Several treatment options are available, both surgical and nonoperative
We all strive to be physically active. Going for a run or a walk, working in the yard, or playing with the kids or grandchildren. But there is a common condition that can hinder the enjoyment of being physically active. It is ankle arthritis.
Ankle arthritis can come in many forms. Most commonly, it occurs after suffering trauma to the ankle joint. Pain may also be from rheumatoid arthritis, or it could have no specific cause. Typically, patients will find that they feel pain in the ankle when attempting higher impact activities. They may also notice their range of motion is not as full as it once was.
When an Orthopedic Surgeon assesses a patient’s ankle joint, we look for several problems. These include deformities of the ankle/foot, swelling, grinding of the joint with range of motion, and differences in motion when compared to the other, uninjured, ankle. A key tool we use to diagnose ankle arthritis is weightbearing x-ray imaging. These x-rays show joint deformities, extra bone growth called osteophytes, and bone cysts that develop from the arthritis.
We can suggest many nonoperative treatment options before considering surgery. These include anti-inflammatories, bracing, shoe modifications (rocker sole), low impact activities, and nutrition discussion to help achieve body weight goals. Other options can include cortisone injections to the ankle joint.
If these options fail, then surgery could be considered. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss choices that may work based on your exams, other medical conditions, and long-term goals. Surgical options include ankle arthroscopic debridement (using a small camera to see inside the joint and remove damaged cartilage, bone, or other debris), osteotomy for correction of a deformity, ankle fusion, or ankle replacement. There have been great advances in ankle replacement over the last several years. These include improved implant longevity and preoperative navigation reports and guides.
If you develop pain or injury to your foot and ankle that does not go away with local symptomatic treatment or believe you may have ankle arthritis, we at the Coughlin Clinic would be happy to see you, assess your problem, and get you on a treatment plan. You can learn more about Saint Alphonsus' foot and ankle services, providers and locations here.
Dr. Christopher DeSutter, MD is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in Foot and Ankle surgery at the Saint Alphonsus Coughlin Clinic in Boise, Idaho.