Identifying the Signs of Arthritis in Your Feet

When most people think about arthritis, major joints such as knees or hips usually come to mind. But the truth is that any joint in your body can become arthritic. And like any other joints, those in your ankles and feet can develop swelling and pain from arthritis. So, because May is Arthritis Awareness Month, today Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland is sharing more information regarding arthritis of the ankles and feet.

Risk Factors

Anyone can develop arthritis, but it typically occurs when a patient ages. Also referred to as osteoarthritis, arthritis is a progressive disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to erode. Cartilage is a supple tissue that cushions the bones of joints and prevents them from rubbing together. These tissues also help absorb impact.

Some patients are at higher risk of arthritis developing in their feet, such as those with flat feet or high arches. It typically develops because these conditions put too much stress on their feet.

Symptoms of Arthritis in Your Feet

Like other types of arthritis, having arthritis in your feet can be pretty painful. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Trouble standing or putting weight on your feet

  • Tenderness when touching the affected joints

  • Pain when moving your ankles or feet

  • Redness or swelling of affected joints

  • Swelling or discomfort even when resting.

While these symptoms indicate that you have arthritis, the best way to know for sure is to be examined by your podiatrist. Your podiatrist may use an MRI, CT scans, or X-rays to confirm that you have arthritis in your ankles or feet.

Conventional Treatments for Arthritis

If you have arthritis in your ankles or feet, several conventional treatments can help manage the condition, including:

  • Custom-made orthotics

  • Physical therapy

  • Over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs

  • Anti-inflammatory medication injections

  • Wearing supportive shoes

  • Using a brace or cane while walking

Your podiatrist may recommend surgery if these conventional treatments don’t help, or your arthritis worsens.

If you have arthritis in your feet, contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland at (410) 761-3501 today to schedule a consultation. The quicker you learn to manage your arthritis, the less damage it will cause to your ankles and feet.

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