Ankle arthritis can lead to pain and swelling, causing deformity and instability of the ankle joints. If not treated, it could cause severe damage and worn cartilage of the ankle joint.
Luckily, there are ways to find relief from ankle arthritis with the help of a foot and ankle doctor in Phoenix.
Signs of Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis isn’t always something that you know you have right away. It can take time to diagnose, but there are some common symptoms to be on the lookout for.
– Tenderness when touching the ankle joint
– Pain when moving the ankle
– Trouble walking due to instability of the ankle
– Trouble putting weight on the ankle due to pain and swelling
Other symptoms include stiffness, making it hard to move your ankle when first waking up or after being seated for long periods of time.
What Causes Ankle Arthritis?
Ankle arthritis can be caused by an ankle fracture, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, or degenerative arthritis. There really is no explanation for the cause of ankle arthritis. But those who suffer from the above conditions are more likely to develop ankle arthritis.
Treatment Options for Ankle Arthritis
After visiting with our foot and ankle doctor in Phoenix and being properly diagnosed with ankle arthritis, it is time to start a treatment plan. It all will depend on the severity of your ankle arthritis, but we can create a personalized plan for you that may include the following:
– Strength and balance exercises that focus on your leg and ankle muscles
– Diet and exercise plan to lose weight since extra pounds can make ankle arthritis worse
– The use of special comforting shoes with convex soles
– The use of compression sleeves and braces for inflammation
– Custom foot orthotics
For more severe cases, reconstructive surgery will be needed.
One option is ankle fusion surgery also known as arthrodesis. First, the remaining cartilage is removed and then the ankle is realigned at a 90-degree angle. Screws and plates will be placed to hold the ankle joint in place. This surgery helps 90 percent of patients with their pain to help them walk better.
For more extreme cases, ankle replacement surgery will be the best treatment option. This is where a metal component is placed at the ankle’s upper bone and another matching one at the lower ankle bone. A polyethylene liner helps the ankle’s range of motion between the two components. This surgery gives patients more normal ankle function and helps alleviate the extra stress on the ankle joint. Revision surgery may be needed every 10 years.
If you are concerned you have ankle arthritis, schedule an appointment with our team for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
FAQs
- What are the common symptoms of ankle arthritis?
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, instability when walking, and stiffness, especially after waking up or sitting for long periods.
- What causes ankle arthritis to develop?
Ankle arthritis can be caused by conditions like ankle fractures, rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative arthritis, or psoriasis, although the exact cause may vary.
- How is ankle arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, reviewing symptoms, and imaging tests. A foot and ankle specialist can provide a thorough assessment.
- What treatment options are available for ankle arthritis?
Treatment options include exercises, weight management, supportive footwear, braces, custom orthotics, and in severe cases, surgery like ankle fusion or replacement.
- When is surgery recommended for ankle arthritis?
Surgery, such as ankle fusion or ankle replacement, is recommended in advanced cases when conservative treatments are ineffective at relieving pain and restoring function.
Conclusion
Ankle arthritis can significantly impact your daily life, leading to pain, swelling, and instability in the ankle joints. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for effective management and relief. By recognizing the common symptoms and understanding the underlying causes, you can seek appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs. Whether through conservative methods such as exercise, dietary changes, and custom orthotics, or more advanced surgical interventions, relief is possible. If you suspect you have ankle arthritis, don’t hesitate to consult the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona. Our expert team can guide you through your treatment journey, helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. Remember, taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier, pain-free tomorrow.
