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Ankle Arthritis Symptoms
Posted on 12-20-2024 in Achilles Tendinitis & Ankle Arthritis by Dr. Erik Nilssen
Posted on 12-20-2024 in Achilles Tendinitis & Ankle Arthritis by Dr. Erik Nilssen
While stiffness and pain may increase with age, this can also be a classic sign of osteoarthritis. Swelling, pain, and deformity can keep you from normal daily activities if left untreated. Here is more information to help you identify symptoms and understand how it can affect your foot and ankle.
ANKLE ARTHRITIS
There are numerous forms of arthritis (more than 100), many of which affect the ankle. No matter which type of ankle arthritis an individual has, walking and participating in physical activities can be challenging. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we frequently treat individuals in Pensacola and Gulf Breeze Fla., who have ankle arthritis.
ARTHRITIS – DEFINED
Arthritis refers to inflammation in one or more joints. Arthritis can occur in any joint, but it is especially common in the small joints located in the foot and the ankle. Unfortunately, arthritis cannot be cured; however, it can be managed. There are a variety of treatment options available at North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists that are specifically designed to relieve the symptoms associated with this condition as well as slow its progression. Many individuals who have arthritis find that they can remain active by managing their pain, which allows them to lead the fulfilling lives they deserve.
OSTEOARTHRITIS FREQUENTLY AFFECTS THE ANKLE AND FOOT
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease and commonly occurs once an individual reaches middle age. Osteoarthritis involves the joint cartilage gradually wearing away. As this occurs, the joint becomes rough and frayed. As the protective space between the bones decreases, the bones begin rubbing against one another. This rubbing can cause painful bone spurs to form. Osteoarthritis gradually develops, resulting in stiffness and pain that becomes worse as time passes.
SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS
Symptoms are directly linked to the joint that is affected. In the majority of cases, the joint will be swollen and painful. Usually, this pain develops gradually; however, there have been instances where the pain comes on suddenly.
Other symptoms of arthritis include:
SYMPTOMS OF ACHILLES TENDONITIS
Individuals who have ankle arthritis also experience Achilles tendonitis more frequently than those who do not. Therefore, when outlining the symptoms of ankle arthritis, the symptoms associated with Achilles tendonitis must also be addressed.
The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:
The most prominent symptom of Achilles tendonitis is inflammation and pain in the back side of the heel, especially upon running or walking.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and... unfortunately, sometimes injuries. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists (NFBJS), we understand that accidents happen, especially when juggling holiday decorations, gifts and activities. That's why we're proud to offer the Hurt! app — your trusted resource for managing acute orthopaedic injuries, available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Late last month, North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists orthopaedic surgeons Dr. Steven Kronlage and Dr. Chris O'Grady performed a life-changing procedure on two ½-year-old Nassir Andrew from Grenada through their newly formed non-profit, Hands of Hope Medical Mission (HoHMM). Drs. Kronlage and O'Grady, who also serve as Co-Presidents of HoHMM, performed the organization's first sponsored stateside patient operation at the Andrews Institute Ambulatory Surgery Center.
With National Family Health History Day approaching next week on Thanksgiving, it’s an ideal time to consider family health history’s role in your orthopaedic and sports medicine care. While many people think of family health history in relation to heart disease or cancer, a family history of orthopaedic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis and other joint and bone issues can also impact your own risk and health management. Understanding and documenting your family health history can empower you and your orthopaedic provider to proactively manage or prevent conditions that could affect your long-term mobility and quality of life.