The ankle has many important functions within the body. It provides stability, mobility, and shock absorption. An injury or damage to the ankle can significantly affect your quality of life. Synovitis is a form of inflammation that often occurs in the ankle. It is very common in people who have arthritis. Knowing the symptoms and causes of ankle synovitis can help you get an early diagnosis and treatment to prevent ankle pain and complications.
What Is Ankle Synovitis?
Ankle synovitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the soft tissue in the ankle joint capsule, known as the synovium or synovial membrane. The inflammation of the synovium causes swelling, pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion. Ankle synovitis can greatly affect joint health if left untreated.
Symptoms of Synovitis in the Ankle Joint
Symptoms of ankle synovitis depend on the extent of the inflammation and its causes. Some symptoms may develop suddenly, while others may develop over time. Common symptoms of ankle synovitis are:
- Pain at the front and/or sides of the ankle
- Pain at the back of the ankle
- Swelling of the ankle
- Stiffness in the ankle
- Tenderness in the ankle when touched
- Difficulty walking and/or running
Common Causes of Ankle Synovitis
Ankle synovitis occurs either due to an existing ankle injury or a medical condition.
Ankle Injuries
Most ankle injuries occur with some degree of synovitis. Oftentimes, ankle synovitis will occur following an ankle sprain. The synovial membrane can become inflamed when a patient attempts to return to a weight-bearing activity too soon after an ankle injury. Ankle synovitis can also occur due to repetitive stress on the ankle associated with excessive walking or running, especially on uneven surfaces.
Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions that can cause ankle synovitis are flat feet and arthritis. Inflammation of the synovial membrane in rheumatoid arthritis patients occurs when the immune system starts attacking the joints. Synovitis can also develop in osteoarthritis patients when the cartilage lining the joints wears down.
Diagnosis of Ankle Synovitis
Ankle synovitis is diagnosed through various methods, including physical examination and imaging tests such as MRI and ultrasound. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history and get you to describe your symptoms in order to make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Ankle Synovitis
The best treatment approach for ankle synovitis will depend on the underlying causes and the severity of your symptoms. Regardless of the treatment method, the goal remains the same: to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. Depending on the extent of the damage, your doctor may recommend surgical or non-surgical treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment typically includes rest and immobilization. You may need to avoid taking part in any weight-bearing activities that exacerbate your symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend a brace or splint to provide support to the ankle and reduce joint movement. Additionally, a common technique used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain is the RICE method, which includes rest, ice treatment, compression, and elevation.
Your doctor may also recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen to relieve pain. You may also need to undergo physical therapy to enhance your joint's range of motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, and improve overall ankle stability. If the pain does not go away after a few weeks, your healthcare provider may prescribe and administer corticosteroid injections to provide you with relief.
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatment options do not provide relief, your healthcare provider may recommend surgical treatment involving the removal of the synovial membrane. This procedure is known as a synovectomy and can be performed as an open surgery or using an arthroscope, which will allow for smaller incisions and quicker recovery time.
Complications of Ankle Synovitis
If ankle synovitis is not addressed promptly, it can cause permanent tissue damage, which can negatively impact your range of motion. Individuals who suffer from chronic synovitis are more likely to experience complications. Seeking medical attention for symptoms of synovitis can prevent the condition from getting worse and impacting your mobility.
Get Treated for Ankle Synovitis With Dr. Gary Driver
Ankle synovitis can stem from many underlying causes, including excessive walking or running, repetitive ankle movements, flat feet, and degenerative diseases like arthritis. Since your body relies on your ankles for stability and shock absorption, it's important to care for them and address mobility issues promptly. If you are experiencing symptoms of synovitis in your ankles, don't wait for the problem to become worse.
Dr. Gary Driver offers expert care for minimally invasive bunion surgery, total ankle replacements, Achilles tendon repairs, Charcot foot reconstruction, and ankle fractures. Make an appointment with Dr. Gary Driver and get an accurate diagnosis for your condition so you can move forward with effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ankle synovitis take to heal?
If diagnosed and treated early, minor cases of ankle synovitis can go away within 2 to 4 weeks. Severe or chronic cases can take up to a few months to heal, particularly if the synovitis is not diagnosed in its early stages. Following your doctor's advice regarding treatment and getting proper rest is crucial for recovery.
Can synovitis in the ankle become permanent?
Yes, ankle synovitis can become permanent if left untreated. Unaddressed ankle synovitis can lead to permanent joint damage and significantly reduce range of motion. For this reason, proper care and treatment are essential to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of developing serious complications.
What is the difference between synovitis and arthritis?
Synovitis is inflammation of the membrane that lines the joint, while arthritis is a degenerative disease that affects various parts of the joints. Synovitis can be a symptom of arthritis, but arthritis does not always cause synovial inflammation.
Can I exercise if I have ankle synovitis?
Yes, you can exercise even if you have ankle synovitis. However, you will need to modify your exercise routine to avoid aggravating your symptoms. There are specific exercises and stretches that can help relieve pain and inflammation. Ask your doctor for recommendations before attempting any physical activity.
