Ankle Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of pain and disability in adults. As you age, it’s common to feel pain and stiffness in your feet and ankles. Although clinicians do not know specifically what causes OA, the pain you feel in your ankles is believed to be caused by overuse and wear and tear.

At the ends of bones, you have cartilage, which is a slippery tissue that helps bones glide over each other—it keeps the joints working smoothly. Additionally, cartilage works as a shock absorber for your movements.

Over the years, the cartilage, which normally cushions your joints, wears away. The joints aren’t as protected as they should be then, and the bones can start to rub on each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

As more time passes, the joint affected by osteoarthritis may lose its normal shape. Additionally, you may develop bone spurs on the edges of the joint. You may also have bits of bone and/or cartilage break off your joint; they then “float” in the joint space, and that can cause more damage and pain.

A sudden injury to the ankle, such as a broken bone, torn ligament or moderate ankle sprain, can increase the risk of developing arthritis, even years later. Obesity and a family history of osteoarthritis can also increase your risk.

Severe arthritis of the ankle can reduce your mobility, but proper treatment can slow the development of arthritis and improve your quality of life.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle arthritis can include:

• Pain and tenderness
• Reduce motion
• Swelling
• Difficulty walking

Make an appointment with Dr. Jonathan Oheb for a full evaluation and treatment plan today.