Common Causes
Previous ankle injury is the most common cause of ankle arthritis.
Osteonecrosis can also lead to ankle arthritis.
Another cause of ankle arthritis isrheumatoid arthritis.
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Rheumatoid disease causes joint inflammation and damage to the cartilage.
Over time, this can lead to significant problems, necessitating treatment.
Infections of a joint, which lead to damage of the cartilage cells, is another cause.
Because cartilage cells cannot regrow, the damage from an infection can last permanently.
Body weight is another common factor for ankle arthritis.
Ankle arthritis can easily be diagnosed with an examination and an X-ray.
Once patients are diagnosed, nonoperative treatments should be attempted.
Most patients can find relief through steps including activity modification and changes in their footwear.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Treatment of ankle arthritis should always begin with simple steps rather than surgery.
One of the simplest steps to take is to try some shoe modifications.
Cushioned inserts can help alleviate symptoms.
These braces are known as ankle-foot orthoses or AFOs.
Patients should make a run at limit impact activities including running and jumping.
Activity modification like this is an important part of the treatment for ankle arthritis.
Patients who are unwilling to change their lifestyle generally shouldnotconsider surgical treatments.
In addition to modifications in physical movements, medications can also be an effective treatment.
Anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful in patients with moderate symptoms.
Patients should use these carefully as there arepossible side effects, especially with longer-term use.
During arthroscopic surgery, the bone spur can be shaved to promote the motion of the joint.
Unfortunately, if the ankle arthritis is more extensive, this key in of surgery will likely be unhelpful.
Anankle fusion surgeryis the standard treatment for advanced ankle arthritis.
Anankle replacement surgeryis a more controversial treatment for ankle arthritis.
As more of these procedures are being performed, the implant design is being improved.
This will likely lead to better results.
This condition refers to reduced blood flow into the bones, which can eventually cause bone tissue death.
Avoiding activities like running or jumping can also help.
If further treatment is needed, surgical treatment may be the next option.
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