Arthritis is a condition that causes pain within a joint. With more than 30 joints in the foot, arthritis commonly affects the feet and ankles. The pain and inflammation associated with arthritis can impact balance and movement. While there is no cure, treatment options are available to help manage symptoms. Early treatment is important to reduce pain and prevent the condition from worsening.

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There are three types of arthritis that may affect the ankle:

  • Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition typically affecting older individuals. The surface of bones becomes worn over time, causing inflammation and pain. As the condition progresses, the joint becomes stiff, limiting the range of motion.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Similar to osteoarthritis but develops after an injury, affecting individuals at any age. Symptoms may not appear until years after the injury.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: A disease in which the immune system attacks the cartilage around the joints, causing inflammation as the cartilage deteriorates. This can become increasingly painful over time.

Causes of Arthritis

Each type of arthritis has a different cause:

  • Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear on bones, typically due to aging. As the bone surface in the ankle and feet wears down, pain and inflammation occur.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops when bones and cartilage do not heal properly after a severe sprain or fracture. Misalignment can lead to pain and inflammation, though symptoms usually appear years later.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Thought to be triggered by an infection or environmental factor that causes the immune system to attack the joints. Genetics may also play a role in susceptibility.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Common symptoms include:

  • Joint inflammation
  • Loss of balance and limited movement due to pain or swelling
  • Pain around the joint
  • Stiffness of the joint

Treatment of Arthritis

Arthritis can often be managed with non-surgical treatments, though surgery may be necessary in some cases.

Non-surgical treatments include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Braces or canes for support
  • Exercise or physical therapy
  • Pain medications
  • Steroid injections administered by a physician
  • Shoe inserts or arch supports

If symptoms persist, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include:

  • Arthroscopic Debridement: A minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon removes inflamed tissue and loose cartilage, offering quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
  • Arthrodesis: Involves fusing the bones of the joint using pins, plates, screws, or rods. A brace may be required post-surgery to aid healing. This procedure can help, but arthritis may develop in surrounding joints over time.
  • Arthroplasty: Replaces the joint with a prosthetic, relieving pain and inflammation, improving joint movement, and reducing strain on surrounding joints, which can prevent arthritis from developing elsewhere.

To determine the best treatment for your condition, consult your physician.