Ankle Arthritis
What is Ankle Arthritis?
Ankle arthritis refers to the degeneration or inflammation of the ankle joint, often leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight.
- May result from osteoarthritis, post-traumatic causes, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Can significantly affect mobility and quality of life
Overview of the Condition
Cartilage breakdown in the tibiotalar (ankle) joint leads to pain and reduced range of motion. Over time, bone spurs and joint deformities may develop.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness in the ankle joint
- Swelling around the joint
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Possible deformity of the ankle
Causes
Common causes include cartilage wear from aging (osteoarthritis), previous injuries (post-traumatic arthritis), and autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis).
Diagnosis
A thorough physical exam and imaging such as X-ray or MRI confirm joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or inflammation.
Treatment Options
- NSAIDs or other pain relievers
- Ankle bracing or supportive footwear
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
Conservative Management
Lifestyle modifications such as low-impact exercise, weight management, and bracing help reduce stress on the ankle joint.
Rehabilitation Exercises
- Range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility
- Strengthening exercises for lower leg muscles
- Balance and proprioception training
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery may be indicated for severe pain or functional limitation unresponsive to conservative measures. Options include arthroscopic debridement, ankle fusion, or total ankle replacement.
Surgical Procedures
- Ankle arthroscopy to remove damaged tissue
- Ankle arthrodesis (fusion)
- Total ankle arthroplasty (joint replacement)
Anatomy Overview
The ankle joint connects the tibia, fibula, and talus. Cartilage on these bones allows smooth motion. Arthritis damages this cartilage, causing bone-on-bone friction.
Affected Areas
- Tibiotalar joint surfaces
- Surrounding ligaments
- Subchondral bone affected by degenerative changes
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is ankle arthritis curable? | It cannot be reversed, but treatments can manage pain and improve function. |
| Will I be able to walk normally? | Mild cases may still allow near-normal gait; advanced cases may require bracing or surgery for optimal movement. |
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Avoid repeated high-impact injuries
- Strengthen and stretch lower-leg muscles for support