Ankle arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle. This condition can significantly impact your mobility and daily activities, causing pain during walking, standing, or even while resting. Mr. Ziad Harb, a leading orthopaedic consultant in Surrey, provides comprehensive treatment options for ankle arthritis, from conservative management to advanced surgical techniques. This guide will explain the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and recovery process for ankle arthritis.

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What is Ankle Arthritis?

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the ankle joint deteriorates, causing bones to rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation, and restricted movement. There are several types of ankle arthritis, including:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joint over time.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and damage to the joints, including the ankle.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis develops after an ankle injury, such as a fracture or sprain, which can accelerate cartilage breakdown.

The condition is most common in adults over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger individuals, particularly those who have experienced ankle injuries or overuse.

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Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis

The symptoms of ankle arthritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:

• Pain in the ankle joint, which may worsen with activity or at the end of the day.
• Stiffness in the ankle, particularly after periods of rest or in the morning.
• Swelling or tenderness around the ankle joint.
• Reduced range of motion in the ankle, making it difficult to walk or bend the foot.
• A feeling of grinding or crunching when moving the ankle.

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult with Mr. Harb to determine the best treatment plan to manage your condition.

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Who Can Benefit from Ankle Arthritis Treatment?

Ankle arthritis can affect individuals of all ages, particularly those who have sustained previous ankle injuries or have a family history of arthritis. Treatment can help those who experience:

• Chronic ankle pain that limits movement and daily activities.
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods of time.
• Stiffness or swelling that impacts joint function.
• Reduced mobility and quality of life due to ankle discomfort.

If you are struggling with ankle pain or stiffness, Mr. Harb will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

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Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Surrey: The Procedure

Pre-Operative Preparation

Before starting treatment, Mr. Harb will evaluate your symptoms and may perform imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to assess the extent of cartilage damage and joint degeneration. Based on this assessment, he will develop a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs. The options may include:

• Conservative Treatments: Non-surgical management to relieve pain and improve function.
• Surgical Options: If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary to restore joint function.

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Non-Surgical Treatment Options

In the early stages of ankle arthritis, non-surgical treatments can provide significant relief. These may include:

• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme that includes strengthening and stretching exercises to improve the range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Orthotics: Customised insoles or braces that support the joint and reduce pressure on the affected areas.
• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Activity Modification: Modifying daily activities and avoiding high-impact movements that strain the ankle joint.

In many cases, these non-surgical treatments can effectively manage symptoms and allow you to maintain an active lifestyle without the need for surgery.

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Surgical Treatment Options

If conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, surgery may be necessary to treat ankle arthritis. Surgical options include:

• Ankle Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the joint to remove damaged tissue or smooth the surfaces of the bones. This can help reduce pain and improve movement.
• Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis): A surgical procedure in which the bones of the ankle joint are fused together to eliminate pain by preventing movement in the joint. While this procedure limits movement, it can significantly reduce pain and restore function.
• Ankle Replacement (Arthroplasty): In certain cases, ankle replacement surgery may be an option. This procedure involves replacing the damaged ankle joint with an artificial one, providing pain relief and restoring joint function.

Each surgical option has its own benefits and risks, and Mr. Harb will discuss which option is best suited to your condition based on factors such as age, activity level, and the severity of your arthritis.

Mr. Harb performs ankle arthritis surgeries at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital, a leading facility in Guildford, Surrey, known for its advanced surgical suites and high standards of care. Runnymede Hospital in Ottershaw, Surrey, is also a prominent location for ankle arthritis surgeries, offering state-of-the-art facilities for orthopaedic procedures.

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Duration and Post-Op Care

After surgery, recovery time will vary depending on the procedure. For instance:

• Ankle Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure typically involves a shorter recovery time, with most patients resuming normal activities within 2-3 months.
• Ankle Fusion: Recovery from ankle fusion surgery may take 3-6 months, and patients will need to avoid weight-bearing activities during the early stages of recovery.
• Ankle Replacement: Recovery from ankle replacement surgery may take up to 6 months, with gradual increases in activity as healing progresses.

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Post-operative care includes:

• Pain Management: Prescribed medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme to help restore strength and mobility.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups with Mr. Harb to monitor progress and ensure optimal healing.

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Recovery Timeline:

• First Few Days: Rest, pain management, and limited movement.
• First Few Weeks: Gradual weight-bearing as advised by Mr. Harb.
• 3-6 Months: Full recovery with improved function and mobility.

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Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Nerve damage or blood vessel injury.
• Failure of the surgery to alleviate pain or improve function.
• Stiffness or decreased range of motion after surgery.

Mr. Harb uses the latest techniques and ensures careful monitoring throughout the recovery process to minimise these risks and provide the best possible outcome.

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Why Choose Mr. Ziad Harb for Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Surrey?

Mr. Ziad Harb is a highly skilled orthopaedic consultant with extensive experience in treating ankle arthritis. Whether through conservative management or advanced surgical procedures, his expertise and compassionate approach make him the ideal choice for managing ankle arthritis. Benefits of choosing Mr. Harb include:

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities such as Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital.
• A tailored, patient-centred approach to ensure the most effective treatment for your needs.
• Ongoing support and follow-up care to monitor your recovery and long-term health.

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FAQs

How long does it take to recover from ankle arthritis treatment?
Recovery times vary depending on the treatment. Non-surgical options may take weeks to months, while surgical options like ankle fusion or replacement may require several months for full recovery.

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Will I need surgery for ankle arthritis?
Surgery is generally only recommended if conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if the arthritis is severe. Mr. Harb will assess your condition and discuss the most appropriate options with you.

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Can I still be active with ankle arthritis?
With proper treatment, many people with ankle arthritis can remain active, although high-impact activities may need to be limited. Mr. Harb will guide you on how to manage your condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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Is ankle replacement surgery a good option?
Ankle replacement surgery can be highly effective for individuals with severe arthritis. It can relieve pain and restore function, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Mr. Harb will assess whether this procedure is right for you.

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Contact us today to learn more about how Mr. Ziad Harb can help you manage ankle arthritis and improve your mobility.