Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic (long-term) disease that can lead to deformity and reduced joint function. If left untreated, arthritis in your ankles and feet can progress and limit your ability to move without pain.

The two most common kinds of ankle and foot arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis—a condition caused by deterioration of the cartilage, joint lining, ligaments and bone.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)—an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation of your joints. RA often starts in the small joints of your hands or feet and usually affects the same joints on both sides of your body.

Diagnosing Foot & Ankle Arthritis

We are experts in diagnosing the cause of your foot and ankle pain.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle and foot arthritis can include:

• Difficulty walking
• Pain and stiffness in your joints
• Reduced mobility
• Swelling, warmth and/or redness in or around the affected joint

Diagnosis

To diagnose foot and ankle arthritis, we will carefully examine and assess your joints to determine the nature and extent of your condition.

We may also recommend additional tests, including:

• Bone scan—to look at your bones for areas of physical and chemical changes.
• Computed tomography scan (CT scan)—creates detailed images of the ankle or foot.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—produces detailed pictures of the bones and soft tissue in your feet and ankles.
• X-rays—images of your feet and ankles.

Treatments for Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Currently, there is no cure for arthritis. However, individualized care plans can reduce pain, increase mobility and limit joint damage.

Nonsurgical Treatments

We offer nonsurgical treatment options, including:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)—to alleviate pain and swelling.
• Orthotic devices—shoe inserts and other devices can provide support and cushioning.
• Steroid injections—to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Weight management—to limit stress on your foot and ankle joints.

Surgical Treatments

If nonsurgical treatments don’t help your foot and ankle arthritis, we may recommend surgery, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Surgical options may include arthroscopy, ankle fusion or ankle joint replacement.