Relieving Painful Ankle Joint Arthritis With Injections

Relieving Painful Ankle Joint Arthritis With Injections

As we age we become more prone to foot and ankle problems. These conditions can be very painful and severely limit our mobility. One such condition, commonly known as arthritis, can be very painful and debilitating. Arthritis of the ankle or joint occurs most often in athletes with a history of trauma to the ankle and in older patients from normal wear and tear as the body ages.

If a patient complains of pain and it is accompanied by the following symptoms, then they may be a good candidate for a corticosteroid joint injection:

  • Pain
  • Disability
  • Limitation of motion
  • Warmth to palpation
  • Erythema

A radiograph can be used to confirm a diagnosis. These are noninvasive and can be done during a regular appointment at an office visit in most cases. Sometimes you will be referred to a outside source if the podiatrist does not have a radiograph in the office.

Before performing an injection, a podiatrist must make certain that the joint is not infected. If it is infected than the joint must be aspirated. This is because the injection will be rendered completely useless if an infection is present.

How is it done?

The patient is asked to lie on their back with their ankle relaxed. The podiatrist will then feel around the ankle to find the right injection site. Once the site is identified, they will sterilize the injection site and insert the needle. The injection will be slow and careful so that the medicine works properly.

Once the injection is done the patient will be asked to stay in the same position for 5-10 minutes while the injection naturally enters the body and spreads. They will also be asked to stay in the office for 30 additional minutes to be sure that no adverse reactions occur.

Are you suffering from ankle pain? Tried all other alternatives? Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn can help relieve your pain and restore mobility. Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona, is friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about your feet and their care. Call 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today.