I have arthritis in the ankle ... What can I do? arthritis of the ankle is one of the most frequently observed in a rheumatology office. If it is a relatively small resort town, it is subject to considerable stress because of the weight-bearing necessary to stand and walk.
Add to that the need for forward and backward movement as well as undesirable side movements, it becomes clear that the emphasis on the bones, ligaments and tendons is enormous. And it is not even aware of the twist and [swing motions that are often needed during a typical day.
Because of this responsibility and the location, the pins are probably hurt more than any other complex mixed.
Many different types of arthritis can affect the ankle. The most common are osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear type of arthritis. The cartilage that cushions the joints begins to wear out prematurely due to trauma and localized inflammation. This type of arthritis that occurs following an injury is called post-traumatic osteoarthritis. A common scenario is someone who sprained his ankle in adulthood of adolescents or young-old and developed arthritis of the ankle later.
Rheumatoid arthritis comprises about 15 percent of arthritis of the ankle. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects virtually all joints. Chronic inflammation leads to progressive deterioration of cartilage, bones and ligaments.
Other types of arthritis that can attack the ankle include psoriatic arthritis, Reiter's disease, gout, pseudogout, sarcoidosis, juvenile arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Treatment of ankle arthritis is to first make the correct diagnosis. It takes a careful history and physical examination. Laboratory tests and imaging such as x-ray, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging are helpful.
The treatment of mild discomfort is simple. Limit activities that cause pain. This means high-impact sports like running, soccer and basketball. If being overweight is a problem, then the weight loss is mandatory. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug may also provide symptomatic relief.
Various ankle braces can be a lifesaver. These come in different shapes and varieties. They can secure it with laces or Velcro. Braces can be soft or hard shell can contain a synthetic. It is best to consult your rheumatologist or orthopedist before buying a pair.
Orthotics are shoe inserts that tilt of the ankle and relieve pain by changing the direction of the forces of stress. These should be tailored for optimal results.
Rocker bottom shoes reduce the pain on walking, because they limit the amount of joint movement must go through. Those who underwent fusion surgery on ankle 9Where joijt is merged) often find shoes rocker bottom useful.
When the ankle pain is severe due to inflammation and / or fluid buildup, and then draw the joint with a needle and injecting a long acting glucocorticoid (steroid) can be very useful . Following a procedure like this is a good idea for the patient to have the ankle is preparing at least three days rest the joint.
Physical therapy is also an excellent adjunct therapeutic approach. The therapist can help patients to different procedures that can reduce edema (soft tissue swelling0 and inflammation and also teach the patient exercises to strengthen and stabilize the ankle so that the future ankle sprains and strains are less likely.
Patients who have severe arthritis of the ankle due to osteoarthritis may benefit from viscosupplementation. It is a procedure by which a lubricant is injected into the joint. Viscosupplement have been used successfully in several joints, including knee, hip and shoulder, and ankle.
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Posted on February 18, 2010.
