Osteoarthritis

People who have acromioclavicular arthritis (AC joint arthritis) may report pain at the front of the shoulder and pain with certain motions. These and other symptoms tend to progress gradually. Sometimes symptoms get better only to return worse later.

The shoulder is a complex piece of anatomy that includes four joints where the humerus (upper arm), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone) meet.

Research suggests many people develop acromioclavicular osteoarthritis (AC joint arthritis) as they age. Most people who develop AC joint arthritis have one or more risk factors.

Before diagnosing a person with acromioclavicular osteoarthritis, a physician must perform a thorough examination and may order medical imaging, such as x-rays. AC joint arthritis rarely happens alone, and the diagnostic process often reveals more than one problem in the shoulder.

A combination of treatments may be recommended for acromioclavicular arthritis (AC joint arthritis). Physical therapy is not always beneficial but may be recommended to treat other problems in the shoulder. Surgical resection of the distal clavicle is somewhat controversial.

Degeneration in the ankle between the talus, tibia, and fibula bones where the shin and foot meet can cause osteoarthritis, leading to pain and discomfort.

Ankle osteoarthritis is often preceded by an ankle injury, and may initially feel like the old injury acting up. Other factors may also play a role in the development of ankle arthritis.

In order to diagnose ankle arthritis, a physician or podiatrist must rule out other causes of ankle pain, such as musculoskeletal injury or another form of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Lab tests, X-rays, MRIs, or other medical imaging may be ordered.

Steroid and hyaluronic acid injections are used to reduce pain and other symptoms caused by ankle arthritis. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections are not considered standard care but may be recommended.

Ankle arthritis can make standing and walking painful. Adopting a few new habits can help ease ankle pain and make day-to-day life more enjoyable.