Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats ankle arthritis for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. As the region’s largest orthopedic practice, our specialists help individuals understand the causes of ankle pain and the options available for relief.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Ankle Arthritis
The ankle joint is between the tibia and the talus bones. Arthritis is caused by cartilage loss. The cartilage serves as a layer of cushion and helps with gliding between the two bones. When the cushion wears away, we refer to this as “bone-on-bone” arthritis. In the ankle, the most common cause of arthritis is post-traumatic (developing after an injury like a fracture or multiple ankle sprains) followed by osteoarthritis (ordinary loss of cartilage without a specific injury) and inflammatory arthritis (i.e., rheumatoid arthritis).
Diagnosis of Ankle Arthritis
To diagnose ankle arthritis, Our team will provide a thorough evaluation, including:
• A detailed medical history
• Physical examination
• X-rays and possibly other imaging studies
• Discussion of all treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical
To assess whether you are ready for surgery, your provider will ask you about your pain and look at your gait, ankle stability, deformity, and your range of motion (how much movement you have.) We’ll work with you to determine if ankle replacement is the best option for your individual situation. Our goal is to provide you with the information and support you need to make an informed decision about your health care.
Medical Management of Ankle Arthritis
Before considering ankle replacement surgery, there are several non-surgical approaches that can help manage ankle arthritis and potentially slow its progression. While they won’t cure arthritis or reverse joint damage, these strategies can be very effective in managing symptoms and may help delay the need for surgery.
Weight Reduction
The basic truth is that the more weight your ankle has to carry, the more pain you will experience in the joint and the faster the remaining cartilage will deteriorate. Your ankle experiences up to 5 times your body weight with each step, and even more during activities like running or jumping. Extra weight means more pressure and faster cartilage wear. Even small weight reductions can significantly reduce ankle pain and slow joint deterioration. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Adaptive / Walking Devices
Using a cane in your opposite hand can help reduce weight on your ankle joint and improve balance. Specialized ankle braces or compression sleeves can provide additional stability and reduce swelling. For more significant support, a walker or crutches may be necessary. Custom orthotics or supportive footwear can also help redistribute pressure and provide better ankle support during daily activities.
Activity Modifications
High-impact activities can accelerate ankle damage and increase pain. Avoid activities like jumping, running (especially on uneven surfaces), and sports with quick directional changes. Instead, choose exercises like swimming, water aerobics, stationary cycling, and controlled resistance training. These activities strengthen muscles around your ankle without excessive joint stress while maintaining cardiovascular health and helping with weight management.
When Surgery Is Considered
When pain from arthritis causes severe limitations to your life and conservative treatments no longer help, it may be time to consider ankle replacement surgery. However, it’s a major decision that requires careful consideration.
You might be a candidate for ankle replacement if you experience:
• Severe ankle pain that interferes with everyday activities
• Pain that persists even when resting
• Ankle stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Failure to improve with other treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy
• Visible deformity of the ankle
If you’re considering ankle replacement surgery, the next step is to make an appointment and consult with a Slocum orthopedic specialist.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Ankle Pain
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community active. Our team includes board-certified specialists in ankle and joint conditions, supported by on-site imaging, physical therapy, and a dedicated orthopedic surgery center.
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Feature
August 15, 2025
Slocum to Open New Surgery Center in Eugene
Slocum Orthopedics is building a brand-new, physician-led ambulatory surgery center right here in Eugene. This state-of-the-art facility will expand access to high-quality orthopedic care and help meet the growing demand for surgical services in our community.
