Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage in a joint changes. Cartilage helps bones to move smoothly against one another.

Osteoarthritis of the ankle joint makes it harder to move the ankle. This can alter the way the foot rolls when walking and may cause symptoms when moving or putting weight on the ankle.

Osteoarthritis of the ankle joint can have various causes

Possible causes include, for example:

age;
a previous ankle injury or fracture;
recurrent ankle sprains;
rheumatism;
long-term strain;
an abnormal position of the foot or ankle;
excess weight;
changes associated with ageing.

Symptoms vary from person to person and may change over time. Symptoms are often most noticeable after rest or, conversely, after prolonged exertion.

You may, for example, notice that:

the ankle feels stiff when standing up or after resting;
walking or climbing stairs causes pain;
you find it difficult to lift your foot;
the ankle becomes thicker or more sensitive after exertion;
otherwise you’ll end up walking;
standing for long periods or walking longer distances becomes more difficult.

A healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms caused by osteoarthritis in the upper ankle joint. Osteoarthritis can make the ankle less flexible. By staying active within your capabilities, your muscles remain stronger and the ankle is better supported.

Sufficient exercise, a healthy diet, a healthy body weight and adequate recovery can help to distribute the load on the ankle more evenly. Too little exercise can weaken muscles. Too much strain over a short period can actually make pain and stiffness worse.

Mental health also plays a role. Stress, poor sleep or worries about pain can make symptoms feel more severe. Fear of moving can lead to you becoming less active, which in turn can reduce your strength and stamina.

Our lifestyle coaches can support you in making changes that suit your situation and capabilities. When symptoms affect your daily activities, our occupational therapists thinking alongside you. If long-term symptoms are also affecting your mental health, support from a psychologist be appropriate.

There is a lot you can do yourself to reduce mobility problems caused by osteoarthritis.

For example, you could:

keep exercising regularly within your capabilities;
alternating physical exertion with rest;
wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in and provide good support;
adjust your activities if pain or swelling increases;
working on strength and fitness;
Please get in touch if the number of complaints rises rapidly.

Our podiatrists to examine how your ankle moves and how your foot is loaded whilst standing and walking.

Treatment may consist of:

advice on shoes;
podiatry insoles;
support for gait;
advice on stress and recovery;
in collaboration with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Osteoarthritis does not go away, but with the right support, symptoms can often be alleviated and moving around can become more comfortable.

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Osteoarthritis of the ankle joint

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