Ankle Arthritis: Understanding, Causes, and Treatment

Unlocking Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis is a condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of cartilage protecting the bones within your ankle joint. As cartilage diminishes, the bones lose their natural cushioning, leading to painful bone-on-bone friction. This results in chronic ankle joint discomfort, swelling, limited mobility, and joint damage. Given the crucial role ankles play in daily activities, managing ankle arthritis demands the expertise of a skilled orthopedic specialist. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we have a wealth of experience in treating patients grappling with ankle arthritis and possess the knowledge to facilitate your return to a pain-free life.

Types of Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis manifests in three distinct forms:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Ankle: This is the least common form, attributed to immune system dysfunction.
2. Post-Traumatic Arthritis of the Ankle: This specific type of arthritis results from past ankle injuries and their long-term effects.
3. Osteoarthritis of the Ankle: The most prevalent form, osteoarthritis develops as a natural consequence of the aging process, wearing away cartilage over time.

Root Causes of Ankle Arthritis

While several factors can contribute to ankle arthritis, it is most frequently a result of the body’s natural aging process. Consequently, ankle arthritis typically emerges later in life. In certain instances, prior ankle injuries may trigger the onset of arthritis symptoms years after the initial trauma. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our extensive experience has exposed us to a range of causes for ankle arthritis, enabling us to identify the underlying cause of your condition effectively.

Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis

Seek evaluation and diagnosis from our seasoned ankle arthritis specialists if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Ankle swelling
• Ankle pain
• Foot discomfort
• Sensation of heat in the ankle
• Redness in the ankle
• Mobility challenges
• Limited range of motion in the ankle or foot

Diagnosis of Ankle Arthritis

City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine boasts years of experience assessing patients with orthopedic concerns, including ankle pain associated with potential arthritis. Our practice houses orthopedic experts with specialized knowledge in arthritis and ankle conditions, ensuring accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive range of both traditional and cutting-edge treatment options. During your evaluation, we will inquire about your pain levels, the impact of pain on your daily life, and any additional symptoms. To assess the extent of cartilage damage in your ankle, we may recommend one of the following imaging tests:

• X-rays
• MRI scans
• CT scans

Treatment for Ankle Arthritis

In certain instances, ankle arthritis may be effectively managed through non-surgical approaches. We endorse non-surgical treatments for ankle arthritis whenever appropriate, including:

• Foot orthotics tailored for ankle arthritis
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Assistive devices like canes or braces
• Pain management medication

For advanced cases of ankle arthritis, surgical interventions such as ankle arthroscopy or ankle replacement surgery may be recommended by our specialists at City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine.