Arthritis can be a debilitating condition, especially when it affects your feet. Your feet keep you upright and mobile, and arthritis provides limitations.
If you are dealing with arthritis in your feet, it is crucial to understand what is happening and explore treatment options for long-term relief.
Let us discuss arthritis and foot pain and your treatment options and lifestyle changes for long-term relief.
Understanding Arthritis and Its Impact on the Feet
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in one or more joints, leading to pain and stiffness. When it affects the feet, the impact can be considerable. Our feet have 33 joints each, and when arthritis strikes, it can make walking or standing an uncomfortable ordeal. This pain does not just stay in the feet—it can affect knees, hips, and even your back as your body compensates.
The feet are a critical part of our foundation. Any discomfort in the lower extremities can affect the entire body. Effective treatment can relieve pain and restore mobility, which is important for maintaining an active lifestyle.
Exploring Common Types of Arthritis Affecting the Feet
Different types of arthritis can raid our feet. The most common include:
- Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear on the joints. The protective cartilage degenerates, causing bones to rub against each other. According to the CDC, over 33 million adults in the US have osteoarthritis.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune condition causes the immune system to target the joint lining, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Gout: It occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, leading to sharp, sudden bouts of pain. According to studies, over 9 million Americans suffer from gout.
Understanding which type of arthritis affects your feet is critical for effective treatment.
Recognizing Symptoms of Arthritis in the Feet
Symptoms of arthritis in the feet can vary, but they often include:
- Persistent pain in the joints
- Swelling and tenderness
- Stiffness felt in the morning or after periods of rest
- Reduced range of motion in the joint
- Redness and warmth around the joint
Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to timely intervention and prevent further damage. Ignoring arthritis is not an option. If left untreated, it can lead to joint damage, deformities, and significant disability.
Arthritis treatment not only alleviates pain but also preserves joint function. Timely treatment is critical to maintain mobility and independence.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Arthritis Foot Pain
A variety of non-surgical treatments can offer relief from arthritis foot pain.
1. Medications and Supplements
Medications like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Ibuprofen help reduce inflammation and pain. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may also offer benefits by supporting joint health.
2. Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles around the joints, improving balance and flexibility.
Even simple exercises help with reducing stiffness and improving joint mobility.
3. Assistive Devices
Devices like orthotic inserts provide additional support and relieve stress on painful joints. Canes or walkers may be beneficial for those with severe arthritis.
Surgical Treatment Options for Arthritis Foot Pain
In some cases, non-surgical treatments do not provide adequate relief, and the orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery. They may recommend any of the surgeries below to aid you in finding relief from foot pain:
- Synovectomy: In cases of foot arthritis, removing the inflamed lining of the affected joints, usually in the toes or ankle. This can help reduce pain and swelling, especially when inflammation is a major source of discomfort.
- Osteotomy: For foot arthritis, an osteotomy involves cutting and realigning the bones in the foot to redistribute pressure across the joint. This helps relieve pain in areas where arthritis has caused uneven weight distribution, such as in the midfoot or big toe.
- Joint Replacement: When arthritis severely damages the joints in the foot, such as in the ankle or big toe, joint replacement can restore function. An artificial joint replaces the damaged one, helping to relieve pain and improve movement.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Arthritis Foot Pain
Lifestyle adaptations can complement medical treatments.
- Weight Management: Reducing body weight lessens stress on the joints. According to studies, losing just 10 percent of your body weight can help ease arthritis symptoms.
- Footwear Choices: Wearing supportive shoes with good cushioning can prevent further wearing on the foot joints and discomfort.
- Dietary Adjustments: Anti-inflammatory diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help manage inflammation.
- Low-impact Activities: Opt for exercises that are gentle on the joints in your foot, such as swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine.
- Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the foot and ankle to provide better joint support. Examples include seated heel raises and toe curls using a towel.
How to Find an “Orthopedic Clinic Near Me”
Arthritis is a challenging condition, but it can be managed effectively with the right approach. Early intervention, combined with a comprehensive treatment plan, can relieve foot pain.
If you are suffering from foot arthritis pain, you can do the following:
- Search for “treatment for arthritis foot pain in Dover, NJ”
- Reach out to an “orthopedic clinic near me”
- Schedule a consultation with an “orthopedic surgeon in Dover, NJ”
Professional guidance is just a step away, and taking it can make all the difference in your quality of life.
Treatment for Arthritis Foot Pain in Dover, NJ
At Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey, we specialize in comprehensive and high-quality orthopedic treatments. Our orthopedic surgeons in Dover, NJ, are experienced in treating foot pain, including arthritis. Find out what our doctors recommend for lasting relief from your symptoms.
To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (973) 989-0888 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to helping you improve your foot arthritis symptoms.
