There are many different kinds of arthritis that can manifest in the foot and ankle, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. This is simply the wear-and-tear of the joint that eventually forms in most people.
A degenerative arthritic joint usually causes stiffness, swelling, and pain. Osteoarthritis is not limited to the elderly population. Plenty of people in their 20s and 30s can develop a bad joint. An injury such as a bad sprain or fracture of the foot or ankle can precipitate a premature arthritic process. In the absence of trauma, arthritis can also develop from poor foot structure and mechanics, misaligned joints (such as bunion deformities), weak muscles, tendons, and ligaments, as well as unstable joints. In the presence of these predisposing factors, arthritis can develop slowly over time.
Injury prevention and treating poor foot mechanics can help limit the chance of developing arthritis. Maintaining muscle strength and healthy tendons and ligaments will help protect the underlying joints, making them less susceptible to the degenerative arthritic process. Physical therapy is an extremely important tool in the management and prevention of arthritis.
Arthritis can be treated with oral medications, injections with cortisone or joint-fluid replacement formulations, oral supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine, and certain creams or lotions.
Once a joint becomes stiff and arthritic, treatment is usually centered on trying to stabilize and limit joint movement with braces and orthotics. Certain qualities in a shoe also will make a difference. If the condition merits surgical consideration, there are often several options to consider, from simple spur removal and joint clean-up to complex reconstruction. If you’re having joint pain in the foot or ankle, consult with your doctor regarding the treatment options.
University Foot & Ankle Institute offers comprehensive management of foot and ankle arthritis, utilizing advanced surgical procedures that include cartilage transplant, arthroscopy, joint debridement (cleaning up), joint replacement/implant, reconstruction, or fusion.
For more information, please call 661-260-1180.