Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis in the ankle is less common than arthritis in the hip and knee. Most cases of arthritis in the ankle are due to previous trauma to the ankle. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the ankle, causing pain and disability.

The treatment of early arthritis is non-operative and involves splints, orthotics, medication and injections. Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery has a place in some circumstances, but end-stage arthritis requires either a Total Ankle Replacement or Ankle Arthrodesis (immobilization). Each procedure has merits and the decision as to which surgery is appropriate is based on a number of factors including age, presence of deformity and joint stiffness. Rehabilitation and recovery following surgery can be up to three to six months.

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