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?
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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- 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.
