Ankle arthritis can be a very painful condition. With age, there is an increasing chance of developing osteoarthritis because of wear and tear. The debilitating pain is due to joint damage associated with arthritis.

The symptoms of ankle arthritis are pain or tenderness, joint stiffness, swelling in the joint, and reduced ability to walk or bear weight.

Management of arthritis include NSAIDs to reduce inflammation, pain relievers, foot pads and arch supports, inserts to support the foot and ankle, braces to support the joints, custom shoes, weight management, and steroid medications.

A viable treatment for recalcitrant ankle arthritis is arthrodiastasis or pulling apart of the ankle joint. This procedure involves stretching out the ankle joint to increase the space between the tibia and talus bones. Surgery with internal fixation device is done and it is worn for around 3 months. Ankle arthrodiastasis aims to provide the cartilage enough space and time to heal itself.

Ankle arthrodiastasis is suitable for younger patients with post-trauma arthritis. This is also for patients who want an alternative to the more invasive surgical procedures like ankle fusion and ankle replacement. Arthrodiastasis of the ankle can reduce pain and preserve joint function in patients with moderate to severe arthritis.

The procedure requires that the podiatrist have prober training and experience. Visit us at NaplesPodiatrist.com  or call us at (239) 430-3668 for more information.

For more information on ankle arthritis treatments, you may contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com

Family Foot and Leg Center has several Centers  to quickly resolve all your foot and ankle problems.

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