ANKLE OSTEOARTHRITIS: STIFFNESS AND PAIN THAT LIMITS MOBILITY
The ankle osteoarthritis It is a degenerative disease that affects the cartilage of the joint, reducing its cushioning capacity and causing pain and progressive stiffness.
Causes and risk factors
- Natural wear and tear of the joint with aging.
- Sequelae of old injuries (sprains or poorly healed fractures).
- Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory diseases.
- Obesity, which increases the load on the joint.
- Gait abnormalities, such as flat feet or ankle valgus.
Symptoms of ankle osteoarthritis
- Joint pain that increases with activity and improves with rest.
- Morning stiffness or stiffness after prolonged periods of inactivity.
- Occasional swelling and a feeling of “stiff ankle”.
- Loss of mobility, difficulty walking long distances or climbing stairs.
- In advanced cases, ankle deformity and severe limitation of movement.
Treatment
- Physiotherapy and mobility exercises to maintain joint flexibility.
- Analgesics and anti-inflammatories for pain control.
- Orthopedic insoles or supports to improve stability and reduce the load on the ankle.
- Platelet Growth Factors (PRP): PRP injections to improve cartilage regeneration and reduce inflammation.
- Hyaluronic acid: Injections to improve joint lubrication.
- Surgery (ankle prosthesis or arthrodesis): In advanced cases with debilitating pain.
Dr. Narváez Clinic’s Approach
When to Consult?
If you experience persistent ankle pain, instability when walking, or progressive stiffness, it is important to get a proper diagnosis.
