Athletes who have experienced an injury often find themselves dealing with pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility months or even years after the initial injury. Of the various different forms of arthritis, athletes may find themselves suffering from a condition called post-traumatic arthritis.
Post-traumatic arthritis (PTA) is a type of arthritis that can occur following an injury and is usually seen in injuries that involve the ankle, knee, hand, wrist, or elbow. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop as soon as a few months to as long as several years following a joint injury such as a fracture, dislocation, sprain, or ligament tear. Symptoms of PTA can include pain, inflammation, stiffness, crackling sound, and reduced mobility. Treatment can look different depending on the location and severity of the damage, but a conservative approach should always be the first option.
Treatments for Post-Traumatic Arthritis:
Physical Therapy: Through a customized program, your physical therapist will give you exercises that strengthen muscles surrounding the joint and improve mobility.
Weight Loss: Carrying around extra weight puts a lot of pressure on your joints. Every pound of weight lost makes a difference. If needed, consider implementing a diet and exercise program to help you get to a healthy weight.
Activity Modification: Avoid high-impact activities and choose low-impact exercises such as swimming and cycling.
NSAIDS: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work by reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Talk with your doctor about what medication they recommend.
Bracing: Bracing the affected area will provide support which can help prevent further damage.
Injection Therapy: Your doctor may recommend corticosteroid or hyaluronic injections into the affected joint to help with pain relief, inflammation, lubrication, and improved mobility
If non-surgical measures do not bring you relief, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery. Depending on the severity of your post-traumatic arthritis, your surgeon may suggest a procedure such as debridement, arthroplasty, or arthrodesis. If you are dealing with what you think might be post-traumatic arthritis, give us a call and schedule an appointment today!
Milan M. DiGiulio, M.D. offers comprehensive orthopedic care for you and your entire family, specializing in Sports Medicine and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee. Dr. DiGiulio performs over 200 arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries each year, using the most advanced surgical technology. Dr. DiGiulio is an advocate of non-invasive, non-surgical treatment options such as Physical Therapy and Orthobiologics.
