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Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for post-traumatic arthritis, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Understanding post-traumatic arthritis and your options.

Post-traumatic arthritis is joint wear that starts after an injury such as a fracture, a bad sprain, or a dislocation. The injury harms the cartilage or changes how the joint lines up.

It can show up months or even years after the event. Ankles, heels, and midfoot joints are often affected, so a checkup is wise if pain lingers after an old injury.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Post-Traumatic Arthritis care

Symptoms

Signs of post-traumatic arthritis.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Pain in a joint you hurt in the past

  • 02

    Stiffness after sitting or in the morning

  • 03

    Swelling after being on your feet

  • 04

    A grinding or catching feeling

Why it happens

What can cause post-traumatic arthritis.

  • 01

    A past broken bone that reached the joint

  • 02

    A dislocation or severe sprain

  • 03

    Bones that healed slightly out of line

  • 04

    Damage to cartilage at the time of injury

Care groupFoot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Diagnosis and care

How we treat post-traumatic arthritis.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We ask about earlier injuries and look at how the joint moves. Weight-bearing X-rays show joint space loss and how the bones lined up. CT or MRI can add detail about cartilage and bone.

Step 2 · Treatment

Shoes with good cushioning and a firm sole help take load off the joint. Braces, orthotics, and activity changes can lessen daily pain. Physical therapy keeps the surrounding muscles strong. Injections may give relief during flare-ups.

If pain remains severe, surgery may include cleaning the joint, joining the bones (fusion), or an ankle replacement in selected cases. Choices depend on which joint is damaged and how you use your foot.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Many people manage symptoms well with non-surgical care over a few weeks to months. Surgical recovery often takes several months.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if a past injury site keeps hurting or swelling. Early checks can guide care before the joint stiffens further.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Why is my old ankle break hurting years later?

Injuries can wear the cartilage over time, even after the bone has healed. Arthritis is a common reason.

Can this type of arthritis be prevented?

Not always. Getting good care after a joint injury may lower the risk.

Get help with post-traumatic arthritis.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Post-Traumatic Arthritis care at 15 clinics.

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