How Arthritis Affects the Foot and Ankle

Last updated 1 year ago

Arthritis is a common affliction that affects people as they approach middle age and beyond. Most people tend to think of arthritis as a condition that affects the hands, but it is very common to experience arthritis in the feet and ankles. Village Podiatry treats patients with arthritis of the foot, among the variety of conditions addressed at our podiatry centers.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis commonly exhibits a general stiffness of the joints in the feet and ankles. This can affect any of the joints from the toes and metatarsals to the heel and ankle structures. This stiffness may also be associated with pain or sensitivity. Persons with arthritis sometimes experience swelling of the affected joints that adds to the pain and stiffness. Usually, arthritis symptoms in any of the joints of the feet will affect mobility.

Types of Arthritis

Your feet may be affected by a few different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative arthritis that results from the general wear and tear of joints that comes with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is a general arthritis which affects any number of joints throughout the body. Post-Traumatic Arthritis is a condition that results from an injury sustained in the area of the joint, sometimes years after the fact.

Treatment of Arthritis

Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis. Depending on the severity of pain and the location of pain, your arthritis may be treated with medication, shoe support, cane support, or physical therapy from your podiatry center. If your condition is severe enough, your foot doctor may recommend surgical treatment. Consulting your podiatrist is the best way to determine the treatment method that is best for you.

Visit Village Podiatry today if you are experiencing arthritis pain that requires diagnosis and treatment. Our podiatrists will work with you to treat your pain appropriately. Call us at (678) 372-1835 to set up an appointment.