Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: Understanding and Managing the Condition

21 Oct Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: Understanding and Managing the Condition

Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: Understanding and Managing the Condition

Arthritis is a widespread condition that can impact almost any joint in the body, including the feet and ankles. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling that can make daily activities challenging. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis being the most common. Contrary to popular belief, arthritis doesn’t just affect older people—it can also impact children, and podiatrists are often the first health professionals to identify these conditions. Arthritis can also occur in athletes, especially after an injury or due to high loads on the joints. Understanding the type of arthritis you have, as well as the ways it can be managed, is the first step toward thriving with arthritis and living a more active life.

Types of Arthritis Affecting the Feet and Ankles

1. Osteoarthritis (OA): Known as the “wear and tear” form of arthritis, osteoarthritis is non-inflammatory and typically occurs as we age or due to repetitive stress on the joints. In the feet, OA can affect the big toe, midfoot, and ankle, causing joint stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A type of inflammatory arthritis, RA is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation. It often affects multiple joints in the feet and ankles, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint deformities. RA is a common form of inflammatory arthritis, but it is not the only one.
3. Other Inflammatory Arthritis: This broader category includes conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and reactive arthritis. These types of arthritis are often triggered by autoimmune reactions, crystal deposition (gout), or infections (septic arthritis). Inflammatory arthritis causes persistent joint inflammation, which can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and swelling in the feet and ankles.

How Podiatry Can Help

Podiatry plays a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and managing arthritis in the feet and ankles. At The Foot Studio, we offer a range of services to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

• Early Diagnosis: Identifying arthritis early is essential to prevent further joint damage. Podiatrists are often the first health professionals to pick up on signs of arthritis, especially in children or athletes with joint issues. Our podiatrists can recognize the signs of arthritis through physical assessments and diagnostic imaging. Early intervention can slow down the progression of the condition and make it easier to manage.
• Orthomechanical Support: We offer customised orthomechanical support, such as orthotics, ankle braces, and specific footwear, to reduce pressure on arthritic joints, alleviate pain, and improve mobility. Proper support can provide relief by redistributing weight away from the affected areas, reducing strain on your joints.
• Footwear Advice: Wearing the right shoes can make a significant difference in managing arthritis symptoms. We can help you choose footwear that offers the support and comfort you need while accommodating any joint deformities caused by arthritis.
• Pain Management and Rehabilitation: Our approach to pain management includes a combination of advanced therapies and rehabilitation techniques:
• High-Power Laser Therapy or Photobiomodulation Therapy: These treatments are particularly effective in reducing joint pain, swelling, and inflammation. They work by stimulating cellular repair and improving circulation, promoting healing and long-term pain relief.
• Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles around affected joints, improving joint support and reducing pain.
• Joint Mobilisation and Physical Therapy: These techniques are designed to improve joint mobility, alleviate stiffness, and promote overall joint health.
• Surgical Referrals: In cases where conservative treatment doesn’t offer sufficient relief, we can refer you to trusted surgeons to explore surgical options. Our team works closely with surgeons to ensure that you receive the best care possible.

Thriving with Arthritis

Although arthritis can be uncomfortable and sometimes limiting, it’s important to know that you can thrive with arthritis and continue to lead an active, mobile life. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can ease symptoms, improve joint function, and prevent further joint damage. At The Foot Studio, we are dedicated to helping you manage your arthritis in a way that allows you to remain comfortable and live life to the fullest.

If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness in your feet or ankles, don’t wait. Contact us today for an assessment. The sooner we can identify and address the issue, the better your chances of thriving with arthritis and staying mobile and pain-free.

Laura