The foot is made up of 28 bones and over 30 joints. When arthritis affects any of these joints, it can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking. In many cases, foot and ankle arthritis can be managed with conservative treatments such as orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. However, if these options fail to provide relief, surgery may be necessary to restore joint function and mobility.

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Why Arthritis Treatment May Be Necessary

Arthritis in the foot and ankle is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or gout. It can impact several areas, including the ankle joint, big toe joint, midfoot joints, and the three joints in the hindfoot.

When arthritis progresses and interferes with walking or daily activities, surgical intervention may be required. If left untreated, the condition can weaken the joints to the point of potential fractures and lead to chronic deformities, ulcers, and open sores.

Types of Arthritis Surgery

The type of surgery recommended depends on the form and severity of the arthritis, as well as the specific joints affected. Common surgical procedures include:

Arthroscopic Debridement

This minimally invasive surgery is often used in early-stage arthritis. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint to allow the surgeon to view the damage. The surgeon then removes inflamed tissue or bone spurs to relieve pain and improve movement.

Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)

In cases of severe arthritis, joint fusion may be recommended. This procedure fuses two or more bones together to form one solid bone, eliminating the painful joint. Screws or pins are used to hold the bones in place during the healing process.

Joint Replacement

For advanced arthritis, joint replacement may be the best option. The damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant. This procedure is designed to relieve pain and restore mobility, though there is a small risk of implant failure over time, which may require revision surgery.

While arthritis surgery for the foot and ankle can involve significant pain and a lengthy recovery, it often provides the best chance to restore function and improve quality of life when non-surgical treatments are no longer effective.