The conservative treatment of ankle osteoarthritis

In 70% to 78% of patients with ankle osteoarthritis (OA), they present themselves with the sequelae of a traumatic event in the past. Ankle trauma occurs in many patients at a relatively young age. Consequently, the expected life span of many patients with ankle OA is relatively long.
Many treatment modalities are offered. Evidence for conservative treatment is limited. The conservative treatment of symptomatic ankle OA consists mainly of treating symptoms like pain and stiffness. No clear-cut treatment algorithm for ankle OA is used. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, the patients' age, medical and social history and the level of physical activity to be demanded of the joint.
This thesis addresses the efficacy and safety of hyaluronic acid injections for ankle OA, the dosage schedule of HA and the optimum injection technique for the osteoarthritic ankle. Additionally, the impact of ankle OA on daily life and the available evidence for conservative treatments of ankle OA are evaluated. Finally, the stage of ankle OA at which patients are referred to a tertiary center, what treatment they underwent, the cause of their ankle OA and the treatment that was prescribed are addressed.