There are many chronic foot conditions that can cause pain, limited mobility, less flexibility, and a host of other symptoms in the foot. Chronic conditions last longer than a few weeks or repeatedly come back. If you have uncomfortable symptoms in your feet, you may have a chronic condition and should see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis.
Below are examples of common chronic foot conditions you should be aware of.
Gout
A complex type of arthritis, gout comes on suddenly and is very painful, particularly to the joints in the foot. The base joint of the big toe is primarily affected and becomes tender to the touch and swollen. Gout is a chronic condition that resurfaces repeatedly. Gout can be very painful and limits the range of motion and flexibility in the toe and surround area. The pain is often most intense in the first 12 hours of a flare-up.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. While it doesn’t always affect the joints of the foot, the risk increases if you suffered a foot injury in the past. Osteoarthritis causes joints to deteriorate, which causes pain, limited mobility, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition with no cure. Therefore, symptoms are likely to get worse over time. Conservative treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and injections, can help relieve mild and moderate symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may need surgery to alleviate symptoms caused by a damaged joint.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that is a result of overstretching of the strong tissue (called fascia) that joins the heel of the foot to the toes. When the fascia is overstretched, it causes pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in the heel of the foot. Symptoms are most common right when you wake up and after you have spent time standing, walking, or running. When you get off your feet, the symptoms generally subside. Plantar fasciitis symptoms are often alleviated with pain medication, orthotics, supportive shoes, and physical therapy.
Bunions
A bunion is a protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe. It is often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or heels that don’t give the front of the foot enough room. Many people have bunions as a result of genetics, as well. Symptoms of bunions are most often managed through comfortable and supportive shoes, pain medications, and treatments. In rare cases, bunions may require surgery as treatment.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is considered a deformity that causes an abnormal downward bend of one or more toes. Hammertoe is often caused by an abnormality in the tendons, muscles, or ligaments in the foot. Wearing ill-fitting shoes and trauma can cause the development of hammertoe, as well.
Foot and Ankle Care in Dover, NJ
If you or a loved one is exhibiting signs of a chronic foot condition, the experts at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey can help. We have a variety of treatments available for many foot conditions and injuries.
To schedule an appointment for diagnosing any orthopedic condition, call (973) 989-0888. You may also request an appointment online.
