Information About Foot & Ankle Arthritis
Learn about foot and ankle arthritis and treatment of these conditions. Ankle arthritis is uncommon, but can cause significant pain when walking. Foot arthritis is also an uncommon problem and may require surgery for treatment.
Ankle arthritis is much less common than degenerative changes in other joints. However, ankle arthritis can occur, and can be quite painful. Ankle arthritis is most common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or in patients with a previous injury to the ankle joint.
Ankle fusion surgery is a treatment for severe arthritis of the joint. In an ankle fusion surgery, the damaged joint is removed, and the ankle is secured in a proper position. The ankle fusion then permanently holds the joint in this position, alleviating pain, but eliminating motion of the joint. Ankle fusion is the most commonly performed procedure for severe arthritis.
Ankle replacement surgery is a treatment for severe arthritis. Ankle replacement is most often performed in patients who are older and less active because of concerned that the implanted ankle replacement joint can wear out over time. As ankle replacement implants are being better designed, the results of this surgery are improving.
