Can’t weight bear on ankle

peterssb

I have osteoarthritis in my right ankle for 10 years now and give a lot of pain. For the last 5 years my knee has also been getting worse and worse. The doctor thinks knee is causing ankle issues but I’m too fat for replacement. I think it the ankle that’s the main problems

I had to lie down for an hour or 2 to complete some forms and when I tried to stand up I couldn’t put weight on ankle. I have taken off sick etc and ankle is also puffy

I don’t know what to do as I can’t stand up or walk to toolet

helpline_team

Hi @peterssb,

Thanks for posting on the Helpline Online Community. I’m sorry to hear you have been in a lot of pain through osteoarthritis in your right ankle and your knee pain is worsening.

If the pain relief options you have tried already have not helped, talk to your doctor about alternative options. If your joints are very painful or if you need extra pain relief for a time, steroid injections can reduce inflammation, which in turn should reduce pain. However, they do not necessarily work for everyone and how quickly the treatment works, and how long it lasts will also depend on your condition.

Regarding your weight and this being a barrier to joint replacement surgery, the NICE guidelines are clear that losing weight can help with arthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints, for improved quality of life, physical function, and reduced pain. However, your weight should not be barrier to being referred to an Orthopaedic Specialist, if appropriate, to look at your surgery options. Although discussion with a specialist may well include weighing up the risks and benefits of surgery, considering your weight. Perhaps you could speak with your GP regarding a referral to weight management support services for advice, guidance and support in achieving your weight loss goals.

You could also ask your GP about a referral for physiotherapy for a tailored programme of gentle movement to strengthen muscles surrounding your joints for improved joint stability and better mobility. Exercises can also ease pain and stiffness and help with managing weight. We have exercises on our website which are suitable for people with arthritis.

You may also benefit from the help of an Occupational Therapist (OT) who can advise on alternative methods, tools and equipment to help with your daily activities, and work with you to find practical solutions. You can contact your local council and ask the Adult Social Care department for an Occupational Therapist appointment to explore possible aids and adaptations of benefit to you.

You may find the following pages on our website helpful:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-foot-and-ankle/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/

I hope this helps, but if you would like to talk things through informally and in confidence, please get in touch on our Helpline 0800 5200 520 (Open Mon - Fri 9 am - 6 pm).

Best wishes,

Helen, Helpline Advisor