Arthritis Ankle

What is Ankle Arthritis?

Ankle arthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Unlike arthritis in the knee or hip, ankle arthritis is most commonly caused by previous trauma, such as fractures, severe sprains, or ligament injuries, rather than age-related wear and tear alone. This condition, can develop months or even years after an injury, as the altered mechanics and instability begin to affect the joint surfaces.

There are three main types of arthritis that can affect the ankle joint: osteoarthritis, which involves cartilage breakdown due to mechanical wear; rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition causing inflammation of the joint lining; and post-traumatic arthritis, which results from prior joint injury.

Osteoarthritis of the ankle is less common than in weight bearing joints like the knee or hip but can be just as debilitating.

Symptoms

• Activity-Related Pain: Persistent aching that flares up during movement and typically improves with rest.
• Stiffness: Often most noticeable first thing in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
• Swelling: Persistent inflammation or "puffiness" around the ankle joint.
• Mechanical Sensations: A feeling of grinding (crepitus), catching, or clicking when moving the foot.
• Loss of Flexibility: A gradual reduction in your range of motion, making it harder to flex or rotate the ankle.

Progressive Impact on Mobility

As the joint degeneration advances, you may find it increasingly difficult to navigate daily tasks:

• Uneven Terrain: Difficulty maintaining balance on grass, gravel, or sloped surfaces.
• Incline Challenges: Increased pain or weakness when climbing stairs or walking uphill.
• Changes in Gait: Developing a limp as a subconscious way to protect the joint or compensate for instability.

Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination and history, especially to identify previous trauma.

Imaging such as X-rays helps assess joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and alignment. In more complex cases, MRI or CT scans may be used to assess cartilage integrity and bone involvement.

When to Consult a Specialist

If your ankle pain has begun to limit your activities or persists even at rest, it may be time to discuss imaging (such as X-rays) and treatment options.

Early diagnosis is essential to manage the condition conservatively and delay or avoid the need for surgery.