Some of the symptoms that are associated with arthritis are severe pain and inflammation. There are different types of arthritis, and osteoarthritis is considered to be the most common. It can affect the cartilage lining of the joints in the feet and generally causes stiffness, possibly making it difficult to walk. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men, and pain and swelling often accompany this type of ailment. It is said that men are more likely to be affected by the type of arthritis that is known as gout and the discomfort from this condition can be debilitating. It affects the joint in the big toe and can develop from an excess amount of uric acid in the bloodstream. If you have any of the above symptoms and it becomes difficult to complete daily activities, it is strongly advised that you confer with a chiropodist who can provide arthritic foot care treatment.
Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles.
Symptoms
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
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Joint pain
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Joint stiffness
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Swelling in or around the joint
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Restricted range of motion
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Difficulty walking
Diagnosis
Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis.
Treatment
Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs