Ankle Arthritis

Ankle arthritis can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts your quality of life, particularly in the active communities of Utah Valley. At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we understand the challenges that come with arthritis and are dedicated to providing the most advanced and compassionate care to help you regain mobility and enjoy life to the fullest. 

Arthritis in the ankle occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Common causes of ankle arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition caused by wear and tear over time.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Resulting from previous injuries, such as fractures or sprains, that damage the joint.

The symptoms of ankle arthritis can vary, but often include:

• Pain: Persistent pain that worsens with activity and can be severe enough to limit daily activities.
• Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to walk or perform other activities.
• Swelling: Inflammation around the joint, leading to swelling and tenderness.
• Difficulty with Daily Activities: Simple tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods can become challenging.

Living an active lifestyle in Utah Valley can be particularly difficult when dealing with the pain and limitations caused by ankle arthritis. Our goal is to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Accurate and precise evaluation of your condition is essential for achieving the best outcomes and creating a personalized care plan. At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we take the time to thoroughly assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a comprehensive physical examination to understand the extent of your condition. This meticulous approach ensures that we develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. 

At BlueRock Medical Center, we set ourselves apart with our state-of-the-art imaging center. We provide access to on-site 3D CT scans and MRI imaging, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment planning. We collaborate with expert fellowship-trained interventional radiologists to ensure that you receive the highest quality imaging and care. This collaboration enhances our ability to accurately diagnose complex conditions and tailor treatment plans to your specific needs. 

At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we offer a variety of non-surgical treatments to help manage ankle arthritis and alleviate symptoms. These options include:

Ultrasound-Guided Injections: Utilizing advanced ultrasound technology, we provide precise injections to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected joint. This technique allows for accurate delivery of medication to the targeted area, enhancing effectiveness and minimizing discomfort.

Advanced Bracing: We collaborate with local Certified Prosthetist Orthotists in the Provo and Orem area to provide custom braces that offer support and stability to the ankle joint. These braces help reduce pain, improve function, and allow you to stay active while managing arthritis.

Physical Therapy: Tailored exercise programs and manual therapy techniques designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle joint.

Custom Orthotics: Specially designed shoe inserts that provide support and alleviate pressure on the affected joint, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.

When conservative treatments are not enough to relieve the pain and improve function, surgical options may be considered. At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, we offer advanced surgical techniques to treat ankle arthritis, including:

Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis): This procedure involves fusing the bones of the ankle joint to eliminate pain. While it limits the range of motion, it can provide significant relief from arthritis pain and improve stability.

Total Ankle Replacement (Arthroplasty): This innovative procedure involves replacing the damaged ankle joint with a prosthetic joint, allowing for improved mobility and pain relief. The latest advancements in total ankle replacement, including 3D printing technology, allow for individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique anatomy and needs.

Limb Salvage for Severe Arthritis, Deformity, and Infection: In cases of severe arthritis, deformity, or infection, limb salvage procedures can help preserve the function and appearance of the affected limb. These complex surgeries require advanced training and expertise to achieve the best outcomes.

At BlueRock Foot & Ankle, Dr. Rockwood has access to the latest technology, including 3D printing, to create customized treatment plans for our patients. This cutting-edge approach allows us to design prosthetics and surgical guides tailored to your specific anatomy, ensuring the best possible outcomes for total ankle replacement and other complex procedures. 

Dr. Jason Rockwood, the lead provider at BlueRock Foot & Ankle, has received advanced training in the most complex surgeries to provide functional use of the ankle. He has spent years conducting research in total ankle implants, working alongside his mentor, Dr. Mark Feldman, to publish multiple articles and technique chapters in leading authoritative books in the profession. Dr. Rockwood's international experience with total ankle replacements includes work in Germany and Argentina, collaborating with other experts to develop new implants. He holds patents on cutting guides and innovative implants, underscoring his commitment to advancing the field of ankle surgery.

Dr. Rockwood's own experience with ankle arthritis has profoundly shaped his approach to patient care. Having undergone more than four surgeries on his own ankle, including complications that led to a pulmonary embolism and a near-death experience, Dr. Rockwood has a deep empathy for his patients. His personal journey with ankle arthritis drives his commitment to providing compassionate, effective care.

Don't let ankle arthritis hold you back. Schedule an appointment with BlueRock Foot & Ankle today for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. We serve patients in the Utah Valley from Lehi to Payson and every amazing community in between. We are located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Provo, Utah, just minutes from the entrance of Provo Canyon.