Post Traumatic Arthritis is the most common type of osteoarthritis impacting the ankle joint. It affects millions of people in the U.S. and develops after a sudden or recurring injury to a foot or ankle joint, such as a fracture, dislocation, or any type of physical injury. Trauma can cause damage to the joint cartilage and start to break it down as a result. Arthritic symptoms may not begin to appear until 2-5 years after an injury to the joint was sustained. Speak with your doctor about what treatment options might be right for you.