Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the ankle joint wears away, causing the bones in the ankle to rub against each other. People with ankle arthritis often experience pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased mobility.

Causes

Ankle arthritis can occur due to a number of factors. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of ankle arthritis. It is caused by normal wear and tear of the cartilage over time and is most common in older adults. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints and inflammatory arthritis can also affect the ankle joint.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility are common symptoms of ankle arthritis. People often have difficulty standing or walking.

Treatment

There are a variety of treatment methods available to relieve ankle arthritis symptoms. Over the counter and prescription pain relievers, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications are all effective. People can also find relief through physical therapy and orthotic devices such as braces and shoe inserts. Surgical procedures, including ankle fusion and replacement, may be necessary is conservative treatments do not provide relief.