Ankle Osteoarthritis

Ankle osteoarthritis can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Overuse: Repetitive activities and movements that overload the ankle joint can lead to cartilage wear over time.
• Trauma: Previous injuries, such as fractures or severe sprains, can damage the joint and increase the risk of osteoarthritis - most frequent cause.
• Overweight: Excess weight puts additional pressure on joints, accelerating cartilage wear.
• Joint Misalignment: Structural problems in the ankle, such as misalignment or deformities, can contribute to osteoarthritis development.
• Genetics: Genetic predisposition can play a role in osteoarthritis development, with family history of arthritis increasing risk.

Symptoms of ankle osteoarthritis can vary in intensity and include:

• Joint Pain: Chronic pain that usually worsens with activity and improves with rest. Pain can be constant or intermittent.
• Stiffness: Difficulty moving the ankle, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Swelling: Fluid accumulation in the ankle joint, which can occur after physical activity or at the end of the day.
• Crepitation: Sensation of clicking or grating when moving the ankle due to friction between exposed bone surfaces.
• Reduced Mobility: Limitation in ankle range of motion, which can make daily activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult.

To diagnose ankle osteoarthritis, doctors use:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of symptoms, including pain, swelling, range of motion, and muscle strength around the ankle.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays are frequently used to identify signs of osteoarthritis, such as joint space narrowing, osteophytes (bone spurs), and bone changes. In some cases, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be needed for a more detailed view of joint structures and soft tissues.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve joint function. Options include:

• Conservative Measures: Rest, ice application, use of orthoses, and physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the joint and improve mobility.
• Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics can be used to control pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may be recommended to relieve symptoms. New treatments with PRP injections have shown promising results.
• Physical Therapy: Specific exercises to strengthen muscles around the ankle, improve range of motion, and maintain flexibility.
• Surgery: In severe cases, when conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include arthroscopy to remove damaged tissue, osteotomy to correct deformities, or in extreme cases, ankle arthroplasty (joint replacement) or arthrodesis (joint fusion).

Although it's not possible to completely prevent osteoarthritis, some measures can help reduce risk and disease progression:

• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Reduces load on joints and decreases risk of joint wear.
• Regular Exercise: Practicing low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, can help maintain flexibility and muscle strength without overloading the joint.
• Use of Appropriate Footwear: Appropriate footwear that offers proper support and cushioning can help protect the ankle joint.
• Avoiding Injuries: Protecting the ankle during physical activities and avoiding sudden or excessive movements can reduce risk of injuries and joint wear.