after years of pain and reduced mobility.

She said :"It has been wonderful. Last year I could hardly walk, was in constant pain and needed to wear an ankle brace.

"Little by little my ankle is improving and I am getting stronger every day.

"A year ago, I couldn't drive because of the brace, and my life was limited by how far I could walk.

"For the first time in a long time I am relatively pain free; I am driving again, and my mobility is greatly improved."

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