Ankle Arthritis - Dr. Burke Orthopedics

Ankle Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis) – Understanding Chronic Ankle Joint Degeneration

Overview

Ankle arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic joint pain among adults in Pearland, Houston, and Southeast Texas, often leading to stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking. The ankle joint supports your body’s entire weight with every step, and when the cartilage that cushions it wears down, pain and reduced mobility follow.

There are two primary forms of ankle arthritis:

Sharp pain or tenderness around the ankle joint
Swelling and bruising within hours of injury
Difficulty bearing weight or walking
Stiffness or restricted range of motion
A popping or tearing sensation at the moment of injury
Weakness or instability in the ankle after activity

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What Causes Ankle Sprains?

The ankle joint is supported by a network of ligaments — tough, fibrous bands of tissue that connect bone to bone and provide stability during movement. A sprain occurs when these ligaments are stretched beyond their limit or torn.

Common causes include:

Osteoarthritis (OA) — caused by age-related wear and tear, past injuries, or repetitive stress.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) — an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and damage.

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At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience, provides advanced, evidence-based treatments to restore mobility and help patients regain their quality of life. Whether through conservative therapies or modern surgical techniques, Dr. Burke tailors every treatment plan to your condition, goals, and lifestyle.

What Causes Ankle Arthritis

Your ankle joint is a complex structure where the tibia, fibula, and talus meet, supported by ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissue. Over time or due to trauma, this structure can degrade, leading to inflammation and pain.

Common causes include:

Post-traumatic arthritis from prior sprains or fractures
Repetitive stress from high-impact activity or occupations involving long standing periods
Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis
Genetic predisposition to joint weakness
Obesity, which increases joint load and accelerates wear
Improper alignment of the foot or ankle, such as flatfoot deformity

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Symptoms

The symptoms of ankle arthritis often develop gradually and worsen over time.

Common indicators include:

Persistent ankle pain that worsens with movement
Swelling or warmth around the joint
Morning stiffness or pain after rest
Grinding, clicking, or catching sensation when moving the ankle
Difficulty walking, running, or standing on uneven surfaces
Decreased range of motion and balance instability

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These symptoms may flare up after increased activity or changes in weather, especially in cases of inflammatory arthritis.

Diagnosis

Dr. Burke uses a combination of clinical expertise and advanced imaging to diagnose ankle arthritis and determine the best course of treatment.

Diagnostic steps may include:

Physical examination to assess range of motion, swelling, and tenderness
X-rays to visualize cartilage loss, bone spurs, or joint narrowing
MRI scans to evaluate soft tissue and cartilage damage
Blood tests to identify autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
Gait analysis to assess movement patterns and mechanical stress points

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An accurate diagnosis allows for a customized approach that preserves function and minimizes future joint deterioration.

Treatment Options at Dr. Burke Orthopedics

Non-Surgical Treatments:

Most cases of ankle arthritis can initially be managed conservatively with personalized treatment plans focused on pain control, mobility, and joint preservation.
Common non-surgical options include:

Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort
Corticosteroid injections for temporary inflammation control
Custom orthotics and bracing to improve alignment and relieve pressure
Weight management and low-impact activity to minimize joint strain

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PRP Therapy

To promote tissue healing through regenerative medicine

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These therapies can help many patients delay or avoid surgery while maintaining an active lifestyle.

Surgical Treatments

When pain persists or joint damage is severe, surgical treatment may be recommended to restore stability and motion.

Options include:

Arthroscopy — a minimally invasive procedure that removes loose cartilage, bone spurs, or inflamed tissue
Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis) — fusing the bones of the ankle to eliminate motion at the arthritic joint and relieve pain
Total Ankle Replacement — replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components that mimic natural motion

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Dr. Burke’s extensive experience with advanced reconstructive techniques allows him to recommend the best option for each patient’s activity level and lifestyle.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery depends on treatment type and arthritis severity.

Non-surgical management: Patients often see improvement in mobility and pain levels within several weeks to months.
Surgical recovery: Healing from arthroscopy may take 6–8 weeks, while fusion or replacement may require 3–6 months of guided rehabilitation.

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Rehabilitation goals include regaining range of motion, reducing inflammation, and strengthening supporting muscles through personalized physical therapy.

Prevention strategies:

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
Wear supportive footwear suited for your activities
Avoid repetitive high-impact motions
Stay active with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling
Address injuries promptly to prevent post-traumatic arthritis

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When to Seek Medical Care

You should see an orthopedic specialist if:

Pain persists despite rest or over-the-counter medication
Swelling or stiffness limits your movement
You hear grinding or clicking in the joint
You have a history of ankle injury with recurring pain

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Prompt evaluation and early intervention can significantly slow arthritis progression and preserve your independence.

Serving Our Community

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we proudly serve patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering a full spectrum of orthopedic care for arthritis and joint disorders. Our mission is to provide compassionate, expert treatment that restores mobility, reduces pain, and enhances quality of life for every patient.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Living

Chronic ankle stiffness or arthritis doesn’t have to limit your movement or comfort. Advanced treatments can restore flexibility, reduce pain, and help you stay active.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online with Dr. Robert L.
Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.

Our team provides comprehensive arthritis care — from diagnosis to rehabilitation — helping patients maintain long-term joint health and function.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider about any medical condition or treatment. If you experience severe pain, sudden swelling, or loss of movement, seek immediate medical attention or visit your nearest emergency center.