Ankle arthritis refers to the degeneration of cartilage tissue in the ankle joint, leading to chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness. Cartilage damage in the ankles is usually caused by serious injuries and years of general wear and tear, although immune system disorders and serious infections can also lead to arthritis symptoms. Treatment of ankle arthritis largely depends on the underlying cause. Most people can find relief by avoiding strenuous physical activity and taking anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery may be needed to repair tissue or replace the ankle joint if other treatments are not effective.
Osteoarthritis is a common cause of ankle pain that results from a combination of genetics and wear and tear on the ankles over time. An ankle injury resulting from an awkward fall or twist can significantly accelerate the onset of osteoarthritis. Some people who experience chronic ankle pain have rheumatoid arthritis, which is a disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. Infections and injuries that damage the ankle bones and blood vessels can also cause cartilage deterioration.
A person with ankle arthritis is likely to experience pain, tenderness, and redness. The inflammation causes the joint to swell and stiffen, limiting the joint's range of motion. Symptoms are usually most noticeable after physical activity, in the morning, and in cold weather.
A primary care physician should be seen to check for ankle arthritis if pain and swelling persist. A doctor may perform a careful physical exam, ask the patient about symptoms and medical history, and take an X-ray of the affected joint. X-rays reveal the location and extent of cartilage damage and any other problems with the bones, ligaments, or tendons. Doctors must be careful to make accurate diagnoses of the causes of ankle arthritis in order to provide the best treatment.
People with mild arthritis symptoms are usually instructed to limit their activity level and invest in more comfortable shoes. Orthotics and ankle supports can be helpful in providing stability and comfort. Patients are often instructed to take over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. A person suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may need to take immunosuppressant medications and join physical therapy classes to learn how to better manage symptoms.
Surgery is generally reserved for cases of ankle arthritis that don't respond to medication or physical therapy. Arthroscopic surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure, may be attempted if only small pieces of cartilage need to be repaired or removed. For a more severe case of arthritis, a patient may need an ankle fusion, in which screws and pins are used to permanently fuse the joint. An ankle joint that cannot be repaired may be replaced with a prosthetic ankle. After surgery for ankle arthritis, a patient may need to undergo several months or years of physical therapy to regain strength and some degree of flexibility.