When Arthritis Affects Your Ankles: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Arthritis doesn’t just affect your hands or knees—it can also develop in your ankles, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues. At The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center in Northern Virginia, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis of the foot and ankle. 

Common Signs of Ankle Arthritis 

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage in your ankle joint wears down, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain. You might notice: 

• Pain that worsens with activity 

• Stiffness, especially in the morning 

• Swelling around the ankle joint 

• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods 

• A feeling of instability or giving way 

If left untreated, ankle arthritis can limit your mobility and significantly affect your quality of life. 

Types of Ankle Arthritis 

Several types of arthritis can affect the ankle: 

• Osteoarthritis – Age-related wear-and-tear 

• Post-traumatic arthritis – Develops after an ankle injury like a fracture or sprain 

• Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune condition that can attack the ankle joints 

Our board-certified orthopaedic surgeons determine the cause through a physical examination, imaging, and a detailed review of your symptoms and history. 

Treatment Options 

At The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center, we offer foot and ankle care from conservative treatments to surgical intervention. Your treatment plan may include: 

• Custom orthotics to relieve joint pressure 

• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility 

• Bracing or ankle supports 

• Anti-inflammatory medications 

• Corticosteroid injections 

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) 

For more severe cases, surgical options such as ankle fusion (arthrodesis) or total ankle replacement may be considered. Our orthopaedic surgeons are fellowship-trained in advanced ankle reconstruction and joint replacement techniques. 

When to See a Specialist 

If ankle pain is limiting your activity or interfering with your daily life, it’s time to see a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve joint function and improve your long-term outcome. 

If ankle pain is interfering with your daily life, don’t wait to get evaluated. Our orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons are here to help you understand your options and find the right treatment plan. 

Contact our Arlington or Falls Church office to schedule a consultation.