Foot and Ankle Arthritis

What is Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

Foot and ankle arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the foot and ankle, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition can affect any of the 30+ joints in the foot and ankle, but most commonly impacts the big toe, midfoot, and ankle joint itself. Arthritis in this region is often caused by wear and tear over time (osteoarthritis), autoimmune conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis), or previous injuries (post-traumatic arthritis). It can significantly affect your ability to walk and perform daily activities if left untreated.

What are the common symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

Common symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include:

• Persistent pain or tenderness in the foot or ankle joints
• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
• Swelling around affected joints
• Reduced range of motion
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight
• Joint deformities or bony growths in advanced cases

Symptoms often worsen with activity and improve slightly with rest, though chronic pain may persist in advanced stages.

What are the common causes of Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

The most common causes of foot and ankle arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis: Age-related joint wear and tear
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that attacks joint tissues
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Resulting from fractures, dislocations, or severe sprains
• Gout or psoriatic arthritis: Other inflammatory conditions that can affect joints
• Genetic predisposition: Family history may increase risk

Arthritis often develops gradually, but symptoms may accelerate after joint trauma or stress.

What are the common treatments of Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

Treatment for foot and ankle arthritis depends on the severity and type of arthritis, but common options include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Weight management and activity changes to reduce joint stress
• Orthotic devices: Custom shoes, inserts, or braces to improve alignment and reduce pain
• Physical therapy: To improve strength, flexibility, and joint function
• Medications: NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or disease-modifying drugs for autoimmune arthritis
• Injections: Cortisone or hyaluronic acid to reduce inflammation and pain
• Surgical options: Joint fusion (arthrodesis), joint replacement, or debridement in severe cases

Early intervention can slow progression and preserve joint function.

When should I see a doctor about Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

Consult a doctor if:

• You experience ongoing foot or ankle pain that interferes with daily activities
• Swelling and stiffness persist or worsen over time
• You notice joint instability or deformity
• Over-the-counter treatments fail to relieve symptoms
• You have a history of joint injuries or inflammatory conditions

Prompt diagnosis can prevent further joint damage and help maintain mobility.

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