Take Action to Treat Ankle Arthritis!

Ankle arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the ankle joint breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. It can result from a variety of factors, including injury, age, or underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. In the blog below, Foot & Ankle Center of the Rockies will explain how the condition progresses and what you can do to get it under control.

How Does Arthritis Hurt (And Why?)

Essentially, damage to the cartilage prevents the bones from moving smoothly against each other, which causes the discomfort often associated with arthritis.

• Over time, the condition can worsen, leading to more significant difficulty with mobility and everyday activities, especially walking or standing for extended periods.
• This inability to comfortably get through exercise or even normal daily activities often requires treatment to improve one’s lifestyle.

Acting On Arthritis: Treatment Options to Consider

Treatment options for ankle arthritis focus on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life. Non-surgical approaches are often the first line of defense.

• These can include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the joint, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling, and the use of custom orthotics or supportive footwear to improve movement and decrease pain.
• In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
• Additionally, lifestyle changes such as weight management and activity modification can reduce stress on the affected joint, potentially easing symptoms and improving daily function.

Can Surgery Be Successful?

For more severe cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be considered and can be very successful for many patients.

• One common procedure is ankle arthroscopy, which involves using small instruments to remove damaged tissue or repair the joint.
• In cases of advanced arthritis, where the joint is significantly degenerated, ankle fusion or replacement surgery may be the best option for pain relief.

 While surgery certainly carries risk, in a motivated patient, it can alleviate chronic pain and allow for a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

At Foot & Ankle Center of the Rockies, we offer a full range of podiatric services to patients with an emphasis on treatment specifically designed for you as an individual. Our practice is ready to serve your entire family with excellent care for the unique podiatric concerns of children, adults, and seniors. Whether you need a routine podiatric checkup, surgical or non-surgical treatment for a foot or ankle disorder, or custom orthotics to increase comfort and sports performance, Foot & Ankle Center of the Rockies is the right choice!