Ankle Arthritis

Likely the result of a previous fracture or a history of multiple ankle sprains and instability, ankle arthritis occurs when the padding, or cartilage, in the ankle joint becomes worn out or damaged. This usually leads to chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle.

 

In the early stages of ankle arthritis, conservative treatments can alleviate ankle pain without requiring surgery. Nonoperative care can include activity modification, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, bracing, cortisone injections, changes in shoe choices, as well as lifestyle changes. If symptoms persist and the severity is more advanced, surgery is the next option in treating ankle arthritis. Mild forms of ankle arthritis can benefit from an arthroscopic procedure to clean up (debridement) the arthritis, while surgical treatment for advanced arthritis includes either ankle fusion (arthrodesis) or ankle replacement.