Ankle Arthritis

Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis means pain within a joint and therefore it is a very broad term which can refer to a myriad of conditions. To date there is no cure for arthritis but there are several viable treatments available and people suffering with the condition can effectively manage their pain to live normally.

With regard to the foot and ankle, there are three types of Arthritis that can effect the area. They are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative arthritis and usually occurs in middle age. The smooth and gliding surface that cover the ends of bones become worn down and frayed. Inflammation, swelling and joint point can occur. Osteoarthritis is progressive and worsens over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is different than Osteoarthritis because it does not follow a predictable pattern within joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis is when a persons own immune system destroys the cartilage or smooth surfaces that cover the ends of the bone.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis develops following an injury. This type of arthritis is more similar to Osteoarthritis because it can progress slowly after an injury and may even take years to develop.

Each type of arthritis effecting the ankle and foot has different causes. Osteoarthritis develops because the cartilage loses the ability to heal itself over time. This is why it tends to appear as we age. However, genetics and obesity have been shown to be related to the development of osteoarthritis.

There is no known cause for Rheumatoid Arthritis but genetic risk factors show that certain people are more susceptible to the disease. It is suspected that something triggers the immune system to produce the chemical substances that appear in the joints and lead to the condition.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis is is a bit more obvious. It can be caused as a result of fractures and dislocations. These traumas make it more likely for arthritic conditions to occur.

Ankle Arthritis is commonly found in the tibiotalar joint where the shin bone connects with the talus bone in the foot. Also in the three joints in the rear of the foot called the subtalar joint, the talonavicular joint, and the calcaneocuboid joint.

Sufferers of Ankle Arthritis may feel pain or tenderness, stiffness, lack of motion and swelling.  There are several treatments available to help alleviate the symptoms. Among them are pain relievers and/or anti-inflammatory medications, custom foot orthotics and or arch supports, custom made shoes, ankle orthoses, physical therapy and exercise.

Surgical Options are also available and careful decisions should be made with a physician. Recovery time may be arduous and lengthy but in most cases today’s procedures will can dramatically improve the condition.