All About Foot and Ankle Arthritis
The risk of foot and ankle arthritis increases with age. In fact, arthritis is a collective name for over 100 diseases. These diseases trigger inflammation and wear down joints over time. Therefore, causing the cartilage “cushion” to deteriorate. And, bones begin to rub together, causing pain and swelling. Soft tissues also begin to wear down. Eventually, the joint may not work the same.
Types of Foot And Ankle Arthritis
Along with pain and swelling, you may also notice changes in the feet and ankles. In fact, several types of arthritis affect this area.
Osteoarthritis: This is known as wear-and-tear arthritis. It is the most common and results from gradual joint degeneration over time. Therefore, occurring as you age. It is mostly seen in areas, such as:
- The three joints of the heel bone
- The big toe joint of the and foot bone
- The joint of the ankle and shinbone
Rheumatoid arthritis: RA is one of the more severe types of arthritis. RA is an autoimmune disease. Therefore, the immune system erroneously attacks a joint. And it will happen to both sides of the body.
Gout: Gout develops with too much uric acid from your diet. It mostly occurs in the big toe. This is the joint furthest from the
Psoriatic arthritis: This can develop in more than one joint. It can also cause dactylitis (toe swelling).
Post-traumatic arthritis: This can develop gradually after an injury. Dislocations and fractures are common causes. However, you may not notice the problem for years.
Symptoms of the Condition
Common symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include:
- Pain when you move.
- Trouble walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.
- Tenderness.
- Joint stiffness, swelling, or warmth occur.
- Worse pain after resting.
Diagnosing Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Your doctor will do a physical exam first. They will also ask about any injuries. Taking a medical history will be important too. It is also common for x-rays and other imaging tests to be done.
Treatment for Arthritis of the Foot
Treatment will depend on the symptoms and the cause. Possible treatment options include:
- Pain-relieving medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections
- Braces or canes for support
- Physical therapy
- Pads or arches for support
- Custom-fitted shoes
Sometimes, it may be necessary to do surgery. However, your doctor will recommend which is best. Although, a typical procedure is arthrodesis, which involves fusing bones together. And, rods, pins, plates, or screws are used to fuse these together.
Joint replacement surgeryis done in severe cases. The damaged bone and cartilage are first removed. Then, a metal or plastic implant will be inserted.