Recognizing the First Signs of Arthritis in the Feet
Arthritis in the feet can start subtly, but early recognition is key to managing symptoms and preventing further joint damage. One of the first signs is persistent stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Swelling around the joints, particularly in the toes, ankles, or the ball of the foot may occur. Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest is another common early symptom. Some people experience tenderness when pressing on affected areas or difficulty walking due to joint discomfort. Over time, the range of motion may decrease, making it harder to bend or flex the foot. You might also develop a grinding sensation or hear clicking sounds when moving your foot. If you notice these signs, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
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:
Joint pain
Joint stiffness
Swelling in or around the joint
Restricted range of motion
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
