Local man resumes endurance challenges following ankle surgery at Spire South Bank Hospital

• Following surgery and rehabilitation, Darren Ariss has returned to endurance challenges including rowing and mountain climbing 

Mr Darren Ariss, a former soldier and police officer underwent a full left ankle fusion at Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester after experiencing several years of progressive pain and reduced mobility.

Mr Ariss first noticed discomfort in his left ankle more than three years ago. Over time, his symptoms gradually worsened, eventually limiting his ability to run and affecting his overall fitness and daily activities. 

“It was steadily getting worse over the last three years,” Mr Ariss said. “Eventually I wasn’t able to run, and it was also affecting my general exercise and fitness.”

With private medical insurance, Mr Ariss chose Spire South Bank Hospital for his treatment following a recommendation.

Under the care of Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Vish Kumar, Mr Ariss underwent a full left ankle fusion procedure. Mr Ariss described his surgical experience positively. 

“My surgery and hospital experience was very good,” he said.

Following the operation, Mr Ariss completed a period of rehabilitation to rebuild strength and adapt to changes in his ankle mobility.

“It’s been a hard eight to nine months of rehab following surgery,” he said. “But now I’m in a good place, working hard at my fitness and mobility and training for the World’s Toughest Row.”

While Mr Ariss continues to have limited movement in his ankle, he has returned to a high level of physical activity. Since undergoing surgery, he has completed a number of endurance challenges, including rowing and climbing several mountains – activities that would not have been possible prior to surgery.

He is currently training to take part in the World’s Toughest Row in December 2026, a 3,000-mile ocean rowing challenge.

Mr Vish Kumar, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire South Bank Hospital, said: “Darren’s case highlights the importance of specialist orthopaedic expertise supported by a dedicated multidisciplinary team. At Spire South Bank Hospital, we combine advanced surgical techniques with tailored rehabilitation programmes to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes and return to the activities that matter most to them.”

Dawn Pickrell, Hospital Director at Spire South Bank Hospital, said: “At Spire South Bank Hospital, we are committed to delivering outstanding orthopaedic care through a personalised, patient-focused approach. Darren’s journey reflects the high standards of care, clinical expertise and ongoing support our teams provide at every stage, from diagnosis through recovery and beyond.”

Darren Ariss rowing at sea following ankle surgery