Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Ankle Joint - Foot Center Vienna at Confraternität Private Hospital
What are the symptoms of ankle osteoarthritis?
The ankle is a relatively small joint. When walking, running, jumping, and dancing, the joint transfers the entire body weight and forces to the foot. Possible symptoms of ankle osteoarthritis include pulling pain, starting pain, pain radiating into the foot or lower leg, stabbing pain, and pain during lateral tilting movements.
How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made using a conventional X-ray at the Confraternität Private Hospital, without the need for an appointment or long waiting times. In some cases, an MRI scan is also necessary.
Which conservative treatment methods are appropriate?
Conservative treatments include muscle-building exercises, physical therapy, and, above all, appropriate footwear. The goal of treatment is always to eliminate pain and restricted mobility.
When is surgery advisable, and what methods are available?
In advanced stages, and when conservative treatment fails to provide significant improvement, surgery should be considered to restore lasting pain and freedom from movement. The following methods are available:
Arthrodesis
In arthrodesis of the ankle joint, or ankle fusion surgery, the remaining cartilage is removed, and the joint is then fixed with two or three screws. After the surgery, patients are given a cast for two weeks, followed by a walking cast for six to eight weeks.
Endoprosthesis
In this procedure, the body's own joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of high-quality, tissue-compatible materials. Special coatings on the back surface of the implant ensure that the implant can form a firm and particularly stable connection with the bone. A freely gliding plastic core between the metal components ensures natural movement. The prosthesis is inserted without cement.
How long should I expect to stay in the hospital, and how long does the recovery take?
The inpatient stay varies between 2 and 5 days. The leg is immobilized for 6-8 weeks with a weight-bearing cast. For the long-term success of the surgery, targeted physical therapy is crucial to achieve a healthy, stable, and normal gait.
The Center for Foot Surgery at the private hospital Confraternität offers a wide range of medical services for patients with foot diseases and leg deformities using the most modern infrastructure and high-tech equipment. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Hans-Jörg Trnka and his team of foot surgeons are regarded as proven experts in the treatment of changes to the forefoot, rear foot and sports injuries.
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Confraternität Private Hospital
Skodagasse 32
1080 Vienna • Austria
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