While often associated with the hands, knees, and hips, arthritis can target the feet, leading to discomfort and mobility issues. In this blog post, Georgia Podiatry shares more information about the relationship between arthritis and your feet to help you better understand the condition and ways to alleviate the symptoms.
Types of Arthritis:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common form of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the membranes that surround the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage.
- Gout: Characterized by sudden and severe attacks of pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe.
Symptoms:
- Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints.
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight.
- Reduced range of motion in the affected joints.
- Joint deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes.
- Warmth and redness around the affected joints.
- Difficulty wearing shoes.
Causes:
- Genetics and a family history of arthritis may increase the risk of developing the condition.
- Age causes an increased risk of arthritis, as wear and tear on the joints accumulates over time.
- Previous injuries to the feet or ankles.
- Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, and high-impact activities.
Managing Arthritis in Feet:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids can help with inflammation and pain.
- Physical therapy can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected joints.
- Custom orthotic devices can provide support and relieve pressure.
- Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes with cushioned insoles can help reduce pressure on the feet and alleviate pain.
- Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding high-impact activities can help reduce stress on the joints and slow the progression of arthritis.
Understanding how arthritis affects the feet allows you to be proactive and determine if that’s the culprit of your discomfort. Georgia Podiatry is here to help you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment. Dr. Evan Brody, Dr. Harshil Patel, Dr. Erin Cupolo, and the rest of the staff at our Kennesaw and Austell locations can guide you toward relief! Call us at 678-310-0540 or head to our website to make an appointment!