Arthritis picks no age; it affects both young and old. There is a case, however, that strikes much interest and that is ankle arthritis in many young people. There is some thought as to how this happens.
They say it could be due to an inherent systematic disorder called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, but it could as well be a traumatic type that is caused by a recent injury. Following a series of ankle sprains caused by a twisting of the deep cartilage – Osteochondritis Dissecans is usually the secondary effect.
What happens is, due to repetitive injury on the joint area, the cartilage deteriorates, flakes, and once the joint has completely undergone destruction, there is bone to bone contact. This is an extremely painful condition. A patient will complain about a continuous popping of the joint, some instability, stiffness and pain but while this will appear like an ordinary sprain, one should not ignore it. Eventually, this may lead to arthritis but if it is detected beforehand then further destruction can be prevented.
Do not underestimate ankle sprains. Go to a podiatrist and have it examined. It may hurt the budget to have to undergo the tests, but you will have saved so much more if the sprain gets worse and develops into full blown arthritis.
X-rays can give a better view of the condition of your joints and bones. An initial exam can immediately tell if something is wrong. If, however, the first x-ray comes out negative but you have prolonged pain even after two months, an MRI is taken to rule out injury to the cartilage of the talar dome. This test can check the talar dome for subchondrial injury or flaps to the bone underneath.
Treatment for Osteochondritis
1. Conservative Treatment – This involves bracing of the foot as well as physical therapy and the taking of anti-inflammatory medication for pain. Rest is also very important for a person with Osteochondritis as any further strain in the joint can be very injurious.
2. Surgical Treatment – This is done by removing the fragments of the cartilage and drilling small holes into the bone to initiate formation of fibrocartilage or scar tissue. In some cases where the defects to the cartilage are severe, cartilage grafts can be done, as well.
A healthy and active lifestyle is great. Constant activity is good for blood circulation and the maintenance of weight. But before engaging in sport activities you should remember that even Achilles fell to one small injury to his heel. So do not underestimate ankle sprains. Have it checked at once; do not wait for it to get worst.
Ankle instability can be due to Osteochondritis and this can lead to arthritis if you leave it untreated. A brace and a couple of anti-inflammatory drugs could be the only thing you will need, but if you put up with it for long, you might end up in a wheelchair.
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