Treatment of ankle arthrosis and axial deviation
One of the main causes of ankle arthrosis is axial deviation, which is often caused by post-traumatic malalignment of the lower leg or foot. Another common cause is improperly healed ankle fractures, which lead to uneven joint surfaces and chronic cartilage damage.
The ankle joint has a unique ability to regenerate cartilage under favorable conditions. However, if the anatomical structure is not restored correctly, the degenerative process continues, leading to chronic pain and deterioration of the joint.
Understanding ankle arthrosis and its causes
The ankle joint is exposed to greater loads per unit area than any other joint in the human body. In fact, it can withstand forces that are up to three times higher than those of the knee joint. In contrast to hip or knee joints, the cartilage of the ankle joint is thinner and more susceptible to injury. Despite these conditions, symptomatic ankle arthrosis occurs less frequently than arthrosis in other large joints.
However, when ankle osteoarthritis occurs, it has a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life and often causes severe pain with every step. Studies show that ankle osteoarthritis can have a greater impact on quality of life than conditions such as end-stage renal failure or complications following a heart attack.
What causes ankle arthrosis?
One of the main causes of ankle arthrosis is axial deviation, which is often caused by post-traumatic malalignment of the lower leg or foot. Another common cause is improperly healed ankle fractures, which lead to uneven joint surfaces and chronic cartilage damage.
The ankle joint has a unique ability to regenerate cartilage under favorable conditions. However, if the anatomical structure is not restored correctly, the degenerative process continues, leading to chronic pain and deterioration of the joint.
Treatment options for ankle arthrosis
For many patients, conservative treatments such as pain management, physiotherapy and orthopaedic devices provide only temporary relief. If axial deviation is a contributing factor, surgical correction is often the best solution to restore joint balance and prevent further cartilage wear.
Axle correction surgery (osteotomy)
Axis correction is a precise orthopaedic procedure that aims to restore the natural alignment of the lower leg and foot. By correcting the joint axis, excessive pressure on certain areas of cartilage is reduced, giving the joint the chance to regenerate.
How does axle correction surgery work?
The procedure includes:
- A detailed preoperative examination using imaging techniques to assess joint damage and malpositions.
- Surgical realignment of the lower leg or foot to distribute weight evenly across the joint.
- In some cases, reconstruction of the lateral ligaments to improve joint stability.
After the operation, imaging examinations often show that the degenerative process (osteoarthritis) has been halted, and in some cases cartilage regeneration is visible.
Advantages of axis correction compared to other treatments
Compared to joint fusion (arthrodesis) or a complete ankle replacement, ankle correction offers several advantages:
- Maintaining joint mobility: In contrast to joint fusion, which restricts movement, axis correction still allows flexibility.
- Natural cartilage regeneration: By restoring joint balance, the body can naturally regenerate damaged cartilage.
- Better long-term results: Patients can often return to a more active lifestyle than those who undergo fusion or total joint replacement.
Who is a suitable candidate for an axle correction?
Axle correction is recommended for
- Patients with ankle arthrosis due to post-traumatic malalignment.
- People with chronic ankle pain due to joint misload.
- Active patients who wish to maintain their mobility and avoid joint replacement.
Success rates and case studies
Research results and clinical experience show that early intervention with axis correction significantly improves patient outcomes. Many patients report a reduction in pain and improved mobility just a few months after surgery. Imaging studies confirm that cartilage degeneration is often halted after surgery and in some cases signs of regeneration can be seen.
Frequently asked questions
The recovery time varies depending on the patient, but most can recover after 6-8 weeks weight on the joint again and after 3-6 months return to normal activities.
Axial correction is a superior option for patients with malalignments, as it maintains joint mobility and promotes natural cartilage healing.
The coverage of costs depends on the respective insurance provider and the country-specific regulations. Many insurance companies cover corrective surgery that restores function and relieves pain
A consultation with an orthopedic specialist, including imaging studies, can determine whether an axial deviation is contributing to your osteoarthritis and whether corrective surgery is appropriate.
For further details or to make an appointment, please contact me at my practice in Vienna.
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