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Ankle Arthritis Symptoms
Posted on 08-26-2025 in Achilles Tendinitis, Ankle Arthritis & Arthritis by Dr. Erik Nilssen
Posted on 08-26-2025 in Achilles Tendinitis, Ankle Arthritis & Arthritis by Dr. Erik Nilssen
While stiffness and pain may increase with age, this can also be a classic sign of osteoarthritis. Swelling, pain, and deformity can keep you from normal daily activities if left untreated. Here is more information to help you identify symptoms and understand how it can affect your foot and ankle.
ANKLE ARTHRITIS
There are numerous forms of arthritis (more than 100), many of which affect the ankle. No matter which type of ankle arthritis an individual has, walking and participating in physical activities can be challenging. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we frequently treat individuals in Pensacola and Gulf Breeze Fla., who have ankle arthritis.
ARTHRITIS – DEFINED
Arthritis refers to inflammation in one or more joints. Arthritis can occur in any joint, but it is especially common in the small joints located in the foot and the ankle. Unfortunately, arthritis cannot be cured; however, it can be managed. There are a variety of treatment options available at North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists that are specifically designed to relieve the symptoms associated with this condition as well as slow its progression. Many individuals who have arthritis find that they can remain active by managing their pain, which allows them to lead the fulfilling lives they deserve.
OSTEOARTHRITIS FREQUENTLY AFFECTS THE ANKLE AND FOOT
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease and commonly occurs once an individual reaches middle age. Osteoarthritis involves the joint cartilage gradually wearing away. As this occurs, the joint becomes rough and frayed. As the protective space between the bones decreases, the bones begin rubbing against one another. This rubbing can cause painful bone spurs to form. Osteoarthritis gradually develops, resulting in stiffness and pain that becomes worse as time passes.
SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS
Symptoms are directly linked to the joint that is affected. In the majority of cases, the joint will be swollen and painful. Usually, this pain develops gradually; however, there have been instances where the pain comes on suddenly.
Other symptoms of arthritis include:
SYMPTOMS OF ACHILLES TENDONITIS
Individuals who have ankle arthritis also experience Achilles tendonitis more frequently than those who do not. Therefore, when outlining the symptoms of ankle arthritis, the symptoms associated with Achilles tendonitis must also be addressed.
The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:
The most prominent symptom of Achilles tendonitis is inflammation and pain in the back side of the heel, especially upon running or walking.
July is Park & Recreation Month, a national celebration of the green spaces and recreational opportunities that help communities thrive. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we believe this observance is the perfect reminder of how time spent outdoors isn’t just good for the soul—it’s good for your joints, too.
With temperatures already in the eighties or higher across the Florida Panhandle, staying hydrated is critical for the health of your joints, not just for your overall health. While water intake is most commonly associated with skin health, digestion and energy levels, hydration is just as vital in keeping your joints moving comfortably and efficiently. Below are a few of the most common questions, along with answers, to help stay “fluid” in the Florida heat.
With the school year beginning soon, many parents, including me, are busy checking off supply lists and preparing our kids for the transition back to the classroom. But as a Sports Medicine physician and a parent, I know that ensuring a healthy and safe school year goes far beyond pencils and paper. The start of school is the perfect time to review a few key safety and wellness practices with your children, especially when it comes to backpack safety, hydration, and nutrition.