Ankle Arthritis

Foot & Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma is skilled in diagnosing and treating ankle arthritis. Ankle arthritis is a clinical condition in which the joint that connects the foot to the leg becomes inflamed. There are three bones in this joint: the tibia, fibula and talus. Any of these three bone can be affected by ankle arthritis.

Causes

Ankle arthritis may occur from wear and tear as part of systemic arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple joints throughout the body, and often starts in the foot and ankle. Researchers believe some people have genes that make them more susceptible to this disease. With rheumatoid arthritis, immune cells attack the synovial membrane, a soft tissue that covers the joint, causing it to swell. Over time, this invades and damages the bone and cartilage. Typically, an infection or environmental factor activates underlying these genes, which triggers the immune system to produce a substance to attack the joints.

Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to the ankle, such as a dislocation or fracture. This type of arthritis causes the cartilage between the joints to wear away, and can develop many years after the initial injury.

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, occurs more frequently in people who have reached middle age, but it’s also known to occur in younger people too. Similar to post-traumatic arthritis, the cartilage in the joint gradually wears away. As this occurs, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone, and even produce painful bone spurs.

Symptoms

Overall, pain, swelling and stiffness are the primary symptoms of an ankle joint affected by arthritis. The pain generally develops gradually over time, although sudden onset is also possible. Additional symptoms include:

• Pain with motion
• Pain that flares up with vigorous activity
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the ankle
• Ankle swelling, warmth and redness
• Increased pain and swelling in the morning, or after sitting or resting
• Difficulty walking due to the above symptoms

Treatments

Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma offers diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including ankle arthritis. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and athletic trainers are committed to helping patients find relief and return to the highest level of activity possible.

While there is no cure for ankle arthritis, there are many surgical and nonsurgical treatment options available to slow the progress of the disease and relieve symptoms. With proper treatment, many people with ankle arthritis are able to manage their pain and continue leading an active lifestyle.

To schedule an appointment, call us at 405-463-4140.