Ankle arthritis is more common than many folks realize. I see it every week in my practice, and I’ve watched how it can slow people down, causing pain, stiffness, and making simple things like walking a real challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says over 53 million adults in the U.S. are living with some form of arthritis. A good number of them are dealing specifically with problems in their ankles.
Ankle arthritis can progress for a few different reasons. Most commonly it is caused by past injuries — also known as post-traumatic arthritis. It can also be due to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic gouty arthritis, or the wear-and-tear kind, like osteoarthritis.
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Starting with Conservative Treatments
If you’re just starting to deal with ankle arthritis, know this: Surgery isn’t the first step. There are plenty of ways to ease your symptoms and improve your function without going under the knife.
Here’s what that can look like:
- Oral Anti-Inflammatories: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can take the edge off the pain and calm down inflammation, but it’s best to take these under the guidance of your doctor to avoid any unwanted side effects. There are also prescription NSAIDs available if these do not improve symptoms.
- Cortisone Injections: For those who can’t, or prefer not to take oral medications, a cortisone injection into the joint can bring significant relief. It’s a strong anti-inflammatory, and it does have long-term limitations, however, can drastically reduce pain and prolong potential surgery.
- Bracing: Sometimes, a little extra support goes a long way. An ankle brace can help stabilize the joint and cut down on pain. There are basic versions you can buy over the counter, or you might benefit from a custom brace that’s tailored to your foot and ankle.
When It’s Time to Consider Surgery
Now, if those conservative methods stop working, we start talking about surgical options. I’ve seen surgery give people their lives back—but it’s always a decision we make carefully and together.
- Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis): This is a tried-and-true procedure. It involves removing the damaged cartilage and joining the bones so they don’t move anymore. Yes, you give up motion in that joint, but in return, you get stability and resolution of pain. Most people can walk comfortably again—and with little to no limp.
- Ankle Replacement: This is a bit more complex. We take out the damaged joint and replace it with a prosthetic. The big benefit here is that you keep your ankle’s range of motion and preserve the surrounding joints. It’s not the right fit for everyone, but when it is, it can make a huge difference in staying active and mobile.
You’re Not Alone in This
Living with ankle arthritis can feel frustrating. Some days are harder than others. But I want to stress this—there are effective treatments out there. I’ve walked this journey with many patients, and I’ve seen how the right care can lead to a better, more comfortable life.
Managing arthritis is a process. Some steps are slow, some feel like setbacks—but each one is part of the path toward better health. Keep asking questions. Keep moving. And above all, keep hope close. You don’t have to face this alone, and you don’t have to give up doing what you love.
Author: Steven Tocci, DPM, is a foot and ankle surgeon with HonorHealth Orthopedics. He believes that understanding each patient’s lifestyle, career and goals is key to developing effective treatment plans, often finding that simple footwear adjustments can significantly improve pain and function. As a former college football player, he embraces a well-balanced active lifestyle that mirrors his holistic approach to care.
