Os Trigonum Syndrome Surgery
Os trigonum surgery removes a small extra bone at the back of the ankle causing persistent pain. Physiotherapy before and after surgery is essential for a smooth recovery and return to sport.
What is Os Trigonum Surgery?
Os trigonum surgery is a procedure to remove a small extra bone located at the back of the ankle.
This bone (os trigonum) is not required for normal movement. However, in some people, it gets compressed during movements like pointing the foot, leading to pain known as os trigonum syndrome.
If symptoms do not improve with physiotherapy, surgery may be recommended to permanently relieve pain and restore ankle function.
If you are looking for os trigonum surgery rehabilitation in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can guide you through every stage of recovery.
Why is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is usually considered only when conservative treatment has failed.
You may need surgery if:
- Persistent back of ankle pain despite physiotherapy
- Pain when pointing foot or pushing off
- Recurrent symptoms affecting sports or dance
- Feeling like something is “stuck” at the back of the ankle
Many patients describe it as:
- “pain at back of ankle when pointing foot”
- “cannot push off foot properly”
- “ankle pain when kicking or dancing”
Before surgery, physiotherapy is always the first line of treatment.
Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery
Pre-surgery physiotherapy helps improve outcomes and speed up recovery.
Goals include:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve ankle mobility
- Strengthen surrounding muscles
- Prepare you physically for surgery
At ACE Physio Sports Singapore, we ensure you go into surgery in the best possible condition.
Learn more at 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
What Happens During Surgery?
Os trigonum surgery involves:
- A small incision (3–4 cm) at the back of the ankle
- Removal of the extra bone
- Smoothing of surrounding bone if needed
- Closure with stitches
The procedure is generally safe and effective, as the bone does not affect normal walking.
Symptoms After Os Trigonum Surgery
After surgery, it is normal to experience:
- Pain around the surgical site
- Swelling at the back of the ankle
- Mild stiffness
- Difficulty putting weight initially
These symptoms gradually improve with proper rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy AFTER Surgery (Recovery Phases)
0–1 Week (Protection Phase)
- No weight on foot (use crutches)
- Rest, elevation, and ice
- Gentle seated exercises (hip, knee, ankle)
- Focus: reduce swelling and maintain strength
1–2 Weeks (Early Loading Phase)
- Gradual weight-bearing with protective cast
- Continue strengthening exercises
- Light cardio (e.g., stationary bike)
- Pain and swelling should reduce significantly
2–3 Weeks (Mobility Phase)
- Cast removed
- Begin gentle ankle movement exercises
- Start balance and control training
- Re-learn weight-bearing safely
3–4 Weeks (Strength Phase)
- Progress strengthening exercises
- Gait (walking pattern) assessment and correction
- Improve control and stability
Even though the bone is removed, your movement patterns must be retrained properly.
4–6 Weeks (Return to Activity Phase)
- Full range of motion expected
- Start jogging and functional exercises
- Sport-specific rehab (football, ballet, etc.)
- Gradual return to full activity
Recovery Timeline
Most patients recover well with proper physiotherapy.
Typical timeline:
- Walking comfortably: 2–3 weeks
- Full movement and strength: 4–6 weeks
- Return to sport: ~6 weeks
Without proper rehab, issues like stiffness after surgery, weakness, or reduced performance can occur.
What Should I Do After Surgery?
- Follow your physiotherapy plan strictly
- Keep swelling under control (ice + elevation)
- Progress exercises gradually
- Attend all rehab sessions
What Shouldn’t I Do?
- Do not rush back to sports
- Avoid ignoring pain or swelling
- Do not skip rehabilitation
- Avoid overloading too early
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, we specialise in post-surgical rehabilitation and sports recovery in Singapore.
✔ Structured rehab (week-by-week progression) ✔ Hands-on physiotherapy + guided exercise ✔ Sport-specific return programs ✔ Focus on long-term performance, not just pain relief
If you are planning surgery or recovering from one, our team ensures a safe and confident return to activity.
Explore more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Book Appointment
If you are looking for os trigonum surgery rehabilitation in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.
📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book online: https://acephysiosport.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I need to be non-weight-bearing after Os Trigonum Syndrome Surgery?
Non-weight-bearing periods typically range from 4–12 weeks depending on the procedure. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide progressive loading using a boot or crutches, with milestones paced based on your imaging and healing progress.
When can I get back into regular shoes after Os Trigonum Syndrome Surgery?
Most patients transition into normal footwear between 8–16 weeks, once swelling reduces and healing is confirmed. Wide-fitting or supportive shoes are usually recommended initially, with your physiotherapist guiding the footwear transition.
Will physiotherapy help with stiffness and poor balance after Os Trigonum Syndrome Surgery?
Yes — physiotherapy is essential for restoring ankle range-of-motion, strength, and proprioception after surgery. Early mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, and progressive strengthening significantly reduce stiffness and improve long-term balance outcomes.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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