Arthritic Joint Surgery
When conservative treatment methods like orthotics and corticosteroid injections fail to improve mobility or reduce pain, arthritic joint surgery may be an option.
Surgical treatment options for arthritis of the foot and ankle include debridement, fusion, and joint replacement. The type of surgery recommended depends on your unique condition. Your podiatrist may suggest more than one type of surgery to improve function and mobility in the foot or ankle joint.
What is Arthritic Joint Surgery?
Arthritic joint surgery is a specialized procedure designed to treat severe arthritis in the foot or ankle when conservative treatments no longer provide relief. By addressing the damaged joints, this surgery helps reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further complications, allowing patients to regain their independence and enjoy daily activities without discomfort.
Types of Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle
There are over 100 different types of arthritis, dozens of which that may affect the foot and ankle. However, the vast majority of patients with arthritis of the foot or ankle joint have one of the following three:
- Osteoarthritis: Most common in people over age 50, as the condition develops slowly over time, but may strike younger people as well. Obesity and a family history of the disease are other risk factors. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in the joint to break down. Patients experience pain and stiffness in the affected joint. Eventually, bone begins rubbing against bone, which may lead to bone spurs (osteophytes).
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Often beginning in the foot and ankle, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the thin tissue surrounding the joint (synovium) to swell. Over time, this swelling damages surrounding tissue, including bone, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Serious deformity and disability in the joint may occur.
- Posttraumatic arthritis: Injury to the foot or ankle, particularly dislocation or fracture, may lead to posttraumatic arthritis. The condition has the same effect on the body as osteoarthritis and may take years to develop.
Please note that there is currently no cure for any type of arthritis. It is a degenerative disease that typically gets worse over time.
Who Needs Arthritic Joint Surgery?
Doctors typically pursue conservative treatment options first. This may include:
- Lifestyle modifications, like switching to low impact sports and exercises
- Losing weight to reduce joint strain
- Physical therapy to improve range of motion and flexibility
- Wearing orthotics or an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)
- Over-the-counter medications or cortisone injections to relieve pain and inflammation
Your doctor may recommend surgery if conservative treatment options fail or your condition worsens.
Types of Arthritic Joint Surgery
We offer several surgical options to address arthritis in the foot and ankle, including:
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Fuses two or more bones in a joint to eliminate pain and provide stability.
- Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant, allowing for improved motion and reduced discomfort.
- Debridement: Removes inflamed tissue or bone spurs to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Osteotomy: Realigns the bones to relieve pressure on the affected joint and improve function.
Our skilled surgeons will recommend the most appropriate procedure based on the severity of your arthritis and your personal goals.
The Benefits of Arthritic Joint Surgery
Arthritic joint surgery provides several benefits, including:
- Significant pain reduction, allowing for improved comfort.
- Enhanced mobility and stability in the foot and ankle.
- Long-term relief, improving your overall quality of life.
- Prevention of further joint damage and deformities.
Our goal is to help you move with confidence and comfort again.
The Surgery Process
Pre-Surgical Consultation:
Our team will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and discuss the best surgical option for you.The Procedure:
Performed under anesthesia, arthritic joint surgery may involve joint fusion, replacement, or other techniques depending on your specific needs.Recovery:
Recovery typically involves rest, physical therapy, and gradual return to activities. Our team will provide a personalized recovery plan and ongoing support to ensure optimal healing.
Recovery Time for Arthritic Joint Surgery
Recovery time depends on your condition and the surgical procedure used to treat it. You may be able to resume normal activities in three to four months, but expect the full recovery time to take up to nine months.
Your doctor will likely advise keeping your foot elevated for one to two weeks following your procedure. In addition, most arthritic joint surgery patients receive a cast to limit mobility during recovery. This is especially important in patients who undergo arthrodesis so that the bones will fuse properly.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly for best results.
Conditions Treated with Arthritic Joint Surgery
All Foot & Ankle Conditions We Treat
Advanced Foot & Ankle Solutions
Have Questions or Need Care?
We’re here to help! Schedule your appointment online now for fast and easy care.
Advanced Surgical Care You Can Trust
Our surgical team is dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality care in a safe and efficient environment. Using the latest techniques in foot and ankle surgery, we aim to provide exceptional outcomes with minimal downtime for our patients.
