Treatment Options for Arthritis
Non Surgical Treatments
- Treatment may vary due to severity, location and type of the arthritis.
- Non surgical therapy
- Medication is started to reduce swelling and pain
- Soft and orthopedic shoes
- Resting the ankle with orthosis
- Using a walking stick to prevent weight bearing
- Physiotherapy and exercise
- Weight control and nutritional supplements
- Intra-articular medication are among the recommendations.
Surgical Treatments
Arthroscopic debridement:Provides relief in early stages and is beneficial.Intra Articular calcification tissues are wiped away.
Arthrodesis: The joint is completely immobilized. In this method, screw, plate or K-Wires are used to fixate and immobilize the joint. Provides relief in advanced cases and is an effective and the most preferred method.
Arthroplasty: It is a new trend and its long-term results have not been published. It is not as widespread as knee and hip prosthesis.
Operative Process
- Foot and ankle surgeries can be painful. Painkillers will be effective.
- Elevate your feet higher than your heart level and apply ice.
- Your doctor may apply phsyotherapy for couple of months. Full recovery would take time.
- Many cases benefit from surgery and continue their daily life with no pain. Full recovery lasts 9 to 12 months. But this depends on the severity of the deformation and the therapy.
