OA Ankle
The ankle joint bones are usually covered with a smooth layer of cartilage that allows for effortless movement. However, if this protective layer deteriorates or sustains damage, the exposed bone surfaces create friction within the joint. Eventually, repeated bone-on-bone contact accelerates wear and tear.
In response, the bone attempts to repair itself by forming bony growths, which can lead to joint catching or restricted movement. This process frequently results in swelling, pain and stiffness.
Symptoms
Individuals with foot or ankle osteoarthritis may experience one or more of these symptoms with varying severity:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Trouble walking or bearing a lot of weight
- Joint instability
- A clicking or catching sensation
Causes of Ankle Osteoarthritis
The protective ankle joint cartilage can wear down over time, exposing the underlying bone. Several factors may contribute to this degeneration:
- Fractures. A past ankle fracture can result in joint deterioration, sometimes taking years following the initial injury.
- Sprains. Ankle sprains can cause instability and misalignment, which increases friction between bones and accelerates cartilage breakdown.
- Wear and tear. Ageing naturally affects cartilage, especially in highly active individuals who spend long hours on their feet.
- Repetitive movements. High-impact activities like football or ballet can strain the ankle joint excessively, leading to cartilage damage.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis might increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diagnosis
A foot and ankle specialist will conduct a thorough examination to diagnose osteoarthritis. He/she will assess the joint for swelling, restricted movement, and pain during motion. Sometimes, joint deformities or bony growths (spurs) may also be checked.
X-rays are frequently used to determine the severity of the condition as well as assess the extent of cartilage loss.
Treatment Options
Nonsurgical treatment:
To manage symptoms, a foot and ankle specialist may recommend one or more of these nonsurgical treatments:
- Oral drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, stronger prescription steroids may be required to manage symptoms.
- Orthotic devices: Customised shoe inserts can provide more support, improve foot mechanics, and offer cushioning to minimise discomfort.
- Bracing: A brace can limit joint movement, alleviate pain while walking and help prevent additional joint deformity.
- Immobilisation: Wearing a cast or removable boot may help to restrict movement and enable inflammation to subside.
- Steroid injections: Anti-inflammatory steroid injections can be administered directly into the affected joint for pain relief.
- Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises targeting the ankle can enhance stability and reduce the risk of more injury.
Surgery:
If osteoarthritis progresses significantly or does not respond to nonsurgical approaches, surgery may be necessary. For more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be the only effective option. The primary aim of surgery is to reduce pain and improve joint function. A foot and ankle specialist will consider various factors. This entails the severity of the condition and the patient’s lifestyle in order to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Conclusion
Ankle osteoarthritis occurs when the bone surfaces in the ankle joint deteriorate, frequently because of repetitive stress, injury, or gradual wear and tear. Pain, stiffness and decreased movement may result from this deterioration.
Therefore, early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and slowing the progression of osteoarthritis if you’re experiencing persistent ankle discomfort or joint issues. Seeking prompt medical attention can also help preserve joint function and improve long-term outcomes.
Schedule an appointment with our foot and ankle specialist today to explore your treatment options.