Description...

Arthritis is characterized by pain and inflammation within a joint, typically becoming more severe as one grows older. The cartilage, which acts as a cushion for the joint, deteriorates or becomes damaged, allowing the bones rub and wear against each other.

There are three common types of ankle arthritis:

Osteoarthritis is known as degenerative, or "wear and tear," arthritis, and it is becomes more common as people advance in age. Over the years, the cartilage, the smooth surface covering the ends of the bones in the joint, becomes worn and frayed. Consequently, the joint becomes inflamed, swollen and painful. Osteoarthritis progresses slowly, with the pain and stiffness worsening as time passes.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a system-wide inflammatory disease in which the patient's immune system attacks and destroys the body's cartilage.

Post-traumatic arthritis may develop after an injury to the foot or ankle. This type of arthritis is quite similar to osteoarthritis and may develop even years after a fracture, sprain or ligament injury.

Treatment...

There is no cure for arthritis, but there are ways to minimize its impact on your life.

• Wear an iGO Ankle Wraparound or an iGO Elastic Ankle Support to stabilize the ankle, improve joint mobility and increase blood flow, which will reduce pain and swelling.

• Purchase shoe inserts (orthotics).

• Consult with your physician on whether an injection of steroid medication into the joint might be helpful.

• Use a cane to help take pressure off the painful ankle.

• Perform daily exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle.

 

At-Home Exercises...

Achilles Stretch:

With your palms flat against a wall, place one foot forward and one foot back and lean against the wall. Lean forward, keeping your heels in contact with the floor. You should feel a stretch in your Achilles tendon and your calf. Repeat three times with steady, slow, deep breathing. Hold for ten seconds on each repetition. Switch front and back feet and repeat.

Big-Toe Stretch:

Place a thick rubber band between both big toes. Pull the big toes away from each other and toward the other toes. Hold this position for five seconds. Repeat the exercise ten times with steady, slow, deep breathing.

Toe Pull:

Place a rubber band around the toes of one foot and spread your toes as far as you comfortably can. Hold this position for five seconds. Repeat the exercise ten times with steady, slow, deep breathing.

Toe Curl:

Place marbles or other objects of similar shape, size, weight and smoothness on the floor. Practice picking them up one by one using your bare toes.