- Conditions & Treatments
- 7 min read
Achilles Tendon Rupture: Surgical vs Non-Surgical Treatment
Ankle arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects thousands of people in the UK each year. This article explains the different types of ankle arthritis, how they are diagnosed, and the full range of treatment options available.
Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage lining the ankle joint wears away, causing the bones to rub together. This leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. While less common than knee or hip arthritis, ankle arthritis can be equally disabling.
Types of Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage lining the ankle joint wears away, causing the bones to rub together. This leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. While less common than knee or hip arthritis, ankle arthritis can be equally disabling.
The Treatment Process
Osteoarthritis is the most common form, typically developing after
years of wear and tear or following a previous ankle injury. Post-
traumatic arthritis — which develops after a fracture or ligament injury
— accounts for a significant proportion of ankle arthritis cases.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can affect
multiple joints, including the ankle. It tends to affect both ankles
simultaneously and is managed in conjunction with a rheumatologist.
Inflammatory arthropathies such as psoriatic arthritis, gout, and
reactive arthritis can also cause ankle joint damage.
Symptoms to Look Out For
The hallmark symptoms of ankle arthritis include pain that worsens
with activity, morning stiffness that eases with movement, swelling around the ankle, and a grinding or clicking sensation. As the condition progresses, patients may notice a change in the shape of the ankle or difficulty walking on uneven ground.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is confirmed with weight-bearing X-rays, which reveal joint
space narrowing, bone spurs (osteophytes), and subchondral bone
changes. An MRI scan may be requested to assess cartilage quality
and soft tissue structures. A CT scan is particularly useful for surgical
planning.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the severity of arthritis and the patient’s activity level and goals.
Non-surgical options include activity modification, physiotherapy, anti- inflammatory medications, ankle bracing, and corticosteroid or
hyaluronic acid injections. These measures can provide significant
relief in early to moderate arthritis.
Surgical options include ankle arthroscopy (for early arthritis and impingement), ankle replacement (arthroplasty), and ankle fusion (arthrodesis). The choice between replacement and fusion depends on multiple factors including age, activity level, bone quality, and deformity.
If you are experiencing ankle pain that is affecting your daily life, an
early specialist assessment can help identify the cause and guide the
most appropriate treatment.
Mr. Samir Hakeem
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, FRCS (T&O)
Mr. Hakeem is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and
ankle conditions, with over 20 years of international clinical experience.
Need specialist advice?
Book a consultation with Mr. Hakeem for a personalised assessment.
