5 Lifestyle Habits for Managing Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis — or joint inflammation — creates discomfort no matter which part of your body it affects. However, when you have this condition in your ankles, it becomes particularly problematic. Something as simple as getting up to use the bathroom or to pour a glass of water might become a painful proposition. Ankle arthritis can take the joy out of doing things you loved before.

Fortunately, you can take steps to minimize the pain and improve your mobility. 

We can help. Because our team specializes in treating arthritis, we have options to bring you relief. Visit us at Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute  — we have offices in American Fork and Saratoga Springs, Utah — and we can help you find what works for you. 

In many cases, that means lifestyle changes alongside targeted treatments. Here are five modifications you can make. 

#1: Supportive shoes

The right footwear sets you up for success. Choose a shoe that provides both cushion and stabilization to ease strain on your ankle joints. 

We can help you pick shoes for your lifestyle. Whether you need dressy footwear or shoes for your physical activity of choice, we can help you find pairs that help your ankles feel their best. 

#2: Getting support as you move

Shoes alone often aren’t enough to relieve ankle pain when you have arthritis. Fortunately, you can employ additional supportive measures. 

Orthotics can control motion as you walk or run, helping to minimize your arthritis symptoms. 

In some cases, you might want additional support in the form of a brace, cane, or walker. These tools take pressure off your ankles, making it easier to move with less discomfort. 

#3: Stretching and strengthening

By strengthening the muscles that support your ankle or improving flexibility, certain exercises can help with arthritis symptoms. Activities like ankle pumps and calf raises might help you experience less discomfort as you move.

Our team can help you develop a stretching and strengthening plan that supports your ankles and is manageable with your current level of pain. 

#4: Working toward a healthy weight

The more you weigh, the more pressure you put on your ankle joints as you move. Experts say that losing 10% of your weight could slash your arthritis pain by half.  

A balanced diet and regular exercise help you move toward a healthy weight. To minimize strain on your ankles as you move, explore options like swimming or cycling.  

#5: Regular check-ins with our team

Make talking with our team a part of your lifestyle. Our team might recommend anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections to ease your discomfort.

When you incorporate regular care into your lifestyle, you get a way to tap into the treatment your ankles need. 

To work with our team to find the right treatment plan to minimize your pain and improve your mobility, contact our team at the Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute by calling us at (801) 756-4200.