Ankle arthritis is a common condition we treat that is usually caused from a previous ankle fracture. When ankle arthritis becomes severe enough or painful enough, often times an ankle fusion or ankle arthroplasty is performed. The determination as to which procedure is selected ultimately comes down to the condition of the ankle joint, any pre-existing deformities and patient demand and stature. One of the the first things that I offer to my patients who are contemplating an ankle fusion or an ankle arthroplasty is artificial joint fluid injection therapy. This procedure is different from corticosteroid injection in that it’s a synthetic joint fluid that helps lubricating the joint and decrease inflammation in the joint. This procedure can be done multiple times to help with pain and has a great success rate even for people that have a significant amount of ankle arthritis. This therapy is a great alternative for people that are contemplating fusion or arthroplasty and we have had good success rates utilizing this procedure. I often recommended patients to try the artificial joint fluid before proceeding with a fusion or arthroplasty. At Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists we are the only people Washington State that offer this alternative therapy and are happy to discuss it further with you.