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Ankle Arthritis.

Edited By: Bruce J. Sangeorzan, M.D.
Last updated Wednesday, February 08, 2006

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Diagnosis and evaluation

How is ankle arthritis diagnosed?

Ankle arthritis is diagnosed by a combination of the symptoms, physical examination and x-rays or other imaging tests.

What tests may be used to diagnose ankle arthritis?

X-rays are commonly employed to diagnose ankle arthritis. Other tests might be used, such as MRI or CT scan for unusual conditions. When ankle arthritis is a part of a systemic condition, blood tests may be used for its diagnosis. Occasionally a bone scan may be useful. Other tests involving injection of solutions into joints may be employed at times.

Will diagnosing ankle arthritis cause pain, side effects, or invasive techniques? How are these dealt with?

It's very unlikely that diagnosing ankle arthritis would require any painful procedures or side effects. If some type of injection were to be required, it is usually done by needle stick. While a needle stick may be uncomfortable, it is unlikely to create side effects.

What health care professionals may help diagnose ankle arthritis?

A family doctor can often diagnose ankle arthritis. Because there are many structures around the ankle such as tendons and ligaments, and many small joints near the ankle, it may be useful to see a specialist. A rheumatologist is a physician with special expertise in arthritis. An orthopedic surgeon is a physician specially trained to diagnose and treat arthritic conditions. Depending upon the type of arthritis and the complexity of the diagnosis any of these may help you. In addition, physical therapists may be of benefit in the early stages of arthritis.

How can a doctor specializing in ankle arthritis be found?

To find orthopaedic surgeons anywhere in the world, try the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons "Find a Surgeon" page.

To find rheumatologists anywhere in the world, try the American College of Rheumatology "Geographic Membership Directory" page.

Surgery for Ankle Arthritis at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-731-4830 to make an appointment.

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