What Is Ankle Arthritis?
Ankle arthritis is one of the most common reasons patients seek consultation with an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. Ankle arthritis is frequently posttraumatic in nature, though this trauma may be as simple as an ankle sprain from 30 years prior.
Conservative & Surgical Treatment Options
Conservative treatment of ankle arthritis includes bracing, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy and possible corticosteroid or PRP injections. If the patient fails conservative management, or their imaging indicates an advanced stage of arthritis, surgical intervention is discussed. For the tibiotalar joint, surgical options include both ankle fusion and ankle replacement options. Ankle fusion involves removing the arthritic bone and cartilage in place and hardware across the joint to eliminate the pain. Unfortunately, during ankle fusion, the patient sacrifices motion for pain relief. Ankle replacement allows patient to frequently maintain their motion while also achieving pain relief. However there are additional risks associated with ankle replacement surgery. Dr. Flynn carefully takes into account the patient’s medical history, surgical history, physical exam and activity level, both current and desired. This allows for each surgical decision to be tailored to the individual. While many patients do gravitate towards ankle replacement, both fusion and replacement remain very good options.
Dr. Flynn encourages each patient to approach the surgical discussion with an open mind so a correct decision may be reached.
Arthritis in the Joints Below the Ankle
The joints below the ankle, including the subtalar, talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints, can also become arthritic. These joints are similarly treated conservatively with anti-inflammatories, bracing and shots. Surgical intervention for these joints frequently does require a fusion-type procedure. At this time, there is no joint replacement option for those joints.
What to Expect After Surgery
Following joint fusion or joint replacement, a patient is typically non-weightbearing for 4 to 6 weeks. After this initial period, weightbearing is advanced in a boot. Typically, the patient resumes using a regular shoe between 8 and 12 weeks out from surgery.
Each patient, however, will be given specific instructions based upon their surgery, their x-rays and their physical examination. Full recovery, as with many of the surgeries, can take up to one year for maximal outcome.
