Living with Ankle Arthritis: Understanding and Managing the Pain

Ankle arthritis is a condition that causes pain and stiffness due to the breakdown of cartilage around the ankle joint. If you experience symptoms of ankle arthritis, our board-certified podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, Texas, can determine the most effective treatment for you. Our expert podiatry team offers advanced diagnostics and same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle problems.

Understanding the Root of Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis is a condition that causes the cartilage that cushions and protects the bones of the joint to become damaged or worn away. This can lead to pain and swelling. As the condition progresses, stiffness and difficulty moving the joint can occur due to inflammation.

Ankle arthritis is usually caused by the gradual wearing down of the cartilage that cushions the bones in the joint. This can be caused by a traumatic injury, such as a fracture or sprain, or it can be the result of age-related wear and tear. Other causes of ankle arthritis include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and infection.

It is most common in those over the age of 50 but can occur in younger people as well. Symptoms of ankle arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. It is important to get proper treatment for ankle arthritis in order to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness and improve mobility.

In more severe cases, you may also experience deformity, loss of range of motion, and difficulty walking. You may also experience a grinding sensation when you move the joint.

Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis

Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle joint, especially during movement
Difficulty walking, running, or standing for long periods of time
A grinding sensation or popping sound when moving the ankle
Loss of range of motion in the ankle joint
A feeling of warmth or heat in the joint
Tenderness and swelling in the joint-Reduced ability to bear weight on the affected ankle

If ankle arthritis is left untreated, the joint can become increasingly damaged and lead to disability. Symptoms will become worse over time and the joint may become deformed and lose its range of motion. Other complications, such as fractures, can also occur due to weakened bones. At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, we offer same-day appointments for urgent problems like fractures and sprained ankles.

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Diagnosing Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis is usually diagnosed through a physical exam and medical history. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a better look at the joint and diagnose the type and severity of arthritis. During the exam, your doctor may also check for any tenderness, swelling, or instability around the ankle joint.

Unlock Your Ankle Mobility with Treatment

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Corticosteroid injections
Physical therapy
Assistive devices
Total Ankle Replacement (TAR)

TAR is a procedure in which the damaged ankle joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components.The procedure typically involves removing the joint surfaces of the tibia and talus and replacing them with metal and plastic components designed to replicate the function of the ankle joint.

The goal of treatment for ankle arthritis is to reduce pain, improve joint function, and slow the progression of the disease. At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our team works with you to find the right treatment for your injury.

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Living with Ankle Arthritis: Understanding and Managing the Pain

Understanding the Root of Ankle Arthritis

Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis

Diagnosing Ankle Arthritis

Unlock Your Ankle Mobility with Treatment

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