As noted in my prior blog, arthritis will develop if there has been trauma to the ankle, such as with recurrent ankle sprains or with certain types of fractures, and in those who have systematic or inflammatory arthritis.
The gastrocnemius is a muscle that is part of the tricep-surae, the tendon of which, and along with the solus, comprises the Achilles Tendon. The gastrocnemius/Achilles tendon unit is unique in that it crosses two joints; the knee and the ankle
Ankle arthritis, though far less common than hip or knee arthritis, is quite debilitating. The native ankle joint, with its configuration and thicker cartilage will last you your whole life....the ankle is not a “wear and tear” joint.
Ankle sprains are remarkably common. In fact, one can argue that it may be the most common injury in the world. The vast majority of the time someone will “twist” an ankle, have a few days to a week of discomfort, and then return to normal activity. But there are times when this is not the case.
As an orthopaedic surgeon who sub-specializes in the lower extremity, and in foot and ankle reconstruction, I would like to point out a trend that has been affecting my patients. More and more, athletic shoes are being made to correct, treat, or minimize a possible problem in the person purchasing the shoes.
