Ankle Arthritis Treatment from Specialists in New Albany, IN
The board-certified orthopedic physicians at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic provide a full spectrum of ankle arthritis treatment to patients at our location in New Albany, Indiana. An independently owned practice that emphasizes personalized care and compassionate service, our clinic can be your first choice for local arthritis treatment.
What is ankle arthritis?
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is characterized by the age-related degeneration of the cartilage that cushions the body’s joints. Osteoarthritis can develop in one or both ankles as well as the feet, causing the bones that make up this joint to rub together and create friction. Some of the most common signs of ankle arthritis include:
- Difficulty walking and moving around as you normally would
- Swelling, warmth, and tenderness around the ankle
- Pain that worsens after long periods of activity or inactivity
What does ankle arthritis treatment involve?
Ankle arthritis is a degenerative condition that cannot be reversed. Still, there are plenty of steps you can take to slow the progression of the disease, reduce symptoms, and promote good joint health. Many people benefit from conservative ankle arthritis treatment approaches like:
- Physical therapy
- Gentle exercise and stretching
- Bracing and orthotics
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Surgery to remove loose pieces of cartilage or stabilize the ankle joint through fusion (arthrodesis) may be recommended if conservative approaches don’t provide adequate relief. In the most advanced cases, surgery to replace the ankle joint (arthroplasty) may be appropriate.
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic includes a team of ankle specialists who embrace the latest advances in ankle arthritis treatment, including minimally invasive surgical options and leading-edge ankle replacement procedures. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our approach to care. Our team is proud to serve residents of New Albany and all surrounding communities.