
Non-surgical options (used for less severe arthritis)
In many cases, the symptoms of ankle arthritis can be treated without surgery. Some options that can relieve pain and aid mobility include:
Pain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen
Shoe inserts such as pads and arch supports
Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), a plastic brace worn on the lower leg and foot
Steroid injections into the ankle
Surgical options (for less severe to moderately severe arthritis)
Debridement
A procedure that removes bone spurs and loose pieces of cartilage, if these are causing the ankle pain.
Surgical options (for severe arthritis)
Ankle Fusion
Ankle bones are fused together. Because the joint cannot move or bend, there is less pain, but there is often an irregular walking stride.
Total Ankle Replacement
An artificial implant allows the ankle to move and bend without pain. You regain a more normal walking stride. In fact, 4 out of 5 doctors surveyed agree that patients who undergo total ankle replacement have a better quality of life after the procedure!*
*based on a survey conducted by PearlDiver Technologies, Inc. in April, 2018