Relief for Arthritis of the Foot

Understanding Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Learn how arthritis affects your feet and what treatment options can bring relief.

Chronic Pain and Conditions: Arthritis

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. The symptoms you experience depend on the type of arthritis you have.

Our providers diagnose and treat three main types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, also known as wear-and-tear arthritis, occurs when your cartilage (a soft cushion-like substance that pads and protects your joints) begins to deteriorate and wear away, causing your bones to rub up against one another. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes your body’s immune system to attack the synovium, a sheath of tissue that covers and supports your joints. Posttraumatic arthritis is the result of an accident or injury to your foot or ankle.

We also treat gout, a type of arthritis defined by excess uric acid that usually affects your feet and toes. If you are experiencing ongoing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling in your feet or ankles, schedule an evaluation with our team to determine the cause and start a treatment plan.

How We Treat Foot and Ankle Arthritis

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, which ensure your foot and ankle joints are properly aligned and help reduce stress on painful areas during everyday movement.

If your pain persists or conservative measures of care don’t 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. Foot and ankle arthritis is a common problem that requires treatment, and with the right plan in place, most patients see meaningful improvement in comfort and mobility over time.