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Ankle Arthritis

Struggling with stiffness, swelling, or pain in your ankle? You could be dealing with ankle arthritis, a condition that can severely impact your mobility and quality of life. 

If you’re in the Greater Columbus area and need help managing your foot and ankle arthritis, the experts at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center are here for you. Contact us today to take the first step toward lasting pain relief and improved mobility.

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Conditions We Treat

Do I Need Surgery?

Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.

What Our Patients Say

“Always treated like a person, not a number. Treated with courtesy and respect. I drive 3hrs to be there. I arrive early and never have to wait long. Employees are very pleasant and knowledgable. The doctors are well educated and concerned about your problems, treatment, and recovery. Would recommend Ortho Foot & Ankle to anyone. There’s no better in my opinion.” — Rodney B.

What is Arthritis in the Ankle?

Ankle arthritis refers to the inflammation and gradual breakdown of the ankle joint, often leading to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It commonly affects the ankle cartilage, which serves as a cushion between the bones. When this cartilage wears away, bones can make contact, causing pain and swelling.

Types of Arthritis That Affect the Ankle

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the joints in the ankle. The following list contains some of the types of arthritis that can affect the ankle:

  1. Osteoarthritis: This is known as degenerative joint disease because it develops over many years into old age. The most common joints it will affect are the three joints involving your heel bone, inner mid-foot bone, and outer mid-foot bone. It may also affect the joint in your big toe and your ankle joint with your shin bone.
  2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a type of inflammatory arthritis. It is an autoimmune disease where your body’s immune system attacks the healthy cells in your joints, causing permanent damage. You will usually have joint pain on both sides of your body.
  3. Psoriatic Arthritis: This is another autoimmune disease. It is related to the disease called psoriasis. It can happen in any of your joints, particularly your ankles and toes.
  4. Septic Arthritis: This refers to an infection in the joint fluid or tissue. It can happen to any joint in the foot or ankle.
  5. Gout: This condition is caused by a buildup of uric acid. Your big toe is most likely to get gout as it’s the farthest joint away from your heart.
  6. Reactive Arthritis: This is caused by an infection in another part of your body, including your intestines or urinary tract. The infection causes a type of arthritis that can affect your ankles and feet.
  7. Ankylosing Spondylitis: This condition is an inflammatory disease that causes bones to fuse together. This condition is more commonly known to affect the spine, but in some cases, it can also affect the heel bone.
  8. Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This condition can develop after an injury, such as a fracture or dislocation.
A doctor treating ankle arthritis in Columbus.

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis in the Ankle?

The signs of ankle arthritis can be subtle at first but often worsen over time. Common ankle arthritis symptoms include:

  • Persistent ankle pain or tenderness
  • Swelling around the joint
  • Stiffness or reduced flexibility
  • Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
  • Clicking or grinding sensation in the joint
  • Changes in gait to avoid discomfort
 

These symptoms may come and go or remain constant, depending on the severity of the condition. Pain is often worse in the morning or after periods of rest.

How Arthritis in the Ankle is Diagnosed

Diagnosing foot and ankle arthritis begins with a thorough physical examination. Your orthopedic specialist will assess your ankle joint for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. They will also review your medical history and ask about previous ankle injuries, surgeries, or family history of arthritis.

To confirm the diagnosis, imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to evaluate the condition of the ankle cartilage and detect bone spurs or joint space narrowing. Blood tests may also be ordered if rheumatoid arthritis is suspected.

Accurate diagnosis is key to developing an effective plan to treat ankle arthritis and relieve symptoms.

Treatment Options for Ankle Arthritis

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for ankle arthritis, but several treatment options can help reduce pain, relieve symptoms, and improve your quality of life. At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center, we tailor treatments based on your lifestyle, severity of symptoms, and overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Most patients start with conservative treatments, which may include:

  • Physical therapy to improve flexibility, strength, and joint stability
  • Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to relieve pain
  • Orthopedic braces or shoe inserts to reduce joint pressure
  • Activity modification and weight management
 

These approaches can help you manage ankle arthritis symptoms effectively and delay the need for surgery.

Surgical Treatments

When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, ankle surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include:

  • Arthroscopic debridement to remove loose cartilage or bone fragments
  • Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) to stabilize the joint and reduce pain
  • Total ankle replacement, which replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant
 

Total ankle replacement is an advanced option that preserves motion and offers long-term pain relief for suitable candidates. At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center, we specialize in advanced surgical techniques designed to restore your mobility and minimize downtime.

Recovery After Treatment

Recovery from ankle arthritis treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment received. Non-surgical methods usually show results in a few weeks, especially when combined with physical therapy and lifestyle changes.

Post-surgical recovery, particularly after ankle replacement or fusion, may take several months. You’ll likely need physical therapy, rest, and a gradual return to activity. Our team at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center will guide you every step of the way to ensure a successful recovery and long-term relief from joint pain.

Ready to Treat Your Ankle Arthritis?

Don’t let ankle arthritis limit your mobility or quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with chronic ankle pain, a recent ankle injury, or worsening foot and ankle stiffness, help is available. At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, we provide comprehensive care to treat ankle arthritis and get you back on your feet.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting pain relief and improved mobility.

Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM, FACFAS

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