It’s that time of year again when the weather is constantly changing from warm to cold back to warm again. As we move from winter to spring, the symptoms of arthritis intensify and leave people in pain. Arthritis is an inflammation and swelling in the cartilage and lining of the joints, generally accompanied by an increase in joint fluid. The foot contains 30 joints so it is not uncommon for arthritis to be found in the feet. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention identifies arthritis as the most common cause of disability in the United States. It limits the activities of many people, especially when found in the foot and ankle.
There are different forms of arthritis that are found in the foot and ankle. The most common form is osteoarthritis. It is often referred to as “degenerative joint disease” or “wear and tear arthritis.” Unfortunately, as we age it causes a breakdown in cartilage and the pain gets progressively worse. If you are experiencing stiffness, swelling, or a dull, throbbing pain during the night, it may be symptoms of osteoarthritis. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are different treatments that can relieve the painful symptoms.. Another form of arthritis is known as rheumatoid arthritis. It is a major crippling disorder that can compromise the quality of life of those who are affected by it. As the most serious form of arthritis, it frequently affects both ankles and toes. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness in the joints. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but there are various treatment options that can help control it.
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes a hot, burning sensation within the joint accompanied by severe pain. It is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint. This is most commonly found in the joint of the big toe but it can also cause pain in the ankles, knees, hands and wrists. A gout attack can be caused by numerous contributing factors, including the intake of alcohol, certain foods and medications. Treatment is available for those who experience a gout attack but if left untreated the symptoms will progressively worsen and result in permanent damage and exquisite pain.
Treatment options vary depending on the type of arthritis. Some forms of treatment for the foot and ankle include but are not limited to, physical therapy and exercise, anti-inflammatory medication and/or injection therapy. Orthotics or specially prescribed shoes can help relieve symptoms.
The Board Certified Podiatrists at Livingston Foot Care Specialists have over 47 years of experience to offer the proper treatments for all forms of arthritis. If you are experiencing early morning stiffness, limitation in motion of a joint, recurring pain or tenderness in the joint, redness or heat in a joint, skin changes such as rashes and growths, and/or swelling in one or more joints in your feet, please do not hesitate to call Livingston Foot Care Specialists at 516-826-0103 to set up an appointment.
