Ankle Arthritis

Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the normal cartilage starts to wear out in a joint. Cartilage is the shock-absorber and gliding surface that allows joints to move smoothly. Arthritis can develop due to new injuries, overuse, aging, sprains, and old trauma. As the cartilage wears out in a joint, this leads to the development of bone spurs, cysts or holes in the bone, pain and stiffness. Ankle arthritis will worsen with time and can lead to limitations in activities, walking, standing, and exercising. 

Dr. Kohring treats all forms of ankle arthritis and will be happy to discuss your specific issues based on your symptoms and radiographic findings. She recommends attempting all conservative options before considering surgery. 

When considering surgery, there are several different treatment options for ankle arthritis based on a number of factors. Dr. Kohring will discuss your treatment options based on your type of ankle arthritis, amount of deformity, associated foot conditions, activity level, and life priorities. 

Normal ankle radiograph:

Ankle Arthritis

Conservative Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment of ankle arthritis can be effective for many years.

Including:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (naproxen, meloxicam, ibuprofen)
• Ankle bracing and orthotics
• Ankle injections
• Physical therapy
• Rocker bottom shoes

Ankle Replacement

For patients with severe ankle arthritis who have failed conservative management, an ankle replacement can be a great option for many. An ankle replacement involves cutting out the arthritis on either side of the ankle joint and replacing them with metal parts and a plastic insert to allow for a smooth gliding surface. An ankle replacement allows the ankle joint to continue to move similarly to before surgery, but without pain. This allows you to continue to walk with a normal gait and creates less stress around your surrounding foot and knee joints.

Ankle replacement technology has advanced quite a bit over the past 15 to 20 years. We now have more advanced ankle replacement systems that can lead to a long-lasting ankle joint if placed correctly. 

Dr. Kohring has advanced training in total ankle replacement surgery. She will be happy to discuss if you are a candidate for an ankle replacement and the advantages and disadvantages of the surgery in the office with you.

Link: https://www.wright.com/footandankleproducts/infinity-total-ankle-system

Ankle Fusion

An ankle fusion can be a better option for certain patients with severe ankle arthritis. An ankle fusion used to be the standard of care 10 to 15 years ago before the advancement in total ankle replacements. For many patients, this has led to a very functional and pain-free solution to their debilitating ankle arthritis. After an ankle fusion, many patients are still able to hike, golf, walk, play tennis, and many other activities without limitation.

When arthritis becomes severe enough, oftentimes the ankle joint does not move more than a few degrees. Luckily, the ankle is surrounded by other joints that can “make-up” for the stiffness in the ankle joint and still allow for a normal gait. There is a high success rate for patients after an ankle fusion with less surgical risks than an ankle replacement. 

Dr. Kohring will be happy to discuss if an ankle fusion is the right choice for you in the office.