Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis means joint inflammation and is a term used to describe more than 100 diseases that cause inflammation of the joints, pain, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most serious form of the disease and often affects the ankles and toes. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is a wear and tear form of arthritis that usually develops as people age or can be trauma induced.

As you age, the cartilage that covers the ends of bones and allows them to move fluidly against each other start to deteriorate. When the cartilage breaks down, the ends of the bones start rubbing against each other, causing pain and inflammation. As a result, the joints swell, and in time they can begin to twist and become misshapen. This is a wear and tear arthritis called osteoarthritis.  Other types of arthritis are more disease based, and managing the underlying disease can help manage the pain.

Feet and ankles are subject to daily pressure and strain from supporting your body weight, so they endure a terrific amount of stress during your lifetime. Your foot has 28 bones and 33 joints within it, providing many potential areas where arthritis could set in.

Which arthritis symptoms are in the foot and ankle?

Symptoms of arthritis in the foot and ankle may include:

• Pain in the affected joints
• Tenderness
• Reduced mobility
• Stiff joints
• Swelling

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact Kalmar Family Podiatry to arrange a consultation. Your podiatrist can then take a look at your medical history and examine your feet to find out what could be causing your symptoms. They can also use X-rays or an MRI scan to confirm the diagnosis and the extent of the joint damage.

What treatment is available for arthritis in the foot and ankle?

Arthritis isn’t curable, but there are a variety of treatments available at Kalmar Family Podiatry to alleviate the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Some arthritis treatments include:

• Steroid injections
• Anti-inflammatory medicine
• Custom orthotics
• Canes or braces
• Physical therapy
• Class IV Laser therapy
• Custom shoes
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Some patients may require surgery if conservative therapy fails to alleviate arthritis pain. Fusion surgery or arthrodesis involves fusing the affected bones with pins or plates, or in other cases, joint replacement surgery might be advisable.

To find the most effective solutions for arthritis or any kind of chronic pain in your feet and ankles, call Kalmar Family Podiatry today, or book an appointment online.