Ankle Arthritis

Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Fort Worth & Burleson, TX

Ankle arthritis can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, making everyday activities increasingly difficult over time.

Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM is a dual board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon providing comprehensive treatment for ankle arthritis in Fort Worth and Burleson, Texas. Care is individualized and ranges from conservative management to advanced surgical reconstruction when necessary.

What is Ankle Arthritis?

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage within the ankle joint gradually wears down, leading to bone-on-bone contact and inflammation.

Unlike hip or knee arthritis, ankle arthritis is often caused by prior injury rather than age alone.

Over time, this can result in:

Joint stiffness
Pain with movement
Decreased mobility

If untreated, symptoms may progressively worsen.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Pain in the ankle joint
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Swelling around the ankle
Reduced range of motion
Difficulty walking or standing
Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest early on.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors?

Ankle arthritis may develop due to:

Prior ankle injury or fracture
Chronic ankle instability
Repetitive stress over time
Inflammatory arthritis
Abnormal joint mechanics

Previous trauma is one of the most common causes.

What Are The Treatment Options?

Many patients can manage symptoms without surgery.

Activity modification
Bracing or ankle support
Custom orthotics
Anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid injections

These treatments help reduce pain and improve function.

Surgery may be recommended when symptoms significantly impact daily activity.

Options depend on severity and patient goals.

Common procedures include:

Arthroscopic debridement (early-stage disease)
Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) for advanced arthritis
Total ankle replacement in selected patients

Each option has different benefits and considerations. Treatment is tailored to the individual.

What Is The Recovery Timeline?

Recovery varies based on treatment.

Conservative care: symptom management over time
Surgical treatment:
- Immobilization period
- Gradual return to weight-bearing
- Physical therapy

Full recovery may take several months depending on the procedure performed.

When To See A Specialist?

Persistent ankle pain
Stiffness limiting mobility
Swelling or decreased function
Pain interfering with daily activity
Early evaluation can help slow progression and expand treatment options.

Dr. Ryba sees patients in Fort Worth and Burleson, TX through
Lonestar Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, PLLC.

When scheduling, please request an appointment specifically with Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM.