Arthritis of the ankle is most commonly a post-traumatic condition, occurring either after a fracture or after repeated ankle sprains. Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also cause an arthritic ankle. Mild to moderate OA will respond to NSAIDS (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen), Injections or an AFO (Ankle-Foot-Orthosis, commonly known as a splint). Once the condition is advanced and has proven not responsive to conservative measures, the most common treatment involved is fusion of the ankle. With advanced fixation and graft techniques this provides for reliable outcomes. Once healed, patients experience significant pain relief.
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