About ankle and foot arthritis
Arthritis in the ankle or foot happens when the cartilage covering the ends of the bones wears thin. It can affect the main ankle joint, the joints below it, the midfoot, or the big toe. Unlike knee and hip arthritis, ankle arthritis often follows an old injury, such as a fracture or repeated sprains.
The foot has many small joints, and pinpointing which one hurts matters for treatment. Pain and stiffness can change how you walk, which may lead to pain in the knee, hip, or back as well.
Our aim is to keep you on your feet and active, whether that means walking, hiking, golf, or running, with a plan that fits your joints and your goals.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the ankle or a specific area of the foot with walking or standing
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Swelling around the ankle or midfoot after activity
- Reduced motion, such as difficulty pushing off with the big toe
- Pain on uneven ground, slopes, or stairs
Common causes and risk factors
- Previous ankle fractures or repeated ankle sprains
- Age-related joint changes
- Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout
- Foot shape and alignment differences that concentrate load on certain joints
How we diagnose it
Our physicians examine each joint of the ankle and foot and use diagnostic ultrasound at the exam table to find fluid, an irritated joint lining, bone spurs, or nearby tendon problems. Standing X-rays show the pattern of arthritis. When it is unclear which small joint is causing the pain, an ultrasound-guided diagnostic injection can help confirm the source.
How Propel treats ankle and foot arthritis
We start with footwear changes, such as stiffer or rocker-bottom soles, bracing when useful, and a strength and balance program for the foot, ankle, and leg. Activity is adjusted rather than stopped, and we consider weight, sleep, and overall health as part of recovery. An ultrasound-guided injection places medicine precisely into the painful joint when a flare needs calming.
For ongoing pain, Dr. Gruner and Dr. Chen offer PRP and microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT; your own fat tissue, gently processed). These do not rebuild cartilage, but they may ease pain and improve function. Dr. Chen also performs joint denervation for people delaying or avoiding surgery. When fusion or replacement is the better answer, we help coordinate a surgical referral.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Clinical evidence
Published studies our physicians draw on. Results in studies do not predict any one person's outcome.
Questions about ankle and foot arthritis
- Can I stay active with ankle arthritis?
- Yes. Cycling, swimming, strength training, and walking in supportive shoes are often well tolerated. We help you find activities and footwear that let you keep exercising with less pain.
- Why is ultrasound guidance important for foot and ankle injections?
- The foot and ankle have many small joints close together. Ultrasound lets the physician see the needle and place the injection in the exact joint that is causing pain, which also helps confirm the diagnosis.
- When is surgery the right choice for ankle arthritis?
- Surgery, such as fusion or ankle replacement, is worth considering when pain limits daily life despite good conservative care. We discuss this openly and help coordinate a referral when it is the right step.