Arthritis
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. At Ankle and Foot Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various forms of arthritis, helping our patients find relief and regain their active lifestyles.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The foot and ankle contain numerous joints, making them especially susceptible to arthritis-related issues.
Types of Arthritis Affecting the Foot and Ankle
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis, OA results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints, including the ankles and midfoot.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to attack joint tissues. It often leads to inflammation, pain, and deformities in the toes and forefoot.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
This type of arthritis develops after an injury, such as a fracture or severe sprain, even years after the initial trauma. It is common in the ankle joint.
Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals, typically affecting the big toe joint. It can cause sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Associated with psoriasis, this form of arthritis can affect the toes and midfoot, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis
- Pain: Often worsened by activity or prolonged standing.
- Swelling: Around the affected joints, making shoes feel tighter.
- Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, particularly in the morning or after rest.
- Joint Deformities: Misalignment or changes in joint structure over time.
- Difficulty Walking: Pain and stiffness can make walking or standing challenging.
Diagnosis
At Ankle and Foot Care, we use a combination of methods to diagnose arthritis:
- Physical Examination: Assessing pain, range of motion, and swelling.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to evaluate joint damage or deformities.
- Lab Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to identify autoimmune conditions like RA or gout.
Treatment Options for Foot and Ankle Arthritis
While arthritis cannot be cured, effective treatment can significantly alleviate symptoms and slow disease progression.
Conservative Treatments
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and medications for autoimmune forms of arthritis like RA.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.
- Custom Orthotics: Shoe inserts designed to reduce pressure on arthritic joints.
- Supportive Footwear: Properly fitted shoes with cushioning and support can improve comfort.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management and low-impact activities to reduce stress on the joints.
Advanced Treatments
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.
- Bracing: Ankle or foot braces to stabilize and protect affected joints.
Surgical Options
When conservative treatments are insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. Options include:
- Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to clean out joint debris.
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Fusing the bones of a joint to reduce pain and improve stability.
- Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Replacing a damaged joint with an artificial implant, typically for severe cases.
Living with Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis management is a long-term process. At Ankle and Foot Care, we are committed to creating personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our goal is to help you maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life.
If you're experiencing symptoms of foot or ankle arthritis, contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment options.