Q: I have severe degenerative cartilage, and my right ankle is bone to bone. What kind of exercise can I do? I also have back problems.
– Carol Inman, Vero Beach, Fla.
A: The first step is to get a team of medical experts to work with you, including your primary-care physician, physical therapist, registered dietitian, arthritis specialist and possibly an orthopedic surgeon. Each can give you information and support.
Diet: A registered dietitian is important because weight reduction and proper nutrition go hand-in-hand. Every pound lost greatly reduces the stress and pressure on the small joint that comprises the ankle.
Medication: Your primary-care physician and arthritis specialist are the best sources for proper pain management and control of inflammation. Resist the urge to self-medicate. Depending on the severity of your situation, you could be prescribed anything from basic acetaminophen or aspirin to more intense drugs available only by prescription.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist will help you with range-of-motion exercises to help rehabilitate the joint. Since you also have back issues, finding a therapist adept in dealing with these kinds of injuries is crucial.
Surgery: This usually is a last resort and can range from cartilage replacement to replacing the whole joint.
Exercise: Once you do the initial treatments, you may be ready to get back into regular exercise. Swimming pools and bicycles are great for exercise; neither puts too much stress on the ankle joint.
The most beneficial and least stressful is water workouts. Go to HydroFit.com or call 800-346-7295 and buy a flotation belt and other pieces such as water dumbbells, hand mitts and special shoes that create rehabilitative resistance. Once you are adept in the shallow end, try the deep end for greater aerobic benefit.
Another good product is the Winged Water Walker, which fits on the feet, is zero impact and works like a StairMaster. Go to wingedwaterwalker.com or call 701-219-5941.
Other great ways to exercise without stressing the ankle are kayaking, canoeing and sculling. With the exception of sculling, the upper body provides the primary force. As for bicycling, proper footwear and a brace may be needed.
The Arthritis Foundation is a great resource (800-568-4045, arthritis.org).
Write to Body Language, The Denver Post, 1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202, or e-mail LJBalance@aol.com.
