Ankle Arthritis

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Unlike other types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by gradual degeneration or wear-and-tear. Rheumatoid arthritis is actually a systemic autoimmune disease, and will normally affect both joints. Rheumatoid arthritis causes degeneration of the articular cartilage and the fluid that lubricates the joint as well. As the joint loses lubrication and cartilage it begins to cause more friction on the bones, which in turn causes pain and degenerates the area further.

Treating Ankle Arthritis

Treatment of ankle arthritis is dependent upon the type and severity of the arthritis.

• Rest: Activities that produce pain should be avoided. Common everyday activities, such as ascending and descending stairs, should be minimized.
• Ice or moist heat: Use ice to reduce inflammation. If you have rheumatoid arthritis though, you may not be able to use ice without feeling discomfort. Moist heat (like a warm wash cloth) may be used in these cases to help loosen up and individuals stiff joints.
• Compression: May be used when applying ice or moist heat, and can help reduce swelling.
• Elevation: keeping the affected area elevated can help minimize inflammation

Medicine Intervenes and Managing Your Pain

Avoidance of activities that produce unneeded stress and strain on the joint is the first line of treatment. Then seek the consultation of a specialist to receive a full evaluation and proper diagnosis.

• RICE: Rest Ice Compression Elevation
• NSAIDS: Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs. These should help reduce pain and minimize swelling.
• Immobilization: The use of a brace may be used to help protect the joint from extraneous movements and promote healing.
• Injection of steroids may be needed to help reduce the swelling of the affected joint.
• Joint injections of hyaluronic acid preparations to facilitate the repair of joint cartilage and even regeneration of cartilage.

Preventing Ankle Arthritis

When pain and swelling are reduced the individual’s range of motion and strength will begin to improve. A patient should slowly return to their daily activities. To help control the degeneration process, you should follow the instructions given to you by your medical professional.

Our top-rated NJ injury doctor Dr. Freeman provides ankle arthritis treatment and rehabilitation care. Come visit our injury clinic in NJ and meet leading pain doctors and specialists. Our rehabilitation centers are among the best in the region. Our doctors are affiliated with the top-rated hospitals in New Jersey including RWJ Barnabas and Morristown Medical Center. Physicians working at Redefine Healthcare are contributors to many prominent media outlets and are the best doctors for sports injuries and arthritis pain.