Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis is a broad description term used to categorise conditions consisting of dysfunctions of the joints. Close to 50% of the elderly in their 60s and 70s have arthritis of the foot and ankle, but not all are symptomatic. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Another type, but less common is rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis:
Pain, stiffness and swelling near the joint
Increased pain during active movement of the joint
Signs of increased strain and repetitive wear of the joint during movement
Possible bone spur at the joint
Rheumatoid Arthritis:
Prior diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis not relevant to the foot
Pain, stiffness and swelling near the joint
Increased pain during active movement of the joint
Collapse of the arch in the midfoot
Coindications with bunions and clawtoe
Misalignment of the bones and joints in the foot
Swelling and inflammation of the synovium or synovial lining
Causes
Patients that have had broken bones, torn ligaments and sprains are more likely to develop arthritis in those past affected areas. Gout and hallux rigidus are other forms of arthritis. Autoimmune disorders may also lead to arthritis.
Diagnosis
In diagnosing and differentiating between different forms of arthritis, the clinician will examine the biomechanics of the foot, review the history of the symptoms, observe for symptoms and possibly order X-rays to observe for cartilage loss or changes in the morphology of the joints.