Ankle Arthritis
What causes arthritis of the ankle?
The bones of your ankle are covered by a perfectly smooth and resilient substance known as cartilage. It is cartilage that allows the ankle joint to move smoothly and painlessly. Arthritis is a disease process in which the cartilage becomes thinner and rougher. When this occurs, joint motion becomes stiff and painful.
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the human body. Arthritis is more likely to occur in joints that have been injured or damaged. Some ankle injuries are severe such as broken ankles that require surgery. Other ankle injuries are less severe, such as sprains, but may cause a problem if they occur over and over. Both of these types of injuries can result in ankle arthritis.
Some people develop arthritis without having had an injury in the past. This “wear and tear” type of arthritis affects the knee and hip more commonly but can also affect the ankle.
What are risk factors for developing ankle arthritis?
- Obesity
- Family history
- Getting older
- A history of injuries such as fractures or many sprains
- Rheumatoid disease
- Infection in the ankle
What is an ankle replacement surgery?
Another treatment for severe ankle arthritis besides fusion is total ankle replacement. In ankle replacement surgery, an artificial ankle joint is implanted to replace the damaged cartilage. There are a number of artificial ankle devices your surgeon can choose from. They are generally made from metal and plastic parts, and are very strong.
Total ankle replacement surgery is a good alternative to ankle fusion surgery in some patients with ankle arthritis. Unlike a fusion, the ability of the ankle joint to move up and down is maintained. This ability to preserve motion is considered an advantage over ankle fusion. But like all joint replacements, an ankle replacement can wear out over time and does not withstand high-impact activity well.