This procedure is done to increase motion in ankles with spurs and little other signs of arthritis, and also can be performed to remove part of the joint in selected patients with arthritis only on the sides of the joint. Painful spurs not caused by arthritis can form as the result of repeated stress in younger active patients, especially those involved with jumping, pivoting sports. With removal, motion generally increases and pain is relieved.

Patients with problems involving the sides of the joint may be candidates for limited bone removal from these areas. These procedures are generally performed on an outpatient basis, and the time to regular walking takes around four weeks.