Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis involves progressive degeneration of the cartilage in the ankle joint, often resulting from previous trauma, chronic instability, or inflammatory conditions. This can lead to chronic pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

Anterior Ankle Impingement
    • Persistent ankle pain, especially with activity

    • Stiffness and swelling

    • Decreased range of motion

    • Difficulty walking on uneven surfaces

  • A physical examination along with imaging studies such as weight-bearing X-rays, MRI, or CT scans can assess cartilage loss and joint alignment.

    • Non-surgical:  Activity modification, bracing, medications, physical therapy, injections.

    • Surgical/minimally invasive:  Arthroscopic debridement may help in early-stage arthritis. For advanced cases, ankle replacement or fusion can be performed with modern techniques that minimize incision size and speed recovery.

  • Recovery varies by treatment type. Arthroscopic procedures may allow return to activity within weeks, while ankle replacement or fusion may require 3–6 months for full rehabilitation.