Arthritis Care for Feet and Ankles

What You Need to Know

Understanding arthritis of the feet and ankles and how it is treated.

Managing Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of foot and ankle pain, affecting approximately 53 million Americans. It is a chronic, degenerative condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation of your joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, many of which affect the feet and ankles.

Each of your feet contains 28 bones and more than 30 joints that allow you to run, jump, pivot, and change directions. Unfortunately, these capabilities also make them susceptible to wear-and-tear damage, swelling, and, in some cases, immobility.

Our providers diagnose and treat three main types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, or wear-and-tear arthritis, occurs when your cartilage begins to deteriorate, causing your bones to rub against one another. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks the synovium that covers your joints. Posttraumatic arthritis develops after an accident or injury, such as a dislocation or fracture. We also treat gout, a type of arthritis defined by excess uric acid that usually affects your feet and toes.

If pain, swelling, or stiffness is limiting your daily activities, schedule an evaluation with our team to determine the type of arthritis you have and the best path forward.

Treatment Options and Approach

Treatment for arthritis depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Our providers use conservative, noninvasive measures of care whenever possible, including physical therapy, exercise, and prescription medications. For example, if you have gout, there are medications that can control your uric acid levels and minimize pain.

We also offer custom orthotics. Custom orthotics help ensure your foot and ankle joints are properly aligned, which can reduce stress on affected joints and ease discomfort during daily activities.

Because arthritis symptoms can change over time, our providers work with you to adjust your treatment plan as needed. This may include periodic reassessment of your joint function, updates to your orthotics, and changes to your medication or activity recommendations to keep symptoms manageable.

If your pain persists or conservative measures of care do not provide adequate relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. During orthopedic surgery for foot and ankle arthritis, your doctor replaces your damaged joint with a prosthetic.

Our podiatrists regularly work with patients to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of arthritis, helping them return to their favorite activities. Do not let pain and inflammation prevent you from living the life of your dreams.