
If you're suffering from ankle arthritis Brisbane, there are several different treatment options available. These include surgery, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and nonsurgical treatments. The goal of these treatments is to reduce the pain and swelling of the ankle and to return the joint to its natural, healthy state. In addition to these treatment options, you can try activities modification to minimize pain and swelling, and reduce activity levels by switching to activities with low impact. In addition, you can use ice and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain.
Nonsurgical treatment options
Although surgical treatment is the first option for many patients suffering from ankle arthritis, nonsurgical treatment options can also help reduce pain and extend the life of the joint. Nonsurgical treatment options for ankle arthritis vary depending on the extent of the pain, the patient's activity level, and the severity of the condition. Some nonsurgical treatments include bracing or orthotics, which can help alleviate pain and increase function. If the pain persists, other nonsurgical treatments may include steroid injections or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Surgery is an option for those with advanced ankle arthritis. An ankle fusion fuses two or more bones of the ankle to create a single continuous bone. During this procedure, plates are used to hold the bones in place. This procedure can provide reliable pain relief for those suffering from severe ankle arthritis. However, surgery may also lead to arthritis in other joints, since the fusion process can increase stress on adjacent bones.
Surgery
Surgery for ankle arthritis involves fusing two bones in the ankle to eliminate the arthritis and allow the foot to move. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia using keyhole arthroscopy. A surgeon then implants large screws into the bones, which hold the joint together. After the surgery, the ankle is immobilised for six to twelve weeks. Movement is controlled by other joints in the foot. After this time, your foot should recover sufficiently to return to normal activities.
Patients with ankle arthritis often present with pain around the ankle joint, which becomes more severe when they move. They may also develop nocturnal inflammatory pain. In addition, they may experience locking and stiffness. Symptoms of ankle arthritis often prevent a person from working or enjoying sports.
Corticosteroid injections
Injections of corticosteroids are a popular remedy for ankle arthritis. These injections can reduce pain for several days or months. However, they can cause complications such as nerve damage and weakened tendons. A doctor will usually limit the number of injections in a single year. A patient may also need to stop taking blood thinners for several days before the injection. While this treatment is not a long-term solution for your pain, it can help you maintain a normal level of activity.
Corticosteroid injections are performed as an outpatient procedure. The injection process lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. The patient may experience some pain for two to three days after the procedure. Injections are usually recommended for patients who have tried other conservative methods, but are not responding to non-steroidal treatments.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy for ankle arthritis treatment involves the use of graded pressures and movements on the ankle joint to help alleviate pain and stiffness. It also allows patients to move more freely and do more activities with less pain. Left untreated, pain can worsen and create an uncomfortable "cycle of muscle guarding and pain" that leads to more pain and restricted movement.
Physical therapy for ankle arthritis begins with a physical examination. During this assessment, your physical therapist will look at your overall posture and the alignment of your ankle and your leg. These measurements can indicate whether there are imbalances in your body that can cause extra pressure on your ankle. The physical therapist may also recommend a strengthening program to address any weaknesses. The strengthening exercises will strengthen the muscles that will help relieve pain and keep the joint healthy.
Orthotics
An orthosis can help to alleviate the pain and reduce swelling in the ankle. This custom-made device helps control the motion of the ankle joint and supports the foot. It can also help to reduce pressure on the joint and other parts of the body. The foot and ankle can be affected by various conditions, which can cause pain in the joint and feet.
In severe cases of ankle arthritis, surgery may be recommended. This option is more invasive than other treatments and is designed to eliminate pain and improve function. It requires removing the foot for a short period of time. However, this treatment is not effective for all patients.
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