Ankle Arthritis

What is ankle arthritis?

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage covering the ankle joint becomes damaged or worn.

Ankle arthritis is commonly associated with previous injury, such as an ankle fracture or significant ligament injury. It can also occur because of inflammatory arthritis or other conditions.

What symptoms and signs might I experience?

• Ankle pain.
• Stiffness.
• Swelling.
• Reduced ankle movement.
• Pain when walking.
• Difficulty walking on uneven ground.
• Reduced walking distance.
• Grinding or catching.
• Increasing difficulty with everyday activities.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through examination and weight-bearing X-rays.

CT or MRI may be required in selected cases.

How is it treated without surgery?

Treatment may include:

• Activity modification.
• Low-impact exercise such as cycling or swimming.
• Supportive footwear.
• Rocker-bottom or stiff-soled shoes.
• Orthotics.
• Ankle braces.
• Physiotherapy.
• Pain relief.
• Weight management where appropriate.
• Injection into the ankle joint.

When might surgery be considered?

Surgery may be considered when arthritis becomes severe and significantly affects your quality of life despite appropriate non-operative treatment.

What might surgery involve?

Depending on the severity and individual circumstances, surgery may include:

Ankle arthroscopy: useful for selected patients with less advanced arthritis or associated problems.

Ankle fusion: the damaged joint is removed and the bones are allowed to heal together.

Total ankle replacement:the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with an artificial joint while preserving some ankle movement.

What is recovery like?

Recovery depends on the procedure. Fusion requires time for the bones to heal, while ankle replacement requires a period of protection followed by progressive rehabilitation.

www.anklearthritis.co.uk for more information on the TARVA ankle arthritis trial.