Ankle and foot osteoarthritis, often called ankle arthritis, is wear-related change in the joints of the ankle, midfoot or big toe. The cartilage thins and the joint can become painful, stiff and sometimes swollen, especially with walking.
Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition. The smooth cartilage that covers the ends of the bones gradually thins, and the joint reacts by forming extra bone at its edges. In the foot and ankle, it most often affects three areas: the ankle itself, the joints across the middle of the foot, and the big toe joint. Big toe arthritis that stiffens the toe is called hallux rigidus.
Ankle arthritis often follows an old injury, such as a fracture or repeated sprains, sometimes many years earlier. Midfoot and big toe arthritis are more often linked to age, foot shape and load over time. Symptoms tend to come and go. Many people manage well with footwear changes, exercise and other non-surgical care.
The doctor asks about past injuries, your symptoms and activities, and examines the joints for swelling, range of movement and tenderness. Your walking pattern and footwear are also checked.
Where helpful, an ultrasound scan can look for joint fluid, inflammation or tendon problems nearby. It can also be used to guide an injection if one is planned.
Weight-bearing X-rays, arranged by referral, are usually the main test to confirm osteoarthritis and show how much the joint is affected. MRI or a CT scan is arranged only if needed.
If the pattern suggests gout or an inflammatory arthritis, blood tests may be arranged to check for these.
Your plan depends on what the assessment finds. These are the options we most often discuss.
Exercises to keep the ankle and foot moving and to strengthen the calf and leg can help with pain and function. Lower-impact activities such as cycling or swimming are often easier on the joints.
Learn moreShoes with a stiff or rocker-shaped sole reduce how much the ankle and big toe need to bend. Cushioned or supportive insoles, and a roomier toe box, may also ease pain.
Gentle hands-on mobilisation may help ease stiffness in some people, particularly at the ankle and big toe, when combined with exercise.
Learn moreSimple pain relief, anti-inflammatory gels or tablets where suitable, and pacing activities can help manage flare-ups. Weight management may reduce load on the joints.
Where assessed as suitable, an image-guided cortisone injection into the affected joint may reduce pain for a period. It does not reverse arthritis and is usually combined with other measures.
Learn moreSometimes tried for ankle or big toe arthritis, for example when a cortisone injection is not suitable or its effect has worn off. The evidence is mixed, so your doctor will discuss whether it is worth trying for you.
Learn moreIf pain and function remain poor despite a good trial of conservative care, the clinic will refer you to an orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon to discuss surgical options.
Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, but symptoms often vary over time rather than steadily worsening. Many people find that the right footwear, regular exercise and managing flare-ups keep them walking comfortably for years. Flare-ups may last days to weeks. How well each treatment works varies from person to person. When pain and stiffness keep limiting daily life despite these measures, a surgical opinion may be the next step.
No. Staying active is generally good for arthritic joints. You may need to swap some high-impact activities for lower-impact ones, such as cycling or swimming, and build up gradually. Your doctor can help you find a level that suits your joints.
Yes. Ankle arthritis often follows a past injury that changed the joint surface or its stability. It may appear many years after the original injury. This is why lasting pain or stiffness after an old injury is worth having checked.
A cortisone injection may be offered where assessed as suitable, and can ease pain for a period. Hyaluronic acid injections are sometimes used in ankle arthritis, but the evidence is mixed. Injections do not repair cartilage and are usually part of a wider plan.
Shoes with a stiff sole or a rocker bottom reduce how much the big toe needs to bend when you walk. A deep, wide toe box avoids pressure on any bony lump. Very flexible shoes and high heels often make symptoms worse.
In-clinic consultations are $55 for a first visit and $40 for a repeat visit; tele-consultations are $30, or $50 after 6:30 pm or on weekends. All fees are before GST. Injections and other procedures are quoted after your assessment, before any treatment starts. We are joining insurance panels, so please contact us to check whether your insurer is accepted.
No. Inflexion Clinic is a private GP clinic, so you can book directly. Book online or call the clinic on +65 8997 0659.
Our clinicians will take a proper history, examine you, and give you a clear plan on the day.