The indication of total ankle replacement (TAR) was discussed based on the results of using it on ten rheumatoid ankle and foot disorders. After TAR, ankle pain disappeared both at rest and while moving, and the activity of patients, especially in their gaits, was raised in various forms. Wheelchair patients became walkers with or without crutches, and walkable distances became much longer and pain free. The results of gait analysis by distribution of sole pressure followed the changes of walking ability and showed almost normal footprint patterns. These results indicate that TAR is one of the useful reconstructive managements for painful rheumatoid foot and ankle disorders.
